SCOTT’s Shadow EVO’s are more tri-suit than bib short, a welcome addition to the road cycling market with an in-built sports bra.

I know what you’re thinking; why is our model wearing a sports bra if there’s one built into the Shadow EVO shorts? Well, being on the larger side of bust measurements there wasn’t enough support for my bosoms to go bra-less, however, it was nice to have an extra layer, to help keep the ‘girls’ in check.

As much as I enjoyed the added protection the sports bra gave, there are a couple of points to note. I’m often in the saddle for 5+ hours at a time, so the combination of the in built sports bra band round the torso, and my own sports bra meant by the end of a long ride I had a sore ring around my torso from the two digging in. This wasn’t helped by the fact I couldn’t really wear a base layer because of the elastic band on the in built sports bra.

With the traditional bib straps missing, getting in and out of the shorts was – how do I put it – interesting. The neck opening didn’t really cater for my womanly hips, and when pulling them on I may have heard some stitching straining. I had a couple of ‘near-misses’ on toilet breaks too, a contortionist would have been proud if they’d have seen me manoeuvre my arms out. Again, another HOWEVER is in order, because once the shorts were on, they were incredibly comfortable.

Over the course of a particularly long and arduous ride, I was suitably impressed with the chamois, both on and off the bike. In the saddle I was thankful of the pad’s short nose, because I was doing a lot of climbing, it meant there was no bunching or pressure and chafing as I churned through the miles. Off the bike, when pushing (it was a tough climb!) the Shadow’s narrow, thin pad was unobtrusive and flexible, but with enough density to offer the right amount of comfort in the saddle.

Although the leg length on the SCOTT bib shorts was fine, the grippers on the hem let the side down. There’s no denying I have cyclist’s thighs but even mine were not big enough to keep the grippers from creeping up the back of my thighs. The internal silicone band stuck at the front, but over the course of the miles I repeatedly had to pull the back of the shorts leg hem down, disappointing as I don’t like having to worry about anything but the ride ahead.

To finish on a plus note, because these shorts deserve it – I really liked the overall support these bibs offered me. Having all of my lumps and bumps contained into a lycra suit felt wonderful, warm (even though the torso was constructed from mesh fabric) but great! These are now a staple in my wardrobe for autumnal rides that are sub 2 hours.

Verdict

Great shorts for the mid-level sportive rider who’s looking to spend 2-3 hours in the saddle at a time. Offers a great level of support over the whole body with the tri-suit design. Just let down by the loose grippers on the leg.

Pros

– In built sports bra for extra support
– Flattering, comfortable fit around the torso
– Unobtrusive chamois pad with great density

Cons

– Narrow neck opening making it difficult to pull on
– Leg grippers ride up the back of your thigh

Size available: XS – XL
Price: £89.99 (RRP £94.99)
Colour options: Plain black (pictured), black/white
More information: Scott Sports

What SCOTT says about the W’s Shadow EVO bib shorts

The EVO Shadow bibshort features SCOTT’s newest technologies including the new premium women’s padding, an integrated sports bra, light weight mesh paneling on the waist, and comfortable flatlock seams. Ride for hours in revolutionized comfort and style.

– All-Ways stretch one-piece construction
– High perforated foam for extra ventilation
– Varying thicknesses and densities
– Improved sweat absorption
– Easy care
– Specifically shaped for female anatomy