Since 1993, Scottish cycling brand Endura has produced a line of functional, quality apparel and accessories for cyclists of all levels. From its inception, Endura launched a host of both novel and challenging products that earned the brand a global reputation, and a favourite of top riding teams for road, mountain, and triathlon events.
They’ve collaborated with leading aerodynamic and bike-fitting organizations to ensure that their products remain cutting edge in the industry.
In fact, several products in their Pro SL line-up have evolved directly from WorldTour experiences and a shared passion for cycling that in turn delivers quality goods for casual cyclers and pros alike. And to lessen its environmental footprint, Endura aims to plant one million trees annually to help balance carbon offset.
We received several cycling accessories to check out this winter, including the Luminite Overshoe II, Waterproof Gaiter Overshoe, and Deluge Glove.
Deluge Glove
Deluge Gloves are fully waterproof and insulated for cold weather riding, and contain a breathable outer fabric that incorporates eco-friendly PFC-free DWR. The gloves have a bit of elasticity around the base of the palm and contain an extra-long cuff to tuck under your jacket or hoody, with a velcro adjuster for a custom fit.
The Deluge is constructed with an inner brushed tricot layer that wicks away both sweat and moisture from the skin. A padded gel palm contains a silicon pattern for gripping handlebars.
The thumbs are made of suede for an easy sweat wipe as needed too.
[Hi-viz yellow Deluge Gloves]
There’s a hi-viz yellow version that really stands out for being seeing on the road. The black version has a few reflective elements for low-light conditions, but I think it would be great if it had just a little more visibility (somewhere between the hi-viz model and all black).
Test Drive
I tested these during a moderate rain shower for both warmth and dry factors. The tops of the glove got wet but stayed on that layer, so my hands didn’t feel the rain. While the gloves kept my hands warm on top as I was riding, the bottom fingertips still felt a bit chilly.
The closest product I own to compare with the Deluge gloves are my Gore C5 GORE-TEX Thermo Gloves, which are a bit stiffer when worn and don’t keep my hands as warm as these do (though they do offer excellent protection against the wind).
A far as the microfiber palm for touchscreen capability goes, I can swipe my iPhone up to release the Lock Screen, and swipe across pages to access apps, but typing won’t work. I can however access handy apps like weather and Google Maps while wearing them.
Available in black or Hi-Viz Yellow, sizes XS to XXL; CAD $120/USD $64.99
Luminite Overshoe II
With a stretchy waterproof PU fabric and a taped centre front seam, the Luminite Overshoe II opens both at the sole and the back heel using velcro fasteners. Their flat-locked seams provided added protection and durability too.
Built for rainy-day commutes, they’re suited for a range of footwear and cleats, plus offer front, side, and rear reflective elements for better visibility.
Test Drive
The Luminites are easy to put on and to take off. They’ll protect your shoes, and appear to be durable. After a one hour ride in the rain, some water did creep via my shoe soles into the shoe, and my socks were a bit wet, but not soaked as I have experienced with other brands.
For shorter rides in the rain these should work fine, but do not expect to stay fully dry in heavier rain showers.
In black, sizes XS to XXL; CAD $100/USD $69.99
Waterproof Gaiter Overshoe
Taller than the Luminite II, Endura’s Gaiter Overshoe also contains a full-length velcro fastener at the rear, is suitable for most footwear and cleats, and is constructed with a durable three-layer nylon sole.
Elasticated stirrups at the sole area are a great feature, and I love the two extra Velcro fasteners on the top of your foot and front leg for a tighter and adjustable fit.
A reflective logo and panels at the back help in low-light conditions. These shoe covers are made of sturdy materials and should offer many years of rain protection.
Test Drive
These are the ultimate commuter overshoes, and can also fit over any other overshoe as an extra layer of protection with a bit of extra isolation and warmth. They remind me of my faithful old MEC overshoes that I had to finally throw away after more than 10 years of abuse.
In black, sizes XS to XXL; CAD $90/USD $59.99
Visit Endura online to view and to order (in the US) their entire range of cycling clothing and accessories. Shop Endura cycling in Vancouver at Westpoint Cycles, Norco Northshore, and Sidesaddle Bikes.
