Castelli

INEOS Volo Bibshort - Men's

Think of the INEOS Volo Bibshort as the domestique race shorts in Castelli's lineup. While the Free Aero Race bibs may be the GC leader of the squad, the Volo is a close second with aerodynamic fabrics and a compressive fit available at self-sponsored rider prices. A pair weighs in at just 165 grams, lighter than the premium Free Aero Race. The Volo bibs are form-fitting, suitable for racing but also comfortable enough for everyday riding or even century rides. They feature INEOS team livery, the sponsor that picked up where SKY left off.

Castelli credits the textured Affinity BLC main fabric with providing an aerodynamic boost. On the inside of the leg is Affinity Lycra, which has good stretch and rebound, providing compressive support as you push to the front of the peloton. The bib straps are a soft mesh that is comfortable on your skin and breathes well when the mercury rises at your local summer crit.

Many of us are not racers though, despite preferring performance-oriented bib shorts. Castelli ensures the Volo bibs are comfortable enough for post-work jaunts or long weekend rides by incorporating the KISS Air chamois. The chamois uses multi-density foam that is 14mm thick under your sit bones to provide cushion for long days in the saddle. The foam tapers to 10mm at the perineal region to reduce unwanted pressure and then down to 4mm at the edges to maintain a low profile. The chamois has a brushed microfiber top to prevent chafing as well as an odor-resistant treatment. Castelli says this treatment helps prevent saddle sores, which is a bold claim, but we’ll remain optimistic if it means a sore-free ride.

Castelli finishes the garment with GIRO Air leg grippers, which distribute compression over a larger area. This helps eliminate unnecessary adjustments by keeping the shorts securely in place even during hard sprinting efforts.