The new Paragon Signature CB bib shorts from Manchester-based brand Lusso come in a great range of sizes and colours, but can this small brand compete with the big names?
Lusso has certainly nailed the easy-pee design, with thin elasticated white bib straps passing straight over the shoulders (rather than crossing at the back as most designs do) held in place by a cross-strap on the middle-back.
This approach enables the shorts to be pulled down easily while in a cafe (or taking a more rural nature break), without having to remove any other layers. It's a must for longer rides, in my opinion.
On first fit, the Lusso bibs feel supremely soft, with very minimal panels and seams. The legs are finished with a raw hem, unusually without the backing of silicone dots to help keep them in place.
That's good news if your skin gets irritated by this type of leg gripper, and it provides a very comfortable and flattering finish.
I was surprised to find they also held in position well, although if you’re looking for super-sharp tan lines, other shorts will be a better choice.
The compressive material is rather thin – these are the only bib shorts I’ve ever been able to see tattoos through, although that may also be due to the paler terracotta colourway (which is lovely, by the way).
I was a bit concerned they might be see-through at the rear, but a good riding pal assured me they are opaque.
I would question the durability of these shorts, though, as together with the chamois wearing out, losing the opacity of the rear panel is often the death knell for bib shorts – which may be quickened by the thinness of the material.
How we tested | Women's bib shorts
Each pair of bib shorts was tested over multiple rides and laundry cycles in late spring and early summer, both on- and off-road.
The key factors tested were comfort and functionality (not to forget style); the most crucial aspects of this cycling-wardrobe staple. The selection of bib shorts features standard and cargo bib options, reflecting the market demand for both options.
Shorts tested
- Albion Women’s ABR1 Pocket Bib Shorts
- Ryzon Vela Cargo Bib Shorts
- Iris Escape Bib Short 2.0
- Castelli Espresso 2 W DT Bibshort
- Sportful Hyperepic Women’s Bib Shorts
- Lusso Women's Paragon Comfort Break Bib Shorts
Lusso uses a chamois developed by Italian brand Dolomiti, combining variable-density foam and a gel insert to provide over eight hours of comfort, according to Lusso. I certainly found it supportive and didn’t have any issues with chafing.
In terms of fit, the Paragon shorts are excellent, being true to size and featuring a lovely supportive cut around the waistband panel to eliminate any potential discomfort while in the riding position.
The material is also super-stretchy, and with minimal seams I feel it could also give a little to accommodate small fluctuations in size.
Back to the terracotta colourway, I was impressed by how well it held up on a faster-paced ride, with only a minimal amount of sweat visible around the chamois. However, if you’re a particularly sweaty rider, I’d stick to darker colourways such as black, navy, dark green and purple.
My only criticism of the aesthetics is the logos are pretty loud, but most people probably won’t mind that too much.
Lusso’s bib shorts are a little less expensive than most of the mid-range competition at £160 / $221 / €155.95, with other options costing around £200, and represent great value for money.
Lusso Women's Paragon Comfort Break Bib Shorts bottom line
Packing in supreme comfort, great value and some fun colourways to boot, Lusso proves British manufacturing can compete with the rest of the bib shorts market.
However, the branding may be a bit prominent for some and the thin material gives me some doubts over their longevity.
