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review

Polaris Pursuit Bib Shorts

9
£69.99

VERDICT:

9
10
A good quality pair of bib shorts with a decent pad allows you to ride in comfort without denting your wallet.
Weight: 
237g
Contact: 
www.polaris-apparel.co.uk

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Bib shorts can make or break a ride. The Polaris Pursuit bib shorts are not quite at the top of the Polaris range but they're good.

Polaris have been in the business of making clothing and accessories for cyclists for over 20 years. They started off in mountain biking and have gradually expanded their range to include road and urban collections.

The Pursuit bib shorts have a mesh upper which provides breathability but more importantly ensures they stay in place. The rest of the body of the shorts is Nylon/Lycra, and the flat-lock stitching on the seams prevents any irritation or chafing so you are allowed to ride in comfort.

The make or break part of any bib shorts is the pad. In the Pursuit shorts you get a multi-density anti-bacterial gel pad. This not only offers comfort but the Coolmax material ensures the sweat is shifted away from the seated area. The cushioning effect of the pad maintains comfort no matter how long or far your riding takes you.

The legs are kept in place with a silicone gripper with a logo on the outside. The gripper is more than adequate at preventing any substantial movement.

I've used these shorts over the last few weeks, including some long rides. The pad didn't have me wanting to stand or worse. The depth is fine and provided a decent layer between me and the saddle. It also did a fine job of making sure everything was well ventilated so you remain dry on longer rides.

In summary, a decent pair of bib shorts at a decent price. For £69.99 you get comfort and a pair of shorts that look pretty good too, just the combination.

Verdict

A good quality pair of bib shorts with a decent pad allows you to ride in comfort without denting your wallet.

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road.cc test report

Make and model: Polaris Pursuit Bib Shorts

Size tested: Medium

Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?

The Polaris Pursuit bib shorts are not their top of the range shorts but not far off. The shorts are designed to allow you to ride for long periods of time in the knowledge you'll be seated comfortably. You get a multi density pad which is deep enough to satisfy the most demanding of backsides.

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

The pad is dense and prevents the build up of sweat to ensure you can concentrate on your riding. The nylon based fabric has an elastane mix which provides a smooth finish for extra finesse. Polaris state:

High quality bib short with mesh upper & multi density gel pad

Superior Nylon based fabric with high elastane content Multi density anti-bacterial Gel pad for maximum protection

Ergonomic paneling with flatlock seams for a smooth and comfortable fit

Soft bound mesh bib upper for breathability and comfort

Logo elastic silicone leg gripper to prevent ride up

Rate the product for quality of construction:
 
8/10

Flatlock seams keep them out of the way, the mesh upper ensures the shorts stay in place but maintaining breathability.

Rate the product for performance:
 
9/10

I've been impressed with the look, finish and ultimately the performance of the Pursuit shorts.

Rate the product for durability:
 
8/10

The elastane in the mix helps make sure the shorts are easy to get in place without feeling as though you are in danger of pulling them apart.

Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
 
8/10

Lightweight despite a dense pad.

Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
 
8/10

Easy to get on and feel like a top level pair of shorts.

Rate the product for value:
 
9/10

£69.99 for a top performing set of bib shorts - good value.

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

Better than I expected.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

The fit and feel make for a pleasant ride, the pad completes the line-up.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

The silicone gripper is almost too good, especially directly on the skin.

Did you enjoy using the product? Yes.

Would you consider buying the product? Yes.

Would you recommend the product to a friend? I would.

Overall rating: 9/10

About the tester

Age: 44  Height: 178cm  Weight: 80kg

I usually ride: Currently riding a Pinnacle Evaporite Three  My best bike is: As above

I've been riding for: 5-10 years  I ride: Every day  I would class myself as: Experienced

I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, commuting, sportives, mtb, Not yet but looking to dip my toe in the world of TT

 

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1 comments

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billyman | 10 years ago
0 likes

I do like them, right in my price range also

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