I have always worn Free Aero shorts (over 8 years) and these are the worst pair I have ever had. The stitching on the inner seam at the bottom of the short tore my thighs to the point of bleeding when out on a long ride. To stop this happening each time I was out I would have to cover the contact point with kinesiology tape. Then after about 2/3 months of wear they burst on the inner leg by the pad. I have since bought a pair of Assos Equipe RS shorts and the difference is unbelievable. Sad to see the quality drop like this at Castelli. It’s a brand I have been loyal to for a long time.
Product Details
Castelli Free Aero RC Bib Short
Combining comfort and performance, the Castelli Free Aero RC Bib Short is constructed using compressive Forza 2 fabric to support the muscles. It includes a Progetto X2 Air seamless seat pad to protect on even the longest rides and races, and minimalist bib straps hold everything in place without restricting movement.
The Castelli Free Aero Bib Shorts feature raw-cut leg endings which eliminate the need for silicone grippers so the transition from fabric to skin is smooth and the short won't ride up. Finished with reflective details, visibility is enhanced in low light.
Features
- High-compression 215-gram Forza 2 fabric with 32% Lycra® content provides exceptional muscle support and compression
- Progetto X2 Air seamless seat pad is soft against the skin but well padded for long-distance comfort
- Minimalist bib straps allow maximum airflow, while a reinforced yoke keeps the straps flat over the shoulders
- Five-panel construction for reduced seams and less chafing
- Stitched scorpion logo patch and embossed Castelli word-mark for durability
- Reflective piping on back of legs
- Raw-cut leg ending engineered to stay put without silicone grippers
- Recommended temperature range: 15°-35°C / 59°-95°F
- Manufacturer claimed weight: 184 grams (medium)
Specifications
- Composition
- 100% lycra
- Bib Strap Construction
- Minimal
- Cargo Storage
- No
- Chamois Type
- Road
- Cycling Discipline
- Road
- Fit Type (General)
- Compression
- Gender
- Men's
- Leg Length Style
- Short
- Material / Main Fabric
- Polyester, Elastane
- Primary Activity
- Cycling
- Ride Duration Focus
- Long Distance
- Weather Protection Level
- None
- Compression Level
- High
- Leg Gripper Type
- Raw Cut
- Temperature Range
- Hot, Warm
- Waist Style
- Bib
Size Guide
| Size | XS | S | M | L | XL | XXL | XXXL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chest (A) | 88 | 92 | 96 | 100 | 105 | 110 | 115 |
| Waist (B) | 76 | 80 | 84 | 88 | 93 | 98 | 103 |
| Hip (C) | 90 | 94 | 98 | 102 | 107 | 112 | 117 |
| Inside Leg (D) | 81 | 82 | 83 | 84 | 85 | 86 | 87 |

If you're unfamiliar with your Castelli size, we recommend you go up one size to obtain the best fit possible. Note that you do not need to size up for jackets or vests; please select your normal jersey size.
Castelli clothing is designed for its intended use and should be comfortable when on your bike in a riding position. Your garment should be snug to provide you with moisture-wicking capabilities, as an aerodynamic aid and prevent any fabric from flapping in the wind.
If you require any advice on Castelli sizing, please do not hesitate to contact us.
A. Chest: Holding the tape horizontally, measure under your armpits with your arms relaxed at your sides, around the fullest part of your chest.
B. Waist: Holding the tape horizontally, measure around your natural waistline, across the belly button, keeping the tape a bit loose.
C. Hips: Holding the tape horizontally, measure around the largest part of your hips, keeping the feet close together.
D. Inseam: Measure from the crotch to the base of the ankle bone
Reviews
The previous aero race are easily the best shorts around. Not sure why Castelli have changed the perfect design. The fit on these is not as good. I am 187 and 78kg and the XL is (lvery tight over the shoulders. Note that I am a L in the previous model. Remains better than other brands but not as good as the old design.
Care
Shipping & Returns
Free UK delivery on orders over £50. Orders are dispatched within 1-2 working days and typically arrive 1-2 working days later.
Return unused items in their original packaging within 30 days of delivery. Return postage is £3.50.
Q & A
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About Castelli
At the front since 1876.
Castelli has been at the front of cycling apparel since 1876, founded in Milan as the original maker of pro race kit. From the first cycling jerseys to today's WorldTour-proven aero garments, the brand has spent nearly 150 years putting innovation onto the backs of the fastest riders in the world.
Castelli outfitted the first organised cycling teams in Italy and has been a constant presence in the pro peloton ever since. The Scorpion logo appears on more WorldTour podiums than almost any other apparel mark.





