Assos HK.laalalaiKnickers_s7 Lady

Assos has created a superior performing garment with the HK.laalalaiKnickers_s7 Lady; they're perfect for those days when shorts are not enough but full tights are too much.

So often it is just a little bit too cool to be wearing just shorts; I value my knees and don't like them to be exposed to cool air too much. That said, a pair of tights, or even leg warmers, can result in overheating. Assos' HK.laalalai Knickers address this common scenario, eliminating the need to carry knee warmers and then debate whether or not it's warm/cold enough to need them...

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The knickers boast Assos' innovative S7 insert. It says the chamois 'has been designed to improve freedom of movement in the most sensitive areas'. It is certainly an unusual design, consisting of a dense female-specific-cut foam pad covered by a 'waffle-like' perforated insert. This is stitched into the knickers with openings (that is to say, there is no chamois edge stiching) at the sides, front, and rear. These 'openings' facilitate a healthy breathability and faster drying when washed, as well as offering the claimed freedom of movement.

The result of all this creativity and technology is a smooth and comfortable ride. It's one of the most comfortable pads I have used for a long time. When moving about on the bike, in and out of the saddle, the chamois never felt rigid or abrasive at any point on the skin. It's also showing no signs of losing its supportive features with washing.

Elsewhere, the fit around the midriff is snug without being restrictive. An elasticated lower back panel sits firmly in place thanks to some small internal rubber strips that grip to any undergarment. The frontal panel is equally as stretchy, though in a softer material, which eliminates any potential discomfort. This frontal panel is minimal, and if walking and moving around off the bike then my undervest was soon visible between the knickers and a jersey. This was a little frustrating, but given the comfort offered on the bike by the lower cut I was happy to accept this minor shortcoming.

The knickers offer significant support along the length of the leg, not unlike compression wear that I might have used when racing. It certainly justifies Assos' claim of striking 'the balance between comfort and compression for superior performance'. The knickers stay firmly in place below the knee thanks to the coupling of an elasticated banding and an interior rubbery grip strip. This combination was spot on, comfortable and leaving no trace of marks on the skin post-ride. Behind the knee is a soft, stretchy, breathable fabric which doesn't irritate or encourage any form of sweating.

In terms of value, £150 certainly isn't cheap, but it's in the ballpark for other high-end garments – the same price as Rapha's 3/4 Tights. They're high quality, beautifully comfortable, and you're getting shorts and knee warmers in one... You do need to treat them with care to keep them looking good, though, as they snag easily.

> Read our guide to the best cycling shorts

In contrast to the functional, high-performing features, Assos has opted for simple aesthetics: aside from small logos and two effective reflective tabs on the rear leg seams, the knickers are plain black. They have a stylish, understated look that I think many riders will be very happy with.

Verdict

Classy and high performing piece of kit that is perfect for cooler summer/autumn riding