Review: Endura Xtract Waterproof Jacket - Perfect for Every Ride

 Let’s face it, if you’re a cyclist in the UK like me, a good waterproof jacket isn’t a luxury, it’s an absolute essential. We’ve all been caught out by biblical downpours or those unpredictable showers that seem to roll in just as you’re hitting your stride on the trail. That’s where the Endura Xtract Waterproof Jacket comes in. I’ve had Mine for many years and I have put this jacket through its paces, and spoiler alert: it’s a game-changer.

What makes the Endura Xtract Waterproof Jacket stand out?

The first thing you’ll notice is the jacket’s lightweight design. It’s not bulky, which means it’s easy to pack down into your stash sack or jersey pocket when the weather turns reasonable again. Endura has done a cracking job of blending style and functionality, making this jacket a key layer for any cyclist’s wardrobe.

Who is this jacket designed for?

Whether you’re a casual rider or a serious trail enthusiast, this jacket ticks the box for versatility. It’s designed for women who need a reliable waterproof and breathable option that won’t weigh them down. From quick rides to long days out, it’ll keep the rain off without making you feel like you’re wrapped in a sauna. If you know you know. I have worn this one mountian bike ride and on the road and it would be grand for gravel too. See what I did there.

Why is a packable waterproof jacket essential for cyclists?

The UK’s weather is of course, unpredictable at best. One moment, it’s sunny, and the next, you’re soaked.  being from the highland I am always ready for every eventuality. A jacket like the Endura Xtract does a good job of keeping you dry while also providing ventilation to prevent overheating. It’s your excuse-proof solution to riding, no matter the forecast.

Design and Features

What materials are used in the construction of the Endura Xtract Jacket? 

Made with a 2.5-layer waterproof fabric, this jacket provides superior protection against rain while maintaining breathability. The outer layer feels robust without being heavy, and the inner layer has a discreet texture to keep it comfortable against your skin.

How does the design contribute to comfort and performance? 

The jacket’s fit is tailored but not restrictive. Its elasticated hem and cuffs ensure the jacket stays in place, even during intense mtb rides. The full-length zipper is smooth and easy to use, even with gloves on and it just looks good. 

What are the key features that enhance its waterproof capabilities?

 With a waterproof rating, it keeps the rain out during heavy downpours. I have to say I have worn this when caught in some big storms in the Scottish highlands and I have been so happy with this performance. It will get you off the hill and back to the car. 

The seams are fully taped, and the jacket includes a fleece-lined collar to stop water from sneaking in. Mesh vents at the rear add a touch of breathability without compromising its rainproofing. 

Fit and Comfort

How does the jacket fit different body types? 

I’d say the fit is true to size. I am a size 6 and I wear an XS in Endura,  If you’re layering it over a thick jersey or a bib, you might want to size up. The design accommodates movement well, making it comfy for all-day rides.

What kind of comfort can you expect during long rides? 

The lightweight fabric, combined with the fleece-lined collar, makes this jacket comfortable. It’s also breathable, so you won’t feel guilty for wearing it on those climbs.

How does the jacket perform in heavy rain? 

It keeps the rain off. Even during a proper Scottish downpour, I stayed dry underneath. The water beads off the fabric instead of soaking in but I like my MT500 waterproof if it is raining to start off with or on winter days. I find the Xtract is good for spring summer. 

Does it provide adequate breathability during intense rides? 

Thanks to the mesh vents, it doesn’t feel like you’re trapped in a plastic bag. It balances waterproofing with breathability well.

How does it fare in windy conditions? 

The fabric is windproof too, so you’ll stay warm even when the temperature drops to the low tempratures or the wind picks up.

Practicality and Storage

What storage options are available in the jacket? 

There’s a rear zip pocket that’s great for stashing snacks, keys, snack or even an energy gel. It’s easy to access and well-placed.

Is the jacket packable for easy transport?

 Absolutely. It's designed to perfection,  It’s lightweight and folds down neatly into its own pocket, making it easy to throw into your bag or jersey pocket.

Value for Money

How does the Endura Xtract compare to other waterproof jackets in its price range? 

