Castelli Espresso 2 glove review – my pro-pick for a proper winter glove that works in all but the worst of the cold
The search for the perfect winter cycling glove often feels like a quest, a modern fairytale where fit is paramount. For many cyclists, finding gloves that balance warmth, dexterity, and comfort—especially those with smaller hands—can be a significant challenge. Castelli’s Espresso 2 gloves aim to solve this problem, offering a solution designed for typical UK winter conditions.
Construction and Materials
Key Components
The Castelli Espresso 2 gloves utilize Primaloft and Polartec Aircore fabrics. Polartec Aircore, known for its wind and water resistance, is used on the back of the hand, while Primaloft provides insulation. This combination is intended to keep hands warm down to 3°C / 37°F and relatively dry.
Design Features
The gloves are secured with a long YKK zipper running across the back of the hand, between the thumb and forefinger, and at the wrist. A tab on the palm assists with pulling them on. The design prioritizes a snug fit, avoiding seams that could cause irritation.
Performance and Ride Experience
Finding the Right Balance
One common issue with winter cycling gloves is finding the right level of warmth—too much can lead to overheating and reduced dexterity, while too little leaves hands cold and uncomfortable. Initial testing of the Castelli Espresso 2 gloves revealed a “just right” level of comfort for temperatures around 8-9°C / 46°F.
Dexterity and Fit
The low-profile design of the Espresso 2 gloves avoids the bulkiness often found in deeper winter gloves, such as the Giro 100 Proof. The palm provides excellent grip, and the fingers are appropriately sized, even for those with smaller hands. A notable feature is the functionality of the touchscreen fingertips, allowing cyclists to use smartphones without removing their gloves.
Limitations
While effective in dry conditions, the gloves’ performance diminishes in the rain. For individuals sensitive to cold, like those with Raynaud’s, wet hands can quickly become very cold, and restoring warmth can be difficult.
Value and Conclusion
The Castelli Espresso 2 gloves are positioned as a premium option for cyclists seeking warmth and dexterity without excessive bulk. While the price point places them in a higher tier, the benefits—particularly the comfortable fit and functional touchscreen compatibility—may justify the investment for frequent winter riders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials are used in the Castelli Espresso 2 gloves?
The key components are Primaloft and Polartec Aircore fabrics. Polartec Aircore is on the back of the hand for wind and water resistance, and Primaloft provides insulation.
What temperature range are these gloves designed for?
The gloves are designed to keep cyclists’ hands warm down to 3°C / 37°F and fairly dry.
Are the fingertips touchscreen compatible?
Yes, the tips of the thumb and forefinger are designed to work with smartphone touchscreens.
Considering the challenges of finding well-fitting winter cycling gloves, how important is a comfortable and functional design to your overall riding experience?