Kostüme Unisex Arm Warmers

Tell us what the product is for

They're for those transitional seasons when you want to be able to pack away your lower arm and elbow insulation.

From Kostüme:

The Kostüme signature arm warmer combines everything we've learned from countless uncomfortable miles ridden in the land that arguably invented changeable weather.

For our signature warmer range, we use a mid-weight GRS-certified recycled fabric with a luxurious brushed microfibre inner that feels super-soft on the skin.

Although warm enough to deal with the worst that shoulder season has to offer, it also has the breathability needed to comfortably deal with temperatures up to 12C, reducing the need to adjust your layering as the conditions change.

Modest amounts of two-way stretch also allows for some lateral expansion to accommodate larger arms, but without stretching and deforming when pulled repeatedly on and off.

Despite our 'less is more' ethos, we know from experience the limitations of a one-piece tubular warmer, so we've developed an ergonomic pre-shaped four-panel construction, complete with low-profile flatlock seams. Designed to mimic the natural position of the arms when cycling, this also means a slightly longer length at the outer wrist edge, and less fabric in the elbow crease to minimise bunching. TLDR?: Supremely comfy. No chafing.

In a final nod to comfort, we've specified an extra-wide gripper panel using offcuts of the amazing recycled fabric from our bib short, meaning less waste, less unsightly bulk under your jersey sleeves and a smoother transition between fabric and skin. And to eliminate the ancient guessing game of 'which arm is which' you'll find the answers printed on reflective tabs sewn discreetly into each forearm seam.

Our arm warmers are available in six (count them) different lengths, meaning whatever your build there should be an option to suit.

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

From Kostüme:

Bluesign® and OEKO-TEX® certified recycled brushed-back main fabric

Articulated 4-panel construction for ergonomic fit

Flatlock seams for comfort and performance

Two available lengths per size

Handy left/right indicators

Reflective tabs and transfers to aid night safety

Optimal temperature range 2-12c

Made in Romania

A really well-constructed four-panel item with sturdy seams placed in unobtrusive locations. The gripper band is about four fingers wide, meaning the pressure point is stretched so minimal sagging and repositioning occurs. The body is lined with a soft, fleecy material that adds to the insulation.

Minimal drag is created by the tight fit, and they were amply breathable without overheating at the top end of the temperature range. Don't rely on these warmers to cope with extreme wet weather, though – you'll still need a proper layer for that.

The decals on the arms seem vulnerable to washing after a few uses. However, the rest of the garment is sturdy and resilient.

Reassuringly snug across the majority of the arm with a slight loosening around the watch area of the wrist. The ergonomics of the panelling really do make a difference to elbow bunching.

Kostüme offers sizing details on its website which worked perfectly for me: 186cm male requires a medium. It also provides each size in two lengths to cater to different limbs. My pair were in long, meaning they ran from almost armpit to the bone on my wrist. Slightly shorter would also have been fine. I have never lifted a dumbbell in my life but the elastane felt secure on the bicep without being constrictive.

Not the lightest or the heaviest in this space, but the weight of a couple of bags of crips isn't going to hurt you too far either way.

Incredibly comfortable – especially once you've snipped out the washing label.

At the dear end of the arm warmer market but they're like sleeves cut out from an expensive jersey, with a delightful feel to the material and excellent fit and functionality.

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

Kostüme encourages you to use a delicate cycle and a gentle spin at 30 degrees max. No problems whatsoever.

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

These are expensive but they feel and perform impeccably.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

It's all well and good apparel containing recycled fibres, but here they also feel svelte and well considered, and that's a real win. The admittedly simple addition of reflective right/left tags have already saved me hours of faffing, and they pack down nice and small.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

There's very little I would change about Kostüme's arm warmers; they don't hold off extreme weather, but don't claim to either.

How does the price compare to that of similar products in the market, including ones recently tested on road.cc?

These are some of the more expensive arm warmers on offer: up there with Rapha, and more than Assos. The warmers from dhb and Specialized mentioned in the review are £15 less – although Kostüme would point to its environmental credentials as one way to justify the price. And Rapha does have a couple at £55.

Use this box to explain your overall score

If you're looking for environmentally-sound apparel and acknowledge the associated costs of such production methods, then spending a bit more on one of the cheaper items in your cycling kit arsenal won't concern you. The price hurdle is really the only one that exists for the Kostüme arm warmers, as everything else is high-end and impressive. They are well made, durable, aesthetically pleasing, practical, snug fitting, and warm.