MAAP Pro bib shorts 2.0 Review: brilliantly comfortable pair of bib shorts that take a fairly novel approach to aero solutions

Construction

The MAAP Eclipse Pro Bib 2.0 builds on the previous iteration by introducing specific fabric texturing in a bid to improve aerodynamic performance. This comes in the form of a front panel of material used on the shorts which features small protrusions aimed to reduce turbulence on the legs by keeping airflow attached for longer. This is paired with lightweight woven and compressive fabrics designed to provide better temperature regulation and muscle support.

Internal raw-cut and flatlock seams are used to reduce pressure points and friction. Elsewhere the shorts are kept secure with large silicone grippers on the legs and wide elastic bib straps. These are designed to spread the pressure load over the shoulders more evenly, while a bib and brace structure at the front dissipates pressure better across the front of the straps. A high airflow mesh is used between the straps at the rear for optimal support and breathability.

MAAP has continued to use its 3D Thermo Molded Multi-density chamois, which here uses a male specific fit to avoid pressure on various soft points. It has been created with Elastic Interface, and is made up of three layers. At the bottom is the perforated breathable foam layer, while high density inserts are placed on top of this for vibration dampening on or off-road. On top of all this is the moisture wicking and antibacterial layer which are OEKO-TEX® certified meaning they have been deemed both sustainable and free of any harmful substances.

Available in the grey Dark Shadow colour option in this Eclipse style line, plus blue and black options in other lines, the shorts come in sizes XS to XXL. All materials are UPF 50+ protective too, while large reflective logos adorn the side of the legs with a smaller reflective logo at the rear of the shorts.

The ride

Getting the MAAP Pro 2.0 bibs on was initially a bit of a struggle compared to some other shorts I’ve tested, but there's a good reason for this. These shorts offer quite a high level of compression, something that is commonly used in more race focussed offerings to provide support and potentially enhance blood flow to the working muscles. This is seen in the Rapha Powerweave, Q36.5 Gregarious Pro, and Santini Redux shorts to name but a few, and in practice, it does feel good on the legs when doing high intensity and repeated efforts. Another reason for this slightly tight sensation fit is that the leg grippers are again quite compressive but also large. This means that they don’t squeeze the leg uncomfortably, but also stay very well in place even on stubbly or hairy legs. These shorts certainly give a 'locked in' feeling.

Something else that aids this feeling are the bib straps. MAAP has always used wide and supportive elastic straps that distribute pressure very evenly across the shoulders and back. At 43mm wide they work brilliantly; the brace structure of attaching them below the top hem of the shorts aids this further and removes a pulling sensation from around the front. This hem also includes a raw cut edge at the front. It works well to reduce irritation, while also being flexible enough for nature breaks. Another feature of the straps I like is the perforated central panel at the rear. It allows for great breathability in a key area where this helps a lot, but also keeps that better support structure of the shorts overall.

Where these shorts differ from MAAP’s staple pair, the Team Evo bibs, are the fabric panels on the legs. A thinner material is used which has an almost papery feel to it, similar to Rapha’s Powerweave material but thinner still. Off the body it gives a diamond structure pattern, but when worn this stretches and reveals dimples spread across the legs. MAAP claims this is to improve aerodynamic performance by creating small increases in friction to reduce turbulence of air leaving the legs. It’s the same principle as used on aero jersey sleeves. The practical issue here is that the legs, specifically the thighs, move across different planes of motion and change the angle they are relative to airflow. This is why aero socks on the shin work well since the shin presents itself towards the incoming air at a similar orientation throughout the pedal stroke. It’s also why we don’t often see this dimpling on shorts around the thigh as performance is tricky to guarantee. MAAP doesn't actually share any data to back up aero claims, but this material does have the bonus of being a bit better at moisture wicking and cooler, so it is not without benefit.

Fortunately one thing that has remained consistent from the MAAP Team Evo bibs is the chamois. MAAP calls it the advanced anatomic multi-density chamois, and in practice it has proved to be one of my favorites.

Using a perforated foam layer, high density vibration reducing inserts, and finally a seamless bacteriostatic seamless cover results in a chamois that is great in warm weather, over rough road surfaces, and for long days in the saddle. A pressure relief channel in the centre means there are no hot spots on any of the soft tissue areas as pressure is maintained around the sit bones and supportive structures. It’s made in conjunction with Elastic Interface, the Italian chamois specialists, and it’s also nice to see recycled materials used in the construction. Oddly, the shorts as a whole do not feature as much use of recycled materials as a lot of other items in MAAP’s range.

Value and conclusion

Bib shorts are becoming ever more expensive, and the MAAP Pro 2.0 bibs are no exception. At £260/ $355 for the pair, they are right up there with the premium offerings from other brands. Rapha Pro Team III come in at £240 / $295, while the Powerweave with higher compression are still £300 / $380. Q36.5 also has the Gregarious Pro at £200 / $270, while the similarly performing Santini Redux are £214. This does place the MAAP Pro 2.0 at a slight premium above the others, and certainly the brand name does carry some weight in that area.

I think on paper, the Santini Redux offer better value, as the chamois is also a very high performer, while the compressive capacity is just as good. Where the MAAP Pro 2.0 does come into its own, is that the bib straps are potentially the most secure and supportive that I have used, with no folding or pinching even over long rides. Additionally the implementation of some aero principles into the shorts is something a little unique. Whether it is functional in that manner remains in question though.

The MAAP Pro 2.0 bib shorts are at the end of the day, an impressively performing pair of high intensity riding cycling shorts. They offer great levels of compression, breathability, and supportive fit thanks to exceptional bib straps. Add to that a chamois that has been comfortable in testing no matter what has been thrown at the shorts, and you have a really great all round performer. The addition of aero materials is certainly interesting, but there is not data to support the functionality. Also at £260 / $355, these are certainly up there in the higher reaches of bib shorts pricing, and better value alternatives are available for those shopping on a budget.