Kalf Flux Chevron Mens Bib Short

These great-value Kalf Flux Chevron bib shorts, from the new brand available exclusively through Evans Cycles (check out my review of some Kalf summer mitts here), offer very good comfort levels married to a quality chamois.

As Kalf states, any bib short is first measured by the quality of its pad. If it can't stand up to the punishment of long rides and damp out harshness from the road and saddle, the rest of the garment is relatively superfluous.

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Happily, the Elastic Interface Flux chamois is well up to the task. It's a decent size, and the covering fabric is dual density, which Kalf claims helps collect and expel moisture. Kalf must have faith in the fabric, because there aren't any ventilation holes, and it's well-placed it would seem: I had no sense that I overheated or sweated more in this key area than I otherwise would.

The high-density foam is effective at eliminating road buzz and maximising comfort, although it's not graded in the same way that you find in the likes of Castelli's excellent Progetto X2 Air pad. Nevertheless, it's well proportioned and doesn't feel over-plump, so although it looks a touch basic, it's not something you notice while riding. A century sportive settled any fears on that front.

The legs are medium length (a relief for me – I like to cultivate my tan lines a little further up the leg than the current trend of longer bib shorts), and feature flatlock-stitching, as well as textured grippers at the leg to ensure a comfortable adhesion, using the chevron styling to form the pattern.

Invisible to the eye is a thin internal band that supports the elasticity of the grippers. Although not a big issue, I found that it's noticeable at the end of the legs. It's not uncomfortable, but there are numerous examples of brands that don't feel the need to include thin bands, instead relying on the natural elasticity of the fabric to apply the form fit. That aside, the rest of the Lycra fabric is supportive in a performance-fit manner without feeling restrictive.

The bib section features a flat band on the shoulders for extra comfort and elasticity. Kalf says the bonded bridge at the top of the back helps pull the waist of the shorts inwards while freeing up neck space; in practice this is successful, helping to distribute pressure evenly and comfortably across the shoulders. In fact, you barely notice it, which is just about the highest praise you can give to a bib section. The straps also feature nods to the distinctive chevron design, with flashes of coral visible in the bib bridge and in the grippers.

A light and airy mesh-like fabric covers your rearside, and as a result they're cool shorts to wear, offering a little protection for chilly mornings but really stepping into their own when the temperature rises.

> Buyer's Guide: 18 of the best cycling bib shorts

Comfortable, high performing and well considered, their construction quality is very strong despite feeling summer-lightweight in bulk, with all material returning well after a series of washes. Throw in the competitive £84.99 asking price and they're a great value option. There's a matching jersey – you can glimpse it in the pics, review to come – if you like the coordinated look.

Verdict

Great performing bib shorts with a very reasonable price tag