CastelliSuperleggera Bib Short - Men's
Item # CSTZ7AZ
Superleggera Bib Short
We’re well practiced at adjusting our upper body layering for the temperature, going from thermal to standard to an ultralight jersey as the seasons change, but too often we’re wearing the same style of bib short from the crisp days of early spring to mid-summer climbs. Castelli has long been chasing the perfect ultralight short for hot weather rides, and the Superleggera is their lightest yet at only 141g.
The question of durability versus weight required Castelli to return to the drawing board in designing the Superleggera bibs. Where most bibs use a knit fabric, Castelli developed an ultralight gradient woven textile, which is most robust near the insert to keep it in place and lightest near the hem for maximum breathability. The lighter fabric not only keeps us cooler but also absorbs less moisture as we sweat, helping us stay even cooler and lighter as we mash up the climbs of the summer training ride.
Castelli designed the Superleggera to be every bit as comfortable as their other race bibs. The Superleggera features the same mesh bib construction as the Free Aero Race 4 Bibs, a minimalist mesh upper for optimal breathability and openness of design. A Progetto X2 Air insert reduces friction in the saddle with its seamless upper and helps keep you cool with the perforated cushion layer. The bibs are finished with an integrated Lycra leg gripper, to keep the shorts well in place without adding weight to the hem.
- A premium lightweight short for hot weather riding and racing
- Ultralight fabric reduces overall short weight without hindering durability
- Integrated leg gripper with Lycra keeps shorts in place
- Progetto X2 Air pad breathes well and cushions road noise
- Minimalist bib upper keeps you cool
What do you think about this product?
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September 21, 2020
Odd material but working out so far.
- Familiarity:
- I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions
- Fit:
- Runs small
- Size Bought
- XL
- Height
- 5` 11"
- Weight
- 170 lbs
These do match the description from Castelli. The bibs are thin and light and are great for rides on really hot days. But being so light and thin, they do not seem like they would be supportive on longer rides. For my 35 to 45 mile rides they were fine, but I don’t know if I would use these on a century. Out of the box, the material felt rather stiff with an almost crunchy feel. The interior area around legs had a rough texture which was a concern. But once on bike they were fine. The length is bit longer than usual. I’m 5’ 11” and on me they end pretty close to the top of the knees. Consequently, the leg openings looks like they should be tighter. I’ve only worn them a few times and the leg opening are developing an ever so slight ruffle around the edge. But somehow they don’t manage to ride up when I’m pedaling. The straps are flat and are much easier to deal with than the Castelli Free Aero Race 4’s, which are like ropes until you straighten them out. Sizing was typical for Castelli in that they run slightly small. The Progetto X2 Air Is one of the best out there. I took one star off because the leg length should shorter, or given the length, the opening should be tighter. If they stretch out over time, the leg grippers will not be able to hold them in place.
John A.
August 2, 2020
Super Lightweight Short
- Familiarity:
- I've used it several times
- Fit:
- True to size
- Size Bought
- XL
- Height
- 6` 4"
- Weight
- 180 lbs
Very light weight -- almost too light. Chamois is top of the line. Fits a bit on the small side. Straps are very light weight and, as such, tend to twist and roll over. But if you take the time to make sure they start out flat and untwisted, they stay that way. They're still too new to comment on how they wear after lots of washes and rides, but I suspect they won't wear as well as their heavier cousin. the legs grip well.
Frederic B.