Pas Normal Studios cool and wet weather kit: The winter is on the way in the northern hemisphere, but our man in Spain, Alastair Hamilton, is have a mixed bag of weather at the moment, with hot, cold and wet conditions. So, what better time to take a close look at Pas Normal Studios autumn kit and their new waterproof shell jacket.
The full kit: Jersey, rain-jacket, base layer, socks and bibs
Men’s Mechanism Shell Jacket – Dark Grey
Ready for the rain… If it comes
I wouldn’t normally start a clothing review with a rain jacket, but the Pas Normal Studios new Mechanism shell jacket is the star of the show and should probably have its own review, but we need to take in the full Pas look. I explained to Pas that it doesn’t rain much where I live in Spain and there probably isn’t much point sending me one, but they insisted, thanks Mel. Within days of the jacket arriving we had the heaviest rain fall in the Alicante region for years, but it was too wild to ride a bike.
Dry and looks good too
As always with Pas Normal Studios, the Mechanism shell jacket is subtle. Not in your face. At the moment it is only available in ‘Dark Grey’ which is a very ‘Pas’ colour and goes well with any other kit you have. Pas claim 6/6 for water protection and 4/6 for breathability, so I had to run it under a tap for a full test, and yes, it holds water. The breathability comes from the mesh sections under the armpits and on the arms at the cuffs, you would expect they might let water in, but no. The same tap test proved 100% watertight as are the zips and seams. The full length zip has two zippers, one up and one down and is protected on the inside with a waterproof flap and a pouch at the top. All the seams feel double stitched and welded on the inside, no water will get in here. The jacket is made using many panels for a very good fit and there is some stretch in the material.
No water getting through here
On the rear there are two pockets with side zips, these zips have double front flaps and extra strengthening points at the corners. The base of the pockets are pleated for more capacity and to hold their shape. Below the pockets there is a flap to protect the lower back (ass). There is also a draw string that pulls in just at the back. There is a good size collar that has a soft lining, much like the breathable sections, this is where rain can get in, but that is unavoidable for all jackets. There is a large ‘PAS NORMAL STUDIOS’ logo on the rear and a small one on the front. I just need to wait for the next rain storm.
All seams are sealed on the inside and there are strengthening points
Men’s Essential Long Sleeve Jersey – Light Brown
Last year Pas Normal Studios sent me a Mechanism long sleeve jersey and at first look, the Essential seems very similar, don’t be fooled. Yes, the Essential has all the best bits of the Mechanism: That very important small, zipped rear pocket, a nice collar, the lower cut at the back, a full shielded zip with pouches top and bottom and the three shaped rear pockets, but there are some subtle differences.
As usual PNS: A Subtle colour
The first difference you notice with the Essential jersey is that the material is a little thicker than in the Mechanism, it feels like there is more fleece on the inside, but it’s not much heavier, very elasticated and is nice and warm. As I said before there is a proper collar, which is double thickness as are the cuffs on the sleeves. There is an extra panel across the shoulders which seems to give a bit more room and comfort. The full zip is insulated on the inside and has pouches top and bottom. The sleeves are a good length and should fit everyone without wrinkles and there are body side panels for a great feel and fit. Around the base, bellow the pockets, there is a wide band with criss-cross gripper silicone, similar to the bib-shorts, this will stop the jersey riding up or down. The base has been cut so the front is a little higher than rear, more warmth and protection where you need it.
A more relaxed cut
The Mechanism jersey is more like a long sleeve race jersey, whereas the Essential is a bit more relaxed, and just a comfortable jersey to wear on a cafe ride or mixing it with the fast guys on the midweek chain-gang. The Essential long sleeve jersey comes in six different colours for the men and four for the women. There is large ‘PAS NORMAL STUDIOS’ across the shoulders on the rear and a similar small logo on the front on the right of the chest, both are reflective. Typical PAS style and cut – A classy piece of kit.
You must have a zip pocket
Men’s Essential Bibs – Light Olive
As I’ve said before, your shorts are the most important piece of clothing you will own. Bad shorts, more precisely a bad chamois/pad, will run your ride and take all the fun away from the day. I’ve had a couple of Pas Normal Studios bib-shorts to test and the pad has been the same in all of them, but if you have something that good, why would you change it? The Pas ‘chamois’ feels like it has four layers of padding at the most important parts, the sit bones and less when it is not needed, or not needed as much. The padding is made up of two sections with less padding in the centre and at the edges and with just soft material at the front. It is a luxury chamois.
Nice colour and style
The bib is made of a breathable mesh and has wide, comfortable straps and a wide section at the back. The front doesn’t come up too high, a ‘nature stop’ isn’t difficult. The body part has many panels, so the fit is good as are the legs which have four panels and a fairly broad band around the thigh, which has a criss-cross pattern of silicone gripper, like on the jersey, so the legs will stay where you want them. The leg length isn’t too long, but you can wear it where you want.
