FEATURES

• Built in fleece liner that provides insulation
• The palm has gel padding at pressure points as well as a flexible gripper
• Reflective elements for added visibility
• Velcro® fastener at the wrist.

FROM THE MANUFACTURER
The warmest of the new collection of winter gloves, the SottoZero is made to keep your hands warm on rides well below zero.

INITIAL THOUGHTS
After the first batch of cold weather rides, I’m already yearning for Spring. Until then, here we are again with more new cold weather gear. This time, the winter gloves in the SottoZero series by Giordana. Noted for the extra fleece liner, this is Giordana’s entry into the ‘below freezing’ market.

LOOK
As always, Giordana comes through with a sleek, well made product. Sharp lines and attentive construction are the hallmark of this company, and the SottoZero line does not disappoint. The black on black graphics look PRO, and the reflective elements are executed tastefully.

FEEL
The fleece liner is smooth and comfortable, and provided instant warmth. The palm gripped the bars quite well. For some reason, Giordana hasn’t used their normal sizing on the SottoZero. These gloves will run small, so you might want to jump up a size or two. They were initially snug, and after 3 hours on the bike I was left feeling I could’ve sized up once more. Pay attention when ordering.

ECONOMIC IMPACT
Personally, I’ve had great success with entry-level price point summer gloves. For some the SottoZero gloves might be a bit steep at $50.00, but as you can gather from my other winter gear reviews, I can’t put a price on warmth, and my extremities are where I am most susceptible to the winter temperatures. Try shopping classiccycling.com for discounts or free shipping to lessen the blow.

FINAL THOUGHTS
Gloves can be a very personal item. Every cyclist has an opinion on what works best – and everyone has their favorite. The Giordana SottoZero cold weather gloves work well, but there is a bit of to-be-expected-sacrifice in the mobility department, as they can feel a bit unwieldy. There was no noticeable wind penetration, but the SottoZero didn’t breathe well so be wary if you have a propensity for sweaty hands. Again, though I’d consider it a fair trade-off for strong protection against the elements. If you are concerned about dropping half of a C-note on winter gloves, you should give the Giordana NordicAV series a shot.

RATING
Cat 2

~Shawn M

*NOTE: THIS PRODUCT WAS GIVEN TO ME AT NO CHARGE FOR REVIEWING. I WAS NOT PAID OR OTHERWISE COMPENSATED TO GIVE THIS REVIEW AND IT WILL HAVE MY HONEST OPINION OR THOUGHTS THROUGH OUT. I DO NOT RECEIVE A SALARY OR WAGE FOR THESE REVIEWS, BUT I F THAT SHOULD CHANGE I PROMISE YOU’LL BE THE FIRST TO KNOW.

You can purchase the Giordana SottoZero Winter Thermal Gloves here.