Morvelo Rip 'R bib shorts

Morvelo made their name producing stylish t-shirts, then branched out into technical cycling clothing a few years ago and, considering their relative lack of experience have produced really good bib shorts with these Rip 'R shorts, easily rivalling the best offerings from the most well established rivals.

The most important element of bib shorts, and the bit we'll focus on first here, is the padded insert. Or chamois as it's more commonly called; we stopped using leather from the chamois goat a long long time ago, thankfully, but the name persists.

The Italian Dolomiti dual layer perforated insert has two levels of high density memory foam, and provides excellent comfort without much bulk. The two levels of foam work together. The first level aims to provide shock absorption for the hip and pelvic bones while the second layer of perforated foam ensures good ventilation to keep the insert dry. All sounds impressive on paper, but importantly in the saddle the insert works wonderfully.

I found them happily comfortable on my typical two-hour rides over a variety of terrain, and when I ventured out for long four to six-hour rides at the weekends there was no fall off in comfort. They're at least as comfortable as the inserts used by the likes of Rapha and Castelli, so top marks to Morvelo for getting the critical part of the shorts spot on.

Around the insert is a pair of shorts constructed from Power Lycra producing tight fitting shorts that are free of restriction in any area, thanks to cut and placement of seams. As with the matching jersey, Morvelo have used a wide elastic hem for the leg openings. This produces a very comfortable fit around the leg with none of the irritation or pressure of a narrow elastic band with silicone tape.

The bib straps are generously wide and just the right length to fit comfortably over the shoulders. They're mesh-lined, as is the large back panel, for maximum breathability over a base layer.

The shorts have proven durable, with flatlock stitching throughout holding everything together. And as with the jersey, the shorts have a Sun Protection Factor 50 to protect the skin in hot weather. There are slim, but long, reflective tabs on the back of the legs, which is a very nice detail for late evening rides, especially as we head into autumn.

The pattern is pretty bold on the shorts and you'll probably want to carefully consider the jersey you partner with the to avoid a clash. Best thing is to pair them with the matching Morvelo Rip 'R jersey to really look the part.

Verdict

Really comfortable bib shorts with a great padded insert and very good fit; stylish too