Best bib tights for cycling 2022 reviewed and rated
Once the colder winter months arrive, dedicated winter bib tights become essential. Vital for keeping your lower half warm, the best bib tights will also ensure that your lower back and midriff are also protected against the cold.
The best cycling shorts and best leg warmers and knee warmers will get many riders through September, October and perhaps November for the warm-blooded, or late season races, but they aren't suited for year-round riding. As soon at the temperatures drop into the low single figures then only a pair of dedicated bib tights will do.
Most manufacturers now integrate a chamois into their tights: not so long ago it was common to wear unpadded tights over padded bib shorts. Using padded tights means fewer seams and fewer straps, but if you regularly venture out into frigid temps it will mean buying more than just one or two of pairs of tights in order to keep up with the wash-wear-dry cycle. However, if you prefer the pad in your favourite bib shorts you can still buy unpadded bib tights.
If you're curious as to what else to wear in the colder seasons then our guide to winter cycling clothing: what to wear for comfortable riding breaks down what to look for when wanting to keep warm on the bike.
The best bib tights come with a variety of features, each having their own merits for choosing. The simplest tights are made from a fleecy-backed Roubaix-style material and are neither windproof nor waterproof. These are great for milder temperatures, and are often at the lower end of the price scale.
As with many cycling pieces of equipment, the more you pay, the more you're likely to get. Above a certain price point and the best bib tight manufacturers will select technical fabrics with varying degrees of moisture protection, that are still breathable and ensure unrestricted movement.
The most sophisticated bib tights locate different types of fabric and different numbers of layers in the specific areas where they will be most effective against cold, wind and rain. As you'd imagine bib tights that employ lots of technical fabrics to combat the cold and the wet usually come with a significant price tag.
Of course, if you are selecting a pair of the best bib tights for doing battle with the elements, you'll also want to invest with the best cycling overshoes to ensure that the extremities of your lower body are also sufficiently protected.
The best bib tights for cycling reviewed - Men's
Read on down the page for information about what to look for when buying your ideal bib tights. But first, here are our favourites.
1. Assos Mille GT Ultraz Winter Bibtights
Best bib tights for winter weather protection
Fabric : RX Light, RX Heavy and NEOS Ultra materials | Wind/ Water proofing : Both | Chamois: MILLE GT EVO | Temperature range : 41°F/ 5°C - below freezing | Sizes : XS - XLG and TIR | Colour : Black only
Great flawless fit
Warm in the coldest riding conditions
Great water resistant capabilities
Very comfy chamois
Very high price tag
These bib tights combine excellent protection from the elements with a flawless fit. With the front cut lower than other brands, these really lend themselves to riding in an aggressive, aerodynamic position.
The high degree of stretch from the fabric not only allows for a figure-hugging fit, but it also meant that my pedal stroke felt fluid, without any of the tightness that other winterised bib tights can sometimes induce.
The RX Heavy fabric is so warm and, combined with that NEOS membrane, our testers legs felt as if they were in their own microclimate as they cycled in frosty conditions.
These are totally the crème de la crème of bib tights and tick every wish list box, but you'll just have to empty your wallet in order to gain this level of performance and protection.
If you are after a slightly more palatable option, then Endura's Endura Pro SL II Bibtights do put up a really good fight. But as with all things Assos, once you've seen and tried, it's hard to make the compromise, and knowing the quality of the brand, it's often easier to part with your money knowing that they will serve you well for many winters to come.
Read more: Assos Mille GT Ultraz Winter Bibtights full review
2. Castelli LW 2 bib tights
Best bib tight for light winter temperatures
Fabric: Thermoflex fabric, Nano Flex Light | Wind / Water proofing : Strategically place wind and water repellence | Chamois: Progetto X2 | Temperature range : 50°C / 10°C – 64°F/18°C
Great temperature balance in milder weather
Great un-restrictive pro rider fit
Water resistant lower leg for road spray protonation
No reflective detailing
Chamois padding designed for significant saddle hours, so some might find it excessive.
We've long been a fan of Castelli's bib tights, finding it's long standing Nanoflex Pro bib tights a firm favourite despite their ageing years.
