dhb overhauled their bib short range in 2011 and these Aero Race shorts (£59.99) sit in the middle of the three-strong collection, with the entry level Aeron (£39.99) below and the top-end Aeron Pro (£74.99) above.
The difference between the Aeron and the Aeron Race starts with the fabric, with the heavier Action 205g material made up of 80 nylon and 20 per cent elastane. That gives the shorts a hard-wearing and secure construction, while offering plenty of stretch.
When first pulling on the shorts you’re grateful for that extra give as they feel a little snug. That, however, is because of the anatomical design, which means the shorts are manufactured to fit your body’s position on the bike, rather than when in the cafe.
And the shorts fit perfectly on the bike, which is where you want them to feel comfortable. dhb’s sizing is generally accurate and the medium shorts tested fit me (5’11”, 75kg) like a glove.
As you move up the dhb bib shorts range, you’ll notice an improvement in the chamois used, with the Aeron Race using Cytech’s Giro Air pad. The pad is designed specifically with a perineal area engineered specifically for the male anatomy, while the perforated design aids air flow. The pad’s designed to be comfortable for rides of three to five hours and it stood up to rides of that length throughout this test.
The Aeron Race bib shorts are available in four colours, with a well-judged splash of red, blue, white or grey on the side of each leg, as well as on the stitching below the braces and and across the lower back.
As for the braces, the mesh fabric provides extra stretch while aiding air flow, ideal for warm weather (put these shorts near the top of your wish list for an affordable option for a spring training camp or prepare early for next summer).
Apparently the material contains a carbon fibre yarn which “helps to regulate body temperature and reduce stress on the body”, although its not within our capability to truly put that to the test. Either take dhb’s word for it or otherwise enjoy an already excellent pair or shorts.
Heading into autumn, the dhb Aeron Race bib shorts have proved a worthy addition to the cycling wardrobe, either as a standalone item to enjoy any last summer sunshine, or doubled up with knee warmers. While the £59.99 price tag is hardly bargain basement, you’re getting a superbly-made pair of shorts that perform like those with a considerably higher price tag.
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