Hi all, surprised there's not a recent topic I can see on ALDI gear.
Thought I'd give you my two cents worth for anyone interested as most ALDI stores are starting to reduce the 2015 range of gear.
TEXTILE JACKET - I have last years leather jacket which has done me well, so this year I added a textile jacket to the wardrobe ($139). Tried it out today, nice and cosy, rated at being waterproof to 10,000mm and windproof. Rode today in just a t-shirt underneath and was fine (NSW Southern Highlands, still pretty icy in the afternoon). Has two vents front & rear so hopefully come summer has reasonable airflow as the leather does. I wish it had a removable liner to make it a bit lighter for summer however apparently it 'breathes' through a 'membrane'. Jacket is rated to the latest European standard.
BOOTS (high cut, $89) - love them, fine to walk around in and a nice sturdy, quality fit.
GLOVES ($25 reduced) - I bought both sets on offer this year being a summer & winter version. The summer ones feel a bit more comfortable and retain a natural feel, whereas the winter ones are obviously padded (3M thinsulate) and hence loose some sensitivity however they're there for a purpose.
JEANS ($80) I added a pair of the new jeans which are well padded and have hip and knee protection. Very comfortable and keep the wind out. I have last years jeans which aren't padded nor protected. They're on offer again this year ($60) and are better suited to summer riding. I think this year's, however, come with the knee protection as opposed to last year's variant which I've got.
Anyway, thought I'd post as I've looked around for reviews of the ALDI gear prior to purchase and not seen many.
There'll always be the brand snobs but seriously, this gear is certified to a standard at the end of the day and I'm very happy with it.