Cycling shorts... If their half-sticky, half-diaper look is a bit of a deterrent at first, they're still one of the must-have accessories when you're cycling. The trick is knowing how to choose them when you're a woman, so I give you my advice in this article!
Men’s or women’s shorts?
Not only are the cuts different, but the inserts are also adapted to different body shapes. So it’s imperative that you choose a women’s bib short! Shapes, padding and seams are strategically located in different places. Important point if you want to survive 2 hours of cycling: there‘s no center seam on women’s shorts!
Speaking of specific women’s models, there are also menstrual shorts. I’m particularly fond of the Wilma brand, which offers models with or without straps, or even with removable chamois leather and an interchangeable pad system, also suitable for menstruation periods!
How do I choose the right size of cycling shorts?
Waders should be neither too tight nor too loose. The sensation of withers is not a pleasant one, and no one wants to turn into a paupiette. Be careful not to fall into the opposite trap either. Waders need to fit snugly. Ideally, you should be able to put one or two fingers under the elastic at the thigh and feel the tension in the fabric. If it’s too big, the chamois may move , causing chafing and irritation.
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Ideally, you should be able to try them on. If you have time, don’t hesitate to try on sizes above and below your usual size to be sure of what you need. And… try on your cycling shorts in the cycling position, not on your toes, arms stretched skywards 😉
Once you’ve decided on your size (please note that cuts and sizes vary from brand to brand), you’ll need to choose the type of “support” you prefer.
Without underwear!
While you should obviously keep your underwear on during fittings, thigh-high boots should be worn without anything underneath! Otherwise, watch out for chafing and irritation… And, of course, they can be washed after every ride.
Bibtights with or without suspenders?
Strapless shorts
If you’re looking for a pee break, strapless shorts are quicker and more practical to remove. But strapless means a tighter fit around the waist, otherwise you risk ending up with your bottom hanging out.
There’s also a model from Assos(the Uma GT Half Shorts G2) that tries to limit this feeling of tightness with a double waistband system: one that’s rather supple and rides up quite high, and the other that’s more fitted and keeps the shorts on the hips. I’ve tested it, but I still find it hard to bear on long rides of over 3 hours.
Bibtights with suspenders
Shorts with suspenders (normal or central) are often more comfortable around the waist, but will require you to remove your swimsuit for a pee break.
Clip system
A good solution may be to opt for a model with a clip, which will enable you to remove the straps without taking off the swimsuit! It takes a little practice to re-clip on your own, but you’ll soon get the hang of it. Just like with car pedals (but without the risk of falling!).
This system can be found on Specialized’s PRIME or RBX models(see here or here for the cargo version), Ozio’s Titan, Assos’ Uma GT short or Uma GT Ultraz Winter long.
Zipper system
Another system can be found on van Rysel’s Cyclosport Quick Zip tights, which use a zipper system. It’s best to try them on for size: depending on your morphology, the zipper may give you a hard squeeze that’s not necessarily pleasant.
Crossed fabric system
The new version of the Endura FS260 Pro DS women’s bib shorts uses a crossed fabric system, which can be uncrossed to lower the shorts.
Bare-back system
You’ve also got other models like the Sophie from Café du Cycliste with a “bare back” system, which also makes it possible to relieve a pressing urge without putting down the jersey. Personally, I find their fabrics superbly pleasant to wear. But beware of sizes that are too tight if you have a “big trunk”, which can create a sensation of shearing in the trapezius (muscles between the neck and shoulders).
Once you have these elements in mind, all you need to do is choose the right color and length.
Long or short shorts?
Note that not all short shorts are the same length. It’s up to you to decide what suits you best. Each of us has our own preferences and priorities: the need for more or less support on the thigh, tan lines to avoid (or not), etc.
Watch out for sunburn!
Watch out for sunburn when you change to a slightly shorter model! It may sound trivial, but the trace of the thigh-highs is not a must-have on photos when you’re the best man at a wedding. In short, don’t forget your sunscreen, and don’t forget the back of your neck, the underside of your ears (if you don’t want the trace of the helmet strap) and the tops of your hands!
When it comes to choosing between long and short, it’s more a question of seasons and temperatures. While short shorts are often preferred in summer, with their lighter, more breathable materials, and long shorts in winter, with their thicker, warmer fabrics, you also have the alternative of short shorts + leggings when your heart is torn between the two. There are short winter shorts for men, but I haven’t found the equivalent for women!
The choice is yours: thicker or thinner, with or without fleece, water-repellent, etc. Prices range from €25 to €100.
Time for your fittings!
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