With the GORE Ultimate Bib Shorts, GORE is embracing 3D printing technology, promising a revolution in long distance comfort with a hydrophobic, 3D printed chamois. But is the hefty € 280 price tag justified, or is it all just hype? We had these bibs in the ultimate review!

3D printed saddles have become a mainstay on high-performance road bikes – think of the Power Mirror from S-Works or Fizik’s Adaptive. Thanks to 3D printing technology, these saddles can feature tailored structures that precisely match the body’s pressure points: you get firm support and grip exactly where it counts, while other areas remain light and flexible. This approach noticeably improves shock absorption, adding comfort even on rough terrain. The only downside? The cost – the manufacturing process is complex and expensive. And if they’re damaged, 3D-printed saddles can be trickier to repair than traditional models.
With the new Ultimate Bib Shorts, GORE has brought this advanced manufacturing approach directly to cycling shorts. Their new EXPERT N3X chamois, developed in collaboration with Italian brand Elastic Interface, was first unveiled at EUROBIKE 2022. At around € 280, these bib shorts definitely sit in the high-end range, promising to set new standards with their open-grid structure and breathable GOREWEAR Cup windproof layer around the abdomen. According to GORE, the pad is hydrophobic, meaning it dries quickly, holds its shape over long rides and adapts closely to the rider’s anatomy. But is this truly the next comfort revolution, or just another high-end product riding the 3D printing wave?


On Review: What Can the GORE Ultimate Bib Shorts Do?
We put the GORE Ultimate Bib Shorts on review and through their paces – and they absolutely deliver! GORE opted for an understated design: black-on-black with minimalist logos, but reflective details keep you visible in low light. The craftsmanship is equally impressive, with flat seams to prevent chafing and breathable fabric that dries quickly. However, the leg cuffs could use improvement; instead of a full silicone grip strip, GORE have only applied some silicone to the underside. This offers some grip but doesn’t provide the full anti-slip security that a complete strip would.

The real star of the GORE Ultimate Bib Shorts is the 3D printed EXPERT N3X chamois. Designed specifically for long rides, its honeycomb structure distributes pressure evenly across the saddle, adapting perfectly to the rider’s shape. The true test comes after several hours on the road, when traditional chamois pads start to lose their shape and your sit bones start to protest – but the EXPERT N3X remains stable. Unlike foam chamois that gradually flatten and create uncomfortable pressure points, this pad retains its form and stays in position, even during intense efforts out of the saddle.

And there’s more: the hydrophobic material wicks away sweat efficiently, so even heavy sweaters should stay comfortably dry on hot rides, while the GOREWEAR Cup adds wind protection. Throughout all our long test rides, the chamois neither soaked through nor shifted out of place. Anyone who spends hours in the saddle knows the value of a dry chamois on a hot day – and that’s exactly what the GORE Ultimate Bib Shorts deliver.


Do you really need these bibs?
Yes! If you’ve struggled with damp, flattened chamois pads, the GORE Ultimate Bib Shorts have you covered. These common issues with traditional foam pads are reliably addressed with the GORE Ultimate Bib. The 3D printed pad stays firm and delivers solid comfort, even on long days in the saddle. Thanks to excellent ventilation and hydrophobic materials, your seat area stays comfortably dry, even in the peak of summer. For those who only ride occasionally and haven’t had major issues with other bib shorts, this high-end bib may be overkill. Frequent riders looking for a reliable, comfortable bib for daily training, long weekend tours, and demanding races will find these shorts worthwhile. Unfortunately, there’s no cargo version or women’s model of the Ultimate Bib available yet. For those needing extra storage, our cargo bib test is worth a look – for both girls and boys!

Would we buy the GORE Ultimate Bib Shorts?
At €279.95, the price is steep – typical for 3D printed products. But for frequent riders, the investment pays off: the chamois remains comfortable even on long rides, and offers significantly better moisture management than traditional foam padding, making it ideal for intense sessions. While there are cheaper bibs available, they won’t deliver this level of specialised comfort. For those who value innovative technology and lasting saddle comfort, the GORE Ultimate Bib Shorts offer real added value.

Tops
- Shape-retaining 3D printed chamois
- Hydrophobic material stays dry
- Secure fit with no slipping

Flops
- Only available in one colour option
More information at gorewear.com.
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Words: Jan Fock Photos: Jan Richter