Velo Buyer’s Guide: Top Cycling Bib Shorts for 2025
I discover the finest cycling bib shorts to be an intriguing blend within cycling equipment. They stand out as one of the few items that force everyone to face a truth most prefer not to discuss.
We all act as though each new development in cycling is primarily focused on enhancing performance, but is this really accurate? In my view, it isn’t. The finest cycling bib shorts should prioritize more than just performance enhancement.
I’ve traveled thousands of miles assessing numerous distinct brands for their performance during both long and short rides along with their style. Below are my picks for the top cycling bib shorts suitable for summer riding.
Disclosure: This serves as a buyer’s guide, and we have an entire section dedicated to this topic.
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Prices updated April 2025.
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Top picks for cycling bib shorts easy links
| The top choice for cycling bib shorts overall | Assos Equipe RS S11 | More info |
$280.00 USD from competitivecyclist.com ; $360.00 CAD from assos.com ; €248,73 EUR from all4cycling.com |
| Best gravel bib shorts | MAAP Alternate Road Cargo Bib 2.0 | More info |
$320.00 USD from maap.cc ; 280.00 EUR from maap.cc |
| Best aero bib shorts | Castelli Free Aero RC | More info |
$131.99 USD from competitivecyclist.com |
| Best value bib shorts | Castelli Endurance 3 | More info |
$159.00 USD from competitivecyclist.com ; €139,24 EUR from all4cycling.com |
| Best endurance bib shorts | 7Mesh MK3 | More info |
$199.95 USD from competitivecyclist.com ; $250.00 CAD from 7mesh.com |
| Top affordable gravel cycling shorts | Pearl Izumi Expedition suspenders shorts | More info |
$150.00 USD from competitivecyclist.com ; $199.00 CAD from pearlizumi.ca ; |
| Top 3D Printed Bib Shorts | Gorewear Ultimate Bib Shorts+ | More info |
$280.00 USD from competitivecyclist.com ; |
If you’re searching for details on how to find the top-notch cycling bib shorts while shopping, take a look at the guide titled “How to Choose the Best Cycling Bib Shorts.”
If you’re interested in a set of bib shorts not included in these suggestions, head over to Other Bib Shorts for some extra choices and details.
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The top choice for cycling bib shorts overall
|
Model: |
Assos Equipe RS S11 |
|
Specs: |
A single hue without pockets, available in long or short styles ranging fromXS to 2XL. |
|
Highs: |
Proper fit; great padding; high-compression material that remains comfortable; no inner-thigh seams to cause irritation |
|
Lows: |
Too low at the forefront |
|
Buy: |
$280.00 USD from competitivecyclist.com ; $360.00 CAD from assos.com ; €248,73 EUR from all4cycling.com |
For such a longstanding brand known for consistent excellence, Assos often flies under the radar these days. While everyone seeks fresh alternatives, the top choice remains within reach. Across their product line, Assos delivers superior quality, with the Equipe RS-level bib shorts standing out as the perfect fit among them all.
Whether you choose a higher or lower model within the range is also a solid option. Opting for the Equipe R will provide you with more color choices; however, the material offers slightly less compression, and the padding isn’t as high-quality. Moving up to the Equipe RS does offer superior quality, particularly due to the minimal design at the inner thighs, though this comes at an even steeper price tag.
This brings us to the Equipe RS. It features the renowned Assos floating chamois that adapts to your movements, along with material that is both smooth and offers significant compression. I opted for the longer version among the two sizes available, and I would suggest choosing this extended option if you favor a more contemporary length.
Previously, one problem with Assos garments was that the groin area had a distinct shine which drew unwanted attention. Fortunately, that issue has been resolved. Now, there remains just one drawback: the front part is very low-profile and lacks significant shaping. While this feature enhances breathability, it doesn’t do much for aesthetic appeal. In my experience, the Equipe RS model balances things out thanks to its more compressive material compared to the Equipe R series. Although I would prefer even greater support, the overall design compensates sufficiently.
