Trousers

This topic seems to come around every now and again. Unsurprising given the likely weather conditions found in Ireland. My own recommendation is Endura MT500 spray trousers. Used them through slop conditions and snow conditions and they work very well and still going strong a couple of years later. They're not 100% waterproof (that's what the 'MT500 waterproof trousers' are for) but they'll catch a lot of water before you start to notice anything. Quick drying too, with ample room around the knees for kneepads underneath.

I'll add to the Endura recommendation. Have the single track trousers and can't fault them. They hold up surprisingly well before letting the water in for something that isn't advertised as waterproof. DWR coating only really gives in around ankles and seat area after prolonged rides in the wet. They'll keep you warm on the coldest of days. Have some MT500 waterproof trousers on the way for those really wet days.

The MT500 spray trousers are not 'baggy' but they're not roadie-lycra-fit either; they're more of a 'neat fit' sort of deal, with the bottom of the legs having zip (downs) to close up the leg at the ankle. The trousers have decent stretch in them too. You wont have excess material flapping around like you might find with shorts for example, but you'll still have room at the knees for knee pads underneath.

dastardly00 wrote: »

Are the Endura trousers and also baggy shorts 'true to size' or is it a case of going 'one size up' like a lot of other cycling clothing?

Fairly true to size; or perhaps a case of "closer than most" depending on how your mileage varies as can often be the case. I've never had to size up with Endura (be it tops, shorts or trousers) for what it's worth. If in doubt, consult the website for measurements. Their clothing tends to be a bit more forgiving too with regards stretch. My first pair of Humvee shorts (still got them) were XXL and I was pushing the suggested measurements but they still fit (fvck knows how :pac: ), I'm now down to an XL in trousers and those same shorts still fit quite well - so that gives you an idea of the stretch capabilities. The trousers would be less forgiving in that respect

I only have Endura below the waist stuff so can't comment on their tops. But generally speaking medium has fit me with room to spare whereas roadie stuff in the same size would be painted on to me.

I'll throw my 2 cents in. Currently have Alpinestars Nevada pants, not too bad but after 2hrs you would be starting to feel damp. Decent fit (size36, 5'10" tall) and can wear knee pads underneath.
Also have Alpinestars Tahoo jacket which is very good. Wear it on most rides at present. I'd probably look at the Tahoo pants next time on the back of my experience of the jacket.

Also have Endura hummervee shorts which are good but more of a wet gear material than the Alpinestars. Would say they probably aren't as baggy either but hard to say as they're only shorts.