Bontrager Ballista Bib Short

The Bontrager Ballista bib shorts are expensive but they're an example of the old adage, you get what you pay for. With a comfortable pad and a performance orientated fit they are a top choice for the racer or rider who likes to put the power down.

The inForm synthetic chamois is a good 'un. It's narrow in section and has the padding positioned exactly where you need it. Increasing layers at the sit bones towards the rear of the chamois offer comfort when you're in a more upright position without causing any bunching once you slip into the drops.

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The frontal area follows the same ethos, with padding where you need it and none where you don't. Designed with the pro racer in mind it's no surprise that the Ballistas feel more comfortable when crouched in an aerodynamic tuck.

The Profila Power material is shiny to the touch and has a huge amount of stretch to it, which gives a compressive feel to your working muscles. This also means a great fit as once you've got them on they don't move at all, with the legs only needing minimal grippers to keep them in place and therefore no pressure points.

The rear parts of the bibs are made from mesh for breathability, though the actual straps are made from the same material as the rest of the shorts. Again the huge amount of stretch means the shorts easily move around with you as you go from seated to standing without pulling tight over your shoulders.

A neat little touch is the radio pocket on the rear of the bibs; okay, so not a lot of us need to speak to our following team car, but it's the perfect size for an mp3 player, cash or a key.

As far as fit goes it's much the same size as most Italian clothing. Basically, go up a size unless you want things super-tight or if you are tall, as you'll need the extra length in the bibs.

>> Check out our guide to finding the best bib shorts for your budget here

Thoughts on value are individual to each and every consumer; some will baulk at spending £140 on a pair of shorts, but if I had and then got off the bike feeling as fresh and comfortable as I did in the Ballistas, then it's money well spent.

They don't feel as fragile as a lot of top end shorts, either. The material is strong and you can really yank them on without tugging a seam or anything, so they should last well, too.

Overall, the Bontrager Ballista bibs are designed with the top level racer in mind and it's that quality of cut, fit, material and comfort that comes through when wearing them. You don't need to be a sponsored pro to wear them, but you'll get the same benefits.

Verdict

Simply, you get what you pay for: pro-level performance for us mere mortals