Castelli Free Aero RC Bib Short

The concept for the Free Aero RC Bib Shorts is simple; use a premium seat pad, offer a refined fit with perfect muscle support and then remove everything else that’s not absolutely necessary. Whether you pin on a race number or not, the Free Aero RC are Castelli's most refined race short yet, with a fit and features that make them perfect for any cyclist.

Less is More

The focus of any cycling short is of course comfort, and here Castelli have taken a less is more approach. Compared to previous Free shorts there are now fewer panels, down from 10 to 5, and hence fewer seams. Highly supportive Forza 2 fabric is used to offer just the right amount of support and compression too. This all combines to give a brilliantly refined and sculpted fit, a wonderful sense of freedom during your pedal stroke and far less chance of chafing. 

This minimalist approach also extends to the leg grippers - or rather the lack of grippers. Instead, there are raw cut edges that feel fantastic. This has been made possible by extensive testing (28 prototypes), to get the fit and feel just right, and the support of compressive fabric. This gives an unrivalled sense of freedom and comfort that is unmatched. No more harsh elastic or irritating silicone. 

Refined Bib Straps 

When it comes to the upper body, again Castelli have sought to minimise the construction, removing bulk, boosting comfort and improving airflow.

Open-weave bib straps let air in while also letting moisture evaporate away quickly. To the back, a reinforcing yoke ensures your straps remain flat and in place, while the mesh back is kept narrow, again to improve airflow to the body and prevent overheating. At the lower back, the bib forms a convenient storage pocket too. 

Progetto X² Air Seat Pad

The top-end Progetto X2 Air Seatpad is now better than ever. Castelli has improved the shape of the back and improved the method of stitching it in place. The result is it now sits flatter and offers greater comfort. 

The X2 retains its awesome ventilating perforations, keeping you cooler and drier on endurance rides. The design allows air and moisture to flow directly to the surface fabric for quick evaporation maintaining dryness.

A 3 layer component construction also features two densities of foam plus gel pads to provide progressive damping. A super-soft and stretchy next-to-skin layer, with an antibacterial finish, completes this premium pad.