Haul More, Ride Longer: Velocio Utility Bib Short Review
Cargo bibs are always nice to have. Even if you don't use the pockets on every ride, it's nice to have the option -- especially when going on long rides. The Velocio Utility Bib Short uses the same, high-quality chamois as their best shorts and are built…
Cargo bibs are always nice to have. Even if you don't use the pockets on every ride, it's nice to have the option -- especially when going on long rides. The Velocio Utility Bib Short uses the same, high-quality chamois as their best shorts and are built with their lightest stretch woven fabric. Of course, there are additional pockets on offer with one on each leg and a single back panel pocket that give these added versatility.
Velocio Utility Bib Short Features:
Made with ultralight weight stretch woven, recycled fabric
Seamless microfiber bib straps and leg gripper cuffs
Two laser cut and bonded side cargo pockets
One larger back pocket
Reflective detailing
Signature Chamois developed with Cytech EIT
Colors: Black or Navy (tested)
MSRP: $299
Comfort remains -- no matter how hard you push.
Now we're haulin'
Of all the touchpoints on a bike, it's almost a no-brainer stating that your bib shorts are the most important. Compression, fit and chamois comfort all play a huge part in how long or hard you can ride. Comfort aside, one of the next best features of a modern bib short are extra pockets. Ushered in by self-supported gravel riding, cargo pockets or added rear pockets built into a pair of bib shorts are heaven sent. For winter riding, the Velocio Thermal Utility Bib Tights offer warmth and cargo hauling, but for summer riding, the new Velocio Utility Bib Shorts have all the trappings of a long-distance companion.
Built from Velocio's lightest material, the Utility Bib Shorts are made for the warmest conditions. Pulling them on, I do immediately notice the lightweight material. It's stretchy, yet taut, but not as compressive as the Foundation Bib Short, for example. After the typical stretching and leg movements I do when putting on all bibs, I can get these shorts situated perfectly. Initial testing was indoors with Rouvy and Zwift on the Stages SB20. That lightweight material is great for indoor rides, but once the weather warmed, it was time for road and gravel testing.
They stay perfectly-put during all efforts.
The microfiber bib straps cross in the back in typical Velocio fashion. It's a simple design choice that pulls the backside of the bibs at an angle to ensure a more secure fit. When putting them on, that cross pattern can seem a little confusing -- just make sure you've got the front of the chamois with the straps wide open, so they cross in the back. The straps offer the perfect snug-ness and pull the lowers perfectly in place. I have worn these with and without a sleeveless base layer, like the Pactimo Summit SL. For road and gravel riding, I have not experienced any chafing from the straps.
The inseam and leg length is a touch shorter than other models, like the Luxe V2, but are in line with modern lengths. The microfiber cuff is the same material as the straps, but with a light rubbery texture applied to the interior. On the bike, I have loved how the cuffs feel and how well they stay in place. No matter my movements, the cuffs stretch with me and allow unencumbered riding in the saddle or aggressively climbing or sprinting.
Interestingly, Velocio's tags have grown exponentially this year. They are so long, I almost expected grocery store coupons on the backside. The tag is also placed right in the middle of your backside, thus flossing your derriere during the ride. Do yourself a favor and snip them off completely or just after the size and SKU info.
Heading up Battle Creek.
Chamois and utility
Velocio uses their Signature chamois on the Utility Bib Short and it's the same unit used across their top bib shorts and tights. On a variety of both indoor and outdoor rides as well as road, mountain biking or gravel, it's a competent, multi-density chamois. I have found it to be excellent for longer rides and rough terrain. I wouldn't hesitate wearing them on the longest of rides. But, if I had the choice between the Pearl iZUMi Expedition PRO and these, ahead of something like SBT GRVL, I think I would honestly chose the Pearl iZUMi's. That said, I'm in a unique situation with a wide array of bib shorts at my disposal.
With such a lightweight and stretchy outer fabric, I have noticed that it can get caught on my saddle when returning to a seated position. This is most noticeable on warm rides where the fabric is wet from perspiration. Just be deliberate in getting re-seated and snags are easily avoided. It almost goes without saying that the fabric does dry out in a jiffy and the bibs can be worn repeatedly before they get stinky.
The leg pockets could sit further back (down in this view).
The lumbar and cargo sleeves are excellent for hauling extra stuff. Granted, the lumbar sleeve does lay directly underneath jersey pockets, so you can't double-stack large items in there. But, for gel packets or flexible items like that, the lumbar pocket is awesome. I'm notorious for "losing" things in my leg pockets. Once in the leg sleeves, my iPhone or SiS gels simply disappear as I wander around the house looking for them. On the bike, carrying my iPhone 13 Mini isn't ideal, so I just used the leg pockets for gels and trash. I'll add that the leg pockets do sit a little more forward than those on other bibs. I would like to see them moved rearward an inch or so so they sit more on the edge of my quads towards my hamstrings.
Works great as a trash stash.
There's no overlooking the price of the Velocio Utility Bib Shorts. They are expensive. But, their quality is outstanding. Keep in mind that Velocio is currently offering 20% off when you bundle these with a jersey.
Fit: I'm 5'11" and 175 lbs., wearing the size medium Utility Bib Shorts, which is the same as I always wear in Velocio.
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