Assos leg grippers too loose in brand new FI.13 shorts

[Foghat]

Have just acquired two pairs of the FI.13 S5 shorts, to supplement two pairs of the 'same' FI.13 S5 model bought in 2011.

However, despite all pairs being the same L size, the leg grippers in these 2013 versions are much looser than the 2011 versions, to the extent that they are unusable and I am going to have to return them for a refund (the next size down is not an option, as M is too small in the body/braces).

Measuring them, the 2011 shorts are approximately 18-19cm across at the leg gripper, while the 2013 shorts are 21cm. This gives a circumferential difference of at least 4cm in each leg gripper between the 2011 and 2013 versions - no wonder they are too loose!

Clearly, Assos has inconsistent production methods even within a model line, and currently seems to assume most riders are short with fat legs - meaning I probably now need to look to other brands.

So I would be interested in recommendations for similar quality shorts that are designed for 6ft slim riders who need nice tight leg grippers that don't ride up, and who do not like the ridiculous 'too-short-shorts' look or feel. High quality, thick pads would still be a key consideration.

Any suggestions? Across-leg-gripper measurements (and shorts size) would be helpful for reference too.

Thanks!

 

[Rob3rt]

Over time, things are bound to change. You may also have got a sketchy pair, however unlikely that is.

As for recommendations of other bibs to consider (since you were talking about Assos I will consider it safe to assume you want premium grade kit), I like Castelli Aero Race and Body Paint bib's and I am 6' 3" and thin. The leg grippers on both of these are seamless and are not overly tight, but stay in place very well through superior design rather than over tight leg grippers, as many manufacturers rely on.

 

[T4tomo]

its inflation, thighs like everything else are getting bigger, yours are a statistical blip.

 

[musa]

yeah castelli gets the thumbs up as do Rapha

 

[numbnuts]

I hate those leg gripper, I all ways cut them off along with 6 inches plus of the fabric as I hate my shorts down the the knees.

 

[vickster]

You cut the grippers off Assos shorts

 

[screenman]

Why not just have some made to measure?

 

[ayceejay]

Now that winter is here - hit the gym - do loads of squats and increase the size of you thighs - problm solved.

 

[ColinJ]

Now that winter is here - hit the gym - do loads of squats and increase the size of you thighs - problm solved.

I just measured my thighs where shorts grippers go. I have lost loads of weight so flabby legs are no longer much of an issue, and I haven't done enough exercise recently to get my muscles back to their old size but my thighs are already 48 cm in circumference!

 

[jayonabike]

Rapha shorts and their Pro Team range of shorts are excellent. I have both and can highly recommend them

 

[Foghat]

Thanks for the replies, particularly the recommendations.

It looks like my long association with Assos shorts is over - I think Assos seems more intent on catering to the fat MAMIL market now.

Any more suggestions of specific models for high-quality bibshorts with:
- longish legs
- VERY good leg grippers that work well on slim legs
- comfortable thick pad

 

[Foghat]

I hate those leg gripper, I all ways cut them off along with 6 inches plus of the fabric as I hate my shorts down the the knees.

This information is of no use to anyone.

 

[jayonabike]

The Rapha Pro team Bibs come in long (all black only) as well as regular. Their Pro Team thermal (fleece lined) are a longer leg also. I have these and they are fantastic. The grip stays in place, they come down to just above my knees (I'm 6' 2'') and the pad is the thickest I've used.

 

[Rob3rt]

Thanks for the replies, particularly the recommendations.

It looks like my long association with Assos shorts is over - I think Assos seems more intent on catering to the fat MAMIL market now.

Any more suggestions of specific models for high-quality bibshorts with:
- longish legs
- VERY good leg grippers that work well on slim legs
- comfortable thick pad

Why a thick pad?

 

[Foghat]

The Rapha Pro team Bibs come in long (all black only) as well as regular. Their Pro Team thermal (fleece lined) are a longer leg also. I have these and they are fantastic. The grip stays in place, they come down to just above my knees (I'm 6' 2'') and the pad is the thickest I've used.

Thanks - very interesting!