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GOBIK Matt, bib shorts
In this article: review and opinion of the GOBIK Matt 2023 bib shorts
Matt is a new Gobik bib shorts, presented as one of the most important novelties of the summer collection or Warm Series 23. It comes to replace one of the most iconic models of the brand and this is not an easy task. If Gobik is known for something, it is for the quality of its culottes, and in particular, for the quality of its Absolute model, responsible for a large part of this successful reputation. Will the brand have managed to create a replacement up to the mark? Let’s take a look.
Versions and colors
The Matt short shorts are available in 2 main versions:
Each has its own range of colors. Most are shared, such as the new Turmeric, but others are exclusive to each collection, such as the women’s Seed Green.
We also have another important novelty, and that is that for the first time, Gobik offers versions with different leg lengths: standard and Compact. The latter has a reduced length (3 cm) and has been developed to satisfy those users who are looking for less leg coverage. You will only see this option in the men’s range. The women’s range is all Compact, although it is not highlighted in the name.
Features and innovations
In a detailed tour of Matt’s characteristics, we will focus on these:
Bi-elastic fabric
Undoubtedly the most important novelty. The brand bets for a bi-elastic fabric. These fabrics are usually made with a combination of polyester and spandex threads. They allow the garment to fit the body much better, providing optimal muscle compression, a feature much sought after in cycling for its benefit in sports performance (better recycling of lactic acid).
Moreover, it is OEKO-TEX® certified, a great added value, and has interesting details such as:
- high coverage (not transparent).
- UPF 50+ sun protection factor.
- resists the application of sunscreen.
- good breathability and quick drying.
- resistance to pilling.
Straps
Similar in shape to the old Absolute, but with a softer and more breathable fabric. The fit is optimized depending on the version (male or female).
Leg grippers
Another important novelty: forget the classic silicone tape. Instead, they opted for vertical silicone inserts, which we were able to test in the Revolution and which we loved, because they exert less pressure without penalizing the support to the thigh. They also improve breathability by having more «normal fabric» in the area.
K10 and K9 chamois pads
Little more can be said about these chamois pads. Of a comfort and fit that we have rarely tested in the market, they are one of the reasons for Gobik’s fame.
Focusing on the men’s version K10 (the K9 is the same but adapted to the female morphology), its fabric with carbon thread has bacteriostatic properties, besides being an optimal moisture manager. If you look at its structure, you will notice grooves. They are arranged in this way to collect sweat and transport it away. Also the central channel has been designed with the male anatomy in mind, improving blood flow and reducing pressure and numbness.
On the move
As a regular of the brand, I have used their bib shorts on countless occasions, so I can make a very reliable comparison of my feelings with the new Matt with respect to the previous models, especially with the Absolute, being its natural renewal.
As soon as I had it in my hands, the feeling of the new bi-elastic fabric is very promising, it feels different from the previous one, with a coverage and quality palpable to the naked eye. The new straps also have a fantastic feel, they have improved what was already at an excellent level.
Once on, the sensations are confirmed: the fit is stunning. The fabric adapts perfectly to every curve of the musculature and when you get on the bike the chamois pad is in place, without moving or loosening from where it needs to be.
The straps also deserve a special mention. They still have consistency, they are not like that kind of straps that you put on and you have to be adjusting continuously so they do not form wrinkles in the shoulder area, but here in the Matt have gained in touch, being more «soft», with a «cotton» touch that is very comfortable and breathes better.
Finally the thigh area: chapeau. The elimination of the silicone tape is another great improvement that until you try it you don’t know what you’re missing. The vertical inserts hold better, do not tighten and transpire excellent. What more could you ask for?
Bottom line
Gobik had a winning horse with their Absolute short. Now with Matt they have a thoroughbred winner. The brand has taken an already great product to another level. In addition, without increasing its price in an exorbitant way, as we see in other manufacturers.
We can say, without fear, that we are facing the best bib shorts on the market in terms of quality/price ratio. There is nothing that resembles it in the environment of 100 €. In other brands, to play in this league, you have to go to 200-250 €, and you will not get better performance.
Spectacular Gobik.
Any questions? Find me on Instagram: @llargobike
