The tested products at a glance:

Poc Rouse Shirt
Poc Consort MTB Dungaree
7Mesh Skypilot jacket
7Mesh Thunderpant
Glarner Tüechli

POC Rouse Shirt

First impression
The fact that POC was inspired by Carhartt workwear is unmistakable. Casual style meets functionality. The robust fabric is windproof and has a DWR coating. The cut is loose and thin elbow protectors fit well underneath. In addition to a chest pocket, there is also a goggle holder.

In use
The shirt allows plenty of freedom of movement and sits comfortably on the body. However, the fabric feels a little cool against bare skin and is not particularly warm. Nevertheless, it offers good protection from the wind. If you ride uphill for a long time, you quickly get warm and the climate gets damp. Even if the inside of the Rouse shirt is soaked with sweat, the wind protection remains in place.

Conclusion
The POC Rouse Shirt is an ideal companion on autumn shuttle tours or perfect as a change shirt after a climb. The breathability is sufficient for moderate tours on flat terrain, but not for longer uphills. The shirt offers top wind protection for fast descents and the best style for après-bike rides.

Price: CHF 179.00

Manufacturer/distributor
www.pocsports.com

POC Consort MTB Dungaree

First impression
The Consort is even closer to Carhartt workwear than the shirt. It is strongly reminiscent of their classic dungarees and rainwear could hardly be more stylish. The 3-layer trousers are packed with clever details. Thanks to the long 2-way zipper on the right side, they are quick and easy to put on. The closure is also a ventilation opening and therefore has three zippers. There is a pocket in the bib that can hold a cell phone. There are also two further pockets in the thigh area and a small pocket for a train ticket on the left side of the bottom.

The trousers fit snugly around the calf and an elasticated waistband keeps the wind out. Otherwise, the cut is "loose fit" and offers space for protectors at the knees. The elasticated suspenders can be adjusted with Velcro fasteners and there is a lashing strap at the back to ensure they don't pull in anywhere.

In use
The comfortable cut of the Consort is perfect for biking. The dungarees feel comfortable against the skin and are highly breathable. They also make a good trap on cold, damp days without rain. On long uphill climbs, the wide-opening ventilation slits provide the necessary fresh air. Even after several washes, the trousers can withstand constant rain.

Price: CHF 599.00

Manufacturer/distributor
www.pocsports.com

7mesh Skypilot jacket

First impression
The aim in developing the Skypilot was to achieve a top ratio of maximum weather protection and small pack size. Therefore, not all limits were explored, but a good balance was created. The result is a "simple" rain jacket with an over-helmet hood and two side pockets. The whole jacket weighs just 246 grams. To save weight, a minimalist waistband adjustment system has been implemented for the hood and waistband. This works quite well for the waistband, but is a little awkward for the hood, as three of the two lashing straps are located inside the jacket and are not easily accessible.

The cut of the jacket is chosen so that it falls loosely if you are only wearing a functional shirt and a jersey, but there is room for a third layer. If you put on a thick thermal shirt or a bike sweater underneath, the Skypilot fits snugly without constricting.

In use
The Gore-Tex Active 3L material feels comfortable even against bare skin. A soft fleece at the neck protects against chafing. The high collar offers good weather protection, but should be a little tighter The cut of the Skypilot is pleasing, especially the hood: it provides a good view to the side or when looking behind. The breathability is so high that you don't miss the missing ventilation slits.

Conclusion
The 7mesh Skypilot jacket is a top rain jacket for biking and is also suitable for leisure time thanks to its understated look. The pack size is not super small, but the jacket can withstand several hours of rain and is still lightweight. It is a welcome companion on alpine tours and reliable protection all year round. In winter temperatures, wear a bike sweater or a thick jersey and thermal underwear underneath and you'll be comfortable even in sub-zero temperatures.

Price: CHF 398.00

Manufacturer/distributor
www.7mesh.com

7Mesh Thunderpant

First impression
7mesh is known for the highest quality rainwear. No wonder, as the makers all come from clothing specialist Arcteryx. With the Thunderpant, they have created a product that is absolutely unique, as the length of the trousers can be individually shortened - more on this later. The pants are made from two "Gore-Tex Pro" materials with different densities. The thicker material is used where more protection against water and dirt is required, while the thinner material is used where high breathability is needed. Two-way zippers are sewn into the lower legs, which also serve as an entry aid and climate control. The Thunderpant is a little awkward to put on as it has no front zipper and the cut on the lower legs is close to the body: the Velcro and zippers have to be opened wide. The waistband is slightly elasticated and is secured by two side lashing straps. Unfortunately, these often come undone unintentionally when putting them on. There is a pocket on the right thigh that can hold a cell phone and is completely waterproof. The trousers weigh just 300 grams.

The highlight of the rain trousers mentioned at the beginning is the cuffs at the end of the legs, which can be shortened independently. The neoprene-like material has printed cut zones on the inside where you can easily adjust the length with a pair of scissors. The recommendation, which has proven to be successful, is to shorten a little at first, then go biking with it and see how it fits, and make one or two further cuts if necessary.

In use
The cut of the trousers is very elaborate and designed for the seated riding position. If the trousers feel a little unfamiliar when standing, everything fits perfectly when sitting in the saddle. The fabric crackles quite loudly when pedaling and this doesn't improve even after several washes. That's pretty much the only disadvantage of the Thunderpant.

Conclusion
The 7mesh Thunderpant is a state of the art rain pant: it keeps you dry for longer than you might want to ride in the rain. The high quality and super cut are second to none. The possibility of individual length adjustment makes them absolutely unique and justifies their high price. After a rainy season, the pants show the first signs of wear on the backside, but these are only of visual concern.

Manufacturer/distributor
www.7mesh.com

Glarner Tüechli - bargain tip

First impression
50 by 50 centimetres and 100 percent organic cotton, printed with the classic Glarus motif and available in 18 colors. This is the Glarner Tüechli. A touch of ethno to protect your shorn head in windy weather and low temperatures.

In use
Once folded diagonally and tied around the head, the Glarner Tüechli not only protects you in nasty weather, it is also a good sweat catcher and sun protection in summer.

Conclusion
Yes, there is a risk that the style police will not approve of the ethnic look on the head. But thanks to the 18 colors, there is sure to be one that perfectly matches the helmet and you won't notice the scarf right away. But to be honest, there is no such thing as a beautiful headgear and if you have a shaved head, there is no way around it. I'd rather have a Glarner Tüechli made in Switzerland than a high-tech cloth made in China that costs twice as much.

Price: CHF 12.00

Manufacturer/distributor
www.stoff-fabrikladen.ch