GORE makes much more than waterproof and softshell fabrics — they also make some fine cycling kits and apparel. This year, their C7 line has been revamped and the new GORE C7 Long Distance Bib Shorts+ are a great example of all that R&D.
GORE C7 Long Distance Bib Shorts+ Features:
- Expert Long Distance seat insert with GORE® WINDSTOPPER® Cup
- Central torso architecture keeps chamois in place
- Three point chamois anchoring system with wide, flat bib straps
- Simple silicone leg grippers
- Subtle reflective details for 360-degree visibility
- Small radio pocket on backside
- Flatlock seams for added comfort
- 23cm inseam length
- MSRP: $199.99
Go the Distance with C7 Long Distance
This summer, I’ve had both the new GORE C7 Long Distance and C7 Race Bib Shorts+ in review. Both feature an all-new construction and chamois design that’s been heavily influenced by Fabian Cancellara. Since this is GORE we’re talking about, their C7 lineup is as good as it gets and, that new liner features a Gore Windstopper front cup — nice touch.
Where the C7 Race bib shorts are made for race day, the C7 Long Distance bib shorts are made for just that — long days in the saddle. GORE did some interesting things with the Long Distance bib shorts that are worth noting.
The chamois is excellent. I like it better than the one on the C7 Race, but only slightly. It’s good chamois, but not class-leading. It’s interesting how the pad is attached to the shorts. There is an extra inch or so around the chamois that isn’t sewn to the bibs. It allows the pad to float just a tad. It doesn’t perform miracles and isn’t quite on par with the Assos Equipe RS S9 Bib Shorts, but it’s unique and does an adequate job moving with your body.
With an excellent overall fit and comfort, the C7 Long Distance does deliver comfort on long rides. Of particular note are the wide bib straps that distribute the pressure so well that they disappear. Nature breaks are also a breeze here. I like the length of these shorts as they provide great leg coverage, but don’t deliver much in the way of compression. I think I could have very well gone with the medium instead of the large and may have had more support.
Each leg laser-cut leg cuff is finished off with a simple tab of grippy silicone. It is pretty minimalist and doesn’t always do an adequate job of keeping the leg cuffs in place. They do tend to roll up and the wind can even cause them to flutter.
The Good
- Very comfortable next-to-skin
- Windstopper front cup blocks out the chill, yet breathes
- Straps are wide and comfy — they disappear
- Good length
- Quality materials
- Front pocket for your junk
The Bad
- Leg cuffs can flutter in the wind
- Wished for a little more compression
The Bottom Line: GORE C7 Long Distance Bib Shorts+
Again, I’m going to go there — that front junk pocket steals the show. The all-new chamois and short design is also quite impressive. The straps simply disappear and the whole package is quite comfortable overall.
Buy Now: Available at CompetitiveCyclist.com
