Review: Craft Elite Attack bib shorts. Sassy.
There are many ways to position athletic gear on the market. Comfort, superior styling, hyper-innovation in fabrics and construction and the endorsement of top stars.
The Craft Elite Attack bib short boasts several innovations but if we were in charge, we’d highlight the SB Quotient. Craft scores way up on the Sexy Beast rating.
First, the bib strap fabric is so sheer and lightweight it practically creates a new category: men’s technical lingerie. It's like Victoria Secret decided to get into cycling apparel.
The band of fabric around the leg bottom is wider than any we've seen. There's no other way to describe it than like a woman's black thigh-highs.
Now maybe all this overt sexiness sounds like the kiss of death for a man but consider Craft developed this race gear with Saxo Bank and this year Craft is working with the Brothers Schleck and their new Luxembourg Mystery Team.
Second, admit that you don’t mind a quick peak at yourself in the mirror. Good microfiber is flattering and there’s nothing wrong with a dose of auto-erotic appreciation.. Hey, you did the training miles, right? If Andy Schleck, twice runner-up in the Tour de France, thinks the Craft is sexy, who’s to argue?
Cool product tidbit: there's a carbon fiber fabric developed by Eschler used in the front panel. Accept the hype and the carbon aids thermo-regulation and dissipates electric charges -- yes, you ride that fast. Eschler works with Craft, Campagnolo and Santini.
Drawbacks? Based on our test rides, we’re not convinced the synthetic chamois is up to the long rides, gel or no gel. Our pad felt stiff and took extra time to seat itself. That's not a huge black mark, it just doesn't appear as innovative as say, the Sugoi RSE.
Then there’s the errant line of gripper silicon across the outside of the thighs. Like somebody at the factory had extra goop in the gun and decided to get “creative.” This man fool should be terminated immediately.
Still, all in all. the Craft is has some thoughtful features and the Swedes pride themselves on degree of finish and detailing. Based on the lightweight fabrics, we’d definitely recommend the Elite Attack for hot summer riding but not as your winter kit.
Gel inserts, sheer black shoulder straps, sassy thigh bands. Yes, Craft is the sexy beast of bibs.
Craft
$225