Best cycling shorts 2025: The best of every category, for every budget
The best cycling shorts for summer, winter and adventure riding, tested and reviewed
The best cycling shorts are about as make or break as it gets in terms of cycling kit. Get it right and you'll be in for endless miles of blissed-out riding in perfect comfort. Get it wrong and you may as well perch yourself atop a housebrick and ride down a cobbled street.
Whether you're getting your first pair of cycling shorts or your tenth, we've got you covered. Each member of the tech team has tested countless pairs and the following list is what we like to think of as the crème de la crème; it's what we'd tell you to buy over a drink if you asked us (mine's a negroni, if you're asking).
Here, we've tested the best cycling shorts for general road use, cargo bib shorts for those who need extra storage, and winter cycling shorts for cold-weather riding. Our top pick is the Pas Normal Mechanism as they have been spectacularly comfortable in every riding scenario we have used. There are plenty of other options though, for more scroll down to see our picks of the best cycling shorts for men. We have a separate guide outlining the best women's cycling shorts.
As ever, if you're not quite sure what you're after we've got all the key questions taken care of at the bottom of the page to help you make the most effective use of your cash.
Quick list: Best cycling shorts
The Pas Normal Mechanism have performed excellently over several months of hard riding and has kept me completely comfortable. Not once have I had to adjust the shorts or think about them in any way when riding, which is invaluable. Pas Normal receives a 'fashion brand' tag in some quarters, but the performance here has shown this isn't the case. These shorts deliver.
Despite being at the lower end of the price spectrum, Altura Endurance bibs are some of the most compressive and comfortable we have tested. Utilising kevlar-infused fabric which is abrasion-resistant, they’re likely to remain durable even in the face of crashes, falls or scuffs, which makes them even more appealing as a budget option.
Having owned the Sportful Giara bib shorts for approximately three years, I can fully attest to their durability. They’ve been put through hours in the saddle and on every type of ride that can be thrown at a bib short, and they still look and perform, as if they’re box fresh. Though they don’t boast any particularly noteworthy features, they are some of the most affordable on our list and are likely to stretch your money even further considering how long they’ll last.
If you like compression, the Velocio Concept bib shorts are supportive without constricting and airy enough for climbs in hot weather. Their seams are cleverly arranged so that the multi-density seat pad is integrated without needing extra stitching, the leg hems are laser cut and there are plenty of reflective details. We rated the wide straps and longish legs too.
After over a year of riding, the Powerweave shorts still impress and look as good as new. They're designed to be low in weight, mildly compressive and offer enhanced moisture management. You get Rapha's excellent seat pad too, a good length leg and raw hems, although they do show sweat marks in hot conditions.
The Velobici Jasper bib short stands out on this list as a short that performs exceptionally for hours and hours on end, even in warm, sweaty weather. As a lightweight bib, I’ve found the fit hard to fault, finding that the compression remains supportive and comfortable. A bonus for British riders is that they are manufactured in Leicester in the UK, making it a clear choice for those wanting to buy local.
Recent updates
Last updated 07th of May 2025
We reviewed and updated this guide to ensure all the products shown were still available. We also refreshed the FAQ section with more guidance on how to choose.
The best cycling shorts available today
For general riding, whether it's a calm Sunday ride to a café, or a full gas crit, a standard set of cycling shorts is probably best. Comfortable, supportive, and with a good chamois are prerequisites, but our picks are a cut above without any gimmicks or marketing fluff. We've got options if you're just starting out, through to pairs for riders who want maximum compression for the highest intensity racing.
We've got options below with pockets, which can be useful both on road and off, and also thermal shorts for cooler rides, again including pockets in some cases.
Best cycling shorts overall
1. Pas Normal Mechanism
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a supportive fit: The Mechanism shorts fit really well.
✅ You want plenty of colour choices: Pas Normal offers five options.
❌ You want to save money: The Mechanism shorts are premium priced.
❌ You don't like the contrasting stitching: The white between the panels is likely to show wear first too.