In summary, I can confidently say that my recommendation was correct. The Assos bib shorts are suitable for virtually anyone. They run true to size and offer comfort regardless of your type of ride.
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Best gravel bib shorts
|
Model: |
MAAP Alternate Road Cargo Bib 2.0 |
|
Specs: |
A single hue featuring five pockets available in sizesXS through 2XL |
|
Highs: |
Extremely soft with high compression material; thick chamois, leg pockets offer ample space and are equally spacious; designed for racing fit. |
|
Lows: |
The rear pockets are positioned too high. |
|
Buy: |
$320.00 USD from maap.cc ; 280.00 EUR from maap.cc |
This particular category gave me the most difficulty. A lot of high-end brands treat their gravel bib shorts (which come with pockets, though read further for additional details) as an afterthought in their range. These products frequently fall short compared to their premier road-specific bib shorts or include odd features that seem unnecessary. If your aim is to find the finest gravel bib short, this isn’t what you should be seeking. However, MAAP appears to grasp exactly what needs to be done; they designed the Alt_Road Cargo Bib 2.0 as a premium item specifically tailored for gravel cycling.
Beneath this bib short lies a slender padding that remains unobtrusive yet remarkably thick. It prevents any irritation around the edges of the cushioning, with MAAP accurately positioning the area offering sit bone support. Additionally, the overall fit is exceptional.
This isn’t your typical relaxed and laid-back pair of cycling shorts; instead, these are designed specifically for racing. You could wear them for hundreds of miles without giving them a second thought due to their comfort level. They boast an excellent fit that enhances both performance and appearance, offering just the right degree of compression along with a waistline height that strikes a balance—high enough to be flattering yet comfortable. Different materials and patterns contribute to this design by adding complexity and shaping how they visually appear when worn.
The final point regarding these bibs pertains to their pockets. These represent both a drawback and part of why I endorse them. For me, the crucial pockets are those located here and there; MAAP excels in this aspect. Each pocket is identical and straightforward, capable of holding nearly any item.
Next up are the back pockets. In my case, I tend not to use them because I prefer the ones on my jersey. While gravel bike shorts include these pockets for wearing a regular shirt without any pockets, trying to access them could prove quite challenging. You might find the side pockets somewhat manageable, but the middle one sits too high; you’d probably want to stretch out just to reach it. On the positive side, once filled, they remain secure. However, moving this pocket down slightly would make all the difference.
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Best aero bib shorts
|
Model: |
Castelli Free Aero RC |
|
Specs: |
Five hues along with a radio pouch (which is positioned low enough to be utilized for alternative purposes) and sizing options from XS to XL. |
|
Highs: |
A cutting-edge leg gripper free from silicone, possibly the top chamois available, made with compressive material. |
|
Lows: |
Absence of flatlocked seams |
|
Buy: |
$131.99 USD from competitivecyclist.com |
It feels as though I’m repeating myself constantly. Clearly, my preference leans towards materials with excellent compression, yet the Castelli Free Aero RC goes even further in this aspect.
The material has a compression quality yet remains thick. Leveraging both attributes, Castelli implemented an innovation unseen prior to the release of these shorts. Firstly, Castelli eliminated the necessity for leg grippers; there’s neither silicone nor elastic—simply pulling them up ensures they remain securely in place due to the fabric itself. Secondly, Castelli subjected these shorts to aerodynamic testing, enabling the company to enhance their speed compared to earlier models through the removal of seams and extraneous elements.
I should also highlight the chamois included in these garments. Castelli has been using the Progetto X2 Air chamois for quite some time now and incorporates it into many of their bib shorts. This particular chamois features only a slight amount of gel beneath the sit bones but ranks among the finest available. Any product equipped with this chamois is definitely worth looking at.
Sadly, Castelli’s Free Aero RC has encountered some construction problems. While many believe this is due to the absence of flatlocked seams at the inner thighs, others point to issues with how the triangles connect the shorts to the straps. Regardless, these concerns only seem to affect longer rides. They perform wonderfully for up to two hours; however, extending your cycling session could lead to discomfort from chafing.
