Many of Excel’s women cyclists have demonstrated strong support for the Sugar series of garments from Pearl Izumi. These pieces have great technology and features built in, but bear a simple visual profile. Some riders just don’t want to rock stripes, flowers, or other designs. The Sugar Thermal Cycling Tight lives up to the brand, and doesn’t skimp on features at a great price. Start with what’s important. If you seek a lightweight, warm, comfortable, and practical tight with a built-in chamois, read on. Though this tight doesn’t have a weather barrier for wind or water, the tightly knit polyester/elastane blend fleece will keep you warm, but still allow moisture to wick away. Even if you get wet, the thermal qualities will surprise you. Pearl’s recommended temperature range is 55-65 degrees F, but reports from riders indicate comfort below 50 in high output riding. The elastane helps the material stretch with the pedaling motion, but the real key to the freedom of movement comes from the 6-panel anatomical design. Defining the stretch direction and panel connection in conjunction with the way the legs move and interact around the waist is the hallmark of Pearl’s designers. The movement of the material with the leg keeps the tight from pulling down, and actually increases the moisture transfer process as the fabric eases across the skin.

The chamois used in the Sugar Thermal is the Tour 3D, an insert that is commonly used in the women’s short line-up. Know you are getting a product that has been engineered for women, but also a proven performer that suits a wide range of riders. The other key details include a yoga inspired waistband for all day comfort, 7” ankle zippers for easy on/off, and smartly placed reflective highlights for increased visibility. The Sugar tradition rolls on, and you will too, right into the cooler temperatures.