I wasted my money on these, and don't even wear them after a handful of rides. The legs stretched out at the ends like baggy shorts and flap in the wind. I suppose if you have massive legs like riders on the pro tour they will work, but I'm more lean and these are a massive fail. The pads are OK, but I have other brands that are more comfortable, especially on longer rides.
In the end, the stretching of the fabric is a flaw and a big problem for me. I'll probably toss them out for a replacement, but I don't think I'll try Gore again. Castelli always works well for me.
I've bounced around from brand to brand to find a quality set of bibs for the long days in the saddle. Rapha and other high-end brands are great but too spendy for me to own multiple sets. The C7 bibs are great at bridging the gap between budgets. I use these as a daily trainer or on my commute.
I will say the sizing is Euro which I should've caught while shopping, but even a size smaller works okay for me. For reference I usually wear a size large being a 34" waist. The tacky (adhesive) strips around the thigh work well at keeping the legs from riding up. Would definitely recommend these!
I bought some Gore tights and really liked the fit and construction. When it came time for some bibs, the C7 seemed like a good choice and for the most part, they are. The material is a little lighter than expected but I have no complaints with the chamois or fit. Haven't ridden in weather to make any gore panels noticeable. The only part I wish would have been better is around the legs. There are no noticeable grippers in the leg area. While I have not had them ride up, most of my shorts/bibs that have a gripper area are noticeably tougher in that area which gives some support to the leg muscles. These appear to have lightweight as the main priority and forego all of that. I ordered some Castelli Competezione bibs after these and would give them the edge for material/construction with an equally comfy chamois. For reference, I wear a small in Gore and medium from Castelli and they are comparable.
Purchased on sale I think these are a great deal. Can't speak to durability, as I've only got 3 rides & 3 washes on them. Love the silky smooth fabric. Great pad and the straps don't move, twist, or bunch. I honestly forget I'm wearing them while on the bike. I'm at the upper end of the med size range, but they fit me perfectly. I'm 5'-9" with 33" waist, 42" chest & weigh 165 pounds. I also tried the size large which would have been fine too, but ultimately I decided I prefer the tighter fit of the mediums. Liked them well enough I bought a second pair.
The pad was different from the earlier version of the shorts, but the pad still feels great. Fabric and straps feel good. Good hot weather shorts.
these bibs are great. very soft and well worth the price.
No friction as the pad protects my rear end
No friction as the pad protects my rear end
seams worn through after just 3 washes and 4 wears