Reviews

dhb Aeron Rain Defence bib tights – review

Waterproof, breathable and comfortable bib tights hit the mark for British winter riding

Having added the Rain Defence range to their Aeron arsenal for this winter, dhb have hit the mark with these bib tights, which should keep you out and riding for most of the British winter.

The effective and well-fitting Aeron Rain Defence bib tights are designed for changeable (i.e. British) conditions, and they offer a good level of protection for damper and milder winters. We found them perfect in temperatures down to around five degrees and on days when the weather looked unstable.

Making use of a ‘mid-weight waterproof fabric’, the Rain Defence tights perform well several hours when it comes to keeping water at bay and beads well, protecting against road spray, fog and lighter rain. That is paired with a very impressive level of breathability for the price, and a CyTech Elastic Interface Comp HP chamois that performed well on long rides, even when it was damp.

dhb’s Aeron Rain Defence Bib Tights are well-suited to wet, mild British winters

While the bib tights aren’t cold, they don’t offer the same level of warmth a micro fleece like Roubaix might do. However, on medium to fast tempo rides, when you are working all through the ride and generating heat, the waterproofing is more than sufficient. There is plenty to keep you comfortable over time, particularly thanks to that impressive breathability, and the added rain protection increases the time of initial dry warmth.

Specification
Price: £90.00
Sizes: XS-XXL
Size tested: M
Colours: Black
Website: Wiggle

Of course, rain will eventually seep in, depending on the intensity and longevity of rain you are exposed to, but dhb have kept seams to a minimum to help increase the amount the tights can withstand. At this price point, however, the seams aren’t taped or backed so moisture will eventually get through.

The level of give and flex in the fabric, meanwhile, is partly down to the weight – but they still don’t have the movement of traditional lycra. That’s the trade off for waterproofing and warmth. These are definitely good for late autumn and early spring, while also suitable for mid winter riding for a few, fast hours as over time they may lack the warmth required for longer riding periods.

The Cytech chamois is thermo moulded and quite minimalist in design and is comfortable from the off, with dual levels of foam adding comfort in crucial areas while minimising the weight in others.

Out riding, the Rain Defence bib tights felt comfortable, stable and barely noticeable. There’s some slight bunching behind the knee but they are quite long in the leg, which is a positive as it ensures good winter boot or overshoe overlap, reducing cold spots where the wind and rain get get in.

The wide shoulder straps are crafted from a lighter mesh material, allowing less heat build up and also reducing weight. Effective zippers on the leg hem allow easy on and off – a bonus when you are cold and ready for a shower. Furthermore, they are positioned at the back to minimise water entry.

The Cytech Elastic Interface Comp HP chamois pad is comfortable on long rides, even when it gets damp

With just a couple of subtle white logos, the bibs are understated and clean looking – there is little in the way of frills and detailing on these bib tights – which is fine and not essential as they perform really well, and are a worthy addition to your cycling wardrobe.

Conclusion

There’s little to dislike about the dhb Aeron Rain Defence Bib Tights. A comfortable chamois, and waterproof but breathable fabric mean they are well-suited to long rides or as a weatherproof option when the typically British weather can’t make it’s mind up.