Velocio CONCEPT Bib Short Review: supportive and comfortable shorts for any terrain

Velocio's new CONCEPT Bib Shorts are designed to provide maximum speed, but comfort is the primary quality most riders seek. The shorts feature a tough, woven fabric that offers good support and compression, particularly useful for gravel riding. Unlike some gravel-specific shorts, these ones lack thigh pockets and follow Velocio's subdued and muted aesthetic.

The construction includes a stretch-woven, softshell-style fabric with minimal seams, eliminating the central seam under the pad for added comfort and durability. The laser-cut legs are finished with silicone grippers, and the top is bound with Lycra edging to keep the shorts in place. The rear of the shorts is double-layered, featuring a mesh drop liner which may aid moisture management or provide extra protection against mud or road spray.

The multi-density pad is thicker and more contoured compared to Velocio's LUXE shorts, providing ample padding under the sit bones while reducing it towards the edges. The straps are wide but not particularly breathable, with only a small mesh panel between the shoulder blades to keep them in place. The shorts come in five colors for men and are available in sizes ranging from XS to XXXXL for men and XXS to XXXL for women.

Despite being designed with an off-road bias, the CONCEPT shorts perform well on both off-road and on-road terrains. The pad proved to be highly effective and comfortable even after long rides, and the shorts held up well against vegetation and the weather. However, the price point of £258 / $349 may be considered steep for some.