It’s really well priced for the quality you get. Comparable jackets from other brands don’t always offer the same combination of packability, breathability, and waterproofing. This is where Endura thrive awesome products at affordable rates. 

What is the warranty or guarantee provided by Endura?

Endura backs this jacket with a solid warranty, which is always reassuring. It shows they stand by the quality of their gear.

My Review

Honestly, the Endura Xtract Waterproof Jacket is a solid bit of kit. I don’t like being caught out in the rain, but with this jacket, I’ve got no excuse. It keeps the rain off, packs down small, and looks stylish to boot. I’ve got the pink version, which is fab for visibility on those grey days, but there are other colours if pink isn’t your thing.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a lightweight, waterproof jacket that does a good job of keeping you dry while still being breathable and packable, the Endura Xtract is well worth considering. It’s perfect for those unpredictable UK weather days and offers great value for money. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a daily cyclist, this jacket deserves a spot in your kit.

So, grab one and don’t let the rain ruin your ride!

Endura Women's Xtract Lite Short Review The best Zwift padded shorts

I spend a lot of time on the saddle. I averaged 120 miles a week last year on the bikes. So you could say padding is very important to me. I mix my riding between mountain biking and zwifting. I can spend hours on Zwift so getting the right padding for the turbo is a very important thing. No one wants sore girl bits lets face it. We have all been there right? 

I have put lots of different padding to the test over the years and I think I have finally found the holy grail of zwift shorts The Endura Women's Xtract Lite Short. I have a lot of wants in a zwift shorts. I want them to be comfortable enough to keep me on the saddle for hour and hours They need to be lightweight and cooling and or course look and feel good. 

The design 

The Endura women's Xtract Lite Short is made from lightweight yet supportive Lycra® fabric with Thermoregulation in mind as it was designed for wearing on road rides in warmer climates or hot days here in Scotland. The Xtract Lite short has been designed to move sweat away from your skin to help keep your core cool. It also included a UPF50+ treatment on the fabric. But let's talk about what's really Important The Women's 500 series pad.

The Women's Xtract Lite Short has been designed with temperature regulation and comfort in mind. When you are getting hot and sweating when riding temperature regulation is super important. This pad is where we can gather a lot of heat. Which in turn raise our core body temperature. Which is not what we want on a long ride. 

So Endura put a lot of research and design in to this problem. This resulted in a new generation of water expelling foam called Dispersefoam™. Dispersefoam™ features a foam cell construction which has been proven to provide superior drying and it also improves air permeability compared to coventail PU foams. 

The Women's 500 Series Pad is smooth with a low profile and provides high stretch properties which in turn helps prevent chafing and discomfort in the saddle. It also has Silver yarm fabric with cooling touch and rapid drying and antibacterial properties. 

The extra features 

Endura Women's Xtract Lite Short has double layer direct silicone printed on the hem for extra comfort. The short have a soft double layer waistband and selected seams flatlock for comfort and extra toughness. They also feature reflective trims if you want to wear them outside. 

The Endura Women's Xtract Lite Shorts comes in two lengths there are also the Endura Women's Xtract Lite shorty Short. These are the longer version I am talking about. 

The sizing

Endura Women's Xtract Lite Shorts come in XXS to XL. Endura womens sizing in these are XXS is a UK 6/8 and XL UK 16/18. I am a UK 6 and I am wearing a size XS. These are really stretchy and I think I could go for a XXS in these. I am an hourglass shape. I have a small waist and bigger hips bum and boobs.  I hope that helps with your sizing. 

I wear size XS in all my endura MTB gear if that is an indicator of sizing too. If you do need help give me a shout. I am always happy to help. DM me on instagram if I don't respond on here. 

My review 

I have been using these Endura Women's Xtract Lite Short for about a year. Before this I tried so many different options for Zwift padded shorts and spend hundreds of pounds on kit. Here is my strava if you want to see how many miles I do. This will give you an insight how many hours I spend on a saddle. 

I think I am a really good person to review padding as I put it through its paces. I can honestly say I have never found a better pair of womens zwift shorts. I really struggled to find womens padding that was light weight could keep me cool and keep me comfortable enough to spend hours on the bike. They are pull on style with no adjustments or pockets. Which is perfect for zwift or summer rides. 

