Louis Garneau

Solano 2 Tight - Men's

Everything about the Louis Garneau Solano 2 Men's Tight screams cold-weather versatility. It blends elemental resistance in the front with breathable insulation the rear, omits the bibs so it doesn't hamper layering, and leaves out the chamois so you can run your preferred summer shorts. The material blend isn't as overbearingly stifling as LG's full wind- and waterproof models, and the omission of the chamois means you can also use the Solano 2 while indulging in some Nordic cross training.

WindDry 2 is the headline material here, as its membrane construction is waterproof and windproof, which means that your legs lead into the winter elements with all the protection they need to stay comfortable and keep spinning. Unlike the Providence model, the Solano 2's weatherproof construction only protects the front and lower back; the rest of the tights are made from LG's thermal HeatMaxx material. HeatMaxx doesn't protect against the elements, but its soft, brushed inner face insulates and breathes well, letting your microclimate self-regulate where the more protective Providence can get stifling unless the temperature and conditions are extreme.

That blend of materials recommends the Solano 2 for base miles in the damp chill of late winter and early spring. That's the time of year when braving the elements is the most daunting but the payoff in form come April and May is worth it. The inclusion of articulated knees also literally adds to the Solano 2's flexibility, and elastic draw string a the waist helps ensure an uncompromising fit. LG finishes the Solano 2 with reflective details to help maintain visibility during the short, often overcast days the tights are built for.