A Guide To Choosing The Right Cycle Shorts

Liner Cycle Shorts

Liner or waist cycling shorts as they're also known as, are the standard style for bike shorts. They tend to be worn next to the skin and are ideal for riding shorter distances, making them a great option to wear under your clothes after your morning commute.

 Bib Cycle Shorts

Bib shorts provide extra support thanks to the over the shoulder straps. They can leave a little to be desired on the aesthetic front, but you’ll be happy enough when you’re time-trialling for full days in the saddle.

Bib shorts mean there’s no pressure on the stomach and no digging in from a waistband. The shoulder straps keep the fabric taut so they’ll stay firmly in place at race pace and give you a super streamlined profile that reduces drag. Only problem is they can potentially make going to the toilet a little bit inconvenient compared to waist cycle shorts. But if you can compromise on your toilet breaks, you won’t be compromising on comfort.

 Bib Cycle Shorts

Bib shorts provide extra support thanks to the over the shoulder straps. They can leave a little to be desired on the aesthetic front, but you’ll be happy enough when you’re time-trialling for full days in the saddle.

Bib shorts mean there’s no pressure on the stomach and no digging in from a waistband. The shoulder straps keep the fabric taut so they’ll stay firmly in place at race pace and give you a super streamlined profile that reduces drag. Only problem is they can potentially make going to the toilet a little bit inconvenient compared to waist cycle shorts. But if you can compromise on your toilet breaks, you won’t be compromising on comfort.

Our women's padded cycling shorts have been created with anatomically designed pads that are motion friendly and provide cool comfort whilst you're on two wheels. Coolmax helps with moisture control and provides an extra level of anti-bacterial treatment.

Our 3D-stretch performance gel pads come with Oxyflow ventilation and Coolmax comfort technology all which help to keep you cool and comfortable on those longer bike rides.

If you’re looking to up your comfort when you’re out on all things two-wheeled, chances are you want to focus into the details. So geek up on what to look out for and improve your performance on the road or on the mountain.

• Material and fit. Nylon and polyester are the main players. Lightweight nylon and elastane will give you the advantage of full-stretch motion. It usually comes down to preference but a thicker fabric will feel more snug. And that means less chance of anything flapping in the wind.
• Flatlock stitching. This refers to the seams on cycling shorts - flat stitching for flat seams means they won’t dig in and chafe.
• Gel grip. This nifty little detail is usually made from silicone rubber, inbuilt around the leg opening to stop your shorts from riding up as you pedal.
• Panel construction. Using different panels of fabric means your shorts will fit your body shape better. Generally, the more panels used means a more precise fit - 6 or 8 panels are the best. And if you remember your basic biology, it makes sense there are different designs for men and women.

So now you know the details, choose the right shorts that’ll give you the best investment in your time on the bike. Shop our collection of men’s cycle shorts and women’s cycle shorts.