Before I found the Endura Womens Xtract Lite Shorts I would have to swap padding half way though some of the big badges on Zwift. But I have found with these I can spin for hours and just forget I am wearing them which is exactly what I want in a Zwift short. I want to be comfortable enough to completely forget about the shorts. I mean it hard enough struggling on a 100km route let alone thinking about having to stop because you are uncomfortable. 

I personally prefer the longer version of these Endura Women's Xtract Lite Shorts as I find the shorty short version a little too short for me. But I am not really a booty short kinda gal. But that option is there if you like that style. I really feel endura is really putting thought and energy in to the women's road biking market and they are making kit we want and need to keep us on the saddle for longer. I love these shorts and completely recommend them. They just work and that is so hard to find in zwift padding.

Endura Women's MT500 Spray Baggy Trouser II Review

Today it is time to talk winter kit. The weather up here has changed and we have more wet and windy days than anything else. So that means one thing it's time to get the winter kit out. I am going to do a series of these winter kit reviews as I know a lot of us wonder what to wear in winter. 

I like to think living up here in the Highlands having Fort William as my locals I know a thing or two about riding in all weather but up here we spend more time in our winter gear than most people. My go-to winter riding trousers have been the Endura Women's MT500 burner pants if you look at my Instagram you will see I have lived in these over the years. I love them. After years of not being able to find a pair of mountain biking trousers that fit me. I had found a pair that not only fitted but that looked incredible and kept me warm. Thanks to one of my close friends for the recommendation. 

I am super lucky to have got my hand on the newly released Endura Women's MT500 Spray Trouser II in cayenne. They also come in Black.

First the elephant in the room. The Endura MT500 baggy pants look a bit crumpled on me and that is because this ride was some of the worst rain showers I have ever ridden in but I really wanted to put these trousers to the test. Standing for these shots I was very blue and I completely forgot to adjust them. My cameraman couldn't even see the screen so we just had to hope we actually got some photos for you all. 

The Endura Women's MT500 spray trousers are favoured by some pretty special women riders like Mikayla Parton and Rachel Atherton. So I knew they would be good and I have of course been wearing an older version for years but just how good are they and can they hold up in a Highland storm? 

The design 

The Mt500 spray baggy trousers have been designed with expertise and precision. Endura has spent a lot of time developing these new woman's spray trousers. They are the ultimate all-rounder trouser. Designed to excel in damp and changing conditions. 

This trouser features a waterproof taped seat panel. Which I put to the test this day and it kept my bum nice and dry considering the conditions I am not sure how that was possible. The waterproof seat panel helps save your bum from water spraying up from your rear wheel. Or your friends trying to soak you in the puddles. We all have that one friend, right? 

The spray trouser is made from durable stretch nylon fabric giving comfort and complete moveability on the bike. The front panel is made from a 4-way stretch front panel allowing better movement on the mountain bike. The women's spray trousers are finished DWR coated to help water to just bead on the non-waterproof parts of the trousers. This means the water will not soak through the trouser and should just bead off and that is what it did for me.

DWR is a ground-breaking treatment that is environmentally friendly and non-toxic, PFC free and is part of Endura's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. Yes, Endura go you. I could go on and on about Endura as a company and all their amazing policies but If you have a few mins go and read it here. 

The sizing 

I am a size 6/8 I am wearing a size xs. When I was a size 10 I wore a small. Hopely that gives you an indication of sizing.  I am also wearing the Endura women's single track liner underneath. The women's MT500 Spray baggy trousers II have the Clickfast poppers feature so any of Endura's Clickfast liners can be worn with them also. 

The Women's Spray trouser comes in a size XS to XXL. This gives a UK dress size range from 8 to 20. With XS being 8/10 and XXL being 18/20. Which I am loving! You might not know this about me but I have been on the larger side having been a size 22 in the past. So I love seeing an inclusive sizing range.

