Tag: sealskinz

SealSkinz Lightweight Waterproof Overshoes

Post author By Editor
Post date 18/06/2013

SealSkinz Lightweight Waterproof Overshoes seem like such an obvious idea. Since the 1980s, when the first SealSkinz waterproof sock was invented (in a flash of inspiration whilst watching a documentary about John Logie Baird, so legend has it), the company has been keeping bad weather away from the skin of outdoors type. Now the wait is almost over for cyclists with the SealSkinz Lightweight Waterproof Overshoes due for release in autumn 2013. Cyclo took an early first look in the hope they would live up to our expectations�

Designed predominantly for mountain bike and road/commuting (a specific race overshoe for cleated shoes is also out later this year � read our review here) the SealSkinz Lightweight Waterproof Overshoes offer an exceptional degree of weatherproofing, combined with breathability and comfort. As you would expect from SealSkinz this is a true quality product, absolutely fit for purpose and with the kind of attention to detail on which the brand thrives.

The outer membrane swept away water on our test rides, whilst the inner, flocked, lining did an excellent job of keeping feet warm. The design lines are clean, which, the makers quite rightly claim, reduces wind resistance and means that they get on with doing their job unobtrusively while you get on with the ride.

The fit is snug but not restrictive (available in sizes S, M, L and XL)�with final adjustments made via a Velcro strap across the upper zip, which features a raised, rubberised, branding flash and an inner waterproof flap to ensure nothing creeps in through the fastenings.

The inch-wide underfoot Velcro strap did its job equally well and, whilst we had initial misgivings about its bulk, it remained perfectly in place without any discomfort. The neon-green pull-on loop is a nicety we admired, it meant that tugging the overshoe on (or indeed off) was achievable without getting hands unduly muddy/oily or risking stretching or misshaping, and for extra safety the zip edges are lined with reflective strips.

Having already put the SealSkinz Waterproof Overshoes for cleats through their paces, we had expected these lightweight, road versions to deliver � and so they did. Their tough construction � which includes a Kevlar toe piece for added durability � should see these through many seasons and the extra niceties make them worth every pound of their �35 RRP.

Once launched in August full details of the SealSkinz Lightweight Waterproof Overshoes will be�at sealskinz.com. To read the Cyclo review of the SealSkinz Waterproof Overshoes (for cleats) click here, and for a review of their Thin Socklet click here

Tags commuting, MTB, overshoes, sealskinz

Apparel Extras Reviews

SealSkinz Waterproof Overshoes

Post author By Editor
Post date 22/03/2013

For years SealSkinz have been the go-to manufacturer of waterproof apparel; their gloves, hats and socks have kept a generation of ourdoors-types safe from the elements and the only thing really missing for cyclists has been overshoes. That is all about to change with the launch in July of the highly anticipated and long-overdue SealSkinz Waterproof Overshoes � Cyclo got a first look at these and put them to the test. Did they live up to expectations?

Initial impressions were of a truly substantial looking overshoe � as tough as the kind of rides we like to take � constructed from a medium-thickness neoprene material that near-recalled a scuba boot. At the ankle a close-fitting, but not restrictive, silicone leg gripper is included to help keep everything rock-solid in place and ensure water doesn�t enter from the top, whilst the openings for cleat and heel appeared snug and featured Kevlar (which also extends to the toe) for added toughness and to prevent abrasion.

Available in S, M, L and XL; Cyclo was testing the Large which pulled on easily over the shoes (UK size 9 Specialized BG Comps) thanks, in part, to the pull-down loop � the kind of attention to detail that makes all the difference, particularly when kitting up in cold weather and with numb fingers. The heel-to-top zipper, with reflective tab, all tucked away neatly behind the integrated storm flap � which, as the name suggests, further keeps weather at bay � and final adjustments were made with the adjustable Velcro ankle strap.

Cleating in for the first time proved initially tricky. The closures around the cleats are very snug � a necessary feature of such complete attention to waterproofing � but with practice this became easier and a slight amount of �give� (not enough to worry about long-term we felt) also meant the task became less of an issue. Riding in both wet and near-freezing conditions we repeatedly found that the SealSkinz Waterproof Overshoes performed to � probably even beyond � our expectations; warm(ish), dry feet at the end of a long late-winter ride is always something to aspire to and the Sealz certainly helped deliver that.

We had expected good things from the SealSkinz Waterproof Overshoes and good things we got. When launched they will retail at �30 � comparable to something like the dhb Extreme Weather Overshoe � but for our money looking set to compete with the likes of the Castelli Estremo, just at a third of the cost. Sealz will also be launching their Lightweight Waterproof Overshoes specifically for MTB, Cyclo will bring you a review soon�

Once launched in August full details of the SealSkinz Waterproof Overshoes will be available at sealskinz.com � to read the Cyclo review of the SealSkinz Waterproof Thin Socklet click here.

This review, in adapted form, is also published on our sister site TriGear.co.uk

Tags apparel, overshoes, sealskinz

Apparel Reviews

SealSkinz Waterproof Thin Socklet

Post author By Editor
Post date 27/04/2012

Keeping feet dry in unforgiving British weather is no easy thing, but after an unprecedented dry winter, Cyclo has finally been able to take to the saddle in some proper foul conditions to put the SealSkinz Waterproof Thin Socklet through its paces. The things we do for you�

Made with a fine Merino wool lining with excellent wicking properties the socklet certainly eliminates sweaty or clammy feet, despite its middle waterproof membrane keeping more metrological moisture on the outside � the only slightly disconcerting aspect being that it crackles like a crisp bag when you slip it on. But once in place (crackle no longer audible) it�s one of the most comfortable socks we have tested; initial concerns about the seam � which runs down the middle of the sole from toe to heel proved unfounded even against the inner pressure of rigid ride shoes and the elasticated instep provided a good degree of support.

On the ride these undeniably kept the feet bone dry from both spray and torrential conditions and those that prefer a longer sock can also look to either the ankle- or mid-length option, the latter also available in a thicker version for all-season cycling. Easy to see why SealSkinz appeal to even top-flight cyclists with Bruno Reverberi, Manager of Colnago-CSF Inox, stating: �We use SealSkinz products because they offer the best protection from harsh weather conditions. The Italian winter weather is very unpredictable and we need the best kit available to make sure that our riders are comfortable and focused on the task in hand��

Priced at �22 for the socklet and rising to �30 for the mid and available in sizes from UK 3 to 14 (EU 36-49). These do their job so well it almost makes you pray for rain.

Tags apparel, sealskinz, socks