Best bib shorts 2020: great cycle shorts and jerseys

Kymira Sport’s Onyx kit is unique in that it’s “human-powered” infrared sportswear. According to the brand, the kit allows wearers to improve performance and reduce recovery time due to the 'KYnergy' technology, which is embedded into the material. This works when the wearer releases waste energy (heat) and the material converts it into Far Infrared Radiation (FIR), a type of electromagnetic heat which penetrates beneath the skin. This is said to increase the production of nitric oxide which – in combination with increased blood circulation – is responsible for a variety of positive effects including the more efficient use and distribution of oxygen and pain relief.

Military charity Help for Heroes just launched this new set of high-spec cycling gear, bringing in Rio Paralympic medal-winner, Jaco Van Gass, and Invictus gold medallist, Andy Perrin, to help create the range. Bright royal blue and emblazoned with ‘distressed’ Union Jacks in the style of the Armed Forces, this cycling kit really does make you stick out in the crowd. It also feels high quality and fits well in the right places. Not bad considering it’s just £100 all in.

Developed with Fabian Cancellara for endurance road cycling, Gore’s C7 long distance gear is all about maximum support with the ultimate comfort. Built for the long haul, the bib and shorts kit are made out of a very lightweight, low force elastic and flatlock seams to ensure the shorts stay in place if cycling until the cows come home. They are also super soft feeling on the skin while keeping you warm in less preferable weather conditions thanks to a dense knit construction.

Assos is yet another big player in the professional road cycling space, and one thing the company does well is to prepare you for all riding conditions; rain or shine. The Equipe RS kit touts a circular knit miniCheck Tex - a super elastic 3D knit fabric that’s been developed for better breathability and moisture transfer, ensuring sweat is wicked away more efficiently. There’s also a big focus on keeping the kit ultra light to make your rides faster than ever. And you can tell. They’ve even used a light elastic on the hem to save on weight.

Founded by Welsh former professional racing cyclist, Yanto Barker, Le Col is one of the top names in innovative cycling gear. The Hors Categorie kit was co-engineered with Brtish race legend Bradley Wiggins and has been designed specifically for the wide-ranging temperatures in the Northern Hemisphere. It offers a nice snug fit with a luxurious feel. What we like best, though, is the four-way stretch fabric, which not only makes it more breathable, but super strong, too. Ideal for long-distance, high tempo rides.

Canyon’s Signature Pro kit has to be one of the most comfortable we’ve tried. The high-quality fabric, compressive, multi-panel design and seamless construction really does give it a high comfort rating. There’s also an outer layer of microfiber which is said to reduce skin temperature but more importantly friction, meaning you can leave the sudocrem at home. Be it road, gravel, cross-country, this kit will keep comfort levels are up there throughout your entire journey.

The Sundried Peloton collection is designed for training rides and is perfect for those who are new to cycling. It’s breathable and sweat-wicking meaning it’ll keep you dry and comfortable even after hours in the saddle. We especially like the sticky silicone grippers on the short, which will prevent the legs from riding up.

These cycling shorts are by far the cheapest you’ll find and surprisingly - they don’t feel it. Designed to make road cycling extra comfortable, they have flat seams which prevent rubbing and a foam pad which provides ample cushioning and absorbs vibrations. Stretchy straps and elastic bands on the thighs mean it'll stay in place all-ride long. And all for under £50 for the entire kit, it’s nothing but a bargain.