Its manufacturer describes the Giro Westerly Wool glove as suitable for use as “an interior liner when temps dip to freezing”. The implication is that as the air temperature drops close to zero, the protection these gloves offer is insufficient. It’s about right; they work well right down to a couple of degrees above freezing for those with reasonably warm hands and only begin to fall short as the mercury drops still further.
The credit must go to the fabric, which is called Merino perform™ Advantage. Details are hazy, with Giro talking about a wool body with a light fleece lining; handling the gloves, the obvious conclusion (which may be wrong) is that the 65percent polyester content is used for the tough, synthetic-feeling outer layer while the 30percent Merino wool part is used for the soft, warm, fleecy lining. In any case, Elastane makes up the remainder and ensures that the Super Fit™ tailored cut fits as snugly as claimed. Size L fits hands that usually require size XL, especially in a non-stretchy fabric.
Deep knitted and elasticated cuffs keep out stray airflow, reflective detailing on the backs adds visibility and silicon gripper patterning ensures a secure hold on ‘bars and brake levers.
And they really are a very fine glove to wear on cold conditions. Getting them on is easy, with no struggle to pull recalcitrant fingers over chilly digits. Removal, too, is straightforward, the integral inner layer staying stuck to the outer instead of peeling away as the glove is pulled off. Nor do the gloves stretch excessively as they are being pulled on.
Indeed, the only possible criticism when the gloves are used as intended is that the grippers grip so well that the hands can slide around a little inside. It’s just possible that the thumb seam might cause slight discomfort, but otherwise these are very, very good. Right down to just above freezing.
Giro Westerly Wool winter glove £25, sizes XS – XL, black only
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