Protective Catania Comfort Short

This quote from the Pulitzer Prize-winning Californian novelist, William Saroyan, perfectly reflects the passion for the bike, and everything that comes with it, held by The Edinburgh Bicycle Co-Operative.

The co-op's mission statement is to "promote cycling in the UK as a pastime, and as a method of transport by making it easier and more enjoyable to own and ride a bike." Since 1977 they have strived to stock the widest selection of genuinely useful cycling equipment and these race shorts are no exception to their rule.

Coming from the Co-op's Protective clothing range these shorts have kept us extremely comfy throughout all out sprint efforts and many, many steady miles in the saddle.

Not only is the chamois specifically shaped and cushioned for women but the cut of the shorts mean that the waist band sits comfortably in the right place through hours of riding.

The Protective Catania Comfort Short features Protective's Women's Comfort Pad, an anatomical 3D-preshaped elastic chamois faced with fast-wicking antibacterial Meryl Skinlife fabric. And all this comfort doesn't mean that you end up with a huge amount of padding either - you hardly know the chamois is there.

The silicone grippers on the leg prevent the shorts from riding up and unlike with some designs, this doesn't result in any cutting in on the thighs. Similarly, the wide waistband doesn't leave you with any tightness when you're on the drops or hunched over the bike for hours.

The 6-panel Lycra race design fits like a second skin but offers no restriction, instead providing muscle supporting AFT technology. The seamless inner legs have been fantastic through the recent heat and minimise chafing.

So, overall a subtly designed and performance race short which offers seamless comfort when you need it most.

• Price: £42.95
• Sizes: S M L
• Colours: Black
• Performance: 9
• Value: 8
• Comfortable, stylish and simple race wear
• Contact: www.justprotective.com