Spatzwear gear review: protection and performance

Spatzwear Gear Test: The Ultimate Apparel to Brave the Elements and Optimize Performance

We know that quality gear is essential to maximize your performance, whether pushing your limits in competition or during training. But in an environment where weather conditions can change in an instant and every detail counts, how can you be sure that your clothing and accessories will effectively support you? Cold, driving rain, wind, or the opposite – heat and sweat, and long hours on the saddle… These daily challenges demand gear that is not only high-performing but also capable of withstanding the extreme demands of modern cycling. And we might have found just what you need…

By Jeff Tatard – Photos: DR

Indeed! This is perhaps where Spatzwear comes in. Founded in 2016 by professional cyclists, this British brand quickly established itself as an essential reference in the world of technical road and gravel cycling gear. Spatzwear stands out for its radical approach to performance, offering unparalleled protection against the elements, uncompromising durability, and essential aerodynamic gains for high-level cyclists. With products used by elite athletes such as Mathieu van der Poel and the Alpecin-Fenix team riders, the brand has earned the trust of professionals in the international peloton.

Facing sometimes extreme conditions, we put four of the brand’s flagship products to the test during our early spring rides in the Paris region. Between hilly roads, straightaways exposed to the wind, and muddy gravel paths, these varied conditions allowed us to test Spatzwear’s true performance in action. Here’s our verdict…

Spatzwear Convoy Bib Shorts: Bib Shorts Designed for Long Distances

The Spatzwear Convoy bib shorts are made for those who spend long hours on the saddle, whether for intense or longer endurance rides. This model immediately stands out with its three practical pockets, including a discreet one on the thigh, ideal for quick access to gels or energy bars without causing discomfort or bulk.

Express access, no compromise: the mesh pocket on the thigh of the Convoy bib shorts, perfect for grabbing a bar without breaking rhythm. A true rarity… designed for those who ride long, often, and hard.

During our rides in the Vexin, between hilly roads and gravel paths, we were able to test the fitted cut of these bib shorts and their comfort. The high-quality perforated pad offers optimal support even after several hours on the road, and the 10 cm silicone grippers ensure perfect stability, even when you are wearing leg warmers or knee warmers. The addition of well-thought-out reflective details enhances visibility in low light, which was particularly useful during our late-day rides. In summary, bib shorts offering comfort, practicality, and performance for cyclists seeking long-term reliability.

Pros: Long-lasting comfort, practical design with pockets, precise fit.

Cons: High price, fitted size that may not suit everyone.

Price: 235 €

Aero Sokz: Every Watt Counts

The Aero Sokz were specifically developed to meet the demands of the Alpecin-Fenix team and a double Olympic triathlon champion. From the first glance, it’s clear that these socks leave nothing to chance, especially in terms of aerodynamics.

When every detail counts, even socks become a serious matter. The Aero Sokz: aerodynamics, support, and style… right down to your feet.

The Aero Sokz are not just socks. UCI compliant, they stand out for their unique design: a left (L) and a right (R) sock, a rarity in cycling, much more common in running. This attention to detail not only improves comfort but also performance.

The foot fabric offers impressive thermal regulation, ensuring comfort and freshness even during the longest efforts. The ribbed Lycra section on the leg helps keep air attached for as long as possible, thereby reducing drag and optimizing aerodynamics. The two types of silicone clips ensure impeccable support, regardless of your build, preventing any slipping, even on long rides.

With their sleek design, white finish, and discreet logo, these socks integrate perfectly with any outfit, while providing a real gain in performance.

But the real killer detail? Just above the foot, discreetly sewn into the fabric: #thanks4coming. A small touch of well-placed irony and humor, as if to salute the other riders you’ve just dropped on a climb or coming out of a corner. A confident signature, between a wink and a subtle message: you can go home, the race is over for you. A hand-stitched message that alone summarizes Spatzwear’s DNA: serious performance, but never without a dose of mischief.

Pros: Exceptional stability, aerodynamic optimization, long-lasting comfort.

Cons: Fragility of the white fabric, effective but sometimes tight grip.

Price: 35,95 €

Spatzwear Squadron: The Jersey Tailored for Speed

The Spatzwear Squadron jersey embodies the essence of pure performance, with an ultra-fitted design conceived to minimize wind resistance. This model is tailored for those looking to maximize their efficiency on the bike.

When the outfit follows, the smile comes naturally. Riding well-equipped also means riding light in the head.

