FWE Fred Cycling Cap Review
The FWE Fred cycling cap is named after Frederick William Evans (Fred) - the founder of Evans Cycles. Evans launched the company's first range of cycle clothing in 2015 and it's success has seen the product range grow.
The Technology
The FWE Fred cycling cap has a pleated 4-panel design and is made from 100% Nylon. This makes it nice and lightweight. The cap is available in 2 colour options - Black or Navy. Both feature a polka dot design on a single panel and the underside of the peak. There is also the FWE logo on the front and the statement 'Since 1921' (the year Fred Evans began building bikes) on the side. Like many cycling caps or casquttes - the Fred is a unisex cap that comes as a 'one size fits all'. This is thanks to the elasticated rear panel of the cap. The key feature of the cap is it's thick reflective stripe down the peak. This makes it ideal for wearing at night or riding in low-light conditions.
In Use
I love my cycling caps all year round. They serve a multitude of purposes and look pretty good too. By all accounts, the FWE Fred cap is a classy casquette. Its Nylon over Cotton construction makes is nice an lightweight - although I didn't find it quite as breathable as a more traditional Cotton cap. That being said though, the fabric does a good job of wicking moisture. The design is subtle yet eye-catching. I like the fact the logo is kept small and the fact that the polka dot design doesn't feel the need to be mirrored on both sides. The reflective detail is a really nice feature and assuming the peak is tipped down, is highly visible to on-coming headlights. I am a little unsure why FWE opted to not give the underside of the peak some reflective detailing though. Even making the polka dot print reflective for those riders who prefer their peak tipped up.
FWE Fred Cycling Cap review conclusion
The FWE Fred cycling cap is said to channel Fred Evans' spirit and approach - giving you 'everything you need and nothing you don't'. I'd be inclined to agree. The cap is basic in construction and simple in design - but it all works well. The fabric is comfortable lightweight and breathable so it ticks all of those boxes. The sizing is pretty generous too. I have a 59cm head and think the cap would fit several sizes either way. The design and logos standout subtly and make a nice change from the all-too-common stripes. Limited colour options may put some people off, in a world of accessorising everything to match you bike (or kit). But at the end of the day, black goes with everything. The reflective detail is excellent, well placed and a nice addition. Although I do feel that the brand has missed a trick but not adding reflective detail to the underside of the peak. From a pricing point the FWE Fred cap retails at a more than reasonable £14.99 and is exclusive to Evans Cycles.