Northwave Raptor Arctic GTX bike shoe

First impression
Visually, this winter shoe hardly differs from others, it is sec black like most. As an alternative, neon yellow beckons for more visibility in the dark season. However, it is well thought out. A high neoprene shaft ensures sufficient overlap with the trousers, a Michelin sole promises good grip in uncomfortable conditions and a Gore-Tex membrane keeps feet dry. The footbed is insulated with a sole made of four layers of aluminum foil and fleece lining.

At first glance, the closure system looks like that of Boa, but it works a little differently. Closing is done by turning the wheel, but on the left and right in opposite directions and not clockwise on both sides as with the competition. Opening can be done in stages by briefly pressing the release mechanism. This is ideal if you have pulled something too tight and only want to open one My (µ/Mü). A long press opens the system completely in one go.

In use
The bootleg has a tight cut and has the advantage that it fits snugly, providing good warmth and optimum insulation. Unfortunately, it is made from one piece and has no zipper. This makes it a little difficult to put on for the first few times until you get the hang of it: Make a nicely stretched ballet flat and put it on. The pressure is pleasantly distributed thanks to the twist lock and the wire system. Taking them off would be easier if there was a grip on the top strap to widen the shoe. It's a bit fiddly this way.

The Raptor Arctic has a comfortable fit, the insole provides good support and there are no pressure points. At temperatures above seven degrees it gets sweaty, below seven degrees it gets frosty. In between, your feet will feel right at home. The smooth surface is easy to clean after muddy battles. The shoe has withstood light rain showers, we didn't have to go through any heavy ones.

Conclusion
Northwave Raptor Arctic GTX lets you ride a little longer in winter. It provides exemplary warmth and scores points with a carbon-reinforced sole that provides plenty of comfort when running and is stiff enough when pedaling. However, the functionality of the closure system can still be optimized.

Price: CHF 340.00

Manufacturer/distributor
www.northwave.com

Endura MT500 Freezing Jacket

First impression
Endura's latest insulation jacket is specially designed for mountain biking. It has a Primaloft Gold lining made from 45% recycled materials. It has a loose-fitting cut and is longer at the back so that it covers the lower back well when seated. Long zippers are sewn in for climate regulation. The hood sits comfortably under the helmet and is also lined, making the MT500 Freezing ideal for keeping you warm after a ride. The shoulder sections have a silicone print that provides additional support for rucksack straps. There is a small pocket on the inside - just big enough for an older cell phone. There is no room for the latest, large-format devices. The compartment has a headphone output, but no additional cable loops. If mustard is too colorful for you, you will enjoy a gray and black jacket. Both versions are available in six sizes from XS to XXL, which is unusual and we think that's quite cool for a winter jacket.

In use
As the name suggests, the jacket is designed for use around freezing point. You don't need to wear anything more than thermal underwear to stay warm and cozy. From 5 degrees plus the jacket is too hot. With the necessary intermediate layer, temperatures in double figures below zero are no problem. The jacket is a little heavy due to the long zippers. This is not a problem when riding, as it fits snugly and comfortably. Breathability is sufficient, the jacket absorbs a lot of moisture and keeps you warm and comfortable even on sweaty rides. The zippers of the ventilation slits can only be operated moderately well while riding. To avoid hairy riding maneuvers, it is better to get off the bike briefly. The collar is cut comfortably high, providing ideal protection from the wind and cold. Thanks to the water-repellent coating, you stay dry if you "take off" into deep snow.

Conclusion
The Endura MT500 Freezing Jacket will quickly become a favorite on and off the bike. Whether the zippers under the arms need to extend from the middle of the upper arm to the hip bones is questionable. It would be better if they were much shorter - making the jacket lighter - and fitted with a mesh to prevent unwanted tangling. In terms of appearance and functionality, it is also suitable for everyday wear or other sports.

Price: CHF 200.00

Manufacturer/distributor
www.endurasport.com

Endura MT500 freezing pants

First impression
The jacket comes with matching trousers. Unfortunately, these are only available in black and not in the color mustard. Why does hardly anyone make colorful winter pants? That would really be something different for the usually dark season anyway. The MT500 Freezing also has a Primaloft Gold lining. Thanks to two Velcro fasteners, the waist size can be adjusted, which is ideal for keeping those extra pounds off after Christmas. The zipper on the lower leg makes it possible to adjust the width of the trouser leg individually. If it gets too hot in the trousers, the temperature can be regulated using two ventilation slits on the thighs. The two loin pockets are cut deep and practical for coins or small items. "Old-fashioned" cell phones fit in, but modern ones with large screens do not. Abrasion-resistant material is used on the inside of the thighs and in the crotch.

In use
The roughened material on the inside is pleasantly fluffy. The range of use of the trousers is wider than that of the jacket. They are pleasantly warm at three degrees plus and fit up to 8 degrees with the ventilation open. In combination with thick knee socks, they can also cope with very frosty days. The rear waistband is rubberized so that the legwear stays in place without slipping, even when you're sweating profusely. Thanks to the generous adjustment range on the lower legs, you can wear bike boots for arctic temperatures or a tight fit with low-cut shoes to prevent cold from entering the waistband.

Conclusion
The good cut in combination with the wide range of use makes the Freezing Point trousers from Endura the ideal winter clothing. Although no special waterproof material is used in the area around the rear, it remains dry. The water-repellent DWR coating lasts even after numerous washes.

Price: CHF 200.00

Manufacturer/distributor
www.endurasport.com

7mesh Freeflow jacket

First impression
At first glance, the inside of the jacket looks a little unusual. The jacket is equipped with Polartec's Alpha insulation material in strategically placed areas. This was originally developed for US special forces who needed advanced protection against the cold for their combat suits. The synthetic fiber is very light and is reminiscent of a "teddy bear skin". The jacket is reduced to the bare essentials to keep it light.

In use
The Freeflow fits loosely without constricting. The elasticated cuffs and raised collar keep the cold out efficiently. In combination with thermal underwear, the comfort range is up to 5 degrees. If it is colder, an additional intermediate layer is required. If this is warming, the jacket can also be worn at temperatures around freezing point. As the back is only partially insulated, a lot of heat escapes and does not build up. The Freeflow is completely windproof.

Conclusion
The Freeflow jacket from 7mesh has a small pack size and is very light. The Polartec Alpha insulation absorbs a lot of moisture and dries quickly. The jacket is ideal for rides in the twilight, because as soon as the sun is gone, the temperature drops and a warm jacket extends the ride.

Price: CHF 250.00

Manufacturer/distributor
www.7mesh.com

Löffler kidney belt

First impression
The cut itself is pleasing and is nice and narrow at the front so that it doesn't interfere with the riding position. It is high at the back so that the belt optimally protects the lower back and kidney area. There are four sizes to choose from and it can be individually adjusted thanks to the Velcro fastener.

In use
Made from classic fleece material, the kidney belt is a little cumbersome to use. It lacks structure or stabilizers for easy donning. The fit is good and it offers optimum protection against the cold where the wind finds its way under the jacket. Sweat is hardly absorbed, but is transferred to the overlying layer thanks to good breathability.

Conclusion
The Löffler kidney belt is a simple but effective cold protection for the lower back and therefore a welcome companion from fall to spring. For the price of 45 francs, one would wish for a more stable construction and therefore better handling. The dozen or so washes have left no marks.

Price: CHF 45.00

Manufacturer/distributor
www.loeffler.at