MTB

On Test: SealSkinz’s Summer MTB Range Gloves and Socks

We put SealSkinz' new MTB range to the test

Living in the UK we certainly get our fair share of rainfall – and wind and hail and everything else Mother Nature throws at us.

Whilst for road cyclists these are not ideal weather conditions, for some of us mountain bikers, it’s what we ride for. There’s something wonderfully childlike about getting muddy and wet, so when the rain descends on those trails, we regress and let our inner child out to play.

However, there will always be that parental voice in your head telling your inner child to wrap up warm or you’ll “catch your death”.

Thankfully SealSkinz came up with the answer to the uncomfortable and bone chilling problem we riders get when it’s wet out: Wet-Cold-Numb-Dead-Feet-And-Hands.

We put their new socks and gloves to the test on the Welsh trails.

Review: MTB Mid Socks with Hydrostop

Arguably the best brand for waterproof MTB socks, SealSkinz have really made a lot of wet weather riders happy with their innovative technology to keep water off the skin.

Their new summer range is designed for maximum breathability, whilst remaining wind and waterproof. Feeling a little lighter and thinner than the previous model, these mid-length socks are great for warm and wet days.

Lined with a soft merino wool fabric for moisture control, these socks feel really comfortable against the skin, even after a full day of riding.

It’s great to see SealSkinz have taken into consideration customer feedback from their previous waterproof socks. Whilst you could walk through a river without your feet getting wet, there was always an issue with water seeping into the socks at the cuff. Once water gets in, there’s nowhere for it to go.

However, following feedback, SealSkinz have introduced their Hydrostop which is a s secure silicone strip around the elasticated cuff. Not only does this help reduce water from seeping in, but it also helps keep your socks in position.

Typically, on the one day I choose to water test these, Wales chose to not rain, so I improvised. Using the garden hose, I completely drenched my legs, socks and ground for a few minutes until the my feet were fully saturated. I peeled off the socks to not only find my feet were totally dry, but no water droplets had snuck their way down the cuff either.

Another positive development to emerge from their new summer line, is more variety of colourways to choose from. Rather than the standard navy and grey combo, SealSkinz have introduced multiple colour options for the co-ordination conscious of us looking for matching accessories.

Sizes: Small – X.Large

Colours: Leaf/Lime – Black/Grey – Black/Blue/Orange

Available here for £39

Review: Dragon Eye MTB Gloves

SealSkinz’s new MTB trail gloves are super lightweight, and extremely comfortable. These single layer gloves have a soft suede palm for water resistance and moisture control.

With silicone pads on the index, middle and thumb, they provide suitable grip whilst being compatible for touch screen devices. Great for those QoM hunters.

The knuckles have been extended in their stitching to allow for additional ease of movement, whilst SealSkinz’ have extended the thumb chamber for full movement about your bike’s cockpit.

Although they are waterproof, there is still the issue with water seeping in through the cuff. The rubber and Velcro fastening is great for ensuring a good fit, but won’t keep the rain from getting in.

The Dragon Eye MTB gloves come in matching colours to the socks as well!

Sizes: Small – XX.Large

Colours: Leaf/Lime – Black/Grey – Black/Blue/Orange

Available here for £38

The new summer range of MTB socks and gloves from SealSkinz shows real development from their previous ranges, having taken into consideration customer feedback, which is great.

The Mid-Length Socks with Hydrostop are awesome for wet weather riding, ensuring your feet stay dry, and the adult voice in your head at bay.

The Dragon Eye gloves are great for more chilled out riding, and less aggressive riders, but personally I prefer a little more cushioning on my palms and tougher inserts for the back of the hand.