The Mechanism bib shorts are Pas Normal's premium offering and I've been really impressed with them during several months of riding.
As Pas Normal claims, the shorts do indeed provide a compressive and supportive fit and haven't given me the slightest niggle or bit of discomfort whilst in use. I've worn them to climb Soller in Mallorca and whilst descending the Ghisallo pass with rain bouncing off the road.
The bib straps are slightly restrictive whilst standing in the shorts but sat atop the bike they feel perfect, they are also around four centimetres wide and are thin and comfortable. The foam chamois pad was really comfy for me using a range of saddles and isn't trying to rewrite the rulebook in its design so should work for a wide range of riders.
They have washed well, and there is no sign of the lettering disappearing after several months. In Pas Normal’s latest iteration of these cycling shorts, they have opted for 5 colours ranging from navy through to earth and medium grey. It has since discontinued the burgundy option I tested and removed the risky white that had previously featured in its lineup, but this neutral and sophisticated palette still reflects Pas Normal’s position as both a premium and fashion brand.
Best budget cycling shorts
2. Altura Endurance
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want quality features at a low price: Altura's feature-rich shorts undercut the competition.
✅ You want crash protection: The Kevlar content should increase abrasion resistance.
❌ You want comfier leg grippers: We found Altura's a little over-tight.
❌ You want a lower front: The high waist makes comfort breaks harder.
When I (Josh) first put on the Altura Endurance bib shorts, their comfort immediately impressed me. The high front might make toilet stops a little more challenging, but it creates a secure and cosy feeling that's unrivalled at this price point, only really matched in this regard by the twice-as-expensive Endura Pro SL EGM bibs.
The big feature of Altura's Endurance bibs is the kevlar-infused fabric from Swiss textile specialists Scholler. This adds to the compressive, comfortable feeling, with the added theoretical benefit of increased abrasion resistance when crashing. (I opted not to test this theory.)
I found the fit to be true to size, too. The only concern I had, if you can call it that, was the leg gripper which is a solid band that wraps around 4/5ths around the leg. It's fairly tight, would pull on hair, and left a bit of an indentation at the end of rides.
Best cycling shorts for durability
3. Sportful Giara
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want shorts that last: Our Giara shorts are still looking good after three years.
✅ You want a comfort-oriented pad: The Giara's pad is designed for gravel, so it has plenty of padding.
❌ You want more features: The Giaras offer the basics without frills.
❌ You want more road performance: These shorts aren't aero and are geared to endurance rather than fast rides.
The Giara bib shorts are our pick as the pair of cycling shorts that will stand up to anything you throw at them, be that in the course of one ride, or over the cumulative years of ownership. I (Josh) have been using this pair of Giara bib shorts for approximately three years now, and they still look the way they did when they arrived. That's despite being put through various multi-hour rides on road, gravel and mountain bikes alike.
They don't boast any real talking points in terms of features or specs. This dark green colourway and the reflective band are about as exciting as they get, but they're comfortable, with light compression, a medium-thickness low-density chamois, and there aren't any pressure points or chafing seams.
Best for compression
4. Velocio Concept
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want premium shorts: Velocio says the Concept shorts have been designed without compromises.
✅ You want a top spec pad: Velocio avoids extra stitching by integrating its pad into the shorts.
❌ You want something lower priced: The premium design comes with a premium price although Velocio does include a repair program and crash replacement discount.
The Concept bib-shorts are the top-level offering from Velocio and the brand says zero compromises were made in its design.
The plush chamois used in the Concept shorts is integrated into the panel stitching, minimizing the amount of stitching and seams used and making for a more comfortable experience overall. The shorts are certainly comfortable, and a 45-minute climbing effort in high temperatures this spring couldn't catch them out, with zero niggles for me anywhere.
Elsewhere you get wide, soft and comfortable bib straps, a fairly long leg cut and reflective detailing across all three colour options.
Best bib shorts for racing
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want great ventilation: The Powerweave shorts work well in hot conditions.
✅ You want pro-level tech: They're the same shorts worn by the EF Education pro teams.
