Castelli Rosso Corsa Classic Gloves

Castelli's Rosso Corsa Classic Gloves definitely are just that, classic. They have everything you need and nothing you don't; they are simple and do exactly the job that I want from a pair of gloves. They look classy too, which goes some way to justifying the price.

• Pros: Well-positioned padding, lovely fit, breathable
• Cons: We've tested some very good gloves for less than 20 quid

The Rosso Corsa Classics are lightweight and slender, and that starts with the padding. There is enough of it, and it's been placed in just the right place to prevent pins and needles.

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You get a section that runs below the fingers before passing down between the index finger and base of the thumb, then running across above the wrist to protect the ulnar nerve.

I've been testing a carbon fibre integrated stem and handlebar setup which is very stiff, and because of the flat tops you don't cover them in bar tape. The Rossos have just enough padding to take the sting out without being overly bulky and muting the ride sensation. You also get a small section of padding on the thumb for comfort when your hand is positioned on the hoods.

This latest version has an updated Clarino palm which is a soft, suede-like material that's comfortable against the skin.

The back of the hand is a polyester/elastane mix which provides a close fit, and with the centre section being mesh your hands don't overheat either, as long as you have a good breeze passing over the top. A nice touch is the embroidered logos, which you know no matter how much you wash or wear them aren't going to peel off.

The fit is close so they don't require any Velcro strap or fixing at the wrist which I like, as that can lead to irritation especially if your arms get sweaty.

There is plenty of room around the fingers, plus they are quite short so if you aren't blessed with pianist length digits they won't catch behind the knuckles.

The Rossos are easy to get on and off thanks to a longer tab at the bottom of the wrist, and for removal they have a little tab between the middle fingers. It's unnoticeable when riding but is just enough to help ease them off at the end of the ride.

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For the money, the quality is as good as you'd expect. The stitching is neat and tidy and all of the fabrics feel robust to stand up to a good few summers of riding.

Now £37 is pretty pricey for a pair of mitts, and we've seen some very good ones for a lot less. Altura's Sportive 97 Mitts, for example, scored very highly with their £19.99 price tag. On the flip side, though, David absolutely loved the Sportful R&D Cima Gloves, and they cost £35.

The Castellis are really good, and I wouldn't be averse to paying full whack; if you can find them for less, they are a great value.

Verdict

Surprisingly simple gloves for the money but they do everything you need in total comfort