Stanto Velo Protective Arm Warmers

Thanks to Midlands based entrepreneur Guy Stanton and his aptly named Stanto Velo Protective Arm warmers, the humble chill beating jersey extensions have become a safety accessory.

Apparently, the one-time motocrosser and now regular sportive rider experienced a eureka moment having taken a nasty spill and succumbing to an equally unpleasant bout of tarmac rash that took its time about healing; denting his confidence.

After searching high and low for a commercial product, he created a prototype from redundant arm warmers and steadily refined the concept over winter until settling upon an abrasion resistant, antibacterial ethylene propylene diene elbow/forearm pad.

For the uninitiated EPDM is a rubberised, synthetic elastomer more commonly associated with flat roofing and similar industrial applications. Standards of fit and indeed refinement immediately impressed me.

The fleece lined Lycra is rugged, likely to shrug off the occasional spill. Tactile silicone grippers hold everything in situ, ruling out unbecoming Nora Batty-esque unravelling.

Retro reflective cuffs and logos are another nice touch, breaking up the black, adding some welcome nocturnal safety, which is particularly effective when combined with other accessories such as a helmet band.

Long evening miles with steadily waning temperatures have been markedly more temperate using these, compared with thinner, traditional types, and on the flip side; they're easily removed and stowed away in jersey pockets when the sun burns through early morning mist.

Since most of us crash fairly infrequently, time trialists will be interested to learn those rubberised inserts also provide some welcome damping when hunkered low on the tri bars, especially on the budget versions whose armrests err on the Spartan side.

Verdict

Innovative and well made arm warmers with effective fringe benefits.