 

Adjustments 

The Women's MT500 Spray Trouser have quite a few adjustment features. There is a velcro waist adjuster Which acts like a belt to keep the trouser in the right place. I normally have them on the tightest fitting and they work great for me. The waist at the front has a zip and popper fastening to really make sure there is no way of your pants falling down. I mean that would be pretty embarrassing. 

 

The baggy spray trousers also have lower leg adjustment so you can easily get your trousers on and off. These make the trouser a really nice shape on the bike and allow a lot more freedom of movement and no change of any material catching on your bike. 

The Endura woman spray trousers also have some thigh vents for some extra ventilation. 

 

Knee pads compatible 

Of course one of the most important thing about any mountain biking trousers is do knee pads fit underneath them. I have tried all my Endura knee pad under these from the bulkiest Endura's MT500 hard shell knee pads to the slimmer line one and they all fit like a dream and still allows you to have full freedom of movement on the bike. You can actually see the water beading in these photos. 

Other notable features
The Endura Spray trousers also feature two zip pockets to secure your items.

My Review

I was at first completely drawn to the colour of these. They remind me of team Atherton. Now I am not saying if you buy these you will be able to shred down a trail at Rachel or Gee's speed. These MT500 spray trousers were built for riders who are not afraid to hit the trails in any weather and we know that is me. 

I really like the cut of these trousers I like that they are baggy but not too baggy. Being overly baggy just wouldn't work for me on the bike. I would be all tangled and headfirst in a bush. These are a great shape for me. 

They fit me really well which is no mean feat as I am an unusual size. I am pretty small thanks to all the cycling and training I do. I am over the moon with Endura sizing range in these trousers.  

They are so comfy to wear you forget you are wearing MTB trousers. I have complete freedom of movement on my bike. I move around my bike a lot, especially when riding wet loamy trails. It is always best to be able to do some crazy moves on the bike than fall right and that is me. I will use my body to save me sometimes. 

The Women MT500 spray Baggy trousers II have been crashed in and they survived. As I said I like to move about the bike that doesn't always mean I ain't coming off. The trouser held up really well without any marks or anything. 

So the storm test. They might not be fully waterproof but they did help keep me on the trails when the weather was wet and awful. I get cold really easily and these kept me drier for long enough to stay out on the bike even in a hoolie. The waterproof back panel is a god send and just amazing for winter and autumn riding. 

So all in all I would highly recommend the Endura MT500 Spray trousers II to any woman who is looking for winter riding pants that will keep you pedalling for longer this winter season. Plus the red colour is amazing. 

Enduras new MT500 MIPS Helmet Review

Today we are going to talk about a very important subject, mountain biking helmets. I have had many helmets over the years. I have been biking for quite a few years now. I have had everything from stupidly heavy full facers to extra light roadie helmets and I like to think I know a thing or two about the subject. 

I am a massive advocator that all cyclists should wear a helmet. I have been unfortunate enough to see some horrendous crashes and I can promise you helmets should be mandatory. I, like a lot of us bikers have had a couple concussions in the past and thank goodness I was wearing a helmet. 

Quite a few years ago, was one of my worst to date.  I was going down a trail I do at Nevis Range. I do it all the time, every ride there in fact. But this time all I know is I woke up on the ground with a pain in the head. I had fallen off and my head had smashed off a massive rock. I had passed out and had a terrible concussion from it and a nice big dent in my helmet. But thank goodness I was wearing one. I dread to think what would have happened if I hadn't been. So wear helmets kids. Big crashes can happen anywhere from trails you know like the back of your hand to new trails. It is so important we protect our noggin right? 

Endura MT500 MIPS Helmet. 

I have been very lucky and got my hands or head even on one of Endura's MT500 MIPS helmets. I have had the predecessor to the helmet and loved it so what is new and is this better than its award-winning predecessor? 

The Endura MT500 MIPS Helmet comes in 6 colour ways. Which is an amazing amount of colours and gives everyone an option for one they like. The colours are black, concrete grey, olive green, spruce green, white and paprika. Paprika is the one I am wearing today. 

Sizing
Before we go into the design let's talk sizing. The Endura MT500 Mips helmet comes in three sizes S-M which is 51-56cm, M-L 55-59cm and L-XL 58-63cm. A really good range of heads can be covered with the Endura MT500 Mips helmet.

