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Product Review: Chamonix Collection Cycling Gear

The Chamonix Collection Cyling Gear is well-constructed and top notch. With snow-filled winters, that range from sub-zero temps to days where the sun shines, at a mild 30 degrees, here in Teton Valley, I tested the Seeley 3L Jacket and Esker Bibs in a variety of winter conditions. The product specifications for both these products can be found here on fat-bike.com.

The Seeley 3L Jacket:

The Seeley 3L Jacket was one  of the items from the Chamonix Collection that I tested. This jacket is a shell. It is constructed using high-quality 72 Denier polyester and is designed to withstand snowy and wet conditions. The adjstustable velcro cuffs, adjustable drawcord waist,  wrist gaiters with thumbholes, and fully taped seams kept me dry and provided a comfortable fit.

I found that the waterproof components in the material, including the zippers kept out snow and rain. I rode with the Seeley 3L Jacket in heavy wet snow, several times.

Although waterproof, this was not the most breathable jacket. The ventilation allowed for some air flow, but the polyester fabric does retain heat. This was especially noticeable when I began to sweat.

I liked the adjustable hood and how it can be stored under the collar. I did notice occasionally the stored hood would hit the back of my helmet. Overall, the hood storage feature was great for getting the hood out of the way, when it was not in use.

The jacket has numerous storage pockets, which made it easy to store small snacks or an ID, when out riding. The two front hand-warmer pockets are easily accessible. The interior google pockets and small interior ID pocket, provided extra storage when I was out on rides.

Overall, I highly recommend the Seeley 3L Jacket for winter riding, as a shell layer. It was comfortable, fit well, and provided protection from the elements. I rate the Seeley 3L Jacket 4.5 out of 5 fireballs.

The Esker Bike Bibs:

The Esker Bike Bibs are a great companion product to go with the Seeley 3L Jacket, for winter riding in extreme cold or on snowy windy days.  The Esker Bibs fit me very well, with the adjustable shoulder straps, front zipper, and leg zippers that allowed for a better fit.

The snow gaiters are an excellent feature for winter riding with these bibs although they could of been a little longer to accommodate the pedaling motion. The gaiters provided a tight seal around my boot. When I had to  hike-a-bike through deep snow, they did their job and kept the snow out.

The bibs are made out of 100% polyester. This made them too warm to ride in, at times. The ventilation zippers on the outer leg worked, but where I often found I was too warm was in my torso area. This gave the bibs a restrictive feel at times.

These bibs are very waterproof. The fully taped seams and waterproof zippers helped to keep me dry on wet, snowy days.

Back pockets

The bibs have numerous pockets, just as the Seeley 3L jacket does. I found the three-pocket mesh pouch, and side hand pockets beneficial for storing small snacks and my phone or ID when riding.

Although the bibs fit me well, I found them to be a bit restrictive for the motion required in cycling. They are phenomenally well-constructed and do as they should to protect riders from the wind and snow. They are a great choice for the harshest winter days.

I would rate the Esker Bibs 4 out of 5 fireballs due the restrictiveness I felt in the thigh and torso areas. 

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