One of the best pads
The material used is not too thick, but keeps you warm enough as long as the weather doesn’t get too cold. The cut is body hugging, but not constricting as Pas say they have a semi-tight fit, whatever, they are comfortable. There is small ‘PAS NORMAL STUDIOS’ in white on each leg and a larger ‘Essential’ on the rear in a shinny clear lettering. Cool shorts and I don’t mean cold.
A good leg length
Mid Long Sleeve Base Layer – Black
A good base layer is a necessity in cold and changeable weather conditions, although us ‘old school’ riders would never go out in any temperature without an under vest. Times have changed as newer materials allow you to wear your jersey next to your skin, well not at this time of year, from the start of autumn through to the spring you need a base layer in the northern hemisphere.
Style and comfort
The Pas Mid long sleeve base layer base is made of Polartec® Power Wool
fabric which gives some wind protection. It has a merino wool on the inside and a synthetic material on the outside which takes the sweat away from the skin and keeps you warm, with some wind protection. The vest is body hugging and is perfect to wear under other layers, depending how cold it is. The base layer has a long rear section to protect your lower spine, and there are also side panels to help the comfortable fit. The sleeves are also a good length. ‘PAS NORMAL STUDIOS’ on the chest and ‘ROAD TO NOWHERE’ down the spine.
Dry and warm
Not too high
I always appreciate when I’m sent a pair of socks with a set of kit, it just makes the whole ‘ensemble’. The Essential socks are 75% lightweight merino wool, so they are good in all temperatures; they keep you warm in the cold and will take the sweat away from your feet in hot conditions. The cuff is double thick and elasticated, not too tight, but they do stay up. The toe and heel sections are shaped to fit well and the sock is made of an elasticated material on the leg and on the top of the foot, with a smoother material on the sole of the foot. ‘PAS NORMAL STUDIOS’ is stitched on the rear of the leg and ‘Essential’ across the toe, nice and subtle. They are just so soft, a real pleasure to wear. Of course the best thing about them… They are white.
Comfortable and white
So, how does the kit feel out on the road? I’ve managed a few outdoor rides since I received the Pas Normal Studios kit, but first I tried out the Essential bib shorts on Zwift (other on-line virtual cycling platforms are available) for an hour. As expected they were very comfortable, the chamois I know from previous bibs and there is just the right amount of padding where you want it. There is no riding up or wrinkles and the legs stay where you want them. So, out on the road the bibs performed the same as virtually. The temperature was only just over 20ºC, so I needed the base layer. I was warm enough, but didn’t overheat. The body of the jersey fits well, I would say it is a comfortable feel, not tight like a race jersey, the sleeves are a good length and of course the little zip pocket came into use. The socks stay up and don’t have folds of material inside the shoe. All great, no complains.
Ready for cool weather and/or rain
After the storms of the previous week there hasn’t been any rain for me to try the Mechanism shell jacket in the conditions it was made for, but I wore it on the ride for about 20 minutes. OK there wasn’t any rain, but I also didn’t sweat up. The jacket fits very well and I guess it does what it is meant to and keeps you dry, but I’ll have to wait for another down-pour and that might not be until February.
The kit is ready even if the rider isn’t
Pas Normal Studios sez:
Men’s Mechanism Shell Jacket
The Mechanism Shell Jacket is built to keep snow and rain out, making it an ideal choice for rides in cold temperatures. The jacket is an ideal choice for rides in cold temperatures. The jacket can be used for both low intensity and high intensity rides. Use it on longer endurance rides or on high-intensity training rides during the winter.
Water Protection 6/6
The shell jacket offers full waterproof protection without compromising on breathability or flexibility. It has a water column pressure of 20.000mm.
Breathability 4/6
The jacket offers an outstanding balance between warmth and breathability with an exceptional ability to repel water.
Fit:
The jacket’s slightly looser fit allows for effective layering.
Made in Vietnam
Product details:
- Made for riding in bad weather
- Slightly looser fit for layering
- Semi high collar with thin fleece lining
- Two zippered back pockets
- Single-sided hem drawcord
- Reflective logos on front and back
- Two-way YKK Vislon® front zipper
- Fully seam taped for waterproofness
- 3-Layer Polartec® Power Shield
Pro main fabric - 20.000mm water resistance
- 20.000 g/ms/24hrs breathability
- Highly breathable and stretchable fabric
- Material: 53% Nylon, 47% Polyester
Men’s Essential Long Sleeve Jersey
The jersey is a perfect choice for cold to mild temperatures. Use it as a standalone outer layer on chill mornings or late afternoons. Or pair it with a heavier base layer and a gilet or jacket when the temperature drops. The jersey can be used for both low intensity and high intensity rides. Use it on chilly training rides in between seasons or in CX/gravel races during the winter season.
Insulation: 4/6
The soft fleece-backed fabric provides decent insulation properties. Use it as a standalone outer layer on chill mornings or late afternoons. Or pair it with a heavier base layer and a gilet or jacket when the temperature drops.
