Velocity Women’s Cycling Capris

Perfect for autumn or spring, these mid-weight, smart-casual Velocity Women's Cycling Capris are bike-friendly yet will segue seamlessly to the office. The cycle-specific features – such as the diamond gusset and reflective accents – are subtly hidden, but the low-rise waist might not suit everyone and the price tag is pretty hefty, especially compared to non-bike-friendly high street offerings that are very similar in appearance.

• Pros: Excellent quality fabric and construction
• Cons: Small sizing and low-rise waist

So, what are exactly are you paying for? Well, top-quality fabric and construction for starters, and the clever design touches that make the Cycling Capris extremely comfortable to ride in, as well as durable. Also, all Velocity cycle wear can boast its 'Made in Britain' label with pride – it is both designed and manufactured in good ol' London town.

> Buy these online here

Made from cotton, with 2% elastane for a bit of stretch, the material feels akin to chinos so they're well suited to a normal British summer (but were a bit warm this heatwave year). The fabric is treated with Nanosphere, for water and stain resistance. I didn't test the latter, but they are certainly more water repellent than I'd expect for such a heavy cotton. Getting caught in the odd shower, water beaded and was held off well before the Cycling Capris got wet, and then they dried out surprisingly quickly.

They ooze quality, being very well made with excellent finishing and attention to detail in the design. I particularly like the deep rear pockets (big enough for a good-sized wallet) with their reflective trim and button for extra peace of mind.

The front hand pockets are useful too, but more for off the bike in my opinion.

The diamond-shaped gusset is an easily overlooked feature, but important for cycling comfort as it means there are no seams to rub, as these capris are intended to be worn without padded pants or Lycra underneath.

Another bike-friendly design touch is the articulated knees, for unrestricted pedalling movement.

Overall, I found these 3/4 trousers very comfortable to ride in, with a good cut through the leg for my body shape. However, on me the waist is extremely low rise at the front – so make sure you pair the capris with a long top, unless you're lucky enough to possess a washboard stomach that you're happy to flaunt! Similarly, when wearing casual clothes the rear waist exposed my lower back/pants when cycling – despite being advertised as 'high back, for modesty'.

Of course, we all come in different shapes and sizes, but on me (nearly 5ft 7in and 28/30in waist) the size 12s are a great fit apart from the waist being too big; happily, there are belt loops so I can cinch it in. It's worth mentioning that I had to go up one size from the size chart recommendation – I could barely squeeze into the 10s.

The Cycling Capris come in burgundy and petrol blue, with a choice of trim – black reflective and black buttons or silver reflective and white buttons. They're also available as full-length trousers for £85-£94 in (grey, black and petrol blue) – see our review of the men's version here.

> Read more road.cc reviews of women’s cycle clothing here

Verdict

Top quality 3/4s that are comfortable on the bike and look smart off it – but they come at a price