When AnaNichoola announced it was to bring out a winter version of the now-legendary star tights, I was first in the queue. The demand was such that the brand’s website actually crashed the first day these went on sale, and I’m proud to say I was part of the initial rush to get my hands on a pair.
At £55 these are affordable and I’d pick them over pricier big-name brands every time.
Made of a thicker Italian ThermoRoubaix fabric with a lovely soft, fleecy lining, these tights are warm and cosy enough to make a ride through grotty cold weather seem appealing.
The stars are rubberised and the crotch is also fleecy and seamless to prevent chafing. The waistband is higher at the back, providing the delightfully-titled AnaNichoola ‘anti-muffin effect’. There are also zips at the bottom for ease of dragging the tights on and off over muddy trainers.
What AnaNichoola does so well is make clothes that make you want to ride your bike more – and these tights are no exception. They are a pleasure to wear and seem to magically hold you in where you need it – in my case my mummy-tummy and inner thighs. Not being ‘blessed’ with a much-coveted thigh gap, these tights nonetheless give me the confidence to keep my non-gappy thighs out and proud. They’re completely opaque so no fears of flashing my gigantic cycling knickers either. They’re unpadded so you can also wear them under baggies.
The lovely breathable fabric keeps you warm and cosy without being cloying. I’ve put in some serious miles in these tights and I still feel great when I hop off my bike at the other end, no matter what kind of muddy sweaty state I’m in. They are snug but not restrictive – I leaped easily on and off my bike and over obstacles galore in them at CX training.
My only slight issue is that they are now too loose around the waist and sagging at the crotch, which I believe is a result of me shifting some baby weight. I have ordered another pair a size down because I can’t bear to wave goodbye to tights this lovely.
VERDICT
Another hit from AnaNichoola, these tights are a winter essential for anybody who loves to ride and look great.
If the star-print is a little daring for you the lovely plain black café tights are just as flattering and functional, and completely opaque to protect your modesty.
PROS
– Look fantastic
– Gorgeous warm cosy fabric
– Complimented and commented upon wherever I go
– More affordable than big-name brands.
CONS
– The star print isn’t subtle – these aren’t for shy retiring types.
Some sizes sold out on AnaNichoola site – try VeloVixen if your size isn’t in stock
Sizes available: XS-XL
Colour options: Black
Price: RRP £55
More information: AnaNichoola
What AnaNichoola says about the Winter Star Tights
The lary Star Leggings were our best-selling garment through the summer season, thanks to you diva’s! So we have brought them back in a gorgeous winter fabric. They are cleverly designed to be worn comfortably under baggies or over padded shorts. They feature a soft, gusseted crotch, so that there are no seams where you least want them, and they sport an ankle zip to get them on and off over your shoes. For your modesty you will find our signature anti-muffin effect dropped waist/high back.
Who are they for? If you like the loud legs trend that is hitting the high street, slopes and now forests. If you want extra warmth and comfort with no added bulk for your ride. If you are proud of the way you ride and tend to find yourself smiling and notice that people smile back whenever you pass.
Thoughtful features:
– Ultra-warm, breathable Italian ThermoRoubaix fabric
– Rubberised star screen-printed pattern
– Unique AnaNichoola high back and dropped waist
– Reflective details
– Zip to allow taking off over muddy shoes
– Flatlock stitching