This indicates that although I’m referring to these as the top choice for aerodynamic cycling shorts, they also serve well as reliable racing gear. Particularly since a newer model is about to be released soon. I plan to update with that new version later in the summer; however, at present, the Free Aero RC is being offered at an exceptionally low price, making them particularly suitable for shorter races lasting around 1-2 hours during weekdays.
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Best value bib shorts
|
Model: |
Castelli Endurance 3 |
|
Specs: |
A single hue without pockets and available in sizes XS-3XL |
|
Highs: |
Seams designed for flat locking, possibly the finest chamois available, with compressive material. |
|
Lows: |
Elastic leg grippers |
|
Buy: |
$159.00 USD from competitivecyclist.com ; €139,24 EUR from all4cycling.com |
Fasten your seatbelt because things are going to get a bit strange around here.
Initially, this was meant to be the top-tier entry in the affordable bib short range, with my pick being the Castelli Competizione 2 bib shorts costing around $140. While not the least expensive, these shorts offer great value without compromising performance. However, when Castelli presented me with their Endurance 3 model as an alternative, I found myself having to reconsider all of my options.
Rather than labeling it as the top-budget bib shorts, this has become the most cost-effective option due to a $20 increase in price. However, the issue here is that the Free Aero RC remains less expensive at present. Note though that this pricing situation likely won’t persist indefinitely; also, their emphasis differs slightly from then, along with having conventional leg bands which some might find adequate yet not quite up to par compared to previous models.
The Endurance 3 features the same Progetto x2 air chamois as before. In my opinion, this is among the finest available, yet it appears at a more modest position within the Castelli range. Additionally, these shorts address my criticism of the Free Aero RC by incorporating flatlock stitching along with an improved design suited for lengthy rides and offering a seamless blend from straps into pants. While the additional elements might enhance aerodynamic efficiency, for many riders, these bibs perform comparably to those costing double their price.
In essence, while you may find less expensive options, nothing within this pricing range matches the level of quality offered.
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Best endurance bib shorts
|
Model: |
7Mesh MK3 |
|
Specs: |
Three hues without pockets (although they’re also offered as cargo bib shorts) and sizing fromXS to 2XL |
|
Highs: |
Bright hues; design ensures seams avoid the inner thigh fold; plush material |
|
Lows: |
Low front |
|
Buy: |
$199.95 USD from competitivecyclist.com ; $250.00 CAD from 7mesh.com |
Although Mesh doesn’t categorize the MK3 bib shorts as an endurance model, I was aware beforehand that items from this brand typically offer an endurance-like fit. This characteristic is precisely what the MK3 bib shorts deliver.
This doesn’t follow the usual aerodynamic, professional-team-style super snug fit. While it’s definitely not loose-fitting and has thick, plush material with significant compression, it offers slightly roomier styling. This adjustment ensures comfort without needing to switch sizes; however, it provides sufficient leeway to prevent irritation during those epic long-distance rides.
Certainly, this might not suit everybody. If you favor a snug and compressive fit, consider looking somewhere else.
If you favor a more relaxed fit, the remaining aspects of the build are excellent. The design shifts the leg seams away from the inner thigh fold, and the padding has impressive thickness. The one aspect I frequently notice and would like to see different here is a taller frontal panel on endurance shorts.
Another advantage of the 7Mesh Mk3 is that you have the option to choose between versions with or without pockets if you’re partial to them. Additionally, they come in fantastic color options. Hooray for purple bibs!
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Top affordable gravel cycling shorts
|
Model: |
Pearl Izumi Expedition suspenders shorts |
|
Specs: |
Three colors available with four pocket options and sizing from S to 3XL |
|
Highs: |
Seams designed for flat locking, soft material, high-quality chamois, divided pocket at the upper thigh area |
|
Lows: |
The pockets are smaller compared to others. |
|
Buy: |
$150.00 USD from competitivecyclist.com ; $199.00 CAD from pearlizumi.ca ; |
Having pockets on a pair of bib shorts is more about personal preference rather than functionality. Don’t worry; using the Pearl Izumi Expedition bibs on your road bike isn’t against the rules. If their price tag suits your finances better compared to the Castelli Expedition 3, then think of them as an excellent choice for affordable bib shorts.
