Santini Photon 2 Bib Shorts C3 pad

These top-end Santini Photon 2 Bib Shorts are exceptionally comfortable, with a C3 padded insert that is ideal for longer rides, and a great fit and fabric construction.

These shorts make use of high-quality fabrics and the latest thinking in terms of panel shaping and construction.

> Find your nearest dealer here

Santini points out in a video on its website promoting these shorts that the measure of a good chamois is you don't notice it when cycling, and with the C3 padded insert in these shorts, that is certainly the case. For me, it's right up there with the very best padded bib shorts from the likes of Assos and Castelli. 

The padded insert achieves this impressive comfort thanks to gel inserts located under the sit bones, along with two layers of overlapping perforated multi-density foam, which provides a slimline pad yet with the comfort you need for rides in excess of four or five hours. It's impressive that the padded insert provides such generous comfort without excessive volume; you notice the lack of bulk immediately you get on the bike.

Furthermore, the shorts use an amusingly named 'soft shell conch' at the front, which provides extra protection for your man parts. There is no irritation from the edges of the pad due to the seamless bond between it and the shorts fabric, and the shorts provide the necessary breathability to stay dry during hot rides. The C3 pad strikes the perfect balance of cushioning and a slimline fit.

The padding impressed, then. But so too do the shorts and the fabrics used. The front, bottom and back of the shorts are made from Thunderbike Power fabric, which is light and elastic and holds its shape very well. Eschler side panels provide a level of compression and good breathability, ensuring these shorts cope when the mercury rises. The fabric also has an anti-UV treatment to protect skin against harmful rays.

Many top-end shorts these days have moved away from traditional stitched and silicone-lined hems, and instead use a raw cut opening. That's the case here, and a wide band of elastic material grips the legs securely with no pressure or discomfort, all while ensuring the shorts don't slide up and reveal your tan line...

> Buyer's Guide: The best cycling bib shorts

The wide and flat bib straps provide excellent comfort over the shoulders and are a generous length and stretch to prevent any undue pressure. The straps sit very wide at the front and the back panel is narrow, minimising the amount of extra material on your back, with a mesh panel boosting breathability.

There's so much choice in the cycling bib shorts market these days, and it can be harder than ever to justify spending the sort of money Santini is asking for these, but they are a noticeable performance step above most cheaper alternatives. They obviously can't compete with BTwin's £50 Aerofit bib shorts for value (I haven't worn those so can't say how they compare for comfort), but the fit is fantastic, comfort is up there with the best, and the quality of the materials and the construction marks them out. I've been really impressed with these shorts.

Verdict

Excellent comfort and fit – these bib shorts are up there with the best