The Castelli LW 2 bib tights are designed for milder winter conditions, and according to the brand, designed in conjunction with pro riders from Team Ineos Grenadiers.
While many of us mere mortal riders might still be in bib shorts and leg warmer combos at their specified temperature range, these tights have been specifically designed for riders who want the benefits and comfort of just one piece of apparel, without the associated extra warm.
To that end, these bib tights have been zoned, with the upper leg featuring a stretchy fleece and the lower leg just water proofing, to protect from road spray - in other words acting like a wearable fender.
The end result is a fantastically breathable pair of tights, that are perfect for high intensity training, dealing with winter downpours.
As could be expected with professional level bib tights, the padding has been designed to withstand several hours in the saddle day after day, and the more armature rider might find it a bit overkill - but it's a personal fit feel. It's also worth noting that there isn't any reflective detailing. One can only assume it's because as a professional rider, you probably aren't using an after dark workplace commute as part of your training regime.
Price wise, these are middle range, and do make the Santini Adapt Polartec Thermal C3 bib tights seem eyebrow raising high.
Read more: Castelli LW 2 bib tights full review
3. Assos Mille GTO Winter Bib Tights C2
Best bib tights for luxurious warmth
Fabrics:: OSMOS and SPHERE Ultra hole | Water / Wind proofing:: Yes - Geoprene on legs to repel water | Chamois:: MILLE GTO C2 | Temperature range:: Below freezing to 10 C | Sizes:: XS-XXL | Colours:: Black
Stretchy and breathable fabric
Great protection on the ankles against water
Super thick pad that absorbs shock
Very expensive - RRP of £395
Too warm in temps over 10 C
Yes, these bibs really do cost a lot. But if you're after incredible quality, with a blend of luxurious fabrics and a great fit, then they're pretty hard to beat.
They use a combination of Assos' OSMOS and SPHERE Ultra Hole fabrics. The former provides the warmth while the latter helps to regulate your temperature thanks to a breathable membrane. The chamois pad is thick, with six layers, that provide bags of comfort including absorbing a bit of road chatter. Other neat details include removable hip pads that aid breathability and the addition of geoprene on the lower leg - a stretchy waterproof fabric that really does a great job of repelling road spray as well as helping to create a tight fit.
On test we found them to work well in the cold, providing plenty of warmth on bitter mountain descents. The downside to this is that over 10 degrees C and you're likely to feel a little 'over-bibbed'.
In short, if money is no object or you've saved up the pennies and are looking for a premium set of bibs to last this winter and many more, the Assos Mille GTO are well worth your consideration.
Read more: Assos Mille GTO Winter Bib Tights C2 full review
4. Velocio Zero mens bib tights
Best bib tights for breathability
Fabrics:: ThermoRoubaix and microfibre fleece | Water / Wind proofing:: Windproof and water resistant panels | Chamois:: Proprietary Signature Chamois developed with Cytech | Temperature range:: Below freezing to 39 degrees F | Sizes:: XS-XXXL | Colours: : Black
High degree of stretch
Extremely breathable
Decent insulation for lower temps
Comfy design and pad
Expensive - £233
Despite name not ideal for cold conditions 3 degrees c and below
Velocio's Zero bib tights are some of the very best we've tested. They're both breathable and comfortable thanks to the high level of stretch the fabric and design offers. They provide plenty of protection against the wind too, thanks to the ThermoRoubaix fabric, and we found them to be warm down to around 3 degrees C.
Elsewhere, the proprietary pad developed with Cytech stays in place as do the bib's straps, while there is also decent reflective detailing on the lower legs and ankles.
At $299 / £233 the Velocio Zero bibs aren't cheap but this is reflected in both the use of materials and the build quality. The only downside is the lack of waterproofing on bib tights designed for the winter.
