ProView – GOREWEAR Long Distance Bib Shorts+ Womens

GOREWEAR’s thoughtful design on the Women’s Long Distance Bib Shorts not only looked fantastic, but provided that all day comfort that you’re looking for in both a bib and a chamois.  

I’ve been riding on the glorious gravel and singletrack surrounding Boulder this spring in preparation for an upcoming race. If you know Boulder, you know it can be 90 degrees one day and snowing the next. These bibs were breathable and quick drying on the spicy hot days, and the windproof liner added extra protection on the cool spring evenings. 

Fit/Comfort

I typically am a medium on the bottom, but according to the GOREWEAR size chart, my measurements matched the small and to my delight, they fit perfectly! The compression felt light to me, but worked out just right without cutting off the circulation on my ‘meatier’ thighs. The inseam length hit right above the knee, which is slightly longer than I prefer. The chamois are just the right density and were comfortable for several hours in the saddle. I often got frustrated with how thin the bib straps were. I would’ve liked to have seen more material or thought put into the design on both the straps and where the straps connect to the bib short. When in the riding position, the waist wasn’t even noticeable, the beautiful thing about bibs! Whenever standing in the upright position, the waist did feel big and I would’ve appreciated a touch more compression in that area. 

Look/Style

The Long Distance Bibs are sharp. I tested the black color option and they went great with all of my cycling gear. The flatlock seams give the bibs a clean look while also adding comfort and avoiding any rubbing. The subtle classic GORE logo on each leg is a sleek touch. 

Features

The GORE® WINDSTOPPER® Liner technology worked perfectly and helped avoid that ‘soggy chamois’ feeling you easily get on hot days. It also added extra protection and warmth on the cooler rides. I occasionally struggled with the silicone grips on the leg bands of the shorts on the 90 degree days. It seemed if my legs got too sweaty, it would cause the band to slip up and honestly scared me a couple times while riding. I don’t foresee myself getting much use out of the radio pocket but it’s a fine addition. The three-point anchoring system provided extra comfort around the waist while riding. I would be stoked to see a version of these bibs that had side pockets!

Function/Performance

Thin, breathable, and high quality! These bibs truly feel like a second skin. I did find that getting into the saddle, I had to figure out the sweet spot of the chamois for a comfortable ride, but once I get that locked in, I’m set for a few hours of comfort. 

Durability/Construction

So far, these bibs have held up great! They have a high-end feel and still look fresh and new even after multiple washes. I, thankfully, haven’t had the opportunity to crash-test the bibs yet but will be curious to see how they inevitably hold up against abrasion. 

The Final Word

These bib shorts not only provide the all day, ‘second skin’ comfort I’ve been looking for, but they look amazing, perform well in various conditions, all while being extremely durable. In future design, I hope to see a small redesign on the straps of these bibs as well as the front of the bibs where the straps attach. I look forward to continuing to use these bibs on future gravel adventures! 

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