Castelli

I've long been a big fan of Castelli's top-line bibshorts and tights. The use quality materials that last forever, and, unlike some other major brands I've used, I've never had a problem with stitching coming undone or materials fraying - and I have some Castelli bibs that I've used way longer than intended. The Unlimited Endurance Bibshort is my favorite yet, with more supple materials and very usable pockets which are fantastic for long days out or for quickly accessing a phone or gel. My favorite part is their Progetto chamois.It is thin enough that you never have that diaper-like feel you get with some bulkier chamois, but their blend of densities works great for anything from a short spin to extremely long days out. I recently used these for one of my longest, most strenuous days yet 9 11 hours and over 11,000 feet of climbing. I was sore in a lot of ways, but not in any that had anything to do with these bibs. I have two pair so far, and will ad more, and bought a pair for my wife, and she loves the women's version too. Just remember to size up at least one full size from most other brands, as Castelli run small. Hugely recommended.

Excellent jersey that works best in warm to hot conditions and I primarily reach for this jersey in the sumemr months. However, I have ridden this jersey with a base layer into the high 50s and remained comfortable. I am 5' 11", about 177 lbs, with a 40R chest. I purchased a size XL and it works well for my preferences. I could have fit into a size L due to the stretch fabric if I wanted a tight race fit. The fabric breaths very effectively and is very comfortable. To be honest, one of the big selling points was the excellent choices in bright, solid colors. I have both the vivid orange (my favorite color for visibility) and the red and I am very happy with the purchases. These jerseys are a very good value when the jerseys are on sale.

Had higher hopes than what I got. For starters, I expected a glove that had "arenberg" in title to have thicker padding. I have a pair of corsa rosso road fingerless gloves and the padding between to two is a bit similar. I had bought these with the purpose of using them cool weather gravel. To that effect my dainty hands were not quite as comfortable as I hoped. Another shortcoming is the snot strip. It's suede rather than fleece and thus not very good. The grip is decent but they made no effort to add touch screen compatibility. Considering how bike computers are heading in that direction whether we like it or not this would make it tough to adjust things let alone check your phone without taking off your gloves. I'll give these gloves credit for being gloves and better than nothing for shoulder season. I'm hoping as they break in the sharpness in the fabric between the thumb and first finger will soften.

Got this to replace my old Mortirolo jacket which was getting worn even before being damaged in a crash. Unlike the old one, this doesn't have side vents for cases when temps warm up during the day, but improved breathability should somewhat compensate for that. Felt good riding in low 40s, with a second base layer should be fine for upper 30s. Normally I wear Medium in Castelli, but prefer tailored/race fit - since this is regular fit I was on the fence, but still went with M for layering and worried about being short. It has long cut and sleeves and stretchy fabric so I should've probably gotten Small, but decided to keep M as it's OK for winter. 5'9"+, ~145lb.