It's nice to see that Shimano has its W's Eleganza Bib Shorts tailored in Italy. The Italians can look back on a long tradition in the sportswear industry. So it's hardly surprising that the Eleganza is really well made. The feel of the fabric itself is also very pleasant. The very light and soft material is comfortable against the skin. Incidentally, we also have the Men's counterpart from Shimano tested - you can read our conclusion here.
Top workmanship, soft materials
You can also tell that the Italians know their craft from the cut. The trouser legs are held together with just a single seam, which is also beautifully flat. Pressure points? There are none, only really sensitive sportswomen might find the seams a little scratchy. The seamless leg cuffs with their narrow silicone strip are also comfortable against the skin and hold their position well when pedalling.
Shimano also relies on thin, rather tight fabric for the straps. This is a little stubborn when you put it on and rolls in a lot. The bib straps also wrinkle during the ride and are not quite as comfortable on the shoulders. This has been solved somewhat better on the Distanza men's trousers.
Drop tail without real function
A good idea: Shimano has given its long-distance shorts a so-called drop-tail function for toilet breaks. If your bladder pinches, you can hit the bushes, pull the trousers over your bum and save yourself the hassle of taking off your jersey - that's the idea. However, due to the tight straps, the Shimano W's Eleganza Bib Shorts can't really be pulled down, even with a lot of effort, so you have no choice but to undress on top again - a shame.
The seat cushion does not quite live up to the long-distance aspect. It is well positioned and has medium-thick padding throughout, which means that the sit bones are always in good contact. Overall, however, the padding offers little support and is quite soft. On long rides, the sit bones push through the seat cushion more quickly. A slightly firmer foam would have been a better choice here.
Shimano W's Eleganza Bib Shorts - Info & Price
- Price159,95 Euro
- Weight (M): 154 grammes
- SizesS-XL
- Made inItaly
- EquipmentSeamless straps and cuffs; mesh back panel; reflective
- Special featuresDrop tail function
- Upholstery Length/width/hardness: 22 cm / 15 cm / soft
- Leg length (measured from the trochanter major): 28.5 cm
Evaluation & conclusion
Elaborately constructed bib shorts with very few, neatly finished seams, which can be slightly scratchy for sensitive riders. The material is pleasantly soft and thin, but still sufficiently tight. The seamless cuffs on the legs stay neatly in place. Less successful are the straps, which roll in and are too thin. Somewhat narrow, soft padding. The drop-tail straps are too tight, which is why the pee function doesn't work in practice.
Stefan Frey
Editor
