Endura Windchill Biblong (with pad)

Endura's Windchill Biblongs are a sophisticated mid-range bib tight designed to keep the elements at bay, so we can focus on racking up long, steady miles. They're generally well thought out and should last a good while too.

Materials-wise, we have the classic nylon/polyester/elastane mix, but detailing and quality of construction is of a very high standard. Ours came with their 600 insert but there is a version without, which shaves a tenner off the ticket price and allows rider-specific customisation.

Find your nearest dealer here 

Buy these online here 

Not that there's anything wrong with the 600. It's a medium-density gel affair with the usual Coolmax fibres and silver threading to keep the crotch temperate and hygienic. Lumps 'n' bumps seemed broadly compatible with my own. This certainly helped when drumming one's unique patina into a particularly hard leather perch.

However, padding density around the peripheries proved a little on the thin side when riding my mountain-bike-framed Univega further than 35 miles, leading to some minor, localised chafing. A moot point for many, but something to consider if you alternate between genres of bike, or switch to mountain bike derivatives during the depths of winter.

Staying in this region, roadside bladder stops are at best undignified in bibs, but a zippered fly allows direct access. That said, the Lycra braces proved a little too supportive and demanded I adopt a slightly self-conscious stoop while answering nature's call.

'Ergonomic' thigh, crotch and shin sections employ low-density Teflon-coated windproof and breathable membranes. These supposedly retain heat when wind-chill sends temperatures tumbling, while dispersing unwanted warmth. Breathability is a relative term where polyesters are concerned, though, especially wind repellent versions, so I wasn't surprised by some faint, lingering clamminess when the temperature was in double figures.

Panels offered just the right levels of support and blocked cruel coastal blasts, and that additional warmth will be welcomed by riders who suffer from tendonitis or similar knee problems.

Water repellency is also good, with even relatively heavy rain beading up and rolling away. Eventually, though, these do turn soggy and I wasn't surprised to find they take a good while to dry when right royally soaked. Then again, despite several hours in the rain, my legs have never felt cold and miserable, which bodes well for bitter midwinters.

Summing up, I'd probably plump for the cheaper version and use my own shorts/inserts, and a little more give in the shoulder straps would be appreciated. Otherwise, they deliver, and at a very competitive price too.

Verdict

Competent and generally very comfortable winter longs