Once we’ve addressed that, let’s talk about Pearl Izumi bib shorts as an overall choice. While these may not be the top pick compared to similar items, they still make for a reliable recommendation since people generally won’t dislike them. Although the material might offer slightly less compression than some alternatives, it compensates with its wonderfully soft texture, making dressing up a pleasant experience. I particularly like how high the frontal coverage goes and am glad to observe flat-locked stitching throughout. Though basic, the chamois has a gentle covering and extends sufficiently ahead; plus, it provides ample thickness to handle lengthy rides comfortably without adding bulkiness.
Since this is a gravel cycling short with pockets, you’ll notice four in total. Two are located near the shoulder straps, positioned perfectly for easy access. Then there are two more on either thigh; they appear similar initially, yet the right one features a section of mesh running vertically through it. This design allows you to utilize that pocket effortlessly or keep waste separated conveniently.
Pearl Izumi maintains simplicity to keep costs down, yet all items remain high-quality. My sole concern is that some competitors offer models with bigger pockets. Specifically, the thigh compartments might be too small for a jacket.
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Top 3D Printed Bib Shorts
|
Model: |
Gorewear Ultimate Bib Shorts+ |
|
Specs: |
A single hue without pockets and ranging fromXS to XLsizes |
|
Highs: |
The 3D-printed chamois has a limited appearance, being higher at the front and made from compressive fabric combined with woven material. |
|
Lows: |
Runs a bit small |
|
Buy: |
$280.00 USD from competitivecyclist.com ; |
A significant debate exists regarding the benefits of using 3D printing for producing a chamois. Elastic Interface handles this production, yielding excellent outcomes; however, alternative methods tend to be cheaper. The primary advantages of 3D-printed chamoises lie in their inability to become completely compressed like traditional foams do, as well as the capability to precisely tailor compression characteristics.
The distinction lies mainly between carbon fiber and steel in a bicycle frame. While carbon fiber may not necessarily create a superior bike, it enables designers to fine-tune its properties more accurately. Should this concept appeal to you, Gorewear excels at crafting bib shorts featuring an Elastic Interface 3D-printed chamois.
Gorewear particularly focuses on minimizing seams. The design includes just one vertical seam in the material, which is specially woven to provide similar targeted compression as seen with 3D-printed padding in the seat area. This product offers substantial compression along with a comfortably high waist at the front and does not cause any bunching. It appears stylish and provides a great wearing experience.
The key point to monitor is that Gorewear’s sizing can be somewhat unconventional. A few years back, the brand altered its sizes. Something previously labeled as Small is now classified as XS in the U.S. Additionally, you may find yourself needing a larger size with their products. Typically, I opt for Size Small across various brands, yet I choose XS from Gorewear. Even within this line, I stick with XS but favor a racing-style fit; your preferences could differ though.
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What factors should you consider when selecting top-notch cycling bib shorts?
Selecting the perfect pair of cycling bib shorts can be straightforward yet complex. On one hand, they share common attributes with regular garments—factors such as fit and design come into play here. However, these shorts are designed for athletic performance too. Features like padding thickness should factor into your decision-making process. Most importantly, I recommend being selective. Do not settle because everyone has distinct preferences, and numerous options abound.
What is the proper fitting for cycling bib shorts?
This is quite an extensive topic since various kinds of bibs might offer differing fits. Some designs tend to be more relaxed, whereas others could be snugger; however, generally speaking, a close-fitting style is preferable. Should your cycling bib shorts not sit tightly enough against your skin, this increases the chance of friction occurring during movement because parts of your body move independently from the fabric. Similarly, extremely tight bibs pose their own problems. This challenge becomes even more pronounced with gravel-specific bibs which frequently employ thicker materials less likely to adapt closely to one’s form.
