When it came to improving on Castelli's best-selling bibshort of all time, the Italian brand's R&D team worked closely with Team Sky riders, visiting the squad in Belgium, Nice, Manchester and all around Italy to get training and racing feedback.
The consensus was that the existing Free Aero Race was already a really, really good pair of shorts. But Castelli isn't a company to sit still – good enough doesn't come into it.
Based on Team Sky feedback and the Castelli team's constant testing and drive to improve on the short, the 2019 Free Aero Race 4 bibshort features some dramatic, performance-enhancing changes.
New dimpling on the legs stops air attaching to the fabric so that air comes off cleanly – it also allows for better print quality too. There's a new leg gripper that features a lie-flat raw-cut edge but now has vertical silicone stripes to keep it in place without restricting stretch and leg movement.
Castelli has completely redesigned the short's panelling to improve fit and support while also making the short look even cleaner. The team has re-engineered the bib straps with new lighter, more breathable material so they stay cooler, lie flatter and are more durable. They also look fantastic with a new pinstripe design. A new loop for race radio microphone was added at the request of team riders.
The Free Aero Race 4 Kit Bibshort also incorporates Castelli's brand new Progetto X2 Air seamless seat pad, which features a two-piece design. Thanks to Castelli's advanced use of fabric technologies, the supportive foam core is slightly narrower and smaller than before. This is because the design's flexibility and elasticity mean it sits exactly where it needs to be – meaning it doesn't have to be wider than the saddle.
The upper layer is dimpled to reduce full skin contact, encouraging air to drive moisture away from the body. It's also more elastic so it's doesn't fold while the finish is the softest ever on a pair of Castelli shorts for luxurious comfort next to the skin.
- Vortex dimpled fabric on legs for aero performance
- Forza fabric on inner legs with 38% Lycra® content for the perfect fit
- Stripe mesh engineered minimalist bib construction keeps you cool
- Giro4 leg gripper elastic for better grip distributed over a larger area
- Doppio V construction in front for increased support and comfort
- Flat-lock stitching
- Progetto X2 Air Seamless seat pad