Castelli Superleggera Bib Shorts

Castelli have long been pioneers of lightweight shorts for hot-weather cycling but in pursuit of lighter weights, durability can be compromised. The Superleggera Bib Shorts are a result of Castelli's design team looking for an innovative way to achieve performance in the heat without over-compromising durability.

Hot Weather Cycling. No Sweat. 

It starts with Castelli using a cutting-edge development in woven fabric rather than the traditional knit fabric of standard shorts. This reduces weight by some 50% while still offering the same level of muscle support and non-transparency. Uniquely, the fabric is also graded so that it becomes lighter as you move down the leg. The last part of the leg weighs a mere 90 g/m² compared to the usual 220 g/m² of standard cycling shorts. Less weight equals greater comfort as the heat rises. 

Reduced moisture absorption is also key to the Superleggera's comfort and lack of weight. When dry, the shorts weigh a measly 141 grams. However, they actually absorb 30% less moisture too, so when you really get a sweat on they stay light. Compared to normal shorts that could be as much as 150 grams in weight saved - a welcome boost to power to your weight ratio as you head upwards.

While being barely-there light the fabric is durable and abrasion-resistant against the saddle too - though something this light won't like you hitting the tarmac so ride safe and rubber side down. The bib section of the shorts is borrowed from the Free Aero Race 4 Bib shorts for perfect support, comfort and moisture management while stretch-woven grippers, with Lycra, keep the shorts locked in place over the thighs. 

Progetto X² Air Seamless Seat Pad

Inside the shorts is Castelli's fabulously comfortable Progetto X2 Air Seamless seat pad. So what exactly makes it so comfortable? It starts with the first contact point against the skin. This upper skin-care material is now seamless and even softer than previous versions letting you enjoy smooth and chafe-free pedalling, no matter the distance. The next layer, Castelli’s infinitely variable thickness padding, imparts just the right level of support where you need it, thicker under the sit bones and thinner on the sides and under the perineum - the result is intense comfort with reduced bulk.

Lastly, to really push home superior comfort levels, perforated viscous padding is added under the highly sensitive ischial and perineum pressure areas, offering luxurious support when you're on the saddle for hours on end.