Altura are renowned for producing good value cycling gear and that reputation is reinforced by these versatile, affordable high quality Progel women's bib shorts.
So what do you get for your £60? Well, the hardwearing Lycra ensures these bib shorts will last you a while and the antibacterial qualities of the pad also add to the durability of the product.
I noticed the shorts have a multi-density stretch insert with gel sit-bone pads ensuring you can spend all day in the saddle with no soreness. Silicone grippers stop the shorts riding up and giving you a wedgie.
These shorts feature a breathable mesh bib, which reduces body heat allowing you to keep cool, although the bib straps are placed wider on the shoulders than I'm used to. Having said this, when riding I felt no difference although I couldn't help but think Altura had accidentally made them for men.
On the shorts you will find a reflective trim allowing for extra safety in those dark evenings or early mornings, ensuring these bib shorts have all areas covered. The white and black colour scheme is pretty standard but the padding is hot pink. How useless, they only look good on your bedroom floor. Some pink on the outer design would have been nice to see.
As I returned from my ride pretty happy with the shorts, I took them off and was surprised to see that my legs looked like a Strava route. The seams are machine-sewn and therefore slightly raised. I can see how the seams have dug into my skin and I can imagine if you are riding 70+km these seams might chafe a little. Having said this I did not feel any chafing on my 50-55km rides.
The Progels are the most comfortable shorts I have ever worn, with a great colour scheme and design. I would definitely buy and wear them for training or a commute.
Verdict
Comfortable women's shorts for a big day out
road.cc test report
Make and model: Altura Progel Women's Bib Shorts
Size tested: UK 12, Black
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
From Altura's site:
A high performance female friendly bib for the serious rider.
* Highly durable soft touch stretch fabric
* 8 panel pre-shaped bib design for ultimate comfort and fit
* Women's Progel stretch multi density insert
* Specific pre-shaped women's cut designed bib
* Silicone leg grippers to keep firmly in place
* Reflective trim details for increased visibility
* Performance fit
Rate the product for quality of construction:
7/10
The straps annoyed me a bit.
Rate the product for performance:
9/10
Very good. No digging in or chafing occurred.
Rate the product for durability:
8/10
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
9/10
Rate the product for value:
8/10
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
Very well.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
* Well fitted
* Gel padding for extra comfort, not baggy
* Colour scheme, black and white with pink inside
* Great fit
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
* The straps are quite wide with potential for poor fit
* Sewn seams imprint the skin
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes.
Would you consider buying the product? Definitely.
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes I would.
I usually ride: My best bike is:
I've been riding for: I ride: I would class myself as:
I regularly do the following types of riding:
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1 comments
I find it refreshing that Altura have resisted sticking a bit of pink on these very nice shorts just because they are aimed at women.
Went to my local bike store today, and the women's clothing section has shrunk. The pathetic selection was 3 jerseys (pink, white and pink or black and pink) and one pair of shorts (black with pink trim).
A few pairs of shoes (in size 4 cos women are all dainty little flowers), all white and flamin' pink. Pink stinks.