45NrthDraugenklaw Pogies ( Drop Bar )(Return to Product Page)

It seems like a nice idea as it keeps your fingers together, reducing surface area exposed to the cold, but these are not designed for the larger Shimano hoods. With the larger Shimano hoods, these are really tight, limiting dexterity more than thick gloves. While I like the nice fabric that is surprising warm in the low 30s and high 20s for its thickness, these aren't that wind-proof and slide down after I pull my hands in and out to make hand signals at turns; I often have to pull them up to block the wind or my wrists would be cold. Plus these don't block the wind and cold when I'm using the drops. So I still prefer thick gloves.

If you're looking for a lighter set of pogies, these are the ones to get. They're not adequate for very cold temperatures for two reasons: They don't insulate all that well, and they are a little tight, so you can't use heavy gloves with them with a lot of comfort. I have used big, battery-heated gloves and stuffed my hands inside, but I wouldn't recommend it.

Those aren't negatives, just aspects. If the temperatures are 35-40F (lower if you have better circulation than I apparently have), these are perfect because your hands won't overheat. Much below freezing, and I prefer Bar Mitts. The Draugenklaws are much better constructed than the Bar Mitts, though, which are basically a couple slabs of neoprene slapped together. The Draugenklaws don't slip down the bar, either, which the Bar Mitts do constantly. They keep their shape and don't move.

Simple solution for more enjoyable cold weather rides. Can use lighter gloves with more dexterity. Could be a bit larger space inside.