Cycling bib shorts are nothing new, but bibs that can be worn on their own – a sort of cycling playsuit – are, as far as I’m aware, thin on the ground.
Skinsuits for TT events are similar of course, but they usually have sleeves and compression qualities, while tri suits have a smaller pad.
Café du Cycliste have designed this ‘outfit’ as a bib that incorporates a tank top, and its designed to be worn over a sports bra on summer rides, or beneath a cycling top as a light, breathable base layer.
The striped styling and cut reminded me of a corset (though it feels like wearing a swimsuit!): indeed, if I ever have the urge to perform a cycling themed Burlesque act (you never know!), then this is what I will wear. It’s also skin tight so it’s probably not an outfit for the self-conscious cyclist or those who prefer to dress for modesty.
The tank bib short bodice features a centre zip and is darted to accommodate curves. The fabric is very soft and stretchy and the wide straps mean there are no pressure points on your shoulders so it’s very comfortable to wear. The shorts feature a female specific Cytech pad and laser cut branded silicon grippers to keep the legs in place (elastic is so last year!!!).
I was intending to ride without an extra top but the weather got the better of me so I rode out with a jersey and climbed a very steep hill to get hot before removing it. There’s a wide, deceptively roomy back pocket (open on both sides) to store your top. Unfortunately there are no other pockets – I’d have liked a small, secure zip pocket as well.
I enjoyed wearing this tank bib short cycling ‘outfit’ and it certainly kept me cool. Had the sun actually been out, the cut would also have helped avoid cycling ‘tan sleeves’. I’m not sure how many days in the UK are warm enough to wear it on its own (actually I am – and its not many) but it would be perfect for a trip abroad (I can dream!).
FOR:
Practical, flattering and a bit different.
AGAINST:
Lack of zip pocket, British weather.
Price: £147.00, available from Cafe du Cycliste.
N.B. the pink detail around the armholes in some of images is my Sweaty Betty sports bra and is not part of the bibs!!
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