Carnac is now more of a bargain brand than it was when Chris Boardman took the hour record in its aero shoes, but that makes them a great source of decent kit at a discount price. The Windblock gloves fit that profile exactly with a great balance of tactile feel and intermediate weather protection for those that aren’t always on their phones.
Performance
The multi-panel cut is definitely on the long and thin side so fat palms might feel slightly squeezed and/or short fingers might have some spare room in the ends. The extended gauntlet cuffs mean excellent wrist coverage and draught-proofing which keeps your whole hand warmer. The thin soft-shell fabric keeps windchill at bay and shrugs off light showers and drizzle well. They dry fast too so we’ve been comfortable wearing them in mixed weather from a windy 5 degrees into double figures.
There’s enough stretch to make them mobile without tight spots cramping circulation and box fingers are a blood flow bonus, too. The thumb junction gets leatherette reinforcement panels and there’s a pull-on tab in the same fabric. There’s printed and piping reflectivity, light palm padding and silicon grip detailing, too. It’s hard rather than sticky though so while it lasts well it’s still a bit slippery when wet. There’s no touch screen connectivity in the fingertips or snot wipe on the thumb either.
Verdict
Not for wipers or swipers and not everyone likes a padded palm either but cuff length and fabric are all great for spring/autumn riding. Can’t argue with a sub £20 price either.
Tech Specs: Carnac Windblock gloves
- Price: $TBC / £19.99
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Colors: Black
