Sportful’s Total Comfort bib shorts are, well, totally comfortable shorts ideal for long summer rides.
Sportful say the Total Comfort bib shorts are designed to “provide the perfect long distance riding experience” and, while few things in life are perfect, these are among the best short we’ve tested.
Why? The shorts are made from two distinct lycra fabrics. The first, TC Lycra Power, is used on the side panels and is extremely supportive, while the second, Lycra Ceramic, has an abrasion resistant finish which is designed to improve the longevity of the shorts but also prevent saddle slip. And it works to good effect, keeping your rear end comfortably planted on all but the slipperiest saddles.
The fit is superb. These shorts have less stretch than those made from a more traditional lycra so they take a little more maneuvering to pull them into place but, once there, the fabric is lightweight, supportive and fits like a second skin. The close fit and Italian cut means you should consider ordering a size up.
Otherwise, there’s a thick jacquard knit band at the end of either leg, which in turn have silicone dot grippers on the inside which lock the shorts in place. The Total Comfort chamois is the same as that used on the bib tights of the same name, which impressed us when reviewed over the winter.
It’s a heavily cushioned pad, variable thickness construction which is 18mm deep at its thickest. It’s a plush ride, certainly comfortable over long distances, and, despite its thickness, the chamois breathes reasonably well.
On that note, the shorts offer an impressive level of breathability, with only a little moisture build-up encountered on the backs of the shorts, above the sit bone, on warm rides ridden at a pace. The innovative bib straps also go some way to improving breathability. They’re heavily perforated, allowing air to pass through better than most, but they’re most impressive in providing a superb level of support, with the wide straps staying seated and untwisted in their entirety, from the short, over the shoulders and back down to the short.
The combination of the bib straps, innovative lycra construction and comfortable pad ensure the Sportful Total Comfort bib shorts will get plenty of use over the summer months.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Price: £135
Website: Sportful
UK distributor: C3 Products
