Merlin Wear Elite bib shorts review

Merlin Cycles has steadily expanded its own brand range in recent years. It has quite a range of bikes and now offers clothing too. And these Merlin Wear Elite bib shorts are really very good.

Often UK brands’ own brand kit comes up quite generous, but that isn’t the case with these bibs. They fit closely, particularly off the bike, but feel just right once out riding. The close fit also ensures that the pad stays in place very well, so I did not experience any discomfort – or really notice it at all – even on longer rides.

The pad on the Merlin Wear Elite bib shorts is excellent quality too. It’s a Cytech unit and has enough density to be comfortable, but it isn’t so thick that it becomes hot and sweaty during the ride. There’s a central pressure relief channel, a very smooth facing and it’s flatlock stitched into the shorts.

The Merlin Wear Elite bib shorts are made out of two different fabrics: the bits which are in contact with the saddle and likely to get the most wear are a fairly standard lycra, while the outer sides and upper back are a lighter, textured fabric for better breathability and elasticity. It’s an approach which works well, with the shorts staying comfortable even in hot conditions.

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The bibs are a lightweight mesh fabric with rolled seams, although I did not find the latter noticeable. The leg bands are single layered with silicone microdot grippers which cover their entire inner face. They’re not quite as stretchy as some, so I had a bit of sausage leg off the bike, although I didn’t feel them once I got riding.

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There’s a mix of flatlocked and raised seams too and the seams in the legs are not displaced from where your legs rub against the saddle. But again I did not find this uncomfortable due to the really good fit. Reflectives are limited to the two Merlin logos: one on the back of the shorts and one on the right leg. It’s not much, but enough to add a bit of extra visibility and well positioned for UK riders.

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These really are great bib shorts with fit and comfort the equal to the top Italian brands, just at a much more reasonable price, with Merlin often offering discounts to the RRP.