When assessing cycling bib shorts for fit, I prioritize three key aspects. Primarily, I focus on how well they conform at the point where the inner thigh meets the groin area. It’s common for issues to arise here, so ideally, the material should closely follow the contours of this part of your body without gaps or excess bunching.
The next step involves assessing how well the chamois conforms to your body. Don’t remove any tags or consider them as part of your new bib shorts until you’ve had a chance to ride a bike with your hands on the handlebars. Ensure that the padding covers your sitting bones and doesn’t dig into you from the sides.
The last thing I check is more about style and looks and that’s the way the front of the bibs make me look. Some people will want the front a bit higher, some will prefer lower. As you are checking the chamois fit, also put on your favorite jersey and when you are touching the bar make sure you can breathe and that you like the way you look. Different jerseys and bibs will interact a little differently so pick a jersey you liken for this test.
Do you need to wear something underneath your cycling bib shorts?
No. Cycling bib shorts make direct contact with your skin without anything intervening. The padding ought to be comfortable against your skin and should seamlessly follow your body’s movements.
There’s also the top half of your body to think about. While some individuals opt not to wear anything beneath the bib straps, I choose to wear a base layer. In contrast to what goes on the bottom half, there aren’t strict guidelines for this area. What matters most is whatever suits you personally; however, I favor wearing a base layer to prevent irritation from the straps and because it enhances how my entire outfit looks together. Discussing all aspects related to this topic could fill an individual blog post, yet the core idea remains clear.
Assos Summer NS Skin Layer P1
is an easy recommendation. You’ll want sleeveless so your jersey sleeves lay flat.
What exactly is a gravel bike short?
The pessimists might claim that this is just an invented label created by the bicycle sector. In my view, it serves more as a style descriptor. Regardless, the phrase holds little significance unless you choose for it to do so.
A gravel bib short refers to a cycling bib short designed with pockets. This concept emerged because riders tend to spend longer periods on the saddle when navigating through slower surfaces, such as unpaved roads typical in gravel events. These conditions have led to a shift towards using gear less focused on traditional pocketed jerseys. Incorporating pockets into your bib shorts allows you to opt for a technical t-shirt without built-in storage while maintaining capacity to carry essentials. Alternatively, these additional pockets can supplement those found on your regular jersey. The primary drawback involves potential aerodynamic inefficiencies; however, this impact remains relatively minor.
This implies you have the option to select from bibs featuring pockets or those without, regardless of whether you’re riding a specific type of bike or traversing particular terrain. In my case, I prefer sporting “the uniform” and opt for using bib shorts equipped with pockets when riding gravel bikes, whereas I go for bib shorts sans pockets when cycling on road bikes. This choice is entirely based on personal style preference. Ultimately, you should determine what suits you best.
Is style important when selecting the top cycling bib shorts?
I’ve said over and over that it does. You can take that as far as you feel like but mostly I want to make it clear that there’s no shame in thinking about it if you want. Obviously performance matters but there’s nothing wrong with considering fashion as well.
I will also provide input from my colleague Alvin Holbrook, drawing from his past commentary on top-tier bib shorts. Holbrook remarks, “Let’s be clear—I’m not ashamed of caring about my appearance when cycling. It shouldn’t carry stigma. I prefer not to resemble someone wearing bulky diapers out there. Additionally, I wouldn’t want anyone questioning whether they should call attention due to improper coverage. Certain models stand above the rest.”
What would be the price range for top-quality cycling bib shorts?
The prices range from as low as $60 to potentially as high as $500. In this guide, the cheapest option I’ve included costs $140 with pockets and $160 without them. While these are certainly significant amounts, I opted for slightly pricier choices to ensure better quality.
Poor quality bib shorts can definitely spoil your time on a bicycle. I’ve tried those inexpensive ones and wouldn’t recommend them to anybody. Several alternatives within the range of $100 to $200 offer excellent performance, so I chose two models that are widely available and suit many riders well. Additionally, these items frequently go on sale, making them even more affordable.