❌ You want more comfortable straps: We weren't fond of the plasticky feel and short length.
❌ You want something cheaper: These shorts are the priciest here.
The Pro Team Powerweave bib shorts are the Rapha range toppers and are the most expensive shorts in the guide. Developed with input from EF World Tour riders, using Rapha's Powerweave fabric, which is meant to aid moisture management and reduce weight compared to the Rapha Pro Team bib shorts. We've spent a year-plus riding in the shorts to bring you our verdict.
The shorts are certainly lightweight and the long leg length paired with the compression of the fabric and raw hems certainly make you feel ready for action. The race chamois pad worked well for me and something of a sweat test climbing the Puig Major in mid-twenty-degree temperatures tested their moisture management, they passed this test with flying colours.
They've held up well to washing and wear and still look like new, although I'm not so keen on the strap fabric and the shorts do tend to show sweat marks.
They almost feel like a 'beyond category' product and the very understated Rapha logos add to this feeling. If you want a high-performance, lightweight pair of premium shorts for training and racing these fit the bill.
Read more in our Rapha Pro Team Powerweave bib shorts review.
Best endurance
6. Velobici Jasper
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want long-ride comfort: We found the shorts great for long rides.
✅ You want a supportive cut: The Jaspers are compressive without tight spots.
❌ You want a little less material weight: The Jasper shorts aren't the lightest for summer rides.
❌ You want black shorts: You can have them in any colour, as long as it's brown (bark).
The Velobici Jasper bib shorts are fairly lightweight bib shorts aimed at warmer weather riding. Manufactured in Leicester (UK), they use the Velobici seven-hour chamois pad which as the name suggests is aimed at long days in the saddle. These are indeed very comfortable shorts. I’ve spent over eight hours riding in these shorts, wearing them for over 10 hours total and they were faultless.
They use a soft four-way stretch nylon/lycra mix fabric which features flatlock seams on the legs. I would say the fit in my small sample was pretty much perfect. Compressive and supportive without a hint of tightness or bunching, the leg grippers stay in place using silicone ‘VB’ logos without being too tight and the leg length is good but not super long. The bib straps are a few centimetres wide and just do their job perfectly.
Best cargo bib shorts
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want useful stowage: Albion's rear mesh tube lets you stash more kit than usual.
✅ You want to keep the price down: The Albion shorts are competitively priced.
❌ You want more compression: The Albion shorts are less compressive than most.
❌ You want integrated grippers: Albion's look a little retro.
I've found it very hard to fault the Albion ABR1 pocket bibs. They are comfortable, they fit well without being overly compressive, which I find can get annoying on longer or multi-day trips, and they're not fragile. They're cut perhaps for a slightly less racy position than something actually designed for crit racing like the Rapha Powerweave, but for an endurance setup, they're ideal.
They're not overly expensive either, in the grand scheme of things; we've got shorts in this guide that cost double what these do. The real standout feature though is the pockets, the MO of any pair of cargo bibs. While most offer a pocket on each leg and three mostly inaccessible ones on the lower back to replicate those of a jersey, the Albion Pocket Bibs instead offer a mesh tube across the very base of your spine, into which a waterproof jacket can easily be stuffed while still riding. It's a significantly more useful arrangement, and as long as these suit your anatomy and budget they're the best of the bunch.
My only real criticism is of the leg grippers, but it's not really a functional criticism. Compared to the invisible options used in the Pearl Izumi Expedition Pro they look a little old school, but I'm clutching at straws here.
Best thermal bib shorts
8. Rapha Pro Team Winter
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want shorts for high-intensity winter rides: These shorts are great for fast riding in the cold.
✅ You want wind and damp resistance: Rapha uses thicker fabric which improves comfort in the cold.
❌ You want less compression: The thicker panels give a compressive feel.
❌ You alternate between shorts in winter: The thick pad may mean you need to adjust your saddle position down.
