Our Favorites: Castelli Bib Shorts

Whether you’re training for centuries or cruising local trails, the right pair of bib shorts can make or break your ride. Great bibs should offer breathable, compressive fabric, seamless straps that don’t dig, and—most crucially—a high-quality chamois that protects you, reduces friction against (very) sensitive skin, helps manage heat and moisture down there and keeps you comfortable in the saddle. Fit is everything, especially for cyclists of all genders, shapes, and sizes, so don’t be afraid to size up or try different cuts.

What to Look for in Bib Shorts
Not all bib shorts are created equal. If you’re serious about comfort, performance, and staying pain-free in the saddle, here’s what to prioritize and why Castelli continues to lead the pack.

1. A Chamois That Works Harder Than You Do
   The chamois (aka the pad) is everything when it comes to bib shorts. Castelli’s Progetto X² Air chamois is designed for pro-level mileage: multi-density foam, seamless construction, and a soft, skin-care layer that keeps pressure off your undercarriage and irritation off your radar. Whether you’re riding an hour or a century, this pad keeps you going.
   
2. Fabric That Moves With You
   High-performance bibs need compression, breathability, and a second-skin feel without sacrificing comfort. Castelli uses technical fabrics that wick moisture, reduce muscle fatigue, and stay put without pinching. Their Endurance 3 and Free Aero RC lines strike the perfect balance of support and freedom, with laser-cut leg grippers that won’t budge mid-ride.
3. Straps That Disappear
   No one wants bib straps digging into their shoulders or shifting while they ride. Castelli gets the strap game right with flat, lie-flat materials that stretch with your body, not against it. Bonus: many women’s models include clever drop-tail designs for easy bathroom breaks without undressing.
4. Fit for Every Rider
   Yes, Castelli is known for a race fit but don’t let that scare you off. Their newer lines include more forgiving options designed for real-world bodies. Riders of all genders, shapes, and sizes can find a cut that hugs the right places, stretches where it needs to, and still looks sharp in the saddle.