Bib Shorts - A real game changer in your riding

Why a Good Pair of Bib Shorts Is the Best Investment You Can Make in Your Riding

If you’ve spent more than an hour in the saddle, you’ll know that comfort isn’t a luxury — it’s survival. I learned that lesson the hard way. Years ago, I thought any pair of cycling shorts would do the job. Let’s just say my first long ride ended with me standing the last 10 kilometres… and walking funny for the rest of the day.

Since then, I’ve ridden in just about every brand out there, and I can say this with confidence: a good pair of bib shorts can completely change how you experience a ride.

Comfort That Keeps You Going

The first time I tried on a proper set of bibs — I think they were Assos Mille GTs — it was a revelation. The chamois (that padded bit in the middle) felt like it was made just for me. It supported all the right areas without feeling bulky, and after a few hours on the bike, I wasn’t constantly shifting around or counting the kilometres until I could get off the saddle.

That’s the magic of a good chamois. It’s not just about softness — it’s about support, shape, and movement. Brands like Assos and Ciovita put serious research into their padding, so it actually moves with you instead of fighting against you. Once you’ve ridden with that kind of comfort, there’s no going back.

No More Waistband Battles

Another game-changer for me was switching from regular shorts to bibs with shoulder straps. At first, I thought they’d feel restrictive — but they’re the opposite. No waistband digging into your stomach, no shorts slipping down as you ride. Just a snug, secure fit that stays exactly where it should.

The Assos fit feels sleek and compressive — almost like a second skin — while Ciovita’s bibs have a slightly more forgiving cut that’s perfect for our South African climate. Both are designed to support your muscles and keep everything in place so you can focus on pedalling, not adjusting.

Fabrics That Work as Hard as You Do

Good bib shorts are made from materials that don’t just look fancy — they actually perform. On hot days, the right fabric can make a huge difference. My Ciovita Supremo Bibs, for example, breathe incredibly well. They wick away sweat before you even notice it’s there, and the fabric dries so fast that even mid-summer rides feel bearable.

And let’s not forget the compression factor — that gentle hug that supports your legs and reduces fatigue. Add in UV protection and panels designed to move with your muscles, and suddenly those long weekend rides feel a whole lot more manageable.

You Get What You Pay For

Sure, you can find cheaper bibs out there. I’ve bought them too — and I’ve regretted it every time. After a few months, they stretch out, the seams start to rub, and the chamois flattens out like a pancake.

The difference with premium bibs is in the details: the stitching, the fabric, the straps. They just last longer and feel better, ride after ride. It’s an investment upfront, but it pays off in comfort and durability — and in the long run, probably even saves you money.

Confidence in the Saddle

And let’s be honest — when you look good, you feel good. There’s something about rolling out in a sharp pair of Assos or Ciovita bibs that makes you sit a little taller on the bike. The fit is flattering, the design is sleek, and it feels like you belong out there, whether you’re racing, training, or just cruising to the coffee shop.

It’s not vanity — it’s confidence. And confidence translates directly into better rides.

Assos — precision engineering for performance

Assos is synonymous with race-focused innovation. Their multi-panel construction and anatomically tuned chamois are designed to follow your movement, not fight it. If you race or chase time, Assos models prioritise low friction, secure leg grippers and chamois that hold their shape ride after ride.

Choose Assos when you want razor-sharp fit and performance that rewards you on long efforts and intense intervals. Expect premium materials and a sculpted fit—sometimes at a premium price, but with a performance payoff for serious riders.

Shop Assos

Ciovita — local design, global fabrics

Born from a passion for riding in African conditions, Ciovita blends Italian textile know-how with locally minded design. Their bibs are built to manage heat and long hours in the saddle, using breathable jerseys and chamois that handle vibration and road grit.

For riders in South Africa and similar climates, Ciovita offers a balance of comfort and durability—engineered to perform under sun, wind and road. If value and environment-specific design matter to you, this is an excellent place to start.

Shop Ciovita

Final Thoughts

If you’re serious about cycling — or even if you just want to enjoy your rides more — do yourself a favour and invest in a proper pair of bib shorts. You don’t have to buy the most expensive pair out there, but go for quality. You’ll feel the difference from your very first pedal stroke.

Once you’ve ridden in a great pair of bibs, like those from Assos or Ciovita, you’ll wonder how you ever rode without them.

Bib Shorts - A real game changer in your riding