Lusso Carbon v2 Bib Shorts review

This second version of the Lusso Carbon bib shorts takes many of the top features from the original, which I loved, but now uses an Italian-made Elastic Interface pad. Lusso designs and makes these shorts at its factory in Manchester, England.

The main body and legs are cut from Cooltech C-1, which is four-way stretch fabric that offers light compression to help reduce fatigue. This is combined with Lusso’s contrasting Air Tech mesh bib fabric in the upper body and straps.

These shorts take their name from the 1 per cent carbon added to the material, claimed to help keep you cooler by speeding up evaporation, and ultimately reduce fatigue.

Leg length is spot on for me. Their 7.5cm-wide leg grippers are made from a thin elastic material with silicone print inside.

Lusso says the new Elastic Interface pad, made by Cytec, provides comfort for six hours-plus in the saddle. It’s a triple-density pad with a perineal cut-out.

Lusso Carbon v2 performance

It’s hard not to like the way the v2s feel on the road. My legs felt well supported and the grippers held everything in place.

The carbon addition is hard to quantify but it certainly has no negative effect, and overall breathability is good both top and bottom. I liked the wide bib straps that sat flat for perfect ride comfort.

My rear never suffered, thanks to the Elastic Interface pad. It feels big off the bike but comes into its own once in the saddle, and the perineal cut-away works well too, for assured long-ride comfort with no unnecessary pad movement.

Lusso Carbon v2 bottom line

The overall ride of the v2s is nothing short of impressive. They offer great value and are durable to boot.

This British brand quietly goes about the business of making great products, but often gets lost or overlooked in a sea of more expensive in-vogue brands.