Considering the need to address a broad query, I would suggest that you can likely locate a good pair of bibs for approximately $150.
What benefits might one expect from investing in pricier cycling bib shorts?
This is the second part of the query. Considering that one could acquire a high-quality pair of bib shorts for around $150, what reasons might justify spending even more money on them?
To address this, I will refer to the Assos line-up. This doesn’t imply an endorsement of Assos, but their distinct product range simplifies the illustration of my point.
To begin with, the Assos bib shorts come at a slightly higher cost compared to the $150 benchmark I noted earlier. The primary reason for this elevated price tag is their adoption of what they call a “butterfly” cut. One could argue that such a feature might be superfluous or achievable through less costly alternatives; however, Assos employs a construction method featuring just two sections of material for the bottom portion of these shorts, which minimizes seam presence. Despite being somewhat inefficient from a production standpoint, this approach contributes to making them pricier.
Given these facts, the initial cost option is the Equipe R. This model represents the least expensive among the trio of racing-focused models offered by Assos. The material used is noteworthy as well as the padding. At face value, one might not realize that superior alternatives exist when considering just this pair of shorts.
If you upgrade to the Equipe RS, there’s an additional cost of $80. In return, you receive a fabric that is thicker and offers greater compression. Additionally, this model features a superior chamois designed with ventilation near the groin area, along with straps made from dual materials tailored for specific functions across various sections.
At the ultimate stage, the Equipe RSR comes with an additional price tag of $110, making it the pinnacle model. This iteration features a completely new fabric type, which is woven rather than knitted. Additionally, there’s a distinctive lightweight material used around the inner thighs designed to fit more snugly within the natural contours of your body.
Currently, several alternatives address similar issues provided by various companies. Here, I’ve listed many excellent choices. My emphasis on Assos stems from their evident progression within their product line, making it straightforward to illustrate why certain models come with higher price tags. Each brand follows this approach. Typically, when a pair of bib shorts is priced lower, the padding becomes simpler, the material deteriorates in quality, and they generally feature more seams.
This doesn’t imply you should opt for the priciest option; however, you will receive greater value for your investment.
What methods does Velo use to test their top-tier cycling bib shorts?
To begin with, I gather as many bib shorts as possible. Since availability varies among retailers, this turns into a continuous effort; however, I stay vigilant and acquire whatever new items become available for evaluation. Next, during my rides, I alternate between various models—sometimes using two within a single session indoors. During these tests, I assess their functionalities alongside multiple jersey styles across both lengthy excursions and brief outings. Once satisfied with the top contenders, I analyze their pros and cons to categorize which suits particular needs best. Throughout this review, pricing remains a key consideration, ensuring the products identified remain accessible. Ultimately, after publishing initial findings, continued scrutiny ensures accuracy. The content evolves perpetually, reflecting real-time updates based on further trials. Importantly, having logged countless miles wearing each piece myself, I confidently endorse those deemed superior following rigorous examination.
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Other cycling bib shorts
I continually assess the endless array of new cycling bib shorts. The truth is that many excellent choices abound, with several coming close to making my final cut yet falling short somehow.
