We put some hands on a few of Assos’ new Winter 2011/12 rain gear at PressCamp this summer, but somehow posting it when temps were topping 100º just didn’t see right. Besides, it wouldn’t have been available until about now and our pictures turned out pretty crappy.
So here we are on a cool, rainy day wishing we had a stockpile to go around.
Built around their new Clima X system of rainproofing the cycling, the “system” is comprised of five pieces, the sturmPrinz jacket, sturmNuss knicker shorts, Rain Gloves, Rain Bootie and Rain Cap. From our first glances at them, they’re all super nice, and we’re really lusting after the knickers and rain cap for sure.
The main material in the garments is a thin 3-layer fabric with a hydrophobic triple-laminated PTFE membrane to repel rain and keep it from getting through. Wind blocking panels are selectively placed to keep you warm. Even with all that, Assos says the pieces are light enough to wear during summer downpours, too, and are designed to fit over their other “systems” to build layers for winter warmth. The upper back panel is ventilated, and there are access slits to get through to your jersey pockets. Elastic shoulder sections maintain range of motion. MSRP is $529.99.
The sturmNuss rain knickers are slim enough to wear for long road rides without flapping all around, but loose enough to fit over bibshorts. The waterproof fabric keeps rain from getting through, and windproof panels at the knees and inside thighs keep particularly sensitive parts from getting too chilled. MSRP is $349.99.
The Rain Hat is fully wind and water proof. MSRP is $44.99.
The gloves, on the other hand, have full neoprene construction so they’re not technically waterproof, but they maintain insulation even when wet. Assos says the design prevents them from “filling up” with water like some other bulky winter gloves. Palms have a grippy material. MSRP is $89.99.
The Rain Booties are also fully wind and water proof, but light enough that you could use them on a rainy summer day, too. The cuff is elasticized rubber that clings to your ankles and keeps any rain from running down into your shoes. MSRP is $139.99.
Being Assos, all items (except the knickers) are racing cut, meaning they fit snug, and they’re designed to go together for a nice, put together look but will work just fine individually.
