Prendas Ciclismo Aquatex overshoes

Prendas Cyclismo Aquatex Avershoes aren’t waterproof or even overly water resistant in the commonly accepted sense but in practice, twenty minutes is all that separates them from heavier duty foul-weather specific models. And like other neoprene overshoes, even when saturated feet remain warm plus the stretch panel fabric dries rapidly, thus offering good defence against winter chill while protecting expensive shoes from the ravages of salt, slush and generic seasonal gloop.

They’re fashioned from an interesting blend of Aquatex and Windtex panels, which, as their names suggest consist of vinyl texture uppers protecting against rain and spray, while the side panels, reminiscent of heavy duty Lycra insulate against icy winds and geneal chilliness. Double stitched reinforced sole and heal sections sport a rubberised mosaic pattern designed for greater traction on wet/greasy surfaces compared with the traditional nylon/neoprene types. Elsewhere, Scotchlite logos and reflective piping provide nocturnal security and cuffs prevent the zipper from retracting and letting the elements in.

Snug fit doesn’t compromise dignified and swift entry/exit while riders preferring sportier touring and mtb footwear through the darker months will be delighted to hear our 43/44 test samples were ready hosts for such footwear. Heel cut outs mean they’re much safer to potter around in too, whether punting away through stationary traffic, or making a beeline for the loo at rest stops and the mosaic type sole pattern has offered reassuringly tenacious grip on all but wet decking and laminate flooring.

September showers proved interesting, the seamless aquatex panel unaffected by drizzle and road spray whereas heavier/more persistent cloud burst rolls off the top, soaking straight through the side panels but even after forty-five minutes steady rainfall, ours never once looked or felt cumbersome. Being a breathable membrane, the inner climate doesn’t become too clammy in mild weather; even atop shoes made from synthetic hides.

Verdict

Nicely made and reasonably priced performance overshoes.