 

I am a bit of a pea-head. I will not lie to you my head is small. I have in the past really struggled to get helmets that fit me. I have been biking for many years and in the past I had to wear children's helmets. No I am not joking. Pea head problems. But thank goodness for mountain biking development and the range of helmets getting better and better with each and every year.

Enter Endura into my life and I have found their helmets fit me the best. But I have to say the Endura MT500 Mips is the best fit I have ever had the new adjustment cradle incorporated into the MIPS design has a massive range on it and you can tighten or loosen it to your needs.  with a super easy chin strap system too. I wear an S-M.   

Design 

After chatting with the lovely people over at Endura I know the amount of development that went into this New MT500 helmet. To say they have really put the work in would be an understatement. When you have already built an award-winning helmet the pressure is on with any new launch but wow the MT500 MIPS helmet is cram packed with features. 

Built with increased coverage along with Koroyd and Mips protection and large vents this really has had an overhaul in the design and style whilst still keeping all endura style and flare. 

Koroyd 

So if you are new to Endura helmets. You might be wondering what is Koroyd. Well, you know on Endura helmets where you see what looks like a honeycomb. That is not just a nice-looking design feature. It is in fact 3D formed Koroyd insert which provides lightweight and breathable protection for your head. But this is not just any protection this is highly tested superior and award-winning protection. If you have ever picked up an endura helmet you will be surprised by just how light they are and this is in part down to Koroyd. For more info on exactly what Koroyd is click here. 

MIPS

I think most mountain bikers are aware of MIPS. We have all been amazed by the videos on this invention. MIPS brain protection system is basically designed to reduce the rotational motion which is transferred to the brain when you crash. Which in turn helps when you take big impacts. 

So the New Endura MT500 MIPS helmet has both Koroyd and MIPS in my opinion making it one of the safest enduro helmets on the market. I mean if you were to design a helmet after learning about both these systems you would want to have them both right and that is exactly what Endura have done. 

Other notable features 

The MT500 MIPS Helmet is super lightweight and breathable. With lots of nice large vents for increased airflow which also included a top airflow vent to help with getting increased airflow in your helmet.  To help stop your head from getting too hot.

Speaking of getting too hot all the padding in this helmet is super soft fast wicking, quick drying and removable. 

Extra features 

Goggles and Glasses compatible

Designed to be goggles friendly and with a built-in rear strap gripper. Dont worry if you are more of a glasses wearer like me. Endura has also taken this into consideration and the front vents act as a nice place to store your glasses on climbs too. 

 

Visor 

The visor on the MT500 MIPS Helmet is removable. It also has some of the best adjustments I have ever seen in a helmet meaning goggles straps fit nicely for the climbs too. 

Accessories

The Endura MT500 MIPS helmet also comes with an accessory mount, accessory clip and light mount. 

Endura Crash Replacement 

The MT500 MIPS Helmet is covered by the Endura crash replacement policy. This means if you have a crash in your helmet. All you need to do is send the damaged helmet to Endura with proof of purchase and you can get another at 50% discount. This is off the same model if available. 

My Review

I have never had a better-fitting helmet. Endura helmets have always fitted me but this one hits different. It really has that range of adjustability and feels like it was made for my head. I feel so comfortable in this helmet. It is super lightweight and easy to use. Now I know what you are thinking but bear with me. I hate an over complicated helmet. I have had a few that are just too fiddly to put on my head. You know the ones you spend half your time trying to work out the clips or how the adjustment works. This one is made for me. Put on your head and ride whilst feeling safe. 

I love that I can use it with goggles and glasses. I wear glasses a lot on most rides as my eye runs a lot and I find helmets are either made for one or another and this is good for both. So Thanks Endura. I really feel like this is a helmet built for actual riders. It is built to look good, yes but to protect your head most importantly. I am over the moon with this helmet and I love wearing it knowing how well-protected if the worst does happen to me. 

I hope you enjoyed this little review. Do let me know what you would like me to review next you can comment here or head to my Instagram. 

