Rapha Winter

The Rapha Winter overshoes are designed for the coldest and wettest road cycling rides. The 3 mm neoprene construction with a fleece lining protects your feet from roadspray, rain and wind chill – conditions in which a thin pair of overshoes quickly proves inadequate. The sole panels – the part of overshoes that fails first – have been specially reinforced to be highly durable and withstand wear and tear from walking.

Like in a wetsuit, the neoprene used in these shoe covers allows a thin layer of moisture to pass through, which is then warmed and insulated by your body heat. This makes this type of overshoe suitable for wet conditions where waterproof membranes may fail or lack sufficient breathability. The fleece lining adds thermal insulation on the inside.

3 mm Neoprene with fleece lining

The outer layer is 83% neoprene and 17% nylon. Neoprene is the material also used in wetsuits: It completely blocks the wind and, in wet conditions, traps a thin layer of moisture that is warmed by your body heat. The 3 mm thickness provides more insulation than the 1.5 to 2mm found in lighter overshoes. The fleece lining adds even more warmth and ensures a comfortable fit directly over your cycling shoes.

Reinforced bottom panel

The sole panel is reinforced with a hard-wearing material that withstands the friction caused by walking. Most overshoes wear out first on the underside near the heel and toe – the areas that make contact with the ground when getting on and off the bike. The reinforced panel will make the overshoe last much longer.

Compatible with:

• Road cycling shoes with smooth or lightly textured soles;
• Select your overshoe size based on your cycling shoe size in the order box. If you are between two sizes, choose the larger one for a better fit and to make them easier to put on and take off.

Not compatible with:

• MTB shoes with a pronounced sole tread. The studs will quickly damage the underside of the overshoes;
• Temperatures above 10°C. The 3 mm neoprene with fleece lining is too warm for milder conditions, and thinner overshoes will be more comfortable.

Not sure? Here’s how to check:

Look on the inside of your cycling shoe for the EU shoe size and select the corresponding size in the order box. If you have wide feet or are wearing thick thermal socks, go for the larger size.

How to keep your Rapha Winter Overshoes in good condition:

1. Rinse with clean water after every wet ride: Road salt will eventually damage the neoprene. A quick rinse prevents this.
2. Leave to dry flat at room temperature: Do not put the shoe covers next to a radiator or in the tumble dryer. Heat damages the neoprene and the fleece lining.
3. Hand wash if necessary: Use cold water and a mild detergent. Do not put them in the washing machine; the mechanical action and spin cycle will damage the neoprene construction.
4. Do not bleach or dry-clean: Both will damage the neoprene.

• Put the overshoes on before getting on your bike. As they have no zip, it is easier to pull them over shoes that are not yet clipped into the pedals.
• Check the bottom panels regularly for wear and tear. Although the reinforced panels are durable, with frequent and/or intensive use they will eventually wear out; replacing them in good time will prevent damage to the neoprene underneath.