The Squadron jersey stands out with its long sleeves down to the elbow and its protective fabric on the chest and shoulders, offering both reduced drag and effective wind protection. Its ribbed textile torso allows air to circulate naturally, optimizing speed without compromising comfort.

With its three classic rear pockets, it distinguishes itself by the addition of a cargo pocket behind the triceps, ideal for storing an energy bar or an LED light. The water-resistant zippered pocket offers secure storage for a phone or keys, a real plus during rides in uncertain weather.

A jersey combining aerodynamics and practicality, perfect for cyclists seeking speed, comfort, and functionality.

Pockets, yes… but not where you expect them. The Squadron jersey takes the logic to its extreme: back, triceps, sleeve — every space optimized to carry essentials without weighing down the style.

Pros: Aerodynamic cut, intelligent technical design, multiple storage options.

Cons: Very tight fit, may be too restrictive for some.

Price: 170 €

Spatzwear Heatr: The Absolute Weapon Against Cold or Fresh Wind Gusts

When cold and wind invite themselves onto the course, the Heatr is there to keep the warmth in and the style out. A jersey that protects from the elements without ever hindering performance.

The Spatzwear Heatr long-sleeve jersey is the ideal solution for cyclists who are not afraid to face low temperatures without sacrificing performance. This model was designed to offer maximum thermal protection while maintaining an aerodynamic cut.

When gravel gets a bit chilly, we pull out the Heatr. Thermal comfort, fitted cut, and zero compromise to stay warm without slowing down.

The Heatr stands out with its ultra-elastic fabric, offering a perfect fit and optimal comfort, even during long and intense rides. Its moisture management allows for quick drying while maintaining warmth where needed.

With its three reflective rear pockets and a mesh cargo pocket, it allows you to carry essentials while offering increased visibility. The extended rear of the jersey, accompanied by a silicone grip, ensures perfect stability in an aerodynamic position, preventing any unwanted movement.

This jersey combines ideally with a Spatzwear base layer, offering perfect flexibility in changing weather conditions. An essential choice for cyclists who don’t want the cold to hinder their performance.

Cold, damp, silent… but when the heart is warm, even the frosted forest becomes a playground. The Heatr does the rest.

Pros: Effective thermal protection, precise fit, practical details for winter.

Cons: High price, may be too warm in mid-season.

Price: 235 €

Our Opinion on These 4 Products and on the SPATZWEAR Brand in General, After Several Rides on the Roads of Northern Île-de-France

After several rides on our hilly roads in the Vexin and in the heart of Île-de-France, we can say that this gear was truly put to the test. During a gravel session in the rain with 5°C on the thermometer at the start of the ride, the Heatr jersey worked wonders: it kept us warm without turning us into a pressure cooker, a real feat! We even managed to enjoy the rain… almost.

With the right equipment, every pedal stroke remains fluid. The Spatzwear trio stands strong: aerodynamics, comfort, and support. When everything is against you, they are with you.

The Squadron jersey proved itself during a windy ride, its fitted cut reducing wind resistance and offering optimal comfort, even in the most difficult conditions. Its design, fitted like a second skin, allows all energy to be focused on performance, without the feeling of fighting against the wind.

The Aero Sokz, for their part, showed their effectiveness in maximizing every watt. Their precise fit and stability, once in place, offer impeccable performance, even on fast and demanding courses.

The Convoy bib shorts, with their remarkable comfort on long rides, stand out for their quality pad and support. The integrated pockets are a true innovation, offering additional practicality without bulk.

In summary, these products perfectly meet the expectations of a demanding cyclist. Efficient, durable, and supported by professional athletes, Spatzwear is the gear to consider for those who don’t want weather conditions to dictate their performance.

In the dark, every detail counts. Spatzwear’s reflective strips ensure visibility and safety, even when the road seems endless.

To Conclude,

Spatzwear isn’t just a brand; it’s the answer to the struggles every cyclist has experienced. Rain, wind, cold, and even conditions that make you question your passion… but with Spatzwear, we rode comfortably, protected, and, most importantly, focused on the true pleasure of cycling.

Every detail has been thought out by someone who knows the challenges of the terrain well. No empty talk, just products that hold up — and which, even when the weather doesn’t cooperate, give us the motivation to do it again, because we know that, whatever happens, we’ll have the right gear to face the elements. Spatzwear: for riding in the rain… or in the sun, but always with style and comfort.

Available in France on: www.alternativsport.com

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