The Sorpasso 2 Bib Knicker gets some new features and design improvements this season. With a base effective range of 50°-61°F, the Sorpasso 2 delivers excellent warmth, moderate compression, high-level breathability, along with mid-range water and wind blocking protection. This is a great bib knicker for aggressive training in the Fall and Spring, as well as being the ideal piece for long, comfortable Saturday rides on cool Fall days. The materials and construction also deliver durability season after season, so the price represents very real value.

The Sorpasso's front leg and knee panels are constructed of Thermoflex Core2 which does a great job at keeping your legs protected from the elements. Thermoflex Core2 was developed to be a primary Castelli Fall/Winter fabric. It provides windproofing, a wet weather barrier, and warmth/moisture control through hollow core fibers. The upper thighs and back of the legs feature standard Thermoflex where supreme weather protection is not required. Thermoflex in all of its forms has great stretch and resiliency, so when cut and stitched in anatomical patterns, Castelli can achieve a supple, tailored fit. In addition to fit, Thermoflex also provides excellent muscle compression. The bottoms of the tights are finished off with the wide elastic cuffs which grip without being too tight or restrictive.

One of the bigger challenges for bib knickers is how to balance the performance of the upper and lower sections. The upper needs to work perfectly for fit and comfort, as well as work more as a baselayer for heat and moisture regulation. The flat, thin and elastic suspenders are the familiar Giro++ design that provide support, while staying low profile. A mesh panel bridges the straps across the back, easing moisture off the skin and releasing excess heat. For this 2nd generation Sorpasso Bibtight, Castelli adds a 3D support band at lower back, which offers some compression and better overall fit and support. The pieces and fabrics work as a system to deliver performance.

In keeping with the theme of comfort and protection, the chamois pad is the high mileage and supportive, race-level Progetto X2 Air. It has a little more loft and effective padding than the standard Progetto X2. This insert is designed to disappear beneath the rider. It has two distinct components. A skin care layer that is bacteriostatic, soft, elastic, seamless and is designed to prevent chafing. The other feature is the cushioning layer that features variable thickness with extra viscous padding beneath the sit bones and perineum. The Sorpasso 2 Bib Knicker is deserving of this chamois, and you will appreciate how the fabrics, fit, feel and anatomic performance encourage you to spend long hours in the saddle in the shoulder seasons.