Top Cycling Brands for Premium Bib Shorts

Cycling enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference in both performance and comfort. Among these essential garments, bib shorts stand out as a must-have for their support and functionality during long rides. With various brands in the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming, but some have consistently stood out for their quality and innovation. From superior fabric technology to ergonomic designs, these brands have set benchmarks in cycling apparel. Discover below our curated list of the best brands for bib shorts to enhance your cycling experience.

Illustration of bib shorts

Best brands of bib shorts in 2025

Rapha

Rapha is renowned for producing some of the best bib shorts in the cycling apparel market, known for their high-quality materials, innovative designs, and exceptional comfort. The brand introduced cargo bib shorts, which quickly became a must-have for riders, and their Core Collection offers subtle branding and a lower price point without compromising performance. Rapha's use of advanced fabrics like the RPM150 Merino blend enhances breathability and sustainability. Despite a 7% decline in sales in 2023, Rapha continues to strengthen its core business operations and maintain a strong presence in the market. The brand's focus on sustainability and technological advancements keeps it competitive in a fragmented market. For more details on their products, visit the official Rapha website.

Castelli

Castelli is renowned as one of the top producers of bib shorts, celebrated for its meticulous craftsmanship and innovative technology. The brand's Rosso Corsa label signifies the highest level of quality, with products like the FREE AERO RC BIBSHORT offering supreme comfort through advanced features such as the Skin Care Layer and Cushioning Layer. Castelli's bib shorts are highly praised by cyclists, with many considering them the best available, even when compared to other premium brands like Eliel and Assos. The brand's commitment to comfort and performance has made its products a favorite among professional cyclists, including those from the Soudal Quick-Step Team. With a strong presence in the cycling wear market, Castelli continues to drive innovation and excellence in cycling apparel.

Assos

Assos, a renowned brand in the cycling wear market, is particularly celebrated for its high-quality bib shorts. As part of the global cycling wear market valued at USD 7.78 billion in 2024 and expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.4% until 2031, Assos contributes significantly with its innovative products like the MILLE GT Bib Shorts C2, which feature advanced technologies such as a frictionless waist, refined air-cooling insert, and muscle-wrapping textile. These advancements make Assos a prominent player in the market, dedicated to enhancing cycling performance and comfort for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Pearl Izumi

Pearl Izumi is renowned as one of the top producers of bib shorts in the cycling industry, offering a wide range of options to cater to different temperatures and budgets. With a history dating back to the 1950s, Pearl Izumi has established itself as a trusted brand among cyclists, known for its advanced materials, exceptional moisture-wicking properties, and strategic cushioning. Their Pro Bib Shorts, for instance, are designed for serious cyclists, featuring a close-fitting, race-inspired design and the Levitate Pro chamois pad for optimal comfort and performance. The brand's commitment to quality and innovation has made it a favorite among professional and recreational cyclists alike. Pearl Izumi's products are highly recommended for their durability and comfort, making them a valuable investment for any cycling enthusiast.

Santini

Santini is renowned as one of the best producers of bib shorts, with a rich history of innovation dating back to the 1970s when founder Pietro Santini introduced lycra bib-shorts globally. The brand offers a comprehensive range, including the Pro-Endurance Line, which is professional-grade and has been tested in the UCI World Tour, and the Performance Line, designed for training and Granfondos. Santini's bib shorts feature advanced materials, such as the C3 chamois in the Redux Speed shorts, which provide optimal muscle support and a 'tattoo effect' due to their thin, lightweight fabric. Their products are known for their high-quality fabric, often 80% polyamide and 20% elastane, ensuring comfort and durability. With over 53 years of supplying professional teams, Santini's commitment to innovation and comfort is evident in every product. For more information, check their detailed bib shorts guide.

Specialized

Specialized is renowned as one of the top producers of cycling bib shorts, known for their high-quality materials and innovative designs. The brand is part of a competitive market that is projected to grow, with the global cycling apparel market expected to reach USD 3.36 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.52% from 2024 to 2032. Specialized, along with other key players like PEARL iZUMi and Rapha, dominates the market with a strong presence in both online and offline sales channels. Their products are highly regarded for comfort, durability, and performance, making them a favorite among professional and amateur cyclists alike. The brand's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has solidified its position in the cycling apparel industry. For more information about their cycling bib shorts, visit the Specialized website.

Giordana

Giordana is renowned as one of the top producers of bib shorts, offering high-quality, Italian-made cycling apparel. Their FR-C Pro Bib Short, for example, features HC50(tm) High Compression Power Lycra, a 220-gram weight with a 50 thread count, and the Cirro S chamois with Aloe Vera infusion for enhanced comfort and performance. These bibs are designed to fit close and contour perfectly to the body, ensuring natural and comfortable movement. Giordana's products are tested and proven by professional WorldTour teams, reflecting their commitment to craftsmanship and performance. With a focus on breathable, aerodynamic, and supportive design, Giordana's bib shorts are a gold standard for cyclists.

Sportful

Sportful is renowned as one of the top producers of cycling bib shorts, known for their high-quality materials and innovative designs. The brand is part of the Manifattura Valcismon S.p.A group and has been a significant player in the cycling apparel market, which was valued at USD 5,323.88 million in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.9% until 2032. Sportful's products are favored by both professional and amateur cyclists, contributing to the market's growth driven by increasing government support and innovative product advancements. Their bib shorts are designed for comfort and performance, making them a popular choice among cyclists. The brand's commitment to quality and innovation has solidified its position in the competitive cycling apparel market.

Endura

Endura is renowned as one of the top producers of bib shorts, offering range-topping quality at a lower price point than competitors like Le Col and Rapha. The Endura Pro SL EGM bib shorts feature premium fabrics, a multi-panel construction, and a comfortable chamois, ensuring optimal ride comfort. These shorts are available in standard and extended lengths to cater to various rider preferences. Despite sizing slightly smaller than other brands, they offer a 90-day comfort guarantee, enhancing customer satisfaction. Priced at $219.00 / £149.99, they undercut the competition while maintaining high-quality standards.

MAAP

MAAP is a renowned performance cycling brand from Australia, celebrated for its high-quality bib shorts manufactured in Italy. Their Pro Bib Short, priced at EUR235, is a top choice for riders seeking excellence in both performance and style, featuring 4D woven fabric for minimal chafing and maximum compression. MAAP's bib shorts are designed to endure, maintaining quality through multiple washes. The brand offers a diverse range of bib shorts, including the Training Bib and Team Bib, each tailored to different cycling needs and budgets. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, MAAP is a preferred brand among cycling enthusiasts.