I just received these thermal bib shorts yesterday so have not had a chance to test them thoroughly under the conditions in which I would most use them - in the 'shoulder seasons' when temps are around 5 to 15 deg C. As it is still -10 to -20 deg. C here in Canada, where I live, I have been using my RedWhite winter bib tights down to even as cold as -15 deg., and have been delighted with their thermal qualities, and moreover with their wicking and moisture release, which is where most winter gear fails. The thermal bib shorts seem to be made from a similar material as the winter tights, only lighter in weight, as they are not intended to handle sub-zero temperatures. The inner side is a sort of fleecy material while otside is a smoother fabric, both of which work together to insulate as well as wick moisture, just as the tights do, but just with a slightly less dense fabric than the tights.
On a brief ride in them, they were actually sufficiently warm in the -8 air. At these temps one would use leg warmers as well, or better yet, the winter tights from RW. But I felt that as a short test ride in very cold conditions, these did a terrific job of keeping my 'essentials' warm, and the whole area around my butt, hips and upper thighs too. I am certain that in the conditions I will use them, they will be perfect. The chamois is very comfortable. As with the tights, the pad seemed a bit bulky just walking around at first, but absolutely disappears on the bike. never pinching, bunching or binding, and most of all does an outstanding job of moisture control while working hard. I have been using thermal shorts from a famed Swiss manufacturer and always found them useful for these chilly months surrounding the main summer season, and it looks like these RW thermal bibs will replace those, at least on the colder end of the spectrum, as they seem better made for the purpose.
It's a pity that RW has decided to discontinue them, but I guess sales numbers did not justify their production. I wonder if just keeping a stock of the more common sizes would be a practical consideration? A lot of cyclists I know never even think about a colder weather short, but I find them a godsend on cooler days. Why suffer with cold rear and thighs? Those days when leg warmers are needed, these thermal shorts keep the rest of you warm, right up to the waist..
In short, I am delighted with my purchase, and needless to say, the pricing at RW belies the superb quality of hteir products !!
N.K.