UK-based Endura have an expanded range of cycle clothing for spring 2011, with plenty of old favourites left in the line-up but some new arrivals and fresh coloursways to keep things interesting.
Road
New on the road side is the Pakajak jacket. As the name suggests, this is a lightweight, stowable windbreaker made from a showerproof ripstop fabric. Unlike some minimalist rivals, the Pakajak has features you'd normally expect to see on heavier-duty jackets, including underarm mesh vents, a deep storm flap over the front zip and reflective detailing. RRP is £40. It's available in five colours.
Want something that provides a bit more protection? The Photon jacket still fits into a tiny stuffsack but it's fully waterproof. Features include an inner storm flap with wrapover zip guard, reflective details and elasticated cuffs, hem and neckline, along with an asymmetric pocket at the rear. It's available in black or yellow as well as red, for £60.
The FS260 road jersey range has had an overhaul for 2011. The standard FS260-Pro jersey is made of a fast-wicking fabric and has a "supportive athletic fit". Features include three rear pockets, reflective detailing and silicone hem gripper. RRP is £48. There's a choice of five colours.
The FS260-Pro Jetstream jersey is suitable for cooler spring and autumn days, with windproof panels on the front and arms, and Roubaix-type stretch fleece lining on the back and sleeves. RRP is £65. It's available in white, red or blue, as well as black.
Endura now have five overshoes in their range. New for 2011 are the £23 Slick – a lightweight option that'll fold up and fit in a jersey pocket – and a striking silver version of the existing £26 Road which has a honeycomb-effect finish for improved reflectivity.
Mountain bike
New on the jacket front for mountain bikers is the Convert Softshell. It's made of a wind- and waterproof fabric but the seams aren't taped so it won't stand up to a torrential downpour. Features include zip-off sleeves, a zipped chest pocket with MP3 player cable routing and four rear pockets. RRP is £100.
Endura's Hummvee kit is popular out on the trails. The 2011 men's Hummvee jersey comes in four colours, including this new 'Kelly green', for £36. Features include a fast-wicking fabric, mesh panels for ventilation, four rear pockets and an internal microfibre glasses wipe.
The casual-look £48 Zyme shorts (also available in a 3/4-length version for £52) have a soft, cotton-like feel but they're actually made from nylon for improved breathability. Features include a seamless crotch panel and a plethora of pockets. Production versions will come with a webbing belt.
The MT500 gloves come in new green and orange men's options, and a purple women's version (there's a matching purple women's Hummvee jersey). They have all the features you'd expect, including the vital snot/sweat wipe. RRP is £33.
Endura glasses we've tested in the past have offered impressive value for money, and there are some new styles for this year. Pictured below are the Mullet (left, £45) and Cuttle (right, photochromatic lens, £36). To find out more about Endura's 2011 range, visit www.endura.co.uk.
