The Lusso Women’s Paragon Signature CB Bib Shorts have impressed me. They have a decent chamois that offers comfort for longer rides, boast a superb easy-pee design, and strike the perfect balance between compression and comfort.

I find that Lusso kit rarely disappoints. The brand is always looking to move forward where product design is concerned and the comfort, construction and easy-pee design of its Paragon Signature CB Bib Shorts represent a great example of why it is managing to hold its own in a very competitive market right now.

The shorts’ standout feature is their CB – comfort break – system. There are no zips, magnets or crossed-over straps in sight. Instead, Lusso uses robust, elasticated brace-like bibs which are connected by a horizontal rear strap.

This means no fumbling to align a magnet and, more importantly, no huge strain on the straps when you pull down the bib to pee. I think this is down to the positioning of the straps, the profile of the top edge of the shorts, and the durable elastic and stitching.

The set-up loosely mirrors Velocio’s FlyFree design. I can’t compare it to the very latest FlyFree design – I’m comparing it with a 2022 pair – but I found there to be more wriggle room in Lusso’s version, and the horizontal attachment feels more robust.

2026-Lusso-Womens-Paragon-Comfort-Break-Bib-shorts-straps-back.jpg
2026-Lusso-Womens-Paragon-Comfort-Break-Bib-shorts-straps-back.jpg (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

On the bike, comfort is faultless; you don’t really feel the shorts. There are very few seams, and the fabric feels exceptionally smooth against the skin. The compression level is also not excessive, so there’s no squeezing or pinching.

The raw-cut leg openings make for a clean finish with a noticeable absence of leg grippers, which means no irritation (if you are prone to that) and no risk of silicone tabs/strips wearing off over time.

2026-Lusso-Womens-Paragon-Comfort-Break-Bib-shorts-cuff-detail.jpg
2026-Lusso-Womens-Paragon-Comfort-Break-Bib-shorts-cuff-detail.jpg (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

With certain leg or knee warmers, the shorts rode up my leg a little, which is not ideal given their already shorter-than-average leg length. They did however stay put when I wasn’t wearing warmers.

The fabric itself is light and forgiving. I’d liken it to that used for Santini’s Redux Speed Shorts, with a little less compression. In my experience, this kind of matt finish can be prone to showing sweat patches. I was testing the black version and didn’t have any issues with this.

2026-Lusso-Womens-Paragon-Comfort-Break-Bib-shorts-back.jpg
2026-Lusso-Womens-Paragon-Comfort-Break-Bib-shorts-back.jpg (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

Despite its thin construction, the fabric remains fully opaque in use. Its lightweight nature makes me question its long-term durability, however. Bib shorts often reach the end of their lifespan when the fabric begins to lose opacity or the chamois deteriorates. The thinner fabric here could potentially accelerate that. I would personally steer clear of the lighter colours on offer – Canyon, Slate and Violet.

The Italian-made Dolomiti pad, featuring multiple foam densities and a gel insert, offers excellent protection and support. Lusso claims it delivers comfort for rides exceeding eight hours. In practice, I found it to strike the right balance between bulk and cushioning. I had no issues with chafing or soreness.

2026-Lusso-Womens-Paragon-Comfort-Break-Bib-shorts-chamois.jpg
2026-Lusso-Womens-Paragon-Comfort-Break-Bib-shorts-chamois.jpg (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

Sizing feels accurate. I tested a medium and it fits well. They are available in sizes XS to 2XL. My only niggle is that leg length, which is shorter than I like. This will appeal to some riders, however.

The supportive waistband panel provides a secure feel without creating pressure when riding in an aggressive position. The bib section is well judged and doesn’t feel like it’s pulling on the shoulders.

2026-Lusso-Womens-Paragon-Comfort-Break-Bib-shorts-legs-front.jpg
2026-Lusso-Womens-Paragon-Comfort-Break-Bib-shorts-legs-front.jpg (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

Branding is bold. I’d go so far as to say it’s a little out-of-character for Lusso. While this doesn’t bother me – I quite like promoting a British brand – it might not be to everyone’s liking. I’m not convinced it’s the most durable logo either. It could be prone to peeling over time, making the shorts look tatty in the long run.

