Optimum Nitebrite Waterproof Winter Gloves

I've really struggled to find fault with Optimum Nitebrite waterproof gloves. They might look a little generic - like a tsunami of budget priced competitors - but seem capable of giving many mid-range 'impervious' gloves a seriously good run for our hard-earned.

There's a choice between day glow yellow or stealth black with well positioned retro-reflective detailing. Both feature soft-shell polyester backs and hard-wearing Amara palms with the seemingly obligatory ulnar nerve-defending gel blobs. Quality of construction seems reassuringly good - a notch or so higher than several similar gloves I've tested recently.

Stitching is neat and uniform throughout. Inside we've a three-layer system with a welded waterproof lining sandwiched between windproof and wicking panels.

I'm generally a fan of waterproof gloves, but even the more expensive models seem prone to clamminess and linings that pull away when you take the gloves off. Optimum has addressed that bugbear by tethering the liner to the fingers.

The velcro closures fit comfortably inside most technical jackets for seamless, weather cheating effect.

While digit dexterity isn't comparable with some top-flight road models, punctures and other roadside mechanicals haven't automatically necessitated removal and they don't muffle feedback during braking or gear changing.

Maybe I'm just the exception but ulnar nerve padding can be a lottery, often causing precisely the discomfort it was intended to alleviate. However, the Optimum Nitebrites have given no trace of tell-tale tingling or numbness regardless of ride duration, though full on cross country mountain biking merits thicker density stuff.

Double-stitched Amara patches between thumb and forefinger should rule out premature wear from STI controls, while silicone grippers have provided a tenacious touch - even operating early eighties Campagnolo down tube shifters during thunderstorms of biblical proportions.

That rain remained firmly outside the gloves. In common with most lower-mid-range synthetics their inner climate will become clammy given twenty minutes or so, especially when temperatures creep into double figures.

Comparatively mild test conditions make it hard to comment on their insulating properties, though a particularly -1°C midnight ride didn't present any unwelcome surprises.

Plunging my hands into freezing canal water for three minutes proved they are genuinely waterproof to the cuff-line, despite the curious sensation of pressure suggesting gallons of evil smelling stagnant stuff was about to race inside.

Verdict

Good winter gloves for general riding and not a lot of money