Endura Mt500 Burner Pants review

Today we are talking mountain biking trousers. I did a poll over on my Instagram on what you would like a review of and the trousers won. So today we are talking about my all-time favourite mountain biking trousers. 

The Endura MT500 Burner pants. I have had a few pairs of mountain biking trousers over the years and have always not really been happy they never fitted me right some were a very strange fit or style. I even had one pair that got caught on my bike every time I wore them. How one earth these got through the design process I have no idea. 

To be fair this was early on in my mountain biking journey. This was all before I had tried any Endura trousers. It was one of my closest friends who started to rave about Endura trousers. She had the MT500 spray pants and convinced me to buy some and I have never looked back. If you look carefully at my Instagram over winter I lived in them but today we are going to talk about my new addition with it being spring summer I have swapped out my Endura MT500 spray pants for the Endura MT500 burner pants. 

These are the Women's Endura Mt500 burner pants in spruce green. When I was little I was obsessed with this colour and I think I am now living out my childhood dream of being dressed head to toe in this colour along with my now favourite pink of course. The colour of these might be amazing and worth buying them for just that but wait till I explain some of the very clever features these mountain biking trousers have. 

Sizing 

Sizing wise I am a 6/8 and I am wearing a size XS when I was a size 10 I wore an S. I hope that gives you an indication of the sizing. I am also wearing the Endura women's single track liner underneath. The MT500 Burner Pants have the Clickfast poppers feature so any of Endura's Clickfast liners can be worn with them also. 

The Mt500 burner pants are made out of a 4-way stretch fabric. Meaning that there is complete freedom of movement and your feel comfortable on the bike. These are a close fit style of trousers meaning no extra material to get in the way of your riding. They are described as a pre-curved contemporary silhouette I would agree with that. 

These are worn by the likes of Rachel Atherton and Mikayla Parton. So you know they are good. I mean if they are good enough for the podium they are more than good enough for me. Plus both these ladies' race kits are always phenomenal.  

Adjustment

They have a waist adjuster to help keep them in place. I really like this feature. I tend to have mine on the tightest setting. This is a velcro fastening and it makes them really adjustable tighter or looser. 

The waist at the front has a zip, popper and velcro fastening to really make sure there is no way of your pants falling down. I mean that would be pretty embarrassing. 

Knee pad compatible

They are also Knee pad friendly I am wearing the Endura's MT500 hard shell knee pads which are the biggest in the endura range and these look slimline under these Mt500 Burner pants. It's almost like magic how slim they look under these. 

Other notable features

The Endura burner trousers also feature two zip pockets to secure your items. They also feature some ventilation holes for extra comfort on sweaty rides. These are on the knees and crotch area. 

My review

I was first struck by the colour I am not going to lie about that I was a bit superficial. I mean being Endura I know they would be great but I don't think I was ready for just how great they are. They fit like a dream and I do not say that lightly. I am a small person and finding things to fit me can be so hard. I am not saying this to be boastful as I have been a UK size 24 before and I know the struggle on the other end too. I am just stating it as a fact for me right now. I am also 5ft6 if that helps. 

There is so much adjustment on the waist and this really helps people of my shape. I am an hourglass so I carry my weight on my hips bum and boobs. 

I love that my knee pads fit so nicely underneath. The trouser material stretches and this really does help with freedom of movement on the bike. It is also nice and lightweight and perfect for summer and spring biking. 

Have I crashed in them? Yes Yes I have I am currently learning clip pedals and I have had a few falls in these pants and there has been not a scratch on them. Considering one of the crashes was knee onto a very large rock I have no idea how I didn't rip the trousers. 

Unlike normal people, I have put clips on and headed to my normal trails in Fort William. I mean I am sure most people learn on greens and blue but there is a normal way and my way. At least I can hand on heart say these women's burner pants are durable. I have definitely put them to the test on my trail bike and on my downhill bike. 

I am really impressed with Endura Women MT500 Burner Pants and I am sure you will all see me in these time and time again.  

MT500 Freezing Point Gloves -The perfect winter glove?