|
Model: |
Assos Equipe R |
|
Specs: |
Three hues without pockets and ranging fromXS to 3XL |
|
Highs: |
At last, Assos provides options with various colors; top-notch chamois padding; barely noticeable seams. |
|
Lows: |
Too low at the forefront |
|
Bottom line: |
I initially thought about getting these top-notch cycling bib shorts until I decided to try out the RS variant instead. These caught my eye with their stylish design and excellent material. Although the padding isn’t as premium compared to what you get with the RS model, the difference is hardly perceptible. My main preference leans towards the RS because the fabric offers better support, particularly at the front area where the brand lacks some elevation or form. Should you feel the cost gap between them is steep, opt for these shorts instead. |
|
Buy: |
$210.00 USD from competitivecyclist.com ; $280.00 CAD from assos.com ; |
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|
Model: |
Castelli Espresso |
|
Specs: |
Seven hues without pockets and ranging from XS to 3XL |
|
Highs: |
Many color choices; top-notch suede padding; taller at the front; gentle material |
|
Lows: |
There are too many other excellent Association choices. |
|
Bottom line: |
The Espresso entered the Castelli range designed primarily for most riders as their go-to bib shorts. Its purpose was to enhance appeal across various body types while ensuring comfort. This objective was achieved remarkably well. Notably, the fabric used is excellent; unlike many brands offering colored garments which often use print rather than dye, this one employs actual dyeing techniques. Additionally, these shorts come equipped with the Progetto X2 Air chamois—a feature found in what Castelli considers its top-tier products. However, there’s an issue: Castelli should reconsider its current product assortment. Although the Espresso performs admirably, both the Free Aero RC model excels particularly for races, and the Endurance 3 offers a slightly lower price point without compromising too much quality. Who would benefit from choosing this option? Despite being highly competitive within the category of durable bib shorts, having multiple similar choices from Castelli complicates things for potential buyers seeking guidance. Nonetheless, those who appreciate the available color palette will find themselves pleased with this choice. |
|
Buy: |
$179.99 USD from competitivecyclist.com ; €159,95 EUR from all4cycling.com ; $200.00 CAD from castelli-cycling.com ; |
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|
Model: |
Pearl Izumi Expedition Pro |
|
Specs: |
Three hues featuring four pockets available in sizes Small to 2X Large |
|
Highs: |
Zippered pocket; premium Cordura material; triple-density PRO Levitate 3D cushioning |
|
Lows: |
Sizing issues |
|
Bottom line: |
I had high hopes for this bib short from Pearl Izumi. Knowing how much our audience appreciates their products, combined with my admiration for the stylish look of this particular item, made me eager to try it out. While some may view the zippered pocket as a drawback, I see it as an intriguing feature that enhances the overall aesthetic. Additionally, the vibrant deep-sea hue really stands out. The chamois received strong praise; it elevates what is already considered top-notch craftsmanship by incorporating varying levels of density. However, despite these positives, the use of Cordura material became problematic. Its lack of flexibility posed significant issues because where more pliable fabrics typically mold comfortably around your body, Cordura did not adapt well at all. This resulted in discomfort due to gaps forming along the inner thighs leading to irritation during wear. In theory, using a blend of materials similar to those employed by brands such as Assos would address this concern effectively. Nonetheless, until they make adjustments, recommending this product universally isn’t feasible. For individuals who happen upon finding the perfect fit through trial fitting sessions, though, it delivers exceptional performance. Thus, potential buyers should consider giving themselves ample opportunity to test before committing fully. |
|
Buy: |
$295.00 USD from competitivecyclist.com ; $399.99 CAD from pearlizumi.ca ; €265.00 EUR from pearlizumi.eu |
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|
Model: |
Ornot Cargo bib short |
|
Specs: |
Three hues featuring four pockets available in sizes XS through 2XL |
|
Highs: |
Smooth material; subtle labeling; outstanding utility pockets |
|
Lows: |
Sizing issues |
|
Bottom line: |
The present iteration of this bib hasn’t been tested by me yet; however, it’s slated for review in the near future. Despite not having personally worn them, I’m featuring them here due to Alvin Holbrook’s positive experience with them. He appreciated both the material and the utility of the cargo pockets but encountered certain sizing discrepancies. This inconsistency is why they weren’t immediately recommended initially, contributing to their lackluster evaluation during the debut lineup. Additionally, I would contend that the emphasis on minimalist branding from Ornot serves primarily as a marketing strategy since many brands adopt such understated logos today—though certainly not all. So, should minimal branding, supple fabric, and a robust chamois appeal to your preferences, giving these items an earnest assessment regarding fit could prove worthwhile prior to making a purchase decision. |
|
Buy: |
$218.00 USD from ornotbike.com |
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