In December 2013, Assos replaces the S5 generation, which has set the standard since 2008. The new S7 line brings four new patents — six in total — and an idea that changes the cycling shorts market forever: goldenGate.
goldenGate: The floating chamois
Before the S7, seat pads were sewn into cycling shorts all the way around. Every seam in the crotch means potential friction, every kilometer, every hour. goldenGate interrupts the seam in the most sensitive area — the chamois is only attached at the front and back and floats freely in between. Three-dimensional freedom of movement, no seams between the legs.
That sounds simple. It took five years of development.
Memory Foam
Assos introduces memory foam in cycling shorts pads for the first time. The closed-cell material yields under pressure and immediately returns to its original shape when the pressure is released. With every change of position on the bike — sitting, standing, pedaling — the pad adapts itself anew.
Four models, clear hierarchy
The S7 comes in four gradations:
- T.neoPro — the entry level
- T.équipe — the racing workhorse (appears first)
- T.cento — the comfort reference
- T.campionissimo — the flagship, Assos' best shorts
All four share goldenGate and memory foam. What separates them: textile density, compression level and padding complexity. The Équipe is the first to appear, Campionissimo follows in March 2014.
Assessment
The S7 defines how modern cycling shorts are built. goldenGate is copied across the industry — floating chamois constructions are now standard. The S7 remains in the range for five years until the S9 replaces it in 2018. Few products in cycling have a longer lifespan.