Two weeks of cycling through southern France and northern Spain. 70 to 140 kilometers every day, with plenty of elevation gain and temperatures of 33 to 36 degrees Celsius. This is not a test ride: it’s exactly the kind of cycling vacation where you can see if a pair of pants fits. I took the new Go bike pants from Gonso, with a saddle pad from saddle specialist SQLab, and the matching shirt.
A seal that presses divides instead of dampens
Gonso is a German clothing brand, SQLab a German specialist in saddles and comfort seats. Together they created the Gonso SQLab Go Bib Short (€159.95). The difference lies in the insole. Where many trousers rely on a thick cushion, SQLab opts for a thin, sturdy insole that distributes pressure over a larger surface. Less material, but more cleverly placed.
To be honest, I was skeptical: a thin liner on rides of five or six hours? But after two weeks, my conclusion is clear. No pressure on the ischial bones, and no rubbing anywhere. That last point is especially valuable on a multi-day trip: what rubs a little on day two is a problem on day seven.
When traveling, it also matters how quickly it dries.
An advantage that you only discover while on the road: the thin liner dries almost as quickly as the rest of the pants. On a cycling holiday, a bikepacking trip or a long trip with little luggage, you often had to wash your clothes in the hotel or campsite sink in the evening. The next morning the thick liner is still wet. Not this one.
The pants have silicone grippers that keep them in place. I tested a size S (75 kg, 189 cm), and it fits well. Only the legs were a little longer for my height.
The shirt: classic and cool
The matching Gonso shirt (€99.95) is soft and performed well in the heat. It also keeps you comfortable when it gets cooler. The design is basic, without any fancy features, but stylish nonetheless. The back pockets are low and offer enough space for some food, a windbreaker, and your phone. Altogether, the outfit costs about €260.
Conclusion
- For whom: Cyclists who spend long days, go on cycling holidays, or ride multi-day tours.
- Strong: pressure distribution of the SQLab seal, no abrasion, dries quickly.
- Less: The pipes are on the short side if you are tall.
- Price: pants €159.95, shirt €99.95.
German quality that, in my opinion, should become the new standard. At home, I now prefer to wear these pants for long rides. And when I go on another trip, I definitely plan to bring them along.
Questions & tips
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