The dhb Vaeon Zero Padded bib-tight is warm enough to wear in the coldest conditions, offers a comfortable fit, excellent windproofing, and an impressive level of protection from the rain.
We tested the Zero bib-tight in a range of conditions, from sub-zero temperatures to gales, and concluded our trial with a memorable three-hour ride in constant rain and a temperature of about eight degrees. It has coped well with all that the recent, savage weather conditions have thrown at it.
The fit was excellent. The extremely high bib, one that covered much of the rib cage, delivered on its implicit pledge of warmth and cozyness, and happily didn’t feel restrictive, either. The chunky zip has proved robust, though these are still early days in our acquaintance. The zip guard, nothing more than a thin strip of fabric, remained clear of the runners when zipping and unzipping, and folded into place when required.
The braces, while not as wide as some we’ve tested, spread pressure adequately. We weren’t left with the feeling that they were digging in. Freedom of movement in the legs wasn’t impeded by the large Windslam panels, despite their comparative lack of stretch with the lycra deployed in the rest of the garment. More importantly, the panels performed as advertised, and provided an effective barrier between the front of our legs and the wind, from the thigh to below the knee.
The Teflon coating, however, was the Zero bib-tight’s most surprisingly effective asset. Two minutes into our final outing inside them, drizzle turned to downpour, and five minutes later, back to drizzle. Rain remained a feature of the ride for the next 55 miles, never less than constant and occasionally heavy. The Zero did a fine job of preventing it from reaching the skin.
Cytech’s Tour insert was functional rather than outstanding. We tried it with two saddles – San Marco’s Concor and PRO’s Falcon – and found it only adequate with either. The classic love-heart shape provided the expected coverage, but offered only a basic flexibility. The plushness that marks superior offerings was absent.
Our first experience with bib-tights equipped with stirrups rather than with zips or a simple elasticated hem was a happy one. The fabric hoops at the end of each leg fitted unobtrusively beneath the sole of the foot, and the continuation of the fleece lining was a nice touch, in every sense.
Conclusion
The dhb Vaeon Zero bib-tight is a versatile garment that stood up well to the inhospitable weather that characterised our test period; conditions that offered only various combinations of cold, wind, and wet.
The fit was excellent, the windproof panels performed as advertised, and the effectiveness of the Teflon coating exceeded our expectations. Such an impressive degree of weather proofing from a bib-tight offering change from £80 represents good value indeed.
Price: £79.99
Size: X-Small to Extra, Extra Large
Colour: Black
Website: Wiggle
