Endura FS260 Pro bibknickers

New for 2009, these 3/4 length versions of Endura's well respected FS-260 bibshorts will give you the extra warmth you need when the temperature drops. They're not full on winter gear but great for cooler conditions and early starts.

Choosing bibs that fit can end up as an uneasy compromise between your height and waist measurements. Fine if you're a 6' tall racing snake, less great if you happen to be of average height and fond of the occasional pie. According to Endura's sizing chart I'm a size L but Endura sent us an M. This made my heart sink because, as a longstanding fan of the bibshort version, I was really looking forward to trying these. Happily they fitted perfectly and without bursting any stitching. In fact, they have to be the most comfortable pair of 3/4s that I've worn and I'll be sizing down for any future purchases.

At £70 these are at the higher end of the scale for 3/4s although way short of the bonus-busting likes of Assos. That said, you get plenty for your money. Fieldsensor fabric is of a higher class than standard lycra, the seams are all flatlocked and you get lightweight mesh panels on the back, the straps and down both sides. The styling is racy and distinctive but without being over the top. I particularly liked the way that the white stitching which runs down the back of each leg holds in place a strip of reflective material. It's a nice touch, especially as these 3/4s are likely to be used on dark mornings and evenings. As an added bonus there are reflective logos on each thigh, showing that these are a well thought out product in their own right, not just race shorts with six inches of extra leg. I wasn't sure about the pocket in the middle of the back though. It's cute, but unless you wear a pocketless top it's of limited use.

The pad is perhaps the only aspect of these bibs which could be improved. That's not to say it's bad – it fitted perfectly and was very comfortable – but there are more technical pads out there. For example dhb's Finchdean 3/4s cost a fiver more but have a pad with antibacterial properties and gel inserts.

Endura describe these as having "Coolmax double layer knee panels" but our test versions only had a single layer. That said, with all that mesh these bibs are a little on the light side for full winter use but unless you suffer really badly with the cold they should be fine for short blasts, club runs and commutes.

Verdict

An excellent addition to the range, perfect for cool weather rides and an excellent fit.