Kostüme Women’s Cargo Bib Shorts review
Eco-friendly, stylish and comfortable for long distances with a women-specific design, can the Kostüme Women's Cargo Bib Shorts do it all?
220 Triathlon Verdict
Thoughtfully-designed shorts from a new brand which has considered the needs of female cyclists. Score: 98%
Pros
- Luxurious, sustainable material
- High attention to detail
- Quick-pee design
- True-to-size fit
- Spacious side leg pockets
Cons
- None
I was excited to test the Kostüme Women’s Cargo Bib Short because the Bristol-based brand has arrived in the market with a bold vision to make premium, long distance cycle wear with minimal impact on the environment.
How we test cycling bib shorts
All of the women’s cycling bib shorts we review are tested by Sarah Broadley, a triathlete for more than a decade. Sarah takes the shorts for multiple road rides of different durations and intensities to assess their fit, comfort, practicality, value for money and features. For more details, see how we rate and test products.
The bib shorts feel premium straight out of the packaging. Made from an Oeko-Tex certified Econyl regenerated Nylon they sit snugly on the skin but you can hardly feel they are there.
True to size, with elastic-free raw cut legs and a lovely height and finish to the waist band, they provide excellent comfort.
The design is minimalist and sleek with bright contrast yellow colour on the inside of the straps – a fun and conversation- starting alternative to the more conventional design. The straps allow for a seat drop comfort break – no zips, no clips – just drop and pee.
Better still, the pockets have been moved to the legs so no accidental drowning of the phone down the pan when using this feature! In keeping with the sleek design the pockets are neat and almost invisible when not in use but deep, secure and easily accessible when required.
The chamois is cool and comfortable thanks to the four-layer aloe-infused pad and has held its shape and cushioning throughout a month of washing and wearing during testing.
If the quality and value aren’t enough, you can add their responsible production method as another reason to purchase these fabulous shorts.
The small batch, pre-order model minimises waste which Kostüme advises means more investment in creating beautiful, functional pieces for us to enjoy when exploring the world on two wheels.
Kostüme Women’s Cargo Bib Shorts specs
| Price | £200 (UK only) |
| Sizing | 2XS-XL |
| Colours | Black |
| Features | Fastener-free seat drop; Oeko-Tex-certified Econyl Nylon with UV protection; four-layer chamois; raw-cut leg hems; flatlock seams |
Sarah Broadley
