I am getting ready to order some fleece tights from Desoto that would go over my 400mi shorts during cold/windy/possibly wet fall and winter rides. Anyone have any experience with these, please let me know how you like them, do they keep you warm and how cold can you wear them and still be ok. Are they comfy or bulky.Can you use them for running too. The claim is they are wind resistant but no mention of water. I love their products and would like to get some more stuff from them for fall type weather.
Thanks
I don’t have them, but I know people who swear they can’t make it through winter without them. I don’t think I have ever heard anyone complain about DeSoto products.
Bernie
I own two pair, I have only used them for running. They are the SHIT! I can only wear them running when it is colder than 25 degrees F, otherwise I will get too warm. I have done runs > 2 hours in below zero temps with nothing over the fleece tights and my legs don’t get cold.
Thanks to both of you for responses. How is their sizing. I have 400mi in size M, my waist is 30in and shorts could be smaller for me, should have gone with small, but it is not bad. Thinking about tights that will go over shorts for biking and straight on for running, would you say size small or medium.
I wear size M for both the 400 mi shorts and fleece tights, they are both on the tighter side, but not uncomfortable, I’m 2-3" more on the waist.
I have them and like them. Great in the cool to cold, not enough for “true cold”.
They’re moderately wind resistant, but like all unlined fleece, not at all water resistant.
Snow sticks to 'em too. 
Great in the cool to cold, not enough for “true cold”.
spoken like a true vancouverite! give emilio a break, he’s a cuban-born california boy and they’re PLENTY warm for those of us that live in places where it doesn’t snow. by the by, what is “true cold” to a canuck?
to the OP, i LOVE mine. while i have run in them, they usually end up being my “kick around the house” pants in the winter because they’re so comfortable and warm without being hot. they do run on the snug side so if you think you may be between sizes, i’d suggest sizing up.
I have a 29-30" waist and the M is fine. As Kai mentioned, they are not waterproof (or even resistant at all) - but, they are HELLA warm! I actually can’t run in them much unless it is really cold (not that often here), like below 20 degrees F.
Love the tights. Great fit and holds shape. Comfy and not bulky. Don’t wear mine often as I live in SC and can’t respond to how cold. Mine are usually worn pre/post race if temps drop below 35 F.
I would think the tights would be great for running if cold enough.
the best I’ve worn. I have 3 pair and wish I could wear them more. They’re just too warm for anything over 40. I’ve worn them down to 15 and been very comfortable. Never had a problem on the bike with wind blowing through them, windproof enough for me. I’ve run through snow and had it bead up on the surface rather than soak in. Just my experience. I’d buy another pair now that they’re on sale, but I just don’t need another pair. Anytime someone asks about tights, these are the ones I rave about.
good luck
Barry
Thanks everyone. I have their 2008 400mi shorts that I absolutely love. They can take anything from me but never mess with my 400mi shorts. I am getting their tights after these reviews, no doubt.
I am also getting Forza Riviera shorts for my daily riding and brick workouts. I want to rotate them with my 400mi shorts that are awesome for long rides.
I am also getting their windproof vest for running and cycling, yep soon it will all be Desoto in my training closet.
Thank you guys for very detailed reviews.
They are my favorite article of clothing in winter. Nothing feels as nice and warm, I wear them around the house. Mrs. Schwingding loved them as well. I’ve several pair. They’re good for riding, especially mountain biking as they provide great warmth but don’t offer much wind resistance. They can be a bit too warm for running until about 20F and below. Mostly though they are about my most cherished winter time lounging around the house article of clothing. Sizing seems accurate to me.
Great in the cool to cold, not enough for “true cold”.
by the by, what is “true cold” to a canuck?
If you have to ask…