The technical head must not be a compromise. Umbrail studies and creates high-quality technical garments, Made in Italy and extremely functional, because they are created by those who he experiences the bike first hand.
We tried and went into detail about the Martino jacket and Barry Hoban tights and thermal baselayer, as well as some accessories that sometimes take a back seat.
The Martino jacket
Umbrail Martino it's a jacket that goes well beyond the winter cape. «Martino is a jacket to be used with a wide range of temperatures, from -5°C up to 12 degrees above zero. – he explains to us Nicola Cannavina, founder of Umbrail – This is possible thanks to the quality of the manufacturing and the fabrics, not least the lining of the pockets which is also used in high fashion in France. The advantages of this fabric – continues Cannavina – are also tangible with regards to the longevity of the head, which does not get ruined even after multiple washes."
It uses heat sealing on a 3mm thick fabric. It has a good waterproofing, up to 2/3 hours. It has a zip with double slider. The neck is high, further raised at the back, with the aim of protecting the neck. It also has well 9 pocketsThe three back pockets are deep and roomy, in addition to the two mesh pockets on the sleeves, the two front ones (which also function as air intakes) and the two side ones (one with mesh, the second with a zip and equipped with an internal loop for the possible passage of a cable, for earphones for example). The Martino jacket is windproof.
The Martino jacket It performs really well on gloomy and humid autumn days, perhaps complemented by short-sleeved thermal underwear (we used it this way even at temperatures above 10°C, but with cold and humid air). During exercise it does not get damp, which is a real plus for comfort. Martino jacket It becomes a real shield against the biting cold when completed with a vest.
The Barry Hoban Tights
A pair of tights suitable for "going the distance" even in winter. Why are we writing this? Because beyond the fabric, the three added values of this head are ergonomics, the pad and an abdominal protection not excessive, it does not retain sweat leading to a consequent cooling. The caseback is created to Umbrail specifications and provides optimal support even after many hours in the saddle. In contact with the skin it feels like Alcantara, pleasant and almost imperceptible.
The tights are tight, ergonomic and pleasant to wear. On the thighs it has a sort of good level of compressionIt doesn't feel like it's in a vacuum. It performs well even when the wind is strong and cold.
Accessories that make the difference
The head cover (or balaclava) and the neck warmerWhen to give value to things, we say “it looks like silk”! The neck warmer is a tubular piece of Merino fabric with Borgini technology, which is the best available on the market today. The headgear is of moderate thickness. It has two side loops, comfortable and useful, with the task of lock the temples of the glasses (hard to find something similar).
The gloves instead are three-layered, waterproof and with a fit that goes well beyond the wrist, windproof and breathable, but also dedicated to touch screens.
Not just warm (and comfortable) feet
Umbrail socks and toe caps that holds the top spot. "The socks thermal ones are one of our musts – argues Cannavina – so efficient that We have been carrying out the same product for six years. Combined with the toe caps, they offer an optimal combination even when using very light and ventilated shoes, a suitable solution for those who cannot stand traditional shoe covers."
They are high, a factor that positively influences the fit, the hold (they don't fall down and don't curl up like a cigarette) and also the pleasant compression in the soleus muscle area, as well as keeping the Achilles tendon warm. The toe caps protect from the cold and fine drizzle. They also feature a membrane (under the sole) that does not retain dirt and mud.
