The Vermarc PR.R Mare bib shorts combine an excellent fit with a multi-fabric construction and a very good chamois in a pair of shorts which have become a firm favourite this summer.
The Mare bib shorts arrived at RoadCyclingUK with the Mare short sleeve jersey, also from the flagship collection of the Belgian supplier to Omega Pharma-QuickStep and Lotto-Belisol, and we were equally impressed with that. Read our review here.
The shorts are made in Italy from a number of fabrics, with three worth focusing on. The majority of the short is made from a conventional lycra fabric which is lightweight and comfortable next to the skin, with a compressive fit without feeling restrictive. On the whole, the shorts, like the jersey, have a close cut, but one which places each of the various panels in the correct place, with a secure fit and no loose fabric around the chamois.
Otherwise, a thicker and more durable fabric, dubbed ‘Power Lycra’, is used on the inner part of the shorts, and so the area likely to come into regular contact with the saddle. The anti-abrasion fabric provides a little additional grip between the short and the saddle, and improves durability when the two come in to contact. While we wouldn’t necessarily expect to encounter any durability issues on a pair of shorts of this price after a couple of months of riding, we expect the ‘Power Lycra’ to continue to do its job on a pair of shorts which will undoubtedly get plenty more use now the review period is over.
Otherwise, a perforated polyester fabric is used on the lightweight braces, adding a little breathability, though the most important function of the braces is to support the short and these work with good effect. They’re not the widest braces we’ve seen but they’re wide enough and we haven’t encountered any discomfort on longer rides. The braces are also said to have carbon fibres weaved into them and Vermarc claim that is to help improve blood circulation – but we’ll reserve judgement.
Finally, as far as the construction of the short is concerned, Vermarc have used a 4.5cm-deep laser cut band at the end of each leg, not dissimilar to that used on the equally impressive dhb ASV short, and that is perhaps the best feature. The inside of the hem is lined with a grippy substance and that not only ensures the short stays locked in place, but, without the single strip of silicone gripper often found on shorts, ensures an even distribution of pressure, while, with no hem to speak of, also means there’s a very clean transition between the short and leg. All that contributes significantly to what is a very comfortable pair of bib shorts.
As for the pad, it’s one dubbed ‘Long Distance’ by Vermarc and we’ve found it very comfortable on long rides. The chamois has a fairly simple design, but it’s well-padded, with a multi-density construction – Vermarc say the padding itself is cut to support the rider at crucial contact points on the saddle, with prostate relief cut-out in the centre and independent glute panels said to move with the body – and a waffle-like texture designed to improve breathability. Regardless of the other features on a pair of bib shorts, the comfort of the pad is crucial to their long-term success and Vermarc have got it right here.
Conclusion
The Mare bib shorts come from Vermarc’s flagship collection and their performance justifies that lofty position in the Belgian brand’s range. Their £105.99 price tag also puts them at the upper end of the market but comfortable shorts are a very worthwhile investment and these are just that.
Price: £105.99
Sizes: S-XXL
Colour: red/black
Website: Vermarc
UK distributor: Chicken Cycle Kit
