High-end Bib-shorts

Jonathand257

Hi,

This has probably been done to death - but i am going to treat myself to some quality bibshorts this season, and my choices are down to Rapha Classic Bibshorts or the Assos T Uno S5.

I was just wondering what peoples experience of the two are, i know they are both excellent brands and have had Rapha stuff before so i know what to expect.

Any thoughts?

Sammyw23

They use pretty much the same pad from Cytech (ElasticInterface.com) so it just comes down to fit and material preferences.

Bobbinogs

Also worth looking at Castelli FAR bibs, which come in a few different colours/styles. They came out tops in the C+ review last year and are just awesome. I have a pair which I managed to grab from Ribble for £100 and I wear them on nearly every ride...I have never regretted paying the money. In fact, was looking at the new 2012 design earlier (note that the shorts haven't changed, just the design asaik) as I might buy another pair for back to back rides (so I don't have to fuss about washing so promptly, etc.).

The body paint ones are supposed to be even better :shock:

Sammyw23

I have all 3 (well the Mille in Assos) and I have to admit whilst I think they are all up there with the best, the pad in the Castelli shorts (Progetto X2) is stand out the best there is.

None are bad though so it may just come down to which ones you like the look/feel/fit of the best

graham_g

From my discussions with various folk, assos/castelli will always top the fit/features but rapha apparently wins for durability.

maddog 2

a mate has the Raphas and rates them.

I've run the Castellis and they are good too but the leg was a bit short for my liking so now on Giordana Body Clones, which have been excellent.

All the big players do good kit these days, so it comes down to fit in the end.

bus_ter

The Assos Milles offer a loose fit, the Castellis are a very tight fit (go up at least one size compared to Assos).

The Assos Milles have a dimpled version of the cytech pad that's supposed to be very good (better than the Uno's). The 2012 version of the Castellis have a further improved pad on their already excellent pad.

I don't know about Raphas, but sometimes I think their clothing is more form over function. They seem to focus more on style than technical clothing. However I'm sure it's still excellent.

These are probably your big 3. If you're on a budget then the top end dhb Pro gear is very good also.

Jonathand257

Cheers for all your advice guys, I have weighed everything up and decided to go for the.....Rapha Bib Shorts!

I'm a young lad and I guess the cut and style of the brand suits me, I know it may be a case of style over substance but I like the company and they have always delivered great customer service, which goes a long way in my book considering the economic climate.

I have a few pairs of Santini and endura branded bib shorts for training/commuting, so these bad boys will be for Sunday best and racing, I remember when I got first received a Rapha jersey, I was hesitant to train in it as it was so nice!

Thanks again!

Sammyw23

Pretty sure Rapha are still doing the 30 day money back offer on the classic bibs so you can't lose really - if you don't like them send them back!

bus_ter

I found this old thread which is useful for comparing Assos vs Rapha bib shorts

viewtopic.php?f=40042&t=12785874

ilm_zero7

Just bought some more Craft bibs - the first pair havent expired, just good enough to make me want a second pair

bobiey

Love a lot, Trust a few, But always paddle your own canoe.

MattC59

Buy the Rapha shorts, if only to p*ss off the haters !

thegreatdivide

MattC59 wrote:

Buy the Rapha shorts, if only to p*ss off the haters !

Yip.

Got both and love them both – but if I’m going to do some serious miles the Rapha bibs are first choice.