We have self-supporting textiles and refined fittings at Deko Sports International, Sialkot. . Mountain bikers around the globe have been using liner shorts under their baggies. Moreover, cycling outfits now provide high-end waist shorts which creates hesitancy among the riders to switch to the bib shorts. Let’s try to find the root cause of this hesitancy. B One of the reasons for not opting for this cycling apparel is its unique and distinct appearance, which does not match the clothing choice of some cyclists.
Difference between Bib Shorts and Standard Shorts
Bib shorts are quite different from other cycling shorts and garments. As the slightest change in the riding gear significantly affects the performance of the riders, so do the cycling garments. Bib shorts provide a minimal layer of protection to the midsection, which also adds to the insulation in winters and cold weather. It holds the chamois in place, and the rider can easily adjust the seat pad without waiting for too long.
Bib shorts are more functional and hold great significance in the market for their high-class material, comfortable fittings, stretchable braces and many more useful features but high-end waist shorts are also giving a tough choice for the riders. Regular shorts do not have ‘suspenders’ (straps/ braces) like the and the riders have to employ outdated clip-on suspenders to keep their shorts in place.
Unlike regular, outdated shorts, bib shorts have some amazing built-in features which enhance their performance and usefulness, such as the suspenders in bib shorts are not detachable now, hence saving the rider from discomfort. Bib shorts are such an ideal cycling garment that would perfectly meet the needs of today’s modern riders.
Reasons to choose Bib Shorts
The finest cycling jerseys are shorter in length to prevent fabric bunching and give a more aerodynamic fit. Taller riders wearing conventional shorts may find themselves in an exposed midriff when they take a pause.
Generally, Bib shorts and Cycling Jerseys may seem identical to a regular jersey for the people who are not into cycling and its garments. But a trained rider can clearly differentiate between these and can easily identify the different categories of each. Following are some significant reasons to validate and prove the usefulness and efficacy of bib shorts:
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No Waistband
It is quite obvious that the riders do not want to lose their self-assurance while mountain riding. Like, there is no drawstring or itchy and irritating elastic digging into your abdomen since there is no waistline. The rider would be less likely to feel that deep diaphragmatic breathing which restricts the blood flow and oxygen intake. As a result, the rider feels more productive, comfortable and carefree while riding, particularly over long distances. Another disadvantage of conventional waistbands is that they gather and hold moisture, increasing the risk of chafing and general discomfort. In short, it is ideal for individuals who are allergic to waistbands.
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Unmoving/ Immovable Chamois
Traditional cycling shorts eventually slip down, causing the chamois or seat pad to shift and move from its place. The riders can avoid chafing, saddle sores and unpleasant experiences by simply keeping the chamois in its place. Bib shorts are designed and manufactured in such a way that does not let chamois move from their position. Undoubtedly, bib shorts significantly enhance the rider’s joy and journey in general.
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Comfortable Bib-Straps
Bib shorts have the most comfortable straps that provide complete comfort to the rider along with maintaining his body posture. It holds a significant impact because these straps are responsible for holding the bib shorts in place, without producing pressure on critical points of the body. The perfect garment for the riders is the one that has perfect fitting while riding and does not disturb the riding posture. Bib shorts have straps over the shoulders that are made of lightweight and breathable fabric such as Mesh or Lycra. It also prevents tugging, binding or chaffing etc.
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Protection from sunburn
One of the most promising features of the is that it protects the riders from the harmful rays of the sun and hence decreases the risk of sunburn. Unlike sagging jerseys and hefty cycling garments, that cause sunburn and rashes, bib shorts avoid the risk of dreaded lower back sunburn. As it has an extra piece of cloth up the torso to minimize the gaps since it covers the shoulders. However, the bib shorts are a bit warmer because of the additional layer of fabric attached to them.
Expert’s Opinions
Once, the professional and trained group of cyclists were discussing men’s cycling shorts and sharing their experiences regarding that. The discussion revealed some important insights about the cycling garments and particularly the expert’s opinions about that. One of the points that were raised about the cycling garments was the significant need for durability and storage options available to them. Experts were of the view that a cycling garment needs to be durable and must-have storage capacity or space, particularly for the off-road excursions and several-days journeys. Many trained cyclists shared their opinion that these are designed with robust, sturdy and technical material that is good enough to bear the roughness of the ways. Moreover, it has the ability to get dry rapidly overnight and can be folded conveniently in the biking bags of the riders.
Experiences with Bib Shorts
The bike shorts and bib shorts both have multiple pockets and storage options to keep the stuff. It is quite fascinating to the rapid shift of the riders towards the bib shorts, as it has completely modified the mountain biking experience. Many renowned mountain bikers like Keith Bontrager, Joe Breeze and Charlie Cunningham have shifted to bib shorts due to the discomforts of mountain bike trousers. Not only men, but the cycling shorts for women riders have become the number one choice of elite female riders as well. The cycling shorts for women provide an additional layer of protection and multiple other useful features to ensure their hygiene and health.
Examples Given Experts
There are multiple examples, experiences and opinions of the professionals in this field regarding the efficacy and usefulness of which motivated them to shift to the bib shorts from the regular cycling shorts. As one of the female cyclists shared her experience regarding the bib shorts, she said that while training and riding through the mountains, she saw a group of cyclists wearing Bib shorts which really fascinated her, as it seemed to be more convenient and more practical for the journey. According to her personal statement, she was so excited to try on the shorts and fortunately her enthusiasm was not in vain. She believed that it was the most comfortable and smoother mountain bike experience she had with these shorts. Her followers and admirers could easily shift, following her footprints and wonderful experience.
Important Considerations about Bib Shorts
Every cycling garment is different from the other and each possesses its unique features. It completely depends on the choice and need of the rider to opt for a particular garment. Some riders prefer comfort over appearance, while others do not compromise on the shape and looks. As we discussed earlier, bib shorts cover the rider’s midriff which may lead to unnecessary body heat.
Another feature which may cause discomfort and irritation to the rider is that the straps of the bib shorts are not adjustable. According to some research, could not be suitable for heavier riders who have too broad shoulders or are too huge in size. For instance, one of the bikers named Phil Liggett stated that if the top is too tight or too short, bib shorts might feel excessively confining which may cause discomfort and irritation.
The reason is the pain that an elastic waistband can cause, such as tightness and chafing. Experienced riders usually prefer over non-Bib Shorts. Pit stops are tougher with mountain bike trousers on. It’s difficult for the riders to pull down the shorts while taking a break as it requires taking off the jersey first.
On the other hand, women riders have to deal with this issue at every stop. However, in cycling shorts, women prefer to remove their top half for a nature break. A few styles of pricey biker shorts for women restrict the number of layers female riders have to remove.
There are just a few stations available for the guys. If one sees a man leaning forward 90 degrees in the bushes, anyone can know what kind of shorts he is wearing.
Conclusion
After a detailed discussion and thorough examination of the shorts, along with experts’ experiences and opinions, it can be concluded undoubtedly that Bib shorts have become the best choice for riders all around the globe. It has been observed that shorts are comfortable and easy to wear, providing the best fitting to the rider which enhances his confidence. Bibs retain the crotch of the shorts tightly against the crotch. It also helps to keep the baggies in place. Non-Bib Shorts might cause the lower back to be exposed to the breeze and it is most likely to happen when riding in a low, aerodynamic stance. In short, Bibs have largely replaced shorts as the standard for the best cycling shorts.
