| Panache Cyclewear Eleven Bib Shorts £140
Panache Cyclewear is a new premium clothing company from Boulder, Colorodo set up by Don Powell (who used to race in Belgium in the 90s) and brings his experience to a range of stylish and performance-orientated cycle clothing.
UK importers Lambda Sports sent us a pair of Eleven Bib Shorts to test. First thing you notice as you pull back the wrapping material is how great they look, and the materials feel high quality between the fingers. Slipping them on, the fit (these are medium) is perfect. They hug my thighs very flatteringly [If you say so - ed.]. We’re off to a very good start.
These shorts are designed to keep you cool. Lycra Power inner leg side panels noticeably compress the skin and underlying muscles, and feel supportive in use, while lightweight Lycra side panels are made from incredibly thin material. The shorts’ hot weather credentials are further backed up by the CoolTouch mesh panels along the front edge of the shorts. The oval holes of the mesh are said to allow better airflow, and in combination with the thin Lycra of the shorts did indeed keep me cool in hot weather.
I had the opportunity to test these shorts in Majorca earlier this year and the lightness of the materials used made them a cool pair of shorts. They would be ideal if you’re planning sportives this summer or a trip someplace hot. Their airiness was even more noticeable after riding for a day in a regular pair of shorts, and then going back to the Panache shorts, where their coolness was most appreciated.
This same mesh is used for the bib straps where its benefit is more useful. The straps are wide and fairly loose so they don’t dig into the shoulders. An area of special attention has been at the openings, where Panache has paid particular notice to ensure a comfortable hem that resists shifting around. Silicone tape is applied directly to the rear of the shorts Lycra while small silicone dots are applied at the front below the mesh panel, and the result works wonders.
Finally, we come to the most important part of the shorts, the chamois. It would be a shame if such a nice pair of shorts was let down by its padding, but fortunately that isn’t the case as Panache have used a Cytech EIT (Elastic Interface Technology) Pro-Stock pad, which proved tremendously comfortable. It’s made using high density foam with high wicking properties, easily passed my tests for comfort and compares favourably with offerings from Assos and Gore. Which is just as well considering that price tag.
Available online from www.CyclingParadise.com and www.PanacheCyclewear.co.uk
Verdict
Panache have entered a competitive market with a really well thought out product and one that stands out, with some nice details and great performance. They’re certainly priced high, but we feel they’re a worthy alternative for the cyclist seeking a stylish and comfortable pair of shorts. |
