Alé Winter Riding

As winter arrives, UK riders face shorter days, colder temperatures, and plenty of rain. While some cyclists retreat indoors, many of us continue riding outside, relying on modern fabrics to keep us warm and comfortable. This season I’m putting three pieces from Italian cycle clothing manufacturer Alé to the test: the R‑EV1 Voltage bib‑tights, the PRE Follow Me long‑sleeve jersey, and the PRE Thermo 2.0 gilet.

Alé R‑EV1 Voltage Bib‑Tights

The R‑EV1 range, short for Race‑Evolution, represents Alé’s most advanced innovations. The Voltage bib‑tights immediately stand out thanks to their Thermo Snake pattern across the crotch area. Created through a calendaring process that compresses the fabric between rollers, this snake‑scale texture is designed to improve grip on the saddle. I’m curious to see how noticeable the difference will be on long rides.

The rest of the tights reflect Alé’s usual high standards, with clean stitching and no loose threads. Inside, a soft fleecy lining promises warmth, while the compact fabric construction is said to deliver a “light massage effect.” The raw‑cut leg cuffs avoid zips or foot loops, giving a neat finish that I prefer. At the heart of the tights is the Intense10 pad, made in Alé’s own factory. With a maximum thickness of 10mm in key pressure zones, variable density, and a dimpled surface, it’s designed for long days in the saddle without feeling bulky. Riders can choose from three colours: black, titanium, and midnight blue.

Alé PRE Follow Me Long‑Sleeve Jersey

The PRE range – Pro Racing Experience – takes fabrics and concepts from professional team kit and adds “un certo non so che”! The Follow Me 2.0 jersey is made from Micro Sense microfiber, a lightweight fabric that Alé claims is windproof thanks to its compact weave. Unlike many wind‑resistant jerseys that feel heavy and stiff, the Follow Me is surprisingly light and soft. I’m interested to see if it delivers the promised protection.

Designs in the PRE range are often bold, but I’ve opted for a more understated block colour. Despite that centrist-dad choice Alé has snuck in what they call a Snake Motif on the sleeves. These reflect the light as you move, bringing a little ‘sparkle’ to your ride! Even in its simplest form, the jersey combines comfort, breathability, and durability with a professional‑level finish.

Alé PRE Thermo 2.0 Gilet

No winter wardrobe is complete without a gilet, and the Thermo 2.0 is a versatile option. It’s warmer than ultra‑compact packable gilets thanks to its brushed fleece interior, yet it still folds down small enough to fit in a jersey pocket. With three rear pockets, it functions almost like a cut‑down jersey, making it practical for longer rides.

Colour choices range from subtle black and stucco to high‑visibility fluorescent orange and yellow. I chose fluorescent orange to ensure I’m seen on darker winter roads. One unusual feature is the low‑cut “V‑neck” collar, which feels less bulky than traditional high collars. While it may let in a little chill, it avoids the layering issues that can arise when combining jerseys and gilets.

Final Thoughts

Together, the Alé R‑EV1 Voltage bib‑tights, PRE Follow Me jersey, and PRE Thermo 2.0 gilet promise to keep UK riders comfortable through the winter months. I’ll be testing them on the Sussex lanes and reporting back on how they perform in real‑world conditions. For anyone considering new kit this season Alé yet again has some excellent options. Check out some of our previous Alé articles.