Today we are talking winter gloves. First things, first you need to know that I suffer really badly in winter with cold hands and have Raynaud's disease. Raynauds means the blood vessels in my hand overreact to the cold basically this means when the temperature falls I suffer from painful and numb hands and toes.

So I am a good test of any winter gloves. Over the years I have tried so many gloves claiming to be the best on the market and game-changers but for me, they just didn't work. I would still struggle and have to stop and take the gloves off and try to warm up my hands constantly. I know this must make me a really fun riding companion but it is the only way I can stay out in winter and you know being able to actually feel the handlebars I am gripping is kinda important in mountain biking. 

Enter The Endura MT500 Freezing Point Gloves. 

So what makes them special. 

Firstly we all know Endura makes great kit. I have used Endura kit for years and I have a pair of their windproof gloves from years ago that are still one of my most reached for pairs of gloves. They just work and I love them. So being Endura I know the quality will be good. 

The sizing and price

The gloves sizing range goes from XS to XXL so a really good range of sizing. There is a size guide on the Endura site.  I have a size small.  They are £59.99 which is a bargain for the quality.  

What makes them so good for cold weather? 

The MT500 Freezing Point Gloves are made with PrimaLoft® Gold Active Insulation. This is a world leader in warmth to weight ratio. PrimaLoft® Gold Active Insulation is a water repellant. It has 4-way stretch and awesome breathability. Not only that but it packs down small making it ideal for mountain bike gloves.  You would like with all that insolation it would be really bulky but It is not. I still have really good control on the bars. The MT500 Freezing point gloves also have silicone palm prints to help you get even more grip on the bars helping you stay in control even on the coldest days. 

Are they really waterproof? 

Yes, I was wearing these in a snow and sleet storm and my hands stayed nice and warm and dry. 

Other notable features

The MT500 freezing point gloves have a stretch softshell backhand and fingers for added comfort and control. They have a PFC-free non-toxic durable water repellent finish. 

They have a long cuff so they are really easy to pull on and off. As you can see they easily cover my Garmin watch. I have it rolled up in the photo above. Actually, I forgot to roll it down as I was looking for the miles I had just done my bad. I also found the gloves to be really breathable too. 

My Review

My first test of these gloves was on a very cold and snowy day in Fort William. I headed out in the morning when the temperatures were still extremely low. It wasn't until I was at the top of the Torlundy climb which is about 3 miles from Nevis Range that I realised I had not stopped to warm my hands. Now, this might seem like nothing to you. But I would normally stop about four times on this climb to warm up my hands so I can grip the bars. Now this particular day the ground was still very frozen with ice under fresh snow and it was very cold indeed. If you suffer like me with the cold you will be really impressed with these gloves. 

I am always a bit worried about winter gloves that they will be too bulky and not give me any bar control. But luckily these give me lots of grip and control even in a snowstorm. Yes, they are thicker than summer gloves but you need that for the warmth. I have to say I am very impressed with these gloves and I am so glad I have them now. I know these will help me stay out longer on the colder days. What more can you want from winter gloves. How has it taken me this long to find them? 

I hope you enjoyed this little review and I will be back with more soon. If you have any questions do get in touch I am always happy to help in any way. 

New Endura Footwear 2022 - Hummvee flat pedal shoes unboxing

This has been a hard secret to keep but I have known that Endura is releasing mountain biking shoes for a little while. Here is where being an ambassador for this incredible brand is even more awesome. 

Endura has three different pairs of shoes hitting the market, The Hummvee flat pedal shoes, Mt500 Burner clipless shoes and the MT500 Burner flat pedal shoes. I have been very lucky and I have had my hands-on Hummvee Flat pedal shoes in the colour pebble before the actual release. 

I'll let you in on a little secret Endura sent these to their athletes and people like me to give them our honest feedback. They are constantly striving to make the kit as good as they possibly can. They know one of the ways to do this is to get feedback about products from people who actually use them and I am here for that! I love that they really care about each and every product and put so much effort and research into each and every item they sell. 

But you are not here for me to tell you how much I love this brand you are here to read my unboxing. If you don't know me I am a mountain biker in the Scottish Highlands and my local trails are in Fort William. I ride in all weathers (well you have to up here) I enjoy trail centre trails, downhill and of course local off-piste trails. So I am in a very good position to review items and put them to the test. 

