Modern cycling bib shorts have evolved with technology to deliver technical garments that offer feature upon feature, impressive fabrics, and smart design. But the bottom line, when it comes to bib shorts, is comfort. First Ascent’s new Alpha and Pro Elite II bib shorts are leading the way with rider comfort without creating bank balance discomfort.
Paid partnership with First Ascent
First Ascent is a South African sports and outdoor brand that was founded on delivering products that are functional, durable, and at competitive price points. While it caters to a wide range of different sports and activities, First Ascent has invested significantly in perfecting its cycling range in general and bib shorts, in particular, to ensure South Africans have access to the highest quality, latest technology at a common-sense price.
The First Ascent Pro Elite II Bib has been the brand’s range-topper for some time – and for good reason – a bib short with all the required features at a price of just R1999-00 is sure to be successful. However, not content to rest on its laurels, First Ascent sent its design team on a quest to create the ultimate cycling bib short, making no compromises and using the latest technology in both fabrics and manufacturing. The result is the new Alpha for women and men.
Most South African cyclists do weekly rides that last between 1-6 hours. A model like the First Ascent Pro Elite II, which features a 100kg/m3 Dolomiti GTR-3D chamois pad, is ideal for this kind of duration and regular use. The new Alpha bib shorts, however, set a higher standard and feature the premium 120kg/m3 Dolomiti GTR-4D chamois pad, which is ideal for rides longer than 6 hours as well as stage races.
The Alpha bib shorts build on the success of First Ascent’s Podium mode, but with enhanced aerodynamics and comfort. The lightweight, breathable fabric keeps you cool and dry on hot rides, while the multi-direction stretch fabric, Micro Nylon/Lycra main fabric with UPF50+, Tech Power and aero-textured insets, delivers a compressive fit that supports the large upper-leg muscles and hip flexors.
On the Alpha (women’s) there’s a new seamless leg opening, which, reduces thigh region restriction and looks more flattering, while the Alpha (men’s) now features an extra gripper elastic to ensure a snug fit is maintained no matter how long the ride.
At R2600, the First Ascent Alpha bib shorts come at a more premium price but are still significantly better priced than flagship models from European brands and even some South African brands.
New Women’s Alpha Bib Shorts
- Wide plush elastic straps to maintain positioning
- Reflective trims for extra visibility and added safety during low-visibility rides
- Lightweight, breathable Drymotion main fabric
- UPF 50+ protection on the main fabric
- Compressive fit for muscle support
- Premium 120kg/m3 Dolomiti chamois for long-lasting comfort
- Aerodynamic design for speed
- Seamless construction to reduce irritation
- Race-inspired design for a professional look
Price: R2 699-00
SEE THE WOMEN’S ALPHA BIB SHORTS HERE
New Men’s Alpha Bib shorts
- Wide plush elastic straps to maintain positioning
- Lightweight and breathable Drymotion main fabric
- UPF 50+ protection on the main fabric
- Compressive fit for muscle support
- Reflective trims for extra visibility and added safety during low-visibility rides
- Premium 120kg/m3 Dolomiti chamois for long-lasting comfort
- Aerodynamic design for speed
- Race-inspired design for a professional look
Price: R2 699-00
SEE THE MEN’S ALPHA BIB SHORTS HERE
PRO ELITE II BIB SHORTS – GREAT PERFORMANCE, EXCEPTIONAL VALUE
While the Alpha bib shorts attract attention with this launch, the ever-reliable, durable, and comfortable Pro Elite II remains the foundation First Ascent cycling model for South Africans.
With the tight economy, mountain bikers, road cyclists, and gravel riders are more discerning with value for money purchasing, which is why the Pro Elite II remains a top-of-mind model for most. Being able to afford two pairs for the price of one imported brand is an attractive offering…
Still priced at R1 999-00, the First Ascent Pro Elite II Bib short is expected to remain one of the most popular bib shorts options for committed riders this spring and summer.
Pro Elite II Bib shorts
- Premium quality DryMotion fabric technology for extreme comfort and longevity
- Additional textured panelling for an improved fit
- Wide plush elastic straps to maintain positioning
- Ultra comfortable silicon gripper cuffs to secure legs and prevent riding of shorts
- Reflective trims for extra visibility and added safety during low-visibility rides
- 100kg/m³ density Italian Chamois, ideal for 4-6 hours of superior comfort in the saddle
- Four-way stretch, moisture-wicking, soft touch fabric.
Price: R1 999-00
SEE THE MEN’S PRO ELITE II BIB SHORTS HERE
SEE THE WOMEN’S PRO ELITE II BIB SHORTS HERE
Want more than premium bib shorts? See First’s Ascent’s cycling range from head to toe here.
Paid partnership with First Ascent
Note: pricing is correct as at November 2024 and is subject to change in the future.
