Assos T.Works_Teamshorts_S7

These Assos T.Works_Teamshorts_S7 are right up there with the most comfortable shorts I've tested, with a fantastic fit and attention to detail that shows the Swiss company really knows how to make high-quality performance cycle clothing. Even though £130 isn't exactly spare change, they offer better performance than shorts that cost a lot more money.

For a generation of cyclists, Assos has been the default brand of choice when it comes to investing in high-performance, high-quality and comfortable cycle clothing, whether for racing or training. Times have changed and there's now a lot more choice on the market, not only in the price range occupied by Assos but also a much stronger mid-range than ever before.

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The years of evolving and fine-tuning is evident in these shorts, and the pay-off is an excellent fit. This is where you're first impressed with the shorts after pulling them out of their wrapping paper and posh box. The fit is superb, with well-positioned and shaped panels, and the proprietary fabric providing a bit of compression without being restrictive. It's a race fit, but the stretch in the fabric ensures they're not overly tight.

The length of the legs is just right and the elastic band openings lined with silicone dots keep the shorts from moving about. Many shorts manufacturers have moved to raw cut and silicone-free leg openings, which are generally more comfortable, but I found nothing to complain about with the traditional Assos approach. It works.

A low waistline and wide elasticated bib straps that sit out wide at the front reduce pressure on your tummy and make comfort breaks easy. The back of the bib straps are filled in with a soft mesh fabric that is comfortable against the skin if you're riding without a baselayer. There's a glasses hook on the bib strap if you're interested, but it's something I never found useful. Glasses go in your helmet when not being worn. Discuss.

Get the shorts on and jump on the bike, and it's clear this is no cheap chamois. The S7 padded insert is an extraordinarily comfortable thing to sandwich between your delicates and a firm saddle. The distinctive purple dimpled surface hides multiple layers of foam with a four-way stretch and 8mm memory foam in key places. The construction of the pad is designed to ensure breathability and pull moisture away from the skin.

A key feature of the chamois is the goldenGate, which alludes to the fact that the middle of the pad isn't stitched to the shorts. This allows a small degree of movement and helps to ensure the pad stays in the optimum position. It does appear to allow the shorts to move with the pedalling motion more than other shorts, with less restriction noticeable, and no chafing or irritation at all.

All that combines to make it one of the most comfortable padded inserts I've used, not only compared with shorts in this price bracket but even those that cost a lot more. It's using technology filtered down from the company's more expensive products and doesn't skimp on any key comfort-providing features.

> Read our guide to the best bib shorts here

There's none of that bulky feeling you can get with some shorts, and I found them impressively comfortable for all sorts of rides, from short and intense chain gangs with lots of squirming around in the saddle, to longer 'epic' rides in the hills.

These Assos shorts combine hugely impressive comfort, with a fit and performance that makes them the equal of any shorts in the same price range and even those costing a significant amount more. I can live without the Mercedes F1 branding, but if you're a motorsport fan that might appeal.

Verdict

Refined race-fit with hugely impressive pad insert