SEVEN DAY CYCLIST
CYCLING, BUT NOT USUALLY RACING

Performance 3.5/5

 

Let’s start with getting them on. Easy as pie, with less hauling than models without the full-length zip. Removal is equally easy. This ease has a corollary; the fit is not as tight as models like the DexShells Heavy Duty Overshoes. Likewise, the seal around the ankle is not as tight. 

 

There’s no doubting that the fabric is waterproof when it comes to precipitation. They’ve survived hefty rain for three hours – and, incidentally, it was only when hitting the biggest puddles that any hint of dampness was felt. Of course, waterproof socks and over-shoes are, well, belt and braces. Mind you, the Velcro seal at the ankle top is looser than elasticated ones, so a water-tight seal is harder to achieve.

 

With the temperature around 4-6C they certainly helped keep my feet warm (cotton socks) for most of a forty miler, with a touch of chill tingling the toes at the end of the two-and-a-half-hour jaunt. Mind you, I’d go for merino, if I were out for longer. On an hour-long commute, with waterproof socks, at zero degrees, feet have remained comfortably warm. Granted, the late November-December testing period has not produced really warm days, so temperature control is not easy to assess. In my experience, the light fabric and netting lining should keep things pretty temperate, but time will tell when summer returns.

 

I’ve not deliberately ridden through the bramble patch. My gut feeling is that road and cycle-path are their natural habitat.

 

Value 3.5/5

 

I recently tested DexShells Heavy Duty Overshoes – which come in a little more expensive than the Raval Shoe Covers. They’ve been great during wet autumnal rides, but may be a bit too much when the warmer weather comes. They feel more robust, too. On the other hand, donning and doffing are not quite as easy, in my opinion.

 

More similar are the ProViz Reflect360 Shoe Covers. Like Raval’s these are a lighter shell fabric, although the lining is different. They offer excellent reflective presence, of course, but are a little more expensive.

 

There are plenty of shop brands coming in at a good deal less. Whilst these do a perfectly good job, I’ve often found them more liable to wear and tear, especially around the hems. Likewise, those secured by a hook and loop system instead of a zip can do a perfectly good job, but tend to have a ‘baggier’ fit.

 

Summary

 

There’s no doubt that these are well-made and make a useful addition to the cycling wardrobe. Equally, they are, in my opinion, best suited to road and cycle path, as opposed to prickly single-track. They’d certainly be suitable for use all year round and won’t add much weight to your touring kit. Well-worth a look.