Endura FS260-Pro Thermo Knee Warmers

The Endura FS260-Pro Thermo Knee Warmers are warm, solidly built and very secure under pedalling. I'm at the upper end of the size guide for the S/M pair, and the top opening sits high and quite narrow on me, so check before you buy, and size up if in doubt.

The Thermoroubaix fabric inside these is soft and comfortable, while the smooth outer gets a water-repellent layer in the form of DWR-M – the 'M' part signifying it's an eco-friendly version that's Bluesign approved.

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Water beads off well and it's good for showers, but inevitably prolonged rain will soak through – the fabric stays pretty warm, though, so it's not much of an issue. I found them warm enough down to around 6-7°C, which is the point I'd rather not be wearing shorts in the first place.

The single seam is overlocked rather than completely flatlocked, but I never found it uncomfortable, even in the relatively tight top section. The combination of the high-rise cut and strong elastic upper cuff means it really is pretty tight, too.

There are only two sizes (S/M or L/XL) to choose from, and the guide linked to from the product page doesn't list warmers at all – you'll need the guide here instead. For the record, the upper cuff on the S/M is around 36cm unstretched, and starting to get tight around 48cm. My thighs are around 57cm.

Reaching as they do to the upper thigh, and wearing a thick bead of silicone gripper on both sides of the strong elastic cuff, the fit is very secure. Despite the left and right-specific cut, they bunched a little bit behind the knee, though not enough to cause any discomfort.

Washing is easy – throw them in the machine with the rest – and the useful reflective details have been unaffected by it during the test. The fabrics and stitching feel very robust, though at 83g they're not exactly heavy and they scrunch up pretty well for pocketing.

Value

At £29.99, these are somewhere mid-market and fairly priced for the quality. There's plenty of choice, though – the Sportful NoRain Knee Warmers are only a bit more at £32, and significantly more water repellent if that's what you're after.

The Morvelo Stealth Stormshield Knee Warmers are a chunk more at £40, but if weatherproofing doesn't matter then the Galibier Roubaix Knee Warmers are great – and just £16.80.

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Alternatively you can go for full-length leg warmers for much the same price – Endura's own FS260-Pro Thermo Leg Warmers are only £32.99, and while the Chapeau Men's Leg Wamers lack any DWR they're warm wet or dry, and are very versatile for £35.

Overall

These knee warmers do a good job in dry or showery weather, stay firmly put as you ride, and feel built to last. Just check the sizing carefully, especially if you have big thighs.

Verdict

Warm, secure and well made, and good for showery days too