Bar Mitts//Review

[Selkie]

I finally capitulated and bought myself bar mitts. This morning, I tested them out in (temps were in the high 30s but there was a wind chill). I wore amfib gloves because I was going on a long ride (43 miler) and didn't want to risk getting cold/painful hands/fingers.

In sum, they work like a champ. My hands were sweating (I should have opted for lighter gloves) and the gloves were soaked by the time I got home. Regardless, my hands stayed toasty. The combo I used today -- bar mitts plus the amfib gloves -- will likely keep my hands warm/toasty when the temps fall below 32.

The mitts are neoprene and kept the wind out/warmth in. Easy to install and the zipper that accommodates the cables stayed shut. To be honest, they took some getting used to. I had thicker gloves on which made for a tighter fit but I had no trouble shifting, braking, steering, handling the bike. I was also able to get my hands in/out, with practice, while moving. Didn't interfere w/my headlights, too, even though I was on my Isis, which has a fairly narrow handlebar.

Not sure how they would work if you ride in the drops. I always ride on the hoods, so YMMV.

I went ahead and ordered a set for my bikes w/campy (they don't need the zipper since the cables are beneath the bar tape). This year, I'd like to average at least three days of outside riding a week, pavement conditions permitting, through the winter months. I didn't ride outside last winter primarily because I couldn't bear the thought of cold/painful/numb hands.