More tips for choosing cycling bib shorts

It’s just a pair of shorts, right? How complicated can it be?

You’d be surprised. Cycling shorts come in all shapes and sizes, each with different uses. This bib shorts/cycling shorts guide will help you choose the perfect pair of cycling shorts!

What are cycling shorts?

Whether you ride on the road, gravel, or mountain bike trails, or all three, a good bib shorts is essential to get the most out of your rides. Unlike the shorts you wear in your free time, bike shorts/cycling shorts differ in both construction and materials. Cycling shorts are designed to deliver comfort and support performance.

That’s why cycling shorts are made from stretchy fabric that moves perfectly with your body, while staying supportive enough to remain in place.

What are the different types of cycling shorts?

Road cycling shorts for road cycling are usually made from close-fitting lycra that sits tight against the skin. They feature a chamois pad for comfort over long distances, and they wick moisture away from the skin - more on that later. Mountain bike shorts have a looser fit to handle the demands of rougher terrain. They’re made from tougher materials in case you come off your bike or debris gets kicked up from the trail. Some riders prefer to wear liner shorts under their baggy shorts. Liner shorts have a chamois pad like road cycling shorts, but the fabric elsewhere is lighter so you don’t overheat.

features of road cycling shorts

The main features of road cycling shorts are

• lightweight stretchy fabric such as Lycra and Spandex
• Comfortable chamois pad designed for your anatomy
• Supportive bib straps or waistband
• Leg grippers

Fabric

Road cycling shorts have plenty of stretch (usually a blend of Lycra and Spandex) because of the dynamic nature of riding a road bike. Not only does this keep you comfortable during your ride, it also helps regulate your temperature and wicks moisture away from the skin.

What is a chamois pad? And do I need one?

Bib shorts also include one essential element: the chamois pad. Modern technology has helped develop chamois pads so they are now specifically shaped for male and female anatomies. The chamois pad helps prevent chafing in sensitive areas, and most cyclists wouldn’t get on the bike without a good chamois pad. The chamois pad often has a antibacterial treatment to reduce infection in sensitive areas.

bib straps or no bib straps?

Some men’s cycling shorts have bib straps that go over the shoulders. These cycling shorts are called bib shorts and are most common in road cycling on the road, on gravel, and in cross-country mountain biking. We recommend always buying a bib shorts with bib straps. This keeps the bib shorts in place much better and delivers optimal comfort.

Leg grippers

Bib shorts also have grippers to stop them from riding up your legs when you push on the pedals. These grippers keep the cycling shorts in place and naturally make them more comfortable to wear. Some shorts have a wider leg gripper than others, but that choice comes down entirely to personal preference.

Should I wear underwear with a bib shorts?

No! You need direct contact between your skin and the chamois. Anything worn over it will start to chafing and cause blisters, and that’s the last thing you need after a long ride.

fit and sizing of bib shorts

Many brands offer different options when it comes to the type of fit. From race-focused styles to others that are designed for a more forgiving fit. A race bib short will likely be extremely lightweight and use aerodynamic fabrics (textures in the fabric that improve airflow). The more technical and performance-driven the bib shorts, the more you’ll pay. For most riders, a mid-range bib shorts will be more than enough for the majority of rides. Manufacturers differ in their sizing. Some brands run small, while with others you may need to size down. So make sure to check the size charts carefully!

What are the differences between men’s and women’s cycling shorts?

Men’s and women’s bib shorts are not the same. Common differences include:

• chamois pad
• Strap design
• Ease of use during toilet breaks

As a crucial contact point with the bike, the chamois must be adapted to very different parts of the body. That’s why chamois pads are specifically designed for male and female anatomy.

Shoulder straps on women’s cycling shorts sometimes differ from men’s designs. Some brands use a single central strap positioned between the breasts. There are also halterneck designs developed to make bathroom breaks a bit easier.

Ready to start racing?

Now that you have all the information about the perfect bib shorts to match your style, it’s time to find the best pair for you. Take a quick look at our webshop, where we’ve already put together the perfect bib shorts for you!