● Women’s summer outfits

Van Rysel RCR Jersey & Quick-Zip Bibshorts

£39.99/£49.99 Sizes XS–XL; 2XS–2XL Colours Mauve; magnolia; petrol blue; navy blue

• Decathlon’s in-house road cycling brand’s Quick-Zip bibs feature a long zipper extending across the rear from one thigh to the other to create a flap for loo breaks. While I admire the innovation, in reality this gives an ill-fitting shape, with a bunching, un-lined zipper around the hips, and I pinched my skin while undoing the flap. Ouch! The chamois is also so wide that it folded, causing discomfort on the ride. Up top, the built-in mesh baselayer is highly reminiscent of Rapha Brevet bibs. The leg hems are the best part: laser-cut edges lay beautifully without any pinching grippers. A soft, stretchy and figure-fitting fabric is used for the jersey, which gives it a premium feel, though seven pockets on the back is overkill. The cut is two inches too long and, while the sleeve length is lovely, the bonded hem gives a restrictive, unflattering finish.

Verdict Nice price and some good points, but too many flaws to be a contender

Castelli Anima 3 Jersey & Prima Bibshorts

£80/£90 Sizes XS–XL Colours Red; black; pink; Bordeaux; light Acqua blue

• Castelli’s