Castelli

Velocissimo Due Bib Shorts

Castelli set out to offer the best pair of mid-range, mid-priced bib shorts in the world when it created the Velocissimo Due Bib Shorts. Castelli succeeded so well, you'll probably find that the comfort level of these bibs will eclipse that of other brands' top-line kit.

Part of the genius behind these bibs is a cut that makes full use of the qualities of the special Affinity Lycra 210GR fabric. The Affinity Lycra is the secret weapon behind many of Castelli's most comfortable pieces because it has a wonderful stretch-return aspect that allows it to give when you need to, but then retake its shape once you are back in your habitual riding position. Essentially, it moves with you and doesn't fight or rub against you. That's because it has an amazingly soft and smooth texture with an attractive semi-matte finish. Using this fabric in a ten-panel construction means that the bibs will follow your contours so well that you won't even remember you have them on.

Where you will really be thankful that Castelli has taken some trouble to make these the best shorts possible is in the insert it has used. Castelli calls it the Kiss3 chamois, and you'll realize the name suits it as soon as you sit on the saddle. It is nearly as comfortable and advanced as their top-of-the-line Progetto X2, but costs considerably less. They have done this by using all of the same comfort features while saving slightly on the construction. What you'll get is the seamless skin care layer that is made from a super soft brushed microfiber to maximize the luxurious comfort and perfect fit. Since it is seamless, there will be no worries about chafing, while the flexibility of the material will help the pad move with you as you jump to an out-of-the-saddle assault. It has also been given a bacteriostatic treatment to avoid saddle sores and infections. The interior of the insert provides the ultimate in intelligent cushioning so that the maximum padding is placed in the ischial zone, tapering to a moderate thickness in the perineum and then narrowing still further at the perimeter of the pad. The anatomical shape will keep it nuzzled against your undercarriage through every pedal stroke.

Not to neglect the uppers of the bibs, Castelli has included their super-comfy and airy mesh bib straps. They will secure the bib itself in place without tugging, and the mesh keeps them from becoming oppressively hot on a humid, sunny day. The Giro3 integrated leg grippers have been fashioned so that the grip material is knit directly into the short. The generous 5 cm wide band will gently compress to secure the leg hem in place. It also lies completely flat, keeping your leg aero as if it were in a skinsuit. And for those evenings you get caught out after sunset, reflective bands at the back of the legs will help ensure that you'll make it home in one piece.

The Castelli Velocissimo Due Bib Shorts are available in three color options: Black/Cyan/White, Black/White/Red and Black/Black. They come in sizes Small through XXX-Large.