I tested the ABR1 Pocket Bib Shorts on a multitude of rides both in terms of length and terrain. The main test was a 90km gravel ride in the Shropshire Hills which contained some really tricky terrain and some hot weather and they performed really well, both in terms of comfort and breathability.
The straps in particular are great! They are quite wide which helps them not to dig in during extended use and they are extremely soft. Additionally the silicone band on the inside of the leg did a great job and I didn’t experience any slippage or them riding up during any of my testing.
The leg pockets are definitely my favourite feature of the shorts. I’ve not had a pair of bib shorts in the past that feature pockets and was excited to try them. I was a little worried they would be hard to access and things may wiggle out, but I had no issues with accessing them whilst riding and none of my precious snacks fell out. I found myself using them more than my jersey pockets as they felt easier to access. I’m definitely a pocket bib short convert now and I don’t think I’ll be buying a pair of bib shorts in the future without them. I didn’t utilise the rear pocket as much, but that was purely because the hot weather has meant I haven’t really been carrying extra layers. However on the odd occasion I have, it worked great and kept the jacket in place and didn’t cause any discomfort.