Louis Garneau

Equipe Men's Bib Shorts

If you ask us, the road to the perfect pair of bib shorts is a simple one. In fact, the criteria is relatively simple -- a slight compressive support, a precise fit, breathability, and a comfortable chamois. However, the simplicity of theory all-too-commonly folds under the pressures of a complex reality. But, we've found that Louis Garneau has never run into this problematic wall, and its Equipe Bib Shorts are the proof.

Starting with the basic construction, Garneau made the Equipe bib shorts from a well-positioned blend of Lycra Power, Lycra Pro, and Power Mesh. For compressive support, Lycra Power has been placed at various points on the legs of the shorts. Basically, this fabric features more Lycra fibers per ounce/square yard than typical Lycra compositions. So, the material experiences an elastic hold on your muscle groups, supporting and shielding them from the bulk of oscillation and road vibration. This results in a decrease in overall muscle fatigue, while also, according Garneau, a 10 to 20% improvement in blood circulation.

And when the aforementioned is paired with the Lycra Pro material, the shorts experience a heightened level of recovering stretch. So, your freedom of movement is ensured. Further ensuring this characteristic, Garneau designed the shorts with a seamless inner-leg and a ten-panel construction. This not only leads to an increase in flexibility, but, more obviously, it lends itself to eliminating abrasion. Garneau even took this concept a step further by only using flatlock stitching throughout the shorts and uppers. However, all the while, both fabrics possess an extraordinary ability to manage moisture. This means that riding with damp legs after 40k is now a thing of the past.

Securing the Equipe's precise fit took a few steps. First, was the compressive fit. Secondly, Garneau included its Powerbands at the leg cuffs. These provide a strong, no-slip hold on the legs, but they also reduce pressure on the lower legs in order to avoid inhibiting a proper circulation. Next, Garneau constructed the bib straps from Power Mesh, while adding a stretch trim to ensure flexibility. These straps not only hold the position of the shorts, but with their moisture wicking composition, they also aid in pulling perspiration away from the back and torso.

Lastly, Garneau further ensured your comfort by incorporating its Airgel chamois. This insert places in emphasis on comforting support, breathability, and moisture management. To achieve this, the portions of support density are comprised of perforated gel inserts. This allows the chamois to adapt to pressure without sacrificing its supportive qualities. Additionally, the perforation increases the gel's breathability, preventing buildups of heat, and accordingly, eliminating hot spots. To further support this, Garneau layered the insert with Crabyon fabric. Antibacterial, allergy-tested, and biodegradable, Crabyon has long been used in the medicinal practices. Why? It accelerates the wound healing process, while also demonstrating a resistance to abrasion and chafing.

The Louis Garneau Equipe Bib Shorts are available in six sizes from X-Small to XX-Large and in the colors Black, Black/ginger/white, Black/twilight blue/white, and Black/fluo orange/white.