Q36.5 Termico Overshoes

Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?

The overshoes are aimed at road riders who are willing to invest in cutting-edge kit. They're designed to keep your feet warm and dry in winter.

Q36.5 says: 'The Termico Overshoe exploits Q36.5's intense fabric research by employing the two most important proprietary fabrics of the winter collection to produce a full winter thermal overshoe with excellent water-resistance and fast drying times.

The front panel of the overshoe, where maximum protection from the elements is required, is constructed from UF Thermal Shell, Q36.5's laminated windproof and water-resistant fabric, while the top and rear panels employ the UF Hybrid Shell, an extremely fast drying water and wind resistant fabric.

The zip is positioned obliquely across the rear part of the overshoe in order to spread the load of its tension and minimizing pressure against the rider's calf. Similarly overlock seams are used throughout to avoid any irritation.

The result is 90g (per pair) of efficiency.'

The shoes are certainly water resistant and fast drying but they fall short where insulation is concerned. If you feel the cold, do not expect these to offer protection in anything below 5-6 degrees.

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

* 45% Polyester, 19% Polyamide, 13% Elastane, 23% Polyurethane.

* Water resistant and windproof UF Thermal Shell front panel.

* Fast drying, water and wind resistant UF Hybrid shell top and side panels.

* Obliquely positioned rear zip.

Nicely finished product.

Water-resistance was very good, ideal for when the roads are wet, or it's raining lightly. They dry fast too. But for me they didn't offer the promised protection from the cold when the temperature dropped below 5-6 degrees – though keeping my feet warm on the bike has always been a challenge.

These appear rather flimsy on first inspection but a closer look reveals excellent construction at their potentially weakest points. They are showing no sign of wear and tear on the underside like so many quickly do after several outings – including the 36.5 toe covers Ashia tested in November.

They reach a considerable way up the calf and I found them a little tight around the top, not so much to cause discomfort but enough to leave a mark when removed. The upper seam does not have much give in it so these will not suit anyone with a larger lower leg.

Foot length and width was spot on. See comment above for reach and fit around the leg.

Superlight. You are not aware you are wearing them.

Despite the upper seam being noticeably tight when you zip them up, the shoes weren't uncomfortable when riding.

It's a lot of money for a pair of overshoes; they are certainly good quality and perform well in damp conditions, but don't provide the promised protection from the cold.

How easy is the product to care for? How did it respond to being washed?

Exceptionally easy. Dirt simply brushes off them. They don't really need washing, but I did I used a branded washing product specifically for waterproof garments, and the shoes continued to perform as they had pre-wash.

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

They are perfect for damp and dirty roads and light rain, and kept my feet warm in temperatures above 5-6 degrees. I suspect if you are not someone who suffers from the cold this could be lower. They dry extremely quickly, and don't cause your feet or lower limbs to sweat if you start working hard in warmer temperatures.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

The rapid drying time and how they looked like new after a quick shake and rub post-ride!

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

Though claimed to be thermal, they really didn't keep me warm when the temperature dropped.

Use this box to explain your score

They're exceptionally lightweight, fast drying and comfortable, with excellent water resistant properties. If they weren't promising warmth they'd score higher, but taking that into account – and the price – I'm giving them a 6 overall.