Gore Power Windstopper Short+ review

Despite being mid-thigh in length, confusingly the Gore Power Windstopper Short+ bibshorts are called bibtights by Gore. They’re made from Gore’s Windstopper three layer technical laminated fabric, with a windproof membrane providing very effective windproofing.

As well as this, they are DWP treated, so they are water repellent and cope well with wheelspray and the odd shower. They are also breathable enough that you don’t get hot when riding, or suffer from clammy sweat build-up.

>>> How to cycle in the wind

Gore’s seat pad is comfortable too, with enough padding for the long run. Gore says that it has a windproof front, and I found that cold breezes were kept off very effectively, although unlike the more usual Roubaix fabric there’s no internal flocking, so they don’t run quite as warm as some competitors.

The bibs and the front of the shorts, where they overlap with top half garments, are made of a mesh material, so there’s no tendency to overheat there either and the bibs have just one seam on the outer edge, so they are unobtrusive under a jersey or jacket.

>>> 20 best cycling shorts

The Gore Power Windstopper Short+ bibshorts have quite long legs, so there’s plenty of coverage if you want to brave the cold in them. The bottom hem is just a wide turned over continuation of the leg fabric. It’s simple but effective, with just the right amount of give in the fabric to keep it in place without feeling uncomfortable. Overall, the shorts’ fit is excellent, making use of the fabric’s in-built stretch.

There is reflective Gore lettering on the legs and across the rear of the shorts, so you should light up well in headlights, if riding in the dark.

So overall, the Gore Power Windstopper Short+ bibshorts are a good option for cool, damp conditions. Couple them with kneewarmers or legwarmers and their breeze protection should ensure that you keep comfortable on your rides throughout the typical British winter.