No, your eyes aren't deceiving you: the Castelli Men's Omloop Thermal Bib Shorts are purposely longer than typical shorts. The Omloop's unconventional length situates it somewhere between knickers and shorts, paying homage to the challenging mix of conditions that define the early season classic of the same name. By adding coverage all the way to the knee but not beyond it, Castelli avoids the restrictive fit and feel that often plagues knickers while adding a noticeable amount of warmth. If the conditions you ride through in fall and winter bear any resemblance to Belgium in late February, you'll want to add the Omloop to your drawer. Castelli constructs the Omloop with Thermoflex, a stretchy, breathable thermal fabric developed to insulate and move with you in the saddle. Inspired by the myriad ways the pros adapt their kit to their liking in the face of difficult weather conditions, the Omloop retains a clean, contoured silhouette that would be at home in a race or on your weekend training ride. Laser-cut leg hems contribute to its streamlined look, and airy mesh bib straps promise to remain a breathable, unobtrusive addition to your layering system. As the Omloop counts itself among Castelli's top-end pieces, it comes built with the Progetto X2 Air chamois. A carefully constructed melange of multi-density cushioning, the Progetto X2's minimal shape belies its ability to protect you for the long haul, remaining soft and supple over hours in the saddle.