Primal Trimotif Men's Thermal Arm Warmers

They may lack waterproofing, but Primal's Trimotif Thermal Arm Warmers are warm, soft, well made, and half the price of many. The lack of windproofing is more of an issue, as they're overwhelmed by fast-moving air once temperatures hit the lower single digits.

• Pros: Good fit, warm, strong graphics
• Cons: Asymmetrical colours not for everyone, not windproof or waterproof

They certainly stand out in the sea of black that is the marketplace, with a design that's not just bold but substantially different on each arm. Personally I really like it, especially as the fluoro yellow arm works really well to highlight when you're signalling a turn across traffic, but they definitely divide opinion.

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Each is a simple tube with a single overlocked seam running the length, and a well-judged stretch to the polyester/spandex fabric gives a slim fit that doesn't bunch at the elbow. A silicone band and wide elastic keep them in place at the top; once they were on, I never found myself adjusting them.

The inside is a pleasantly soft and fleecy brushed finish, which traps warm air well but also deals decently with sweat. On sunny but cool days (around 13-14°C) they remain comfy, and though I often removed them to discover sweaty arms, I never felt uncomfortable while riding.

They're less capable once it's properly cold. They cope down to around 5°C if it's calm and sunny, or your speeds are under 15-20mph. However, if it's overcast, windy or you're spending time at 25mph+ you soon get cold if the air's much below 10°C. They're not in any way draughty, but at speed your warmth steadily drops.

The lack of windproofing is the most limiting factor, far more so than the absence of waterproofing.

> 30 of the best pieces of cycling clothing to keep you warm this winter

Inevitably there's some bulk to them when pocketed too, but they roll to around the size of a cigarette packet so it's not intrusive. Getting them on and off is harder if your arms are damp or wet, but I'll take that small hassle for the slim, secure fit. Primal's size recommendations are accurate, and the Trimotifs come in five sizes.

If the design is really not for you – it's intended to complement the matching jersey, but I was surprised how well they go with random solid colours – it's worth noting that Primal's other warmers appear to be the same product with different names and designs. Many are equally wild (or wilder), but there are simple black or fluoro options too.

For the same price you could have the similarly eye-catching Hackney GT Robi arm warmers, which do a better job of keeping wind out, but explicitly wind and waterproof options tend to be considerably more expensive. Pearl Izumi's Elite Thermal Arm Warmers are twice the price at £40 (minus a penny), but then our reviewer found them 'near-perfect'. Gore's Universal Windstoppers are also £40 (and have been updated since our review).

> Buyer's Guide: 17 of the best arm and leg warmers

The Trimotifs are a good price and great on those cool autumn/spring days where it's borderline between bare arms or long sleeves, but if you're looking to extend a summer jersey's use into winter for entire rides, these arm warmers lack the necessary resistance.

Verdict

Stylish and comfortable arm warmers you'll love on cool autumn/spring days, but not for proper winter