A bit confused about cycling "tops"

[graham bowers]

I've been using hillwalking base layers, both long and short sleeved, and long sleeved thin fleeces. Trouble is they're not really windproof, so after layering up, I've tended to resort to a budget, non breathable, cycling boil-in-the-bag waterproof. And boiling in the bag.

Does anybody know if there any well stocked shops in the Derby / Leicester / Nottingham / Birmingham area where I can actually see, touch and try a good range of clothing and speak to a knowledgeable human please? For example, I really don't understand the difference between a £30 and a £90 jersey.

If it matters, I'm more at the "touring" end of the cycling population so all day rides are commonplace. I'm intending to go for hi-viz garments if possible, and can't imagine being seen dead in anything bearing logos associated with "team" and "racing"!

 

[fossyant]

Do you have a Decathlon. They have a great selection of tops and the labels tell you what the top does - some winter weight ones are windproof, and you'll just need a base layer with one of these, even on a freezing day. The staff are usually helpful.

 

[vickster]

Evans?

 

[graham bowers]

Do you have a Decathlon. They have a great selection of tops and the labels tell you what the top does - some winter weight ones are windproof, and you'll just need a base layer with one of these, even on a freezing day. The staff are usually helpful.

There is one West of Nottingham, probably half an hour away. Thanks.

 

[Globalti]

dhb from Wiggle, excellent stuff, minimal logos. Read the reviews on Wiggle.

Also Torm, great kit, no logos. https://spcycles.com/torm Very comfortable to wear and stylish too.

 

[fossyant]

There is one West of Nottingham, probably half an hour away. Thanks.

And the prices won't make your eyes water. Call in Evans and you won't see a top under £50. Decathlon do different 'grades' 3,5,7 for example - the higher the number, the more stuff the top has/does (that's non technical speak).

 

[Tin Pot]

I really don't understand the difference between a £30 and a £90 jersey.

Breathability
Thermal
Wind restance
Water resistance

Your £30 will get you varying levels of the above characteristics, your £90 will get you higher values in the ones you're after.

 

[KnackeredBike]

Buy a soft shell fleece and spend the rest of the £90 on beer.

 

[byegad]

A Gilet with a mesh back and impervious front is a big help for your problem. There are a lot on the market that are either windproof all around, or not windproof at all so careful shopping means I now have 4 in different colours and all be different manufacturers!

 

[cyberknight]

There is one West of Nottingham, probably half an hour away. Thanks.

And the prices won't make your eyes water. Call in Evans and you won't see a top under £50. Decathlon do different 'grades' 3,5,7 for example - the higher the number, the more stuff the top has/does (that's non technical speak).

Giltbrook decathlon is fantastic and as @fossyant said their prices are very good, they also have a good range of camping/hiking / running gear too .
Got some shorts the other week for £25 a pair that are one of the best i have had .

 

[Rooster1]

Evans?

Evans above

 

[graham bowers]

Thanks for input, All :-)

 

[raleighnut]

I like Altura tops, decent quality and not too dear.

 

[Globalti]

I've tried Decathlon gear but I don't have the belly to fill the rather "relaxed " cut of the clothes! I prefer a more tailored fit.

 

[Cycleops]

I've tried Decathlon gear but I don't have the belly to fill the rather "relaxed " cut of the clothes! I prefer a more tailored fit.

Boasting again!