Frank Thomas Aqua Roo Gloves
Frank Thomas Aqua Roo Gloves
CW EVALUATION
Protective and waterproof?
THE ENGLISH ARE KNOWN FOR THEIR wet-weather riding gear. Hence our high expectations for the Frank Thomas Aqua Roo gloves, which are loaded with thoughtful details intended to help you survive a soggy ride.
Soft, strong kangaroo leather palms team with cowhide and 420-denier Hypertec nylon on the upper surfaces, while hard plastic knuckle guards ride on "cantilevered" leather flaps that keep the guards in position as your hands flex. Other nice details include grip-enhancing textured overlays on the palms, thumbs and fore fingers, snug neoprene cuffs, stout double closure wrist straps and suede atop the forefingers for visor cleaning.
Sizing is inconsistent, but once we found the right fit, the Aqua Roos were comfort able and reassuringly protective feelingmore like a roadrace glove than typical raingear.
Despite breathable and allegedly waterproof Aquapore liners, after an hour spent riding in a driving rain, the Aqua Roos were moist and, once removed, dif
ficult to pull back on. Still, while other gloves may keep hands drier, none we've tried feel as secure and protective while providing reasonable water resistance. We'd recommend the Aqua Roos for short rides in cool, wet conditions, but look elsewhere if you are touring Tier ra del Fuego in the rainy season.
DETAILS
Cycle Gear, Inc. 4705 Industrial Way Benicia, CA 94510 707/747-5053 www.cyclegear.com Price.. .$100
Lots of protection for a rain glove Warm and comfy yet racy-looking
bowns
Water-resistant, not waterproof Size-wise, try `em before you buy `em
