If you're out spending hours on the saddle, then it's important you get cycling shorts that are comfortable, fit right and won't irritate or annoy you whilst on your ride.
The two main cycle short styles are the traditional waist cycling shorts and bib shorts, which have the straps that go over your shoulders. This guide is going to go through the pros and cons of both different cycle short styles, so you can decide which style would work for your rides.
Cycle Shorts v Bib Shorts - Which is The Right Style for Your Next Ride?
All the fuss of bib cycle shorts comes with the shoulder straps. Having the straps over your shoulders helps to eliminate any risk of the shorts slipping down or moving during the ride. The lack of tight waistband also means there's no belly or breathing restriction, which will be helpful on those heavy hills. It also eliminates the risk of any rubbing and irritation on your skin. The only thing to be aware of with the straps, is that they're non adjustable, so you could have the issue of them being too short for your torso, so we would also advise trying the shorts on first.
Bib cycle shorts can also be better choice for all year round. Not only do they help conserve any heat when you're riding in lower temperature whilst also wicking away any sweat that could cause skin irritation. However, the heat retention means that it might not be suitable for you to wear on longer rides during the summer, if you're someone who gets hot whilst out.
But since you've got the extra support with the bib straps, it means the cycle padding will stay in place and you don't need to make any adjustments whilst riding.
As the name suggests, these shorts have a thicker waistband. The waistband tends to be made from a thicker, more sturdy material than the rest of the shorts. Depending on the material the waistband can act like a sort of sponge to help any sweat dripping down.
Toilet trips are also easier when you're in waist cycling shorts and not bib shorts. You'll also find yourself cooling down faster in waist cycling shorts. But the flip side to this, you will to rearrange the padding in the shorts at regular intervals during the ride.
Choosing the right style of cycling shorts can depend on many factors, including weather, length of journey, terrain and more. Some rides might be more suited to bib shorts and vice versa with cycle shorts. So it's important to think ahead for each ride to make sure you're wearing the right style of cycling shorts.
