Cargo Bib Shorts
Engineered for endurance. Integrated mesh pockets provide highly accessible cycling bib shorts with pockets capability.
What are cargo bib shorts, and where are the pockets located?
Cargo bib shorts are specialised cycling shorts designed with integrated storage to provide extra space on long-distance, adventure, or gravel rides. Rapha Cargo Bib Shorts feature highly accessible, durable mesh pockets located directly on the side of the lower legs. This layout allows riders to securely carry provisions, a phone, or tools close to hand and right at your fingertips while pedalling. By utilising these side pockets, you gain the freedom to swap a traditional three-pocket cycling jersey for a casual technical t-shirt or a looser-fitting top.
What is the difference between Rapha Core Cargo and Brevet/Explore Cargo Bib Shorts?
The primary differences lie in the materials and the chamois pad tailored for different riding conditions. The Core Bib Shorts are built for dependable, everyday comfort, featuring a dense-knit fabric and a classic size-specific chamois pad. The premium Brevet and Explore Cargo Bib Shorts are designed for multi-day adventures and variable weather; they utilise hard-wearing, quick-drying technical fabrics (often with a DWR water-resistant treatment) paired with a specialised perforated Brevet/Explore chamois pad that features high-density foam for optimal support and faster overnight drying.
Do Rapha Cargo Bib Shorts come with a specific chamois pad?
Yes. Rapha uses custom-engineered, gender-specific chamois pads across our entire cargo range. Our adventure and long-distance cargo bib shorts (like the Brevet and Explore collections) feature a unique Brevet/Explore chamois pad. This pad is constructed with high-density foam to absorb vibrations on mixed gravel terrain and features an air-mesh layer with rapid-drying perforations so the shorts can easily wash and dry overnight during multi-day bike packing trips. The Core Collection utilises our dual-density Classic chamois pad for reliable all-day comfort.
Can you wear Cargo Bib Shorts for mountain biking (MTB) or trail riding?
Absolutely. While our standard Cargo Bib Shorts are incredibly durable for gravel and road adventures, Rapha also offers the Trail Cargo Bib Liner. This lightweight, highly breathable liner bib short features rear storage pockets and is specifically designed to be worn underneath loose-fitting mountain bike overshorts (like our Trail Fast & Light Shorts). This configuration provides the same essential storage and anatomical chamois support while meeting the specific styling and durability demands of aggressive trail riding.