Castelli Diluvio 16 overshoe review

We've tested the Castelli Diluvio 16 overshoe. It's an unfussy design and a close fit, but long-term durability may not be great

castelli diluvio overshoes
Cycling Weekly Verdict

Very stretchy for a close fit and reasonably water-resistant, but longer term durability may not be great

Reasons to buy
  • +

    Unfussy design

  • +

    Close fit

  • +

    Sealed seams

  • +

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Questionable durability

  • -

    Wet out in heavy rain

  • -

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Castelli’s Diluvio is a popular choice for wet weather riding: indeed so popular is it that it is available in three different models. We’ve tested the longer 16cm cuff version, but there’s also a shorter variant as well as the Diluvio AR (for All Road) which is designed to work will road and mountain bike shoes.

Compared to some other overshoes the Diluvios lack fancy features. However, it is the lack of unnecessary bulk that makes them attractive. The very stretchy 3mm thick neoprene material makes slipping them over your shoes extremely easy and provides a close fit, while they are also seam-sealed to help keep out rain.

Rear of Diluvio features a waterproof zip and reflectives

Rear of Diluvio features a waterproof zip and reflectives
(Image credit: daniel gould)

There’s a waterproof zipper which runs down the rear of the 16cm cuff and is flanked by reflective stripes running down to the heel to improve visibility. The zip functions well but the addition of a heel loop would be helpful and – unlike with the shorter version – there is no Velcro strap at the top to keep them done up.

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The sole is not reinforced - a potential source of wear

The sole is not reinforced - a potential source of wear
(Image credit: daniel gould)

With cleat and heel cut-outs you shouldn’t slip about when off the bike either, but since there’s no reinforcement to the soles – which are an extension of the uppers in the same material – I would have concerns about their long term durability and resistance to abrasion.

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When riding on cold mornings the Castelli Diluvios kept my feet warm. There are warmer options out there, however, and if the temperature drops towards zero a thicker pair of socks is definitely advisable. Like other neoprene covers they do not keep out heavy rain – in a severe downpour you’d want something more water resistant.

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