‘Top’ insert

Santini ‘Top’ shorts

Santini Top bibshorts £45.00

Bib shorts, eh? Not the most exciting article in the cyclist’s wardrobe but surely the most important. Especially the insert, which largely determines their comfort over longer rides.

The insert used in Santini’s Top bib shorts is itself called Top, and according to the blurb was the Italian manufacturer’s top-end insert until quite recently. It features a cotton micro sponge fabric, different density foams at various places and a combination of ‘anatomical creases’ and anatomical contours to ensure optimal comfort. It is excellent.

It is stitched to a conventional Lycra short with mesh shoulder straps and regular leg-grippers in place of the elasticated band found on some Santini shorts. Decoration is limited to a tricolore Santini label on each leg.

Best of all from this wearer’s perspective is leg length, which is spot on if you don’t want the edge any lower than mid thigh. Otherwise, there is little to say about well-made shorts that really do go unnoticed in all circumstances.

Black – sizes XS – XXXXL, Navy – sizes S-XXXXL