DexShell Heavy Duty Neoprene Water Resistant Cycling Bike Overshoes

Product Information

Sometimes, kit makers will use a less bulky fabric for the uppers, one that’s typically DWR (durable water repellent) coated to repel water, and includes a breathable membrane. It’s an alternative to neoprene that’s lighter and less stiff, but it can lose its water-resistance over time and, unless additional insulation is added, may not be as warm in cold weather. The undersides of even the best cycling overshoes are prone to wear. Depending on your riding style, you may want to look for a tough, seam-free base with reinforcements at the heel and toe box, especially if you're often having to dab in gravel or stop at traffic lights. Further reflective detail is provided by logos etc, but some of these will be hidden, if you are wearing longs. The 90% Neoprene, 10% Nylon fabric has a ‘roughed-up’ surface. According to DexShell, this makes them more abrasion-resistant. While I haven’t been throwing myself on the tarmac to test this, I have been impressed with the seemingly untouched surface appearance despite heavy use over the last six weeks.

Emma’s first encounters with a bike were in between swimming and running. Soon after competing for GB in the World Age Group Triathlon Championships in Edmonton in 2001 she saw the light and decided to focus on cycling. I will admit to being a bit of a photography geek when out on my bike, regularly getting on and off the bike for shots, so these have had a decent amount of walking to handle too. They aren’t showing a single sign of wear to date. Indeed, all the photos in this review were taken at the end of the test period, rather than the start. ValueOnly after a couple of hours in continuous rain could I sense dampness. I can't be sure where exactly it was getting in, or if it was penetrating the actual fabric. Certainly, the fabric isn't as good as a smooth surfaced neoprene (which seems impenetrable); water will get through it.

DexShell offer the shoes in sizes S to XL. I’m a size 8/42 so, following their size chart, opted to test a medium. It offers a very snug fit, just what I look for in an overshoe; it keeps drafts and water out and feels cosy too. Another lighter option for those who don't want a full overshoe is a toe cover, or a "Toe Thingy" as Castelli affectionally call it. DexShell Heavy Duty Overshoes are described a “Water Resistant, Showerproof, Abrasion Resistant” with a “Reflective Stripe” and “Water Repellent Zipper.” They have quite a lot to live up to.

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This windproof construction slips over the front of the shoe, with a rugged underside to provide grip and a silicone print to help keeps rips at bay. At the top of the overshoes is an additional 2cm elasticated cuff with an internal silicone gripper to help secure them in place. The ride The bike is a Christmas present and so will not see any use for about 5 weeks as we are in November now. All-weather overshoes tend to follow the same basic pattern; there’s a high ankle cuff to try to prevent rain from running down your leg and into your shoe, and a bootie-style lower section that covers your shoe. That typically has a central seam on top, which is taped to keep out wheel spray. Other seams will usually be taped too.

Even when raining the overshoes still perform very well. Naturally, a cut-away sole means these can’t be waterproof. However, the hems sit so snug to the sole that they come very close to being water tight. I’ve ridden in some pretty horrific conditions and it's taken a decent amount of time for water to penetrate to the shoe (yes, I do have mudguards). The zip is waterproof, with a reflective strip on each side, plus there’s a reflective logo at the front The sole has two openings with reinforced elastic edges, and abrasion resistant fabric around the toe and mid-sole areas for durability. is a good deal of cash to splash. Value will depend a great deal on how much you value dry, warm feet in winter and how often you use overshoes. Whilst I’d rate them as just about the best overshoes I have used, there are other considerations, too.Even when raining the overshoes still perform very well. Naturally, a cut-away sole means these can’t be waterproof. However, the hems sit so snug to the sole that they come very close to being water tight. I’ve ridden in some pretty horrific conditions and it’s taken a decent amount of time for water to penetrate to the shoe (yes, I do have mudguards). Considering the quality and performance, I’d say Altura's are decent value for money. For me, the fit wasn’t as good as with DexShell due to the tight cuff, but this won’t be the case for everyone. The reflective detailing certainly beats DexShell’s.