Read more: Velocio Zero Men's Bib Tights full review
5. Endura Pro SL Bibtights II
Best bib tights for choice of padding
Fabrics: Thermoroubaix, Four-way stretch windproof | Water/ Wind proofing : Wind proof and water resistant (eco-friendly PFC free DWR coating) | Chamois: 700 series | Temperature range : Below 44°F/ 7°C | Sizes : XS - XXL | Colour : Black only
Constructed for a great race tight fit
Overall comfort of tights and pad
Fabric performance meets higher priced competitors
Best suited to really cold conditions
Endura has got it all right with the Pro SLs. The Scottish brand has packed in an impressive number of features – including three pad width options making these one of best bib tights on the market.
Made from a windproof, breathable fabric, a DWR coating is used down the fronts of the legs and above the bum. The sides use stretchier panels and the Pro SL’s legs are anatomically shaped to avoid the fabric stretching over the knee. Inside, there’s a soft, red, Thermoroubaix lining to trap in the warmth.
Behind the calves are large panels of reflective dots plus white flashes at the ankles for added visibility. The ankles are zipless but the front of the bib does have a short zip above the waist to reduce strap-yank during toilet breaks.
All these features do, however, add up to a rather warm pair of bib tights, so making these an option when the mercury is at the low end of the thermometer.
They aren't by any means an entry level price point, but a fair amount cheaper than high-end models, such as the Assos Mille GT Ultraz Winter Bibtights, and certainly compete with them performance wise.
Read more: Endura Pro SL Bibtights II full review
6. Santini Adapt Polartec Thermal C3 bib tights
Best bib tights for cycling either side of deep winter
Fabrics: Polartec Power Wool | Water/ Wind proofing: None | Chamois: Santini C3 Endurance | Temperature range: 44°F/ 7°C - 59°F/ 15°C | Sizes: XS - 3XL | Colour : Black only
Work well across wide range of temperatures
Very comfortable
Fabric includes natural merino
High-quality construction
Made in Italy
Ankle wrinkles
High price tag
Polartec Power Wool gives the Santini Adapt bib tights a softer, stretcher feel than the type made with 100 per cent synthetic fabrics. The largest proportion of the tights – the legs/hips – is made with 21 per cent merino, so it’s more than just a token twill.
It's worth noting that these aren't water resistant, although their construction means that the shed water rapidly and are quick to dry on the move.
A really comfortable bib, that felt barely there when riding, is teamed with a superb C3 Endurance pad that balanced the needs of comfort Vs being unobtrusive very well.
The large rainbow reflective detailing on the lower legs are great at drawing attention to yourself out on the road in low light levels.
A great fit and are the best bib tights for for either side of deep winter, they’re very comfortable and very well made – but they’re also very expensive coming not far off the price of a pair of Assos Mille GT Ultraz, which are all singing all dancing feature wise. They're also notably more money than Santini's own Fashion Vega bib tights, so a considered purchase for sure, but if you do decide to make a purchase, you won't be disappointed.
Read more: Santini Adapt Polartec Thermal C3 bib tights full review
7. Lusso Classic Thermal Bib Tights
Best bib tights on a budget
Fabric: Super Roubaix fleece | Wind/ Water proofing: No | Chamois: 8-hour eco sustainable pad | Temperature range: -2-16 °C
Great price - under £100
Warm thanks to heat-trapping fleece material
Breathable
Comfortable chamois
Use of single fabric means even stretch throughout the bibs
Cuff size a little big
While it's often true that you get what you pay for, in the case of Lusso's Classic Thermal bib tights you receive plenty more besides. They offer incredible value - and they're British-made to boot.
Firstly there's the heat-trapping properties of the Super Roubaix fleece that means these bibs are good for temperatures down to zero degrees. The material is also breathable too, which allows them to perform when things heat up a little (although Lusso's top temperature range of 16 degrees seems very optimistic for what is after all winter garment). And unlike bib tights made from a number of fabrics, they offer uniform stretch which aids comfort.
Talking of comfort, the chamois is both well-positioned and supportive and, crucially, doesn't move. Elsewhere there are reflective logos that don't peel in the wash and reflective tabs that sit nicely above your overshoes. All told, these are a great pair of bibs designed for average British riding conditions.