Value

At £160, I’d say the Paragon Signature CB Shorts are mid-range. Assos’s £165 Dyora R Bib Shorts fall broadly in line with Lusso’s on price. They offer more leg length and SPF protection in the fabric, but no comfort-break design.

Santini’s Redux Speed Shorts (which I have already mentioned) cost £197, bridging the gap between Lusso’s and the premium £200+ options from the likes of Rapha and Jelenew.

There are also brands offering decent shorts for less. Stolen Goat’s £100 Black Ibex Bodyline Bib Shorts remain among my favourites and the same goes for Bioracer’s £104.67 Epic Bib Shorts.

> Best cycling bib shorts 2026 — enhance your comfort in the saddle with these top picks

Conclusion

While I remain sceptical about the durability of some aspects of the Paragon CB Shorts, I have not been using them for long enough to see any deterioration yet. Considering the excellent fit, superior comfort and brilliantly executed comfort-break design, I’d say Lusso is offering a package that delivers performance to rival premium brands. The price is perhaps a little higher than I expected, but it remains competitive.

Test Report

What does the manufacturer say about this product?:

The Paragon Signature CB Bib Shorts combine our supple signature fabric, innovative gripperless technology, and the integrated EasyPeesy® comfort-break system to create the ultimate balance of elite performance and long-ride convenience.

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of this product:

Integrated EasyPeesy® System: A hardware-free comfort-break solution built directly into the high-waist signature material, allowing for effortless mid-ride stops without removing layers.

Advanced Gripperless Technology: Engineered with raw-cut leg openings and micro-knitted Italian fabric that stays perfectly in place without the need for silicone, eliminating skin irritation and sausage-leg effect.

A premium, high-ventilation chamois featuring dual-density foam and gel inserts, rated for 8+ hours of superior long-distance comfort on gravel or tarmac.

High-Stretch Straps: Supple low-profile white straps designed to stay hidden under light-coloured jerseys while providing the necessary elasticity for the EasyPeesy® mechanism.

Adaptive Front Profile: A high-coverage waist design that scales with size, offering enhanced core support and a flattering, aerodynamic aesthetic for every build.

Second-Skin Feel: Minimalist seam construction and high-stretch, lightweight materials provide unrestrictive movement, designed to make you forget you’re wearing them.

Signature Detailing: Finished with a cream reflective logo and a mid 8.5″ inseam for a modern silhouette.

British Heritage: Proudly designed and made in Manchester, UK, ensuring the highest standards of manufacturing quality.

Rate the product overall for quality (1-10):
9/10
Rate the product for performance when used for its designed purpose (1-10):
9/10
Rate the product for value (1-10):
5/10

How does the price compare to that of similar products in the market, including ones recently tested?:

Mid-range – sat between budget friendly options such as Bioracer and Stolen Goat and premium offerings from Rapha and Jelenew.

Rate the product for fit:
9/10

Any comments on sizing? Did it size up too big or too small?:

Spot on, stay true to size.

Rate the product for comfort:
9/10

Any further comments on water resistance?:

NA

Rate the pad for performance and comfort:
9/10

Any issues with durability?:

I have my reservations about this kind of matt fabric – I’ve experienced transparency with similar fabrics. I would certainly be sticking to black when it comes to colour. To date, they are holding their opacity. The logo may also be questionable in the long term.

How easy is the product to care for? How did it respond to being washed?:

No issues. Quick drying fabric.

Did you enjoy using the product? Absolutely

Would you consider buying the product?

I’m torn – the comfort, fit and easy pee design are top notch, but I am sceptical about the fabric and logo durability.

Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes

Use this box to explain your overall score

A really well-made pair of shorts that are comfortable for even the longest of rides. The comfort break design is great. My scepticism about durability can’t influence the score as I’ve not seen deterioration during the testing period.

Overall rating: 9/10

About the tester

Age: Height: cmWeight: 64kg

I usually ride: RoadMy best bike is: Carbon road.

I’ve been riding for: Over 20 yearsI ride: Most daysI would class myself as: Expert

I regularly do the following types of riding: Commuting, Touring, Club riding, Fitness riding,