Buying a bib for the first time

[Markus66]

Hey Guys,

 

Been looking at buying some bibs and was hoping to get some guidance on sizing.

 

I have tried on a couple and while a large feels too tight the XL generally feels better. 

 

I am about 6.3 in height and my waist is about 34-36.

 

I have been told you want it "snug" as the padding can move around and you have to account for a slightly hunched over position at times hence my confusion.

 

What would you guys recommend on the sizing L / XL ?

 

Cheers,

 

Mark

[bikebloke]

if it feels too tight before you get on the bike its the wrong size for you

 

bibs are very personal try a few different brands in a few sizes and make sure its comfy and fits well before you buy

 

different brands and types fit differently on different people its not as simple as L or XL shop around

[DJR]

The best advice I ever got about buying bibs is THIS:

 

When you have it on, bend forward, almost double over, in the position you will be in when riding in the drops and as aero as you can, THEN, feel with your fingers that the thickest part of the padding is RIGHT OVER the most prominent part of your sit bones. That means that in a RIDING position, the bibs will give you the best possible protection. Some bibs have their pads positioned badly (for my shape anyway) and even if it is the best quality, then it will never work for long rides.

 

Oh, and all the other things like snugness (not tightness), comfort, FLAT seams or NO seams, seams never in a place where it will constantly fold and can chafe. Yes, and ONLY in black! No other colour allowed.

[Thomo]

DJR's advice on padding position is spot on.

I found that many of the early locally produced stuff just couldn't get this right - hopefully current brands are doing better.

Imported stuff were generally less problematic.

 

Fit should be snug without being restrictive or uncomfortable.

[Wayne pudding Mol]

and buy the best one you can afford - I spent a small fortune buying rubbish before I spent a large fortune getting the right one.  Personally I found a brand in cape town called Finni make really comfortable ones and you'd be an Xl  - I'm a bit shorter than you but waist the same and quite broad - I also got an Assos one in an Xl that is super comfy - it was a thank you present and when I went to get a new one I nearly sh*t myself when I saw the price.  I really battled through several brands before these 2 

[arendoog]

I am 6,4" and a 36 waist .Assos XL is perfect and so is Craft XL .Do not order online unless you have worn the brand and know the sizing .Try on until it feels comfortable.Italian sizing is more confusing than our country's finances.The more expensive brands are better and last longer ,but the cheaper brands also work .Not all lycra is the same and no lycra likes heat and being left in full sun .I think a tight fit 'racing 'XL will fit perfectly like Vermarc .Your first assos will be difficult to buy because of the price ,the second one is an easy buy 

[Jehosefat]

Just to echo what everyone else has said, different brands sizes are not the same. Case in point, I wear medium Ciovita bibs but large Cuore bibs and both fit well.

[Schnavel]

DJR's advice on padding position is spot on.

I found that many of the early locally produced stuff just couldn't get this right - hopefully current brands are doing better.

Imported stuff were generally less problematic.

 

Fit should be snug without being restrictive or uncomfortable.

 

Ciovita have gotten this right - very well priced locally as well

[Jehosefat]

Ciovita have gotten this right - very well priced locally as well

 

I find that they fit well but the foam seems a bit low density for long rides. Definitely prefer my Cuore bibs for the longer rides. That said the Coure ones are almost twice the price of the Ciovita bibs.

[StevJam]

Howzit Gents

I must admit I've enjoyed the Assos S5 Uno bib design & fit for years, unfortunately it is not manufactured any longer. I was pleasantly surprised to see that Ciovita is now using the exact replica of the Assos S5 Uno chamois, but with the new Assos S7 design shoulder straps.

Excellent fit & value in Ciovita, where I do where Large in Assos, I find XL in Ciovita fits great.

PS. 1) To "newbies" remember not too wear any underwear under your bibs, that could make a very pricey pair of bib short, feel very uncomfortable after long rides.

2) Always try hand wash your kit or at least your bib shorts, directly after your ride (I keep a bucket of soap water in my shower) & line dry. It should last many years !

Happy trails !