Vermarc Tinto bib shorts

Vermarc know a thing or two about designing cycling kit being the kit suppliers to Omega Pharma Quick-Step among others and this technology and knowledge gets passed down the range. For instance the 'basic, standard cut' (as Vermarc describe them) Tinto bib shorts here feel and fit like some brands' full on race shorts.

The Lycra used is a heavy knit which should bode well in terms of durability though the real benefit is the compression it provides to your working muscles. Compression clothing has been shown to have positive effects in reducing muscle fatigue and while the Tinto shorts are not designed or marketed as compression garments the restrictive feeling is noticeable over longer rides.

The 3D-OF chamois is made by bonding a polyester micro-fiber cover material to the padding by an OmniForm process. In a nutshell, most pads' shape is created by heating metal plates which basically melts the grooves into the foam. The 3D-OF uses minimal heat being added directly to the pad rather than the plates. The grooves are then formed with sound waves that remove the cells and air from the areas which then compress to form the grooves. Why? Using high heat can cause the foam to harden when it melts and a solid edge isn't something you want in your shorts.

It all sounds great in theory but to be perfectly honest I've never really noticed any hard edges in any shorts I've ridden. Saying that though the Vermarc pad is soft and comfortable and remained that way regardless of how many hours I wore them. The varying thicknesses of the pad don't bunch or move about meaning there isn't any irritation and they are just the right depth to avoid hot spots.

The rest of the shorts are well put together with tidy stitching and well shaped panels. The mesh bibs aren't overly tight over the shoulders even though I'm on the limit of height recommended for our size medium samples. The legs are held where they should be by silicone grippers, a move we've seen on a lot of shorts being more comfortable than elastic.

Sizing wise, although an Italian brand Vermarc are quite generous with their cut. According to the sizing chart I'm borderline medium/large but the mediums came up fine. If you want a slightly more relaxed fit, go up a size.

Overall priced at £63.99 the Vermarc Tintos are a decent pair of performance bibs without the associated price tag. The quality from the Italian factory is second to none with a solid construction and tidy finish. The compression fit and comfortable pad are ideal for long rides where they work together to combat fatigue and make them an all-round good buy.

Verdict

Comfortable, Italian-made bibs which are suited to the racer and mile muncher alike