Hot
- Waist zippers provide a drop bottom for simpler nature break stops
- ACTIVE padded insert with two different densities for added ride comfort
- Full mesh bib straps improve breathability and comfort
- Wide silicone leg grippers snug but not restrictive
- Reflective logos front and back add to lowlight visibility
- Also a men’s Ardent version without the zippers.
Not
- Back zippers leave a 3” opening at the small of the back
- Sizing excluding larger riders; only goes up to Large
- Pricey
Price: $170
Color: Black, Black/Hibiscus Pink, Black/Scuba Blue
Sizes: XXS-L
Fit: Form fit
How Obtained: Company sample
Availability: Online and Retail
RBR Advertiser: No
Innovative Zipper Closure for Simpler Bio Breaks
I hear it from women all the time; wearing bibs is too cumbersome. Yes, the main deterrent keeping women from enjoying the comfort of bib shorts is the difficulty and time-consuming process of undressing when it comes to nature breaks.
GORE developed a patented system designed into their Ardent bib shorts. With two zippers at the back waist, all you do is unzip, and the bottom drops. There’s no longer the need to take off your jersey, pull down the bib straps and redress post bio break.
The two zippers are located at the waistline, thus reducing friction from movement. Once pulling on the bibs, I wasn’t aware of the zippers. I genuinely like the concept, but I’m confused about why the zippers do not meet at the lower back. Instead, there’s a 3” gap. In my opinion, they should come together at the centerline.
Ride in Comfort
I found the Ardent chamois performed well and was comfortable on test rides, the longest being 45 miles. GORE uses an ACTIVE padded insert with two different densities to provide added protection to your seat bones. A GORE WINDSTOPPER Liner technology for better breathability.
ADVANCED Brand Core Seat Insert with GORE WINDSTOPPER Liner Technology
The bibs themselves were comfortable, beginning with the full mesh top for movability and breathability. The shorts have a 9.8” inseam for good leg coverage and muscle support. A wide silicone leg grippers fit snug but allow for unrestrictive movement.
A reflective GORE logo placement both front and back allows for added visibility in low light conditions.
Bottom Line
GORE’s Ardent bib shorts are an ideal option for a woman looking to start wearing bibs but is concerned about the complexity of nature breaks. The convenient drop bottom and comfortable design offer a great yet pricey first bib option.
Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.
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