Review of Bib Shorts for Cycling

Overview

• Bib shorts are crucial for cycling comfort, but price points vary widely.
• Challenge: Determining when cost reflects quality vs. brand marketing.
• Ratings based on comfort, quality, and cost.
• Four bib shorts compared from cheapest to most expensive.

AliExpress Ultra Budget Bib Shorts

• Source: AliExpress, a Chinese online marketplace.
• Price: ~£8-£15
• Comfort: Thick padding, dense; suitable for rides under an hour.
• Quality:
  • Generally decent, some issues with replicas of major brands.
  • Long-lasting, minor discomfort from strap material.
  • Asian sizing: tends to run small.
• Delivery: Around two weeks.

DHB Aeron Range

• Brand: UK brand sold by Wiggle.
• Price: £50 (on offer), normal ~£80
• Comfort: Thinner, less dense padding; good for long rides.
• Quality:
  • Improvements in strap material over time.
  • Straps can bunch after washes.
  • Partial leg grips offer comfort.

Soak Cargo Shorts

• Brand: Based in China, sell globally.
• Price: $65.99 (~£50)
• Features: Mesh pockets for gravel riding.
• Comfort: Thick but soft padding, suitable for road and gravel rides.
• Quality:
  • New, no significant wear; minor issue with logo peeling.
  • Sizing runs small like other Asian brands.
• Crash Replacement Discount: 30% off after a crash.

Morvelo Nth Series Shorts

• Brand: Known for colorful designs; high end.
• Price: £125
• Comfort: Thin chamois, comfortable over long distances.
• Quality:
  • Some wear issues with logos and fabric over time.
  • Offers crash replacement within 18 months.

Key Considerations

• Crash Replacement Policies: Morvelo and Soak offer support.
• Asian Sizing: Check size charts carefully for AliExpress and Soak.
• Cost vs. Quality: Higher cost doesn't always equate to better quality.

Recommendations

• AliExpress Bibs: Best for beginners, low cost entry into cycling gear.
• Soak Shorts: Mid-range, offer high comfort at lower price compared to Morvelo/DHB.
• Morvelo Shorts: Best for committed cyclists; high comfort and crash replacement.

Conclusion

• Choose based on cycling level and the extent of use.
• Consider brand loyalty and personal preferences.
• For cost-effective comfort, Soak shorts are highly recommended for both road and gravel rides.