GripGrab's Windster Cap is a good option for winter riding. Keeping your head and ears warm can be a challenge when cycling at this time of year and the Windster has a windproof front panel with good insulation around the head that should give you a head start (sorry) when it comes to staying warm.
I've been really impressed with GripGrab's gloves and overshoes, and the trend for high quality and well designed products continues with the Windster Cap. Rather than a one size fits all approach, it's offered in four sizes (though wiggle only list three size) covering head sizes from 51 to 62 cm circumference. Fit then was excellent and it wrapped around the head and over the ears with no tightness or restriction. There is also a ladies' version.
Pull a helmet over the top and you barely notice it, it simply disappears. You just notice how well it keeps the cold wind off your head. The soft microfleece material is stretchy and just fits perfectly, and the sides come low enough to cover up the ears. I would like to see the windproof panel at the front extended higher, so there's better protection from the air passing through the helmet's air vents.
We've tested many skull caps on roadcc and the GripGrab sits at the top-end in terms of performance. It also sits somewhere in the middle of the range of prices you can expect to pay, from the expensive Castelli WS Skully at £28 and the Ride Aquazero at £8.99. And because GripGrab is exclusively distributed by Wiggle in the UK, they're already discounting from the RRP - they're currently offering 10% off.
Verdict
Comfortable, well fitted, and above all top performing skull cap when it comes to keeping your head warm.
road.cc test report
Make and model: GripGrab Windster Cap
Size tested: Medium
Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?
A soft, lightweight and insulating cap with windproof front. It offers protection for the ears and forehead and fits perfectly under a helmet. Ideal for cycling, running, cross-country skiing, hiking and Nordic walking.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
Soft Microfleece
Windproof front
Skull fit
Fits comfortably under a helmet
It's very well made.
It's insulating and the windproof front panel really makes a noticeable difference.
It's been well used and gone through a dozen washes and still looks new.
It doesn't weigh much at all, you barely notice on it your head.
The three sizes offered means you get a very good fit, and the material is stretchy enough as well and the multi-panel design ensures there's no restriction or tightness.
There are cheaper skull caps available, but it's very well made and as we've found with other GripGrab products it's built to last.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
Fits under a helmet and keeps the head warm.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
The windproof panel, though it could be a bit taller.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
Means you have to wear a helmet, looks silly without one.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes.
Would you consider buying the product? Yes.
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes.
Anything further to say about the product in conclusion?
It ticks all the boxes, but I've knocked it down a point for value.
About the tester
Age: 31 Height: 180 Weight: 67
I usually ride: My best bike is:
I've been riding for: 10-20 years I ride: Every day I would class myself as: Expert
I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, time trialling, cyclo cross, commuting, touring, mtb,
Comfortable, well fitted, and above all top performing skull cap when it comes to keeping your head warm