Overview
Sometime around July, we stumbled across a newcomer to the cycling apparel arena, Panache Cyclewear from Boulder CO. Entering the established cycling apparel marketplace with the likes of such household names such as Assos, Giordana, Pearl Izumi is a fairly daunting proposition. After all, most of these companies have been in the business for 30 plus years, have extensive R&D operations, pro-level endorsements, and a loyal rider-base.
We were in need of a pair of bibs, so we purchased the Panache Eleven Bib Short from their online store and started to ride.
The Good
Designed for warm weather riding, we noticed right away, the lightweight Lycra side panels in combination with the CoolTouch Mesh thigh panels were just what the doctor ordered for the plus 90 days. The gripper tape, is like nothing you will find on your granpapies Assos or Giordana bibs. It is a bit wider than most bibs we have tried and stuck to the leg throughout the entire ride.
The Pro-Stock Elastic Interface Chamois is absolutely lovely and on par with Assos, Giordana, and Rapha heavyweight contenders.
The Snob In Us
We wish the straps were made of a heavier material at the apex of the shoulder. The CoolTouch Mesh is a wonderful fabric in the thigh area, but it tends to "roll" a bit on the shoulder blade and thus adding a bit of discomfort.
Our
Recommendation
After Nearly 350 miles, countless wash cycles, and two century rides throughout one of the hottest Colorado Summer's we can remember, we can't imagine riding in anything else. The Eleven's are our new favorite warm-weather bibs and look forward to seeing more from this cycling apparel newcomer.
Where To Buy
Panache Cyclewear for $240
; "Guru Geneo")
; "Scott Addict")
Comments