Read more: Lusso Classic Thermal Bib Tights full review
8. Santini Fashion Vega Bib Tights
Best big tights for milder temperatures
Fabric: Thermofleece | Wind / Water proofing: Acquazero water repellant coating | Chamois: GITevo pad with gel core | Temperature range: N/A
Great fit with simple but effective panels to allow for knee movement
Wide and soft straps resist rolling
Pad is comfortable over long distance and stays in place
Ankle cuff lacks gripper
Thinner material than some bibs could limit use on the colder days
While the name may suggest otherwise, the Santini Fashion Vega bib tights are a practical pair of bibs designed for milder winter and autumn days. They feature a thermofleece material that's been coated with a water-repellant coating alongside a comfy pad and wide straps that include silicone grippers to keep them in place.
The bibs do lack a silicone on the cuffs though, although this is fairly minor gripe. Overall the bibs impressed on test, excelling in the most important areas of comfort and fit.
Read more: Santini Fashion Vega Bibtights review
The best bib tights reviewed - Women's
Women's bib tights often have a slightly different upper section, with a halterneck or releasable clasp designed to make nature breaks more easy. Some, however, forgo this and offer a full-body option, which doubles up as a base layer.
9. Velocio Women's Foundation Bib Tights
Best bib tights for quality of fabrics
Fabric: ThermoGreen - 83% Recycled Polyamide / 17% Recycled Elastane | Wind / Waterproofing: None | Chamois: HD Foundation | Temperature range: None stated but 5-12ºc recommended by CW
Outstanding quality with premium construction and fabrics
Full size range from XXS-XXXL
Made from 100% recycled materials
Pad lacks breathability for longer rides
On test the Foundation Bib Tights proved to be a top-quality pair of bib tights, benefiting from a genuinely manageable, irritation-free, bio-break system. The chamois didn't prove to be the most breathable on longer rides, but proved comfortable enough for mid-length adventures.
Velocio's Foundation tights also scored highly due to the use of 100% recycled fabrics and for their full range of sizes that really do cater for everyone.
Read more: Velocio Women's Foundation Bib Tights full review
10. Castelli Sorpasso RoS women's bib tights
Best all-round winter bib tights for women
Fabric : Nano Flex 3G fabric, Nano Flex Xtra Dry | Wind/ Water proof: Wind and water repellent | Chamois : Progetto X2 Air seamless seat pad | Temperature range : 32ºF/ 0ºc - 53ºF/12ºc | Sizes: XS - XL | Colour: Black, Pink/black, blue
Warm in cold conditions, yet constantly breathable
Great water resistant properties
Reasonable price for performance
Would like a comfort break solution
Zipped ankles won't suit all riders
On test we found the Castelli Sorpasso RoS women's bib tights to be extremely comfortable, ticking all the right boxes: warmth, water resistance, breathability and fit, gaining them a coveted Cycling Weekly Editor's Choice Award.
Worn on both dry and mild winter rides, as well as dank and cold ones, they've proved themselves capable at both thanks to both the wind and water resistance and high breathability. As with all of the best bib tights, the Castelli Sorpasso RoS pair manage to do all the above without restriction around the knees or thighs.
The pad provides ample comfort for many hours in the saddle, but it's a shame that some form of quick access comfort break feature wasn't designed in. The only other not perfect aspect is that ankle zips don't really serve much purpose, but for some, it might make getting the tights on and off a little easier.
All in all however, these are a superb pair of women's specific bib tights that will get a lot of wear, and seem a positive bargain when compared to the Rapha Women's Pro Team Winter bib tights.
Read more: Castelli Sorpasso RoS women's bib tights full review
11. Rapha Women’s Pro Team Winter bib tights
Best bib tights for quick comfort breaks
Fabric: high Polyester mix fabric DWR coated, Thermoroubaix fleece | Wind /Water proof: Wind and water resistant | Chamois: Rapha women's specific | Temperature range : Below 50ºF/ 10ºc
Drop tail for quick and warm comfort breaks
Water and wind resistant front of legs
Spray-proof rear
High thermal properties for cold conditions
Reflective detailing visible all round
Ankle cuff quite loose
Magnetic clasp can be fiddly (especially with cold hands)
Wind proof and water resistant with an, almost, handy, dropped tail for comfort breaks - the Rapha Women's Pro Team Winter bib tights are a go-to winter riding companion.