So let's get into it. Let me introduce you to the Hummvee Flat pedal shoes in Pebble. 

The design. 

Endura has decided to do something completely different with their shoes and actually start with an ergonomistry philosophy and the collection is highly engineered and backed by medical science which helps the rider to ride harder for longer. 

The inner sole 

A lot of us, me included never really thinks about the inside of our biking shoes. I mean I know before I haven't except when you find them uncomfortable or have other problems. But we should all really be paying attention to our feet and what we put them in right? Comfy feet = staying out riding longer after all!

The power arch

This inner sole is an Ortholite recycled insole with a comfort footbed it is profiled and contoured to help to support the arch of your foot which will help your feet deal with the different demands put on it by alternating between riding and walking. This will give better power transfer and ultimately more comfort. We all know comfort is key. I actually tore my Achilles and I know all about the power of a really good inner sole and the protection and prevention of damage this can help prevent. 

Sole stimulant 

These are the small raised dots you can feel on the innersole. These are placed strategically to help your foot's proprioception.  This is designed to help your feet to soften and stiffen when needed. 

Metatarsal Button

This helps to spread your big toe from the rest of your toes this will help your toes from scrunching up when riding. This will help to improve the function and comfort when riding. Let's face it we put a lot of force through our feet when we ride, don't we?  

The Sole

Featuring Endura's Sticky foot rubber compound. This has been designed for us modern mountain bikers. It uses a unique concoction of ingredients to offer us the riders the perfect combination of pedal grip durability, unrivalled performance and a long lifespan. 

The sticky foot grip is used all over the Endura Hummvee flat pedal shoes this offers the maximum grip on the pins of our pedals. This helps to lock the foot on and lessen pedal slips. 

The Sizing

For a first launch, The Endura Hummee flat pedals come in a huge range of sizes from UK 5 to UK12, There are half sizes available from size 6.5UK to 10.5UK. This is a great range of sizing and I really appreciate the half sizing. My other half normally has issues getting half sizes in biking shoes. So If I am feeling kind and want to treat him at some point I can get his perfect fit. 

The Hummvee colours

This range comes in 4 colours mine are called Pebble. They also come in Black, Olive Green and Navy. The Hummvee flat shoes in pebble also come with the option of orange and pebble coloured laces. These match the orange accent of the shoes. I really love the option to personalise my shoes. You may have seen I have done this on my old shoes. I just love a bit of colour. So I think I might just change them out for the orange laces soon. 

 

The price

These are priced at £89.99

Other notable features

The Humvee flat pedal shoes are lightweight and made from durable PU upper. They are also Low absorbency with a quick-dry lining. I mean how often have you had to wear damp MTB shoes. So quick-drying materials are always welcome. 

They feature an elasticated lace stash. Where has this been all my riding days? Has anyone else had to stop mid-ride to make sure your laces are secure? I have to do this all the time. It's the little things like this that just make endura products stand out.  I have also had a crash in the past with my laces getting caught in the crank. This will stop this problem. 

The Hummvee flat pedal shoes also feature durable upper fabric with perforated panels for ventilation. 

They are also made from Vegan-friendly products and materials. 

Try on

These feel really nice on the feet and really comfy. The Hummvee flat pedal shoes are designed to go from trails to casual with no shoe change needed. They are definitely capable of both. They feel nice and stiff but with flex, this is what I like in riding shoes. I like to feel really placed and in place on my pedals. 

I have been wearing them around the house they feel really nice and comfortable I really like the raised arch they are the ultimate comfort for me.

I really appreciate that they laces and the right length. This is a strange comment I know but how many riding shoes do you own where the laces are massive? I mean what are you meant to do with the extra laces? The tongue is really comfortable and not oversized. This will keep the puddle splashes out and help keep me dry on the trail. 

I am so excited to get these out on the trails and show you what they are really made for. I will update you all on how they perform on the trails and you will see them on many Instagrams I am very sure of that. 

I will have more reviews to follow,. Would you like to see a review of the MT500 Burner shoes?