Castelli Prima Womens Cycling Bibshorts (Dark Steel Blue/Brilliant Pink)

Shorts are an obsession at Castelli and the Women’s Prima Bibshort shows this attention to detail. They’re the most vital piece of clothing and one of the hardest to get right. Even though the Prima is Castelli’s entry-level short, it shows that there is no compromise on comfort and performance. It starts with the women’s-specific KISS Air2 seat pad. Just the name gives an idea of the process of constant improvement, which started with a soft KISS pad that was improved by making it more breathable (Air) and then improved again in the latest update to use the softest-ever top fabric (2). It’s ready for your next big ride indoors or out. Castelli has updated the fabric to the new Pro Dry Soft, which has a smooth matte finish that feels cool on the skin while being very supportive and quick to dry. Details like the reflective patches are stitched in instead of being glued on and the GIRO3 elastic has the grip woven right into the fabric, proving this short is designed to go the distance.