Reviewing recently a pair of tights with integral chamois, I noted that I had never previously cared for such garments on account of what I assumed was their general tendency to sag and slide down – from my preferred placement nice and tight around the nether regions.
Turns out that, if not an afflictor of the garment type in general, the tendency exists in isolated cases at least. For evidence, see Bontrager’s Race Thermal Bib Tight (with chamois). On first acquaintance, the “tight” is a fine example of the breed; tailored for a “classic” cut using several thermal Lycra panels, equipped with Bontager’s inForm synthetic chamois and with zippers closing lower legs provided with silicon grippers, it, er, ticks all the boxes.
The chamois is excellent. So, too, is the fabric. The former is properly shaped, well-proportioned and well-cushioned while the latter is warm right down to four or five degrees above freezing. The zipper/gripper lower leg closure is snug and secure and the shoulder straps are cut just the right length for this 5’11”, size L tester.
Trouble is, there is a bit too much fabric somewhere and not quite enough somewhere else. Either the legs are too short or the section around the lower abdomen is too generous. Either way, pulling the chamois snug around the ‘nads pulls on the nicely stretchy fabric, which then transfers the pull to the legs. This in turn either pulls the hem up or the chamois back down. If the former, the front of the belly section feels like it requires a substantial belly to fill it.
Which is to say, perhaps, that the “sturdier”, more rotund gentleman may have found his perfect tight; this is a men’s garment, note. Those of svelte physique would do well to try a pair on before, er, plumping for a purchase.
Bontrager Race Thermal Bib Tight with inForm chamois £84.99; sizes XS – XXXL
