The Elite Softshell gloves by Pearl Izumi are a winter glove equipped with 100g of Primaloft Gold insulation, a fleecy liner, gel palm and long cuff with hook and loop Velcro closure.
The thick layer of insulation makes the gloves feel overly bulky at first, especially if you're used to riding in summer mitts but other than a slight loss of feel, shifting and braking aren't adversely affected.
The face material isn't as windproof as we'd like for seriously cold rides but on the flip side it breathes well, as does the Primaloft Gold insulation making for a great performer at temperatures hovering just above freezing where you might still start to work up a sweat on climbs.
Fit and comfort levels are both top notch thanks to a fleecy liner and effective gel padding in the palm and there's the bonus of a finger phone swipey nodule for gloves on browsing and calling in case you really can't bear to take the gloves off.
The cuffs are the perfect diameter to fit over a tight jersey or under a looser softshell jacket and fasten easily and securely with a hook and loop closer.
If you're planning to ride in minus temperatures then consider letting your fingers give each other a warming hug inside a pair of mitts but for classic UK autumn and winter temperatures the Elite Softshell gloves hit the sweet spot between breathability, warmth and comfort.