Strategically positioning of water and wind resistant fabrics provides protection where it's needed, while more breathable, but super cosy Thermoroubaix fabric helps prevent sweat build up. It’s worth noting that they perform best below 10º for optimal temperature regulating comfort.
The dropped tail clasp is a little tricky to master, especially if it pings up your back, under your top layers and you've reach peak winter ride immobility, consider it a team mate bonding exercise.
We really like the fact that the subtle but highly reflective details are visible from the sides, and it seals the deal on these being one of the most practical pair of bib tights out there, making us over look the too loose ankle fit.
However, while they are the bee's knees in terms of performance and overall fit, their price tag lets you know it!
Read more: Rapha Women's Pro Team Winter bib tights full review
12. Endura Xtract bib tights
Best bib tights on a budget
Fabric: Roubaix fleece | Wind/ Water proof: None | Chamois: 400 series antibacterial, multi-density gel pad | Temperature range : Above 46ºF/ 8ºc | Sizes: S- 3XL | Colours: Black only
No frills design
Entry level price point
Ankle grippers nice and tights
Soft fleece inner for super cosy feel
Female and male specific fit options
Gel padding might be too bulky for some
No frills can still mean no chills with the Endura Xtract bib tights.
The sumptuously warm bib tights are great as an alternative to thermal shorts and leg warmers, and arguably a lot cheaper in some cases.
With no wind or water resistance, some riders will find the lack of technical attributes not for them, but on test we really liked their simplicity and found them great for mild dry winter conditions.
The gel padding is noticeable, and while it will offer a lot of protection, it might feel nappy like, especially if you are reasonably new to cycling and haven't really ridden with padded cyclewear before.
The fit on the women's specific pair was excellent, and, while we haven't yet tested the men's version, the Endura brand will reassure you that you are really getting a lot of value for money with either pair.
A fantastic entry level option and probably the best bib tights at the price point.
Read more: Endura Xtract bib tights full review
How do winter bib tights protect cyclists from wind and rain?
Bib tights often use a soft and warm fleece-lined Roubaix fabric to provide insulation. However, some also incorporate windproof panels, and others go further and sew in water-resistant or waterproof elements. The more protection you get from adverse conditions, generally, the more bulky the tights will be; but sometimes a little freedom of movement is worth sacrificing. The very best bib tights will be able to provide waterproof elements with a supple fabric.
If you have opted for a pair of water resistant bib tights, it's highly likely that this is provided from the fabric gaining a DWR (Durable Water Resistant) coating. After time and washes, this will need to be re-treated. It's a really task and there are lots of spray on the market to choose from. Our guides on the best waterproof treatments and how to re-waterproof your cycling jacket are both applicable to re-treating bib tights too.
How do the best winter bib tights move sweat away from your skin?
Breathability is an important aspect of a good pair of winter bib tights.
Balancing keeping warm vs breathability can be tricky when it comes to winter kit. Although it can be cold outside, you can soon warm up on and bike and if your bib tights aren't breathable, you're quickly going to work up a sweat that will make you very damp on the inside.
The best bib tights will use strategically placed panels of different fabric to take account of where you need rain and spray protection, wind proofing, and where to provide exhaust ports. In general the front of legs get the most weather protection, while the back is more breathable, as is the upper body where mesh is often used to help heat escape.
What is a chamois pad?
At the heart of any pair of bib tights is the chamois. This needs to provide comfort when spending hours in the saddle. In years past, brands often provided tights without a pad, to be worn over your favourite cycling shorts. These days, they can all sew in pad into tights in a way that's comfy and the reduced seam count is preferable. You'll find bib tights offering different levels of chamois pad thickness, some with pads with sections of varying cushioning at different contact points and chamois with anti-bacterial properties.
Should I buy bib tights or waist tights?
We've reviewed bib tights above - these have upper body portions which means they can't fall down, they don't cut in at the stomach and the chamois stays put. It is possible to get waist tights, but we'd always recommend bibs.
We've got a lot more on the subject on our dedicated waist shorts vs bib shorts: which are better and why page.
