Minx first met Ana Nichoola founder Anna, during a 'cross race. And yes they did actually take time out from racing (although in Minx's case that word is used in the very loosest sense) to chat about bike clothes. Since then Minx has followed the emergence of the brand from quirky student start-up to the serious contender it now is. Anna's strength is that she spends a lot of time taking to women cyclists about what they want, and then combines that with individual style.

The Snow Cat is the first jacket in the range and it is an uncompromising mix of fierce glamour and high tech specification. The fabrics are a strategic use of stretch and windblock so that you get an almost body-con fit but with comfort and breathable yet protective performance on the bike. Features such as the easy easy wrap-style rear pockets, the inclusion of a pump sleeve, reflective trim, discreet zipped handwarmer pockets and the snug double collar are an example of the attention to detail. And the genius touch? A jacket that you think of as white but that is actually dark grey in the splash-zone so that you're not really living on the edge in laundry terms...

The fit is Italian road snug to hug your curves and it is better worn close, but for a tad more ease go up a size.

Minx likes: no one will put baby in the cycling corner.