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My current bib shorts are deffo needing replaced - so looking for recommendations for new set - a large chap so no to narrow hipped racing snake options - have used mid range in past - endura, lusso, FLATB etc., but dont mind spending a bit extra to kit bit of comfort and longevity as doing longer rides these days 50-100 miles. Thanks in advance.
Galibier have always worked for me and generally offer good value too.
I'm a former FLAB ambassador, so slightly biased, but love the feel of ny classic Rapha shorts - only needed to go up a size.
A much larger mate seemes to get on using Le Col
Another vote for Galibier - one of the first places I look for new kit these days.
https://www.galibier.cc/category/shorts-tights-suits/
Edit - also Lusso for another UK producer of decent kit
https://www.lusso.bike/collections/mens-bib-shorts
I like Funkier and Sundried, and have some Sportful that are good, but then I don't spend a lot on shorts - I keep meaning to try something like rapha but I look at the price and compare to the ones I have that work for me and decide not to
I get on really well with Planet-X ones, and they're currently £24.99. Shame my work interwebz doesn't seem to trust the new Planet-X site...
I've got some Rapha and Le Col, both very nice. Have had many different brands over the years but you definitely get what you pay for <dons flameproof suit>. Rapha have a sale on at the moment, but a quick glance doesn't show too many reductions.
Just got a pair from Albion that seem pretty nice.
My go to pairs are normally from Pactimo but only buy on sale as they're expensive at RRP.
<p style="text-align: left;">Last time I looked Saddleback had some decent prices on Sportful.</p>
PX Carnac bibs are fine, spent 16 hours in a pair two weekends ago with no chammy cream, and no tenderness. MTB'ing for 8 hours each day.
Castelli are lovely if you size up appropriately, and SportsPursuit and Merlin seem to have them on offer all the time.
Madison cargos are also v comfy, and more generously cut
Maybe I’m the odd one out but I don’t like the Planet X bibs I’ve got. Think they’re the ‘365’ ones and the pad is a bit clumsy / chunky.
Mych prefer the Endura FS260 bibs - have 3 pairs of them now that I use on my road bike. Did try some dhb aeron waist shorts and they’re alright but over longer mileage they’re not as comfy as the Enduras.
Maybe I’m the odd one out but I don’t like the Planet X bibs I’ve got. Think they’re the ‘365’ ones and the pad is a bit clumsy / chunky.
You're not, and to be honest this highlights the kind of uselessness of a "what bibs?" thread, in the same vein of uselessness as a "what saddle" thread. Everyone's undercarriage is different, so what some people will find really comfortable, others will not (I don't get on with Lusso, FWIW, and others rave about them).
Endura FS260 bibs
I bought a pair, they are comfy. But the seams literally fell apart in 3 places after a year or so.
I noticed this morning that my FS260 Jetstream top is also loosing stitching on two seams, again about a year old.
Endura really need to get on top of build quality.
Agreed IHN. Plus I find shorts decay at different rates. I have some of the Galibier mentioned above which were excellent when new but after two years of light use ( they rotate with other pairs) seem to have lost their comfort whereas an ancient pair of Polaris still feel good
I bought a pair, they are comfy. But the seams literally fell apart in 3 places after a year or so.
Likewise, I bought a pair and like you find them comfy, not massively impressed that their quality doesn't seem to have improved. I've a pair of Rapha Core bibs ad I would rate them as OK, but I'm not sure I'd be in a hurry to buy another pair when they wear out, as the straps are becoming baggy and lastly a pair of Nukeproof Blackline (with some cargo pockets) that are really rather good for the money. Comfy and not chafing at all, the cargo pockets are certainly good for MTB, dunno if it's what you want for roadie though?
Half price Castelli bibs on Merlin at the mo.
Probably Euro sizing, but they go up to 3XL
https://www.merlincycles.com/castelli-bib-shorts-295954/
I've been impressed with Rivelo on sports pursuit, just noticed they've got some castelli bibs for £50. I must resist...
Thanks all - very useful to have ideas and pointers as to what the alternatives and opinions are. Pair of Rapha classics ordered which are on sale at moment on their website, still a chunk of change but price for comfort I hope will be worth it.
Cheers
S
Was going to suggest Howies as they've started doing cycle gear again and my bibs are great. But looks like they've changed the material and construction (they're now recyled polyester/merino and stitched whereas mine are seamless) so I can't recommned them other than to say if the old ones are good these ought to be too.
Half price Castelli bibs on Merlin at the mo.
That's how I buy my Castelli kit - in the sale. They are my favourite bibs along with David Millar's excellent CHPT3 brand. The Progetto pads are particularly good. Mrs Slow is quite fond of Assos.
As for fit I find Castelli fit me as I would expect (i.e. I don't have to size up) but I'm on the skinny side and don't have sprinter's legs so I acknowledge many may well want to size up.