The Castelli Free Unlimited bib shorts are aimed for gravel and adventure riding with plenty of extra pockets to stash whatever you might want to access while riding. The fit and performance are superb, with additions that genuinely make a difference, even if they are not in the way Castelli intended but we'll get into that a little later. Day-long comfort might be an exaggerated phrase by some but, for these, they have achieved exactly that.
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Castelli Free Unlimited bib shorts - Fit and sizing
Castelli is predominantly a road-orientated brand and, while the Free Unlimited range is aimed at more than just road riding, there is still a big emphasis on performance. The fit is close and figure-hugging with fabric that provides a small amount of compression without feeling restrictive.
These are available in sizes XS to 3XL, and I found the size guide to be accurate, with a good length in the upper leg and good tension in the straps, with a broad coverage to balance it. The front panel between the straps I found to be ideal in height, with enough movement in the fabric to comfortably take a nature break without the need to bend over.
Castelli has chosen the Progretto X2 air seamless pad, as found on all the top-end Castelli bib shorts. This is a two-panel pad, with a four-way stretch layer next to the skin with a bacteriostatic layer, and multi-density inner foam with variable thickness.
Castelli Free Unlimited bib shorts - Performance
The main Forza 2 fabric has raw-cut seems on both the legs and waist area, with enough tension to ensure they stay in place without the need for silicone grippers.
In total, there are four additional pockets, two on each leg and two on the back. The back pockets I find of less use, simply as I prefer to wear jerseys with pockets. For those who prefer jerseys without pockets, however, they are well-sized and slimline when empty. The leg pockets are a generous size with good depth and width. The stretch in the fabric blends into the main shorts and the only giveaway is the panels above that feature Dyneema thread.
Castelli says the Dyneema lightweight thread can be used for sewing and offers protection in the event of any crashes; it's 15x stronger than steel. For any riding through overgrown trails, the Dyneema is much more resistant to abrasions and pulling threads, and limits wear or fraying to the fabric when excessively using the pockets. The sections might have genuine benefits but they do stand out and that aesthetic won’t appeal to everyone.
The shape, size and density of a seat pad can often be personal in terms of fit and comfort but, for me, the Progretto X2 is a favourite and I used these shorts on some extremely long events, both on and off-road. Castelli suggests the Free Unlimited is not just for gravel but also adventures and, for me, the biggest ride was a 600km audax, taking 25hrs of riding time with not even the slightest bit of discomfort.
I found the leg panels stayed in place with no roll-up or leg creep suggesting there is enough compression in the fabric not to need a silicone gripper.
Castelli Free Unlimited bib shorts – Verdict
The Castelli Free Unlimited bib shorts cost £195, placing them among other premium brands. With cargo bib shorts becoming far more popular, there are plenty of lower-priced options. Rapha has several available including the Core Cargo Bibshort at £125. Then there's the PEdAL ED Odyssey at £145 and 7Mesh Mk3 that Pat rated highly at £180. There are some options that go above the £200 price point, including the Assos Mille GTC Kiespanzer for £210.
These shorts are incredible with fit and comfort that have proven to be superb. The side panels with Dyneema fabric do protrude a little but that's nitpicking. I have no doubt that many riders will find comfort in cheaper shorts but if you are prepared to spend this much you won’t be disappointed as the comfort and fit far outweigh the initial outlay.
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