FIANDRE NO – RAIN LIGHT JACKET – to coin that American phrase, “…my go to jacket…” that piece of apparel I always look for in the cupboard.

If the name sounds familiar, that’s because it shares its title with the standard, heavier weight FIANDRE NO – RAIN JACKET.
The “LIGHT” refers to the Wind Stopper 4 Way Light fabric that’s utilized in the front panels. SPORTFUL description is apt. Weight and fit of a jersey, protection like a jacket.
Personal preference and riding intensity will always dictate what you wear and why you wear it. But it’s fair to say overheating will invariably lead to you getting cold at some point in the ride. Saturated with sweat / unzipping your jacket letting the cold air get on your chest… each scenario will leave you chilled and prone to the elements.
The FIANDRE LIGHT JACKET was designed for those intermediate winter temperatures, optimally anything above 5 degrees centigrade. (Dependent on wind chill)

WS 4 WAY LIGHT offers a 4 way stretch in the vertical and horizontal planes to compliment the cut and fit of the jacket. Unlike the standard Fiandre Jacket, the backside of the fabric isn’t lined.
The 2nd SKIN Deluxe Long Sleeve T base layer (as pictured) makes this jacket truly effective, keeping the skin dry and helping to maintain a constant body temperature.
(If you’re new to cycling this is one of the best things you can spend your money on. Cotton T-shirts retain sweat / moisture which will invariably leave you getting uncomfortable and cold)

The rear panel of the jacket is constructed from SPORTFUL’s proprietary nanotechnology fabric, No – Rain, Water Repellency with no detriment to comfort, warmth or breathability. In short the fabric performs just as well as a standard “Roubaix” fabric but with the enhancement of water repellency.

An overlap on the rear 3 pockets prevents water from soaking the contents. A close fitting rear waistband, coupled with silicone grippers prevents the jacket from riding up.

FIANDRE NO – RAIN LIGHT JACKET it’s a suggestion not a sales pitch.
The Weekend Is For Riding.

Photos © Phil Gale

Just like the Pro’s… This would be the simplest and the most concise way of describing BODYFIT PRO apparel. The kit shares the same material technology and cut as Team Saxo Bank. The sponsor’s livery is replaced with a clean, sharp design.

SPORTFUL are sponsors of Team Saxo Bank, supplying all their cycling apparel for a season of racing and training but perhaps Technical Partner is a more accurate title and description. Direct input from the team ensures continuous improvement. Feedback is given and acted upon, which not only means better apparel for the pro’s but also for SPORTFUL’s most important athletes – YOU!

BODYFIT PRO WS JACKET – The Jacket is constructed from Gore
WS 4 Way Warm, providing total wind stopper protection throughout. 4 Way Stretch fabric combined with a high collar and close cut ensures the cold is kept out.

Cam-lock zippered cuffs make for an easy on and off, even when wearing gloves, whilst ensuring a close fitting cuff when zipped up.
The feature also allows for airflow when the cuffs are open, avoiding potential overheating on climbs and during hard efforts. It’s pretty subtle but makes all the difference.

BODYFIT PRO THERMAL BIB TIGHT – A personal favorite, the fit and cut is great. The bib tights are warm and comfortable, fitted without being restrictive. Panels and seams are positioned perfectly.
The BodyFit Pro Seatpad is now my benchmark of comfort, having ridden 1000’s of miles without any issues. Neutral & devoid of ridges and grooves, a 11mm – 8mm taper eliminates certain pressure points when riding on the drops or hoods. The simplistic design and aesthetic belies just how effective it is.

BODYFIT THERMAL JERSEY – A mid weight jersey with a brushed fleeced liner is perfect for the mild winter days. Coupled with the BODYFIT PRO WIND VEST the pairing offer some options for changeable temperatures.

Crisp, sunny winter days offer the opportunity to get the miles in for the spring that lies ahead. Steady, social miles with the odd sprint for a sign or top of the hill make this time of year one of my favorite.

Staying warm and comfortable, with the right choice of apparel just enhances the experience.

Photo © Phil Gale