My first pair of bib shorts were a product of British company Altura. I then swallowed the pill and became a disciple of Rapha, but I was happy to go back to my roots and test ride the Altura Podium Progel bib shorts to see if I was missing anything.
First, here's what Altura say. The Podium Progel shorts appear to sit in the mid-point of the Altura range, and are described as: "High Performance bib shorts with multi-panel design for the serious rider."
Features include:
• Progel stretch multi-density insert with gel sit bone padding
• Premium quality stretch fabric
• Anatomically shaped panels
• Deep elastic leg grippers
• Highly breathable mesh bib with high stretch rear for stability
• Reflective detail
• 80% Nylon, 20% Polyurethane
As for Progel, this apparently is Altura's "award-winning insert technology that utilises strategically placed gel protection combined antibacterial properties."
But enough of the marketing spiel; how do the shorts perform in practice?
My three main concerns with bib shorts, in no particular order, are: Do they look good? Are they comfortable? Do they offer value for money?
Well, the good news is that these shorts are comfortable and haven't given any problems in that area when I've ridden in them. All the important anatomical parts are housed securely and I haven't experienced any saddle sores or chaffing. In fact they've been so comfortable, including on a wet ride over Dartmoor, that I'd forgotten that I was meant to be reviewing their performance.
I'm 6' 2" with a Mr Muscle type build: average torso but long limbs. The only problem I encountered with the fit of the XL bib shorts was around the leg grippers. They are the first I've had, including previous XL Altura shorts, where the grippers were slightly loose around my thighs. This raised potential issues of compatibility with knee warmers, and also wasn't a great look or even ego boost.
The shorts are available in any colour you like as long as it's black. They do have a fairly classic look as the colouring is only broken up by the "Altura" lettering running horizontally around each leg trim and "Progel" running vertically up the outside of the thigh. These adornments are understated and give a quality appearance to the product.
In terms of comfort these Altura bib shorts compare well with more high-end products I've used, and at a price of £64.99 they offer value for money. The appearance is smart and almost timeless, with the only negative aspect being the fit around the thighs. I'm sure on more average body shapes that wouldn't be a problem, but who has an average body shape?
Maybe I'll use them under my winter tights to get all the comfort benefits without having the wind whistling up my shorts leg.
Altura Podium Progel Bib Shorts, £64.99 from Zyro.co.uk
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