When the Campagnolo Challenge Force Bib Tights were handed over to me to test my first thought was: “Wow, strong look!”
Now that’s largely down to the striking light blue colour (described as ‘lake’ by Campagnolo) from the thigh down and on the back panel, which comes across quite ‘Euro’ in design, but an all-black version is also available, as well as red.
The tights also felt super thin on first touch. “Are these Winter tights?” I thought. That’s the key to their success, however. The tights are made from a hollow filament fabric construction which, according to the manufacturer, results in “warmth without added bulk”. And that’s a fair conclusion, with the tights light like a summer garment despite their Roubaix lining but warm enough to wear on winter and chilly autumn/spring rides.
Other features include an impressive anatomical Tri-ProPad, plenty of reflective detail, flat seams which sit comfortably next to the skin and foot straps.
If the tights are ‘Euro’ in design then they’re also ‘Euro’ in fit, no doubt built for our Continental cousins. This is particularly evident on the shoulder straps and my medium test sample felt like a small, so consider ordering a size up (sizes small to XXXL are offered). Retail price is £159.99 although this season’s stock is discounted to around the £100 mark at many retailers.