Wind Protection: 3/6
Wind Protection is defined as the ability of a product to resist wind from penetrating the fabrics. The jersey offers some wind protection but does not guarantee complete protection from winds.
Breathability: 3/6
Breathability is defined as the ability of a fabric to allow perspiration. Brushed with a soft, fleece lining, the jersey features antimicrobial and hydrophilic properties, keeping you dry and feeling fresh the harder you push.
Water Protection: 2/6
Water protection is defined by the products ability to keep you dry. The jersey is made from lightweight fabrics therefore offers limited water protection. Combine this jersey with a Rain Gilet or Jacket for added water protection.
Weight Size M: 310 gram
Fit: The Long Sleeve Jersey has a semi-tight fit – perfect for both casual rides and high-intensity training.
Made in Lithuania
Product details:
- Pas Normal Studios chest and reflective back logo
- Wind and water-repellent Schoeller fabrics on the front
- DWR-treated SuperRoubaix fabric on the back
- Heavy-duty YKK zipper
- Material: 48% Polyester, 37% Polyamide, 85% Nylon, 15% Elastane
The bibs are suited for rides in mild to high temperatures. Combine with leg warmers on colder rides. The comfortable bibs are optimised for low-intensity road rides. However, they provide all the necessary performance-oriented properties that are required for fast-paced rides as well.
Breathability: 5/6
Breathability is defined as the ability of a fabric to allow perspiration. The bibs offer great breathability properties and are optimised for moisture wicking.
Insulation: 1/6
Insulation is defined as the ability of a fabric to keep you warm and protect you from the cold. The bibs are suitable for rides in mild to warm temperatures.
Wind Protection: 1/6
Wind Protection is defined as the ability of a product to prevent wind from penetrating the fabrics. The bibs are made from lightweight fabrics that offer limited wind protection.
Water Protection: 1/6
Water protection is defined by the products ability to keep you dry. The bibs are made from lightweight fabrics that offer limited water protection.
Weight Size M: 196 gram
Fit: The bibs has a semi-tight fit ideal for road riding
Made in Italy
Product details:
- Four-layer ultralight foam chamois
- Micro-perforated straps
- Resilient to elastic degradation
- UPF 40 low-profile shoulder straps
- Fully dyed fabrics
- Fabric: 82% Polyester, 18% Elastane
The base layer is optimised for rides in mild temperatures from around 0 to 15 degrees Celsius.
Breathability4/6: Breathability is defined as the ability of a fabric to allow perspiration. With a merino wool interior and a synthetic fibre exterior, this hybrid base layer is created to optimise moisture control, breathability, and durability.
Insulation: 3/6 Insulation is defined as the ability of a fabric to keep you warm and protect you from the cold. The base layer some insulation properties and is made to keep you warm in mild temperatures.
Wind Protection: 3/6
Wind Protection is defined as the ability of a product to prevent wind from penetrating the fabrics. This base layer has been constructed using the innovative Polartec® Power Wool fabric that offers some wind protection.
Weight Size M: 126 gram
Fit: The base layer has a tight fit that gives the best possible comfort and allows you to build extra layers on top of the base layer.
Made in Lithuania
Product details:
- Polartec® Power Wool
- Superior wicking action
- Fast drying
- Highly breathable
- Naturally odour resistant
These socks perfect for any type of ride intensity. The socks are optimised for winter rides in mild temperatures.
The Essential Socks are slightly heavier than its counterparts; Mechanism and Solitude Socks, and therefore offers better insulation properties. They are perfect for any type of ride intensity. However, for racing or fast paced training rides, we would recommend Mechanism or Solitude Socks.
Breathability:5/6
Breathability is defined as the ability of a fabric to allow perspiration. The socks offer great breathability properties while keeping your feet warm at the same time.
Insulation 4/6
Insulation is defined as the ability of a fabric to keep you warm and protect you from the cold. Merging the thermal and temperature regulating properties from Merino Wool in a lightweight, cycling-specific sock for spring and summer, the Essential Socks make a perfect match for riding in the spring/autumn.
Weight Size M: 45 gram
Fit: The socks has a tight fit that gives the best possible comfort.
Made in Portugal
Product details:
- Unisex
- Material: 75% Merino Wool, 23% Polyamide, 2% Elastane
- Essential and Pas Normal Studios branding
- Lightweight merino wool sock
- Temperature regulation
- 36-39 (S)
- 40-43 (M)
- 44-47 (L)
# Check out the Pas Normal Studios website for more info, new arrivals and up to date prices and special offers at: pasnormalstudios.com. #
You can read the PEZ reviews of the Pas Normal Studios winter kit HERE and the summer kit HERE and HERE.
Note: If you have other experiences with gear or something to add, drop us a line. We don’t claim to know everything (we just imply it at times). Give us a pat on the back if you like the reviews, or a slap in the head if you feel the need!
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