Test: Finisseur Core 2 Gradient Bib Shorts
These are comfortable fitting bib shorts thanks to their now more relaxed fit and the use of generous leg elastics that allow for greater support without the need for a very compressive fabric. They feature classic-cut bib straps and a chamois perfect for medium distances that reduces pressure on the prostate and improves blood circulation.
Comfort and fit without excessive compression
The Core family of products is synonymous with comfort and a more relaxed fit in garments, something that is evident in these bib shorts, which is a departure from the sportier lines of other Finisseur product lines. Even so, the Finisseur Core 2 Gradient bib shorts are cleverly designed to provide good support without resorting to very compressive fabrics. For example, the elastics on the leg loops are wide enough to provide very good support, allowing the rest of the leg to remain very comfortable.
The straps have a classic design, narrow at the front and made of micro-perforated fabric that continues to the back, where it widens into a panel to join the lower part of the bib shorts, favouring ventilation.
Comfortable chamois pad that is kind to our anatomy
Designed as a multi-purpose product, suitable for road and mountain biking, the Finisseur Core 2 Gradient bib shorts feature a high-quality Elastic Interface chamois from the Crossover line. The Nice Men chamois pad is designed for rides of up to 3 hours, with a minimalist, flat surface design that fits snugly against the skin. Its central channel and the different densities in the foam (higher in the back and lower in the front) make it very comfortable and above all very stable against pedalling movements, something especially noticeable when we are talking about bib shorts for shorter and less demanding rides in terms of performance.
We tested the chamois after a four-day cyclotourism trip in which we spent an average of 8 hours a day in the saddle, and we can assure you that our aching glutes received an exquisite treatment from this chamois. This is mainly due to the flat, low-relief design of the chamois, which follows our anatomy better, without marking and distributes the pressure evenly.
Technology at the service of comfort
The Core family, while not pursuing the performance of Finisseur’s Pro or Pro Race range, does not skimp on clothing and fabric technologies. Made from Italian Topazio technical fabric, these bib shorts feature UV protection and also Coldblack technology, which reduces the absorption of infrared radiation on dark fabrics. They also feature flatlock seams to reduce friction against the skin and like other top Finisseur bib shorts, they have a reflective detail on the back to increase the rider’s visibility.
The essence of the Core range
These are well-balanced and very competitively priced bib shorts, designed for rides of up to 3 hours and available in three versions, differing only in the colour of the elastics on the leg loops. Like all the Core family of garments, these shorts are designed to have a more relaxed fit, but ensure good quadriceps stability, for example, thanks to a wide elastic that holds the leg in place without the need for further compression along the leg.
The chamois is recommended for rides of up to 3 hours, and has a minimalist design with just a central channel that will protect the perineum area and reduce pressure on the prostate, allowing for good blood circulation. The combination of different densities between the front and back area and a flat design are enough to be very kind to our anatomy, without it moving, despite the more relaxed fit design.
Pros
Relaxed fit with just the right amount of compression.
Simple but very effective chamois pad design.
Excellent value for money.
Cons
The shoulder straps can be a little tight.
Technical information
Brand
Model
Finisseur Core 2 Gradient Bib Shorts
Description
Made of Italian Topazio technical fabric with UV protection, flat seams for improved comfort and reduced friction. They include reflective detailing on the back for increased visibility and Coldblack technology to reduce heat build-up.
Straps
Both the shoulder straps and back panel use different density mesh for comfort and breathability.
Chamois pad
Nice Men model from Elastic Interface’s Crossover range, recommended for rides of up to 3 hours on the road or in the mountains. 100% recycled ECO X-Tract fabric.
Leg elastic
45mm elastics with silicone on the inside for improved quadriceps stability during activity
Colours available
Black-Yellow, Black-Grey, Black-Red.
Sizes
XS to 3XL
Price
59.95 €
Find these bib shorts at Deporvillage