If your winter riding consists of fast, high-intensity blasts, or actual racing, then the winter version of Rapha's Pro Team Bib Shorts should be on your radar. The fit is very compressive, partially thanks to some very sturdy, more windproof outer fabrics; they feel noticeably stiffer in the hands than other cycling shorts, but on the bike, it translates to a very supportive grip, perhaps too much for some riders if you're not into compression.
While the front of the thighs is this thicker, more resistant fabric, as is the lower back to deal with tyre spray, the back of the legs is a thinner, more breathable option to help avoid overheating. As per most of the Rapha shorts, the chamois too is thicker than many others, to the point you may need to drop your saddle a millimetre or two.
I can't think of a better option for an all-out blast, but as well as being quite a premium option the white straps and girdle on the navy version do peep out under my jersey sometimes, which is annoying from an aesthetic standpoint.
Also consider
9. Endura Pro SL EGM
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want leg length options: For taller riders, longer legs may be more comfortable and look better.
✅ You want a quality pad: Endura's pad works well on long and hot rides.
❌ You don't like understated: Endura's shorts fly under the radar a little.
❌ You're confused by the range on offer: You may need to try before you buy to find the right fit.
The Endura Pro SL EGM cycling bib shorts are a high-quality pair of performance cycling shorts. We tested the long version which features a longer leg finishing up just above the knee. I fear my slightly longer-than-average femurs often make shorts measure up a little short in length but not so here. Have a look if you find your shorts often come up too short for your liking.
All Endura EGM products have been designed in collaboration with Phil Burt - a physiotherapist and bike fitter who spent twelve years as head physio at British Cycling. The shorts feature the 800 Series Conform EGM chamois pad which I found really comfortable on short and long riders, some of which were at temperatures of 25C/77F and above for several hours riding in Mallorca. The chamois also employs silicone to relieve pressure and it seemed to do a good job here on long rides.
The long version of the shorts adds about 4cm to the regular fit, but the regular shorts won't be especially short though if you're unsure about which to go for. Aesthetics-wise the shorts have a gloss black silicone 'Endura Pro SL' logo on each thigh and a white Endura logo on the rear.
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want Assos's premium short tech: Assos's reputation for great cycling kit is an attraction, with features ported over from its pro-level shorts.
✅ You want hot weather performance: Assos has clever tech, good ventilation and UPF 50+ fabrics for a comfortable ride.
❌ You don't usually ride anywhere hot: For cooler rides, we reckon that Assos's cheaper alternatives function just as well.
❌ You want a less bulky pad: Assos's endurance pad has lots of tech, but is thick.
Assos aims the Mille GTS shorts at endurance riding, although they port over features from the Equipe racing line. The fit is less compressive than the Equipe shorts and there's enhanced breathability, as well as UPF 50+ sun protection and abrasion resistance.
Assos fits its GTS S11 seat pad in the shorts, using its GoldenGate 2.0 front and rear attachment, with the central section free to move independently of the shorts fabric. The pad is up to 13mm thick and includes large cut-out holes to increase ventilation and a thinner, softer front layer designed for male rider comfort.
The bibs hook to the shorts at the waist and to the seat pad, which Assos claims helps to keep things well-positioned.
The Assos Mille GTS shorts are very comfortable, particularly when it's hot. The waistband is soft and elastic waistband and the new low profile leg grippers are comfortable, while the seat pad is first rate, although it does bulge at the front. You do pay for all Assos's tech though and we reckoned that Assos's cheaper Mille GT C2 shorts were the match for the GTS shorts in all but the hottest conditions.
Read more in our Assos Mille GTS S11 bib shorts review.
11. Nalini Aero Bib Short
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want aero: Nalini knows a thing or two about producing performance kit and has supplied many pro teams.
✅ You want sun protection: The Pro Aero shorts are UPF 50+ rated.
❌ You want an easier purchase: Nalini's kit can be difficult to find outside Italy.
❌ You want a smooth shiny look: Nalini's aero fabric is matt and striated.
The Aero bib shorts from Nalini are the brand's range toppers and use the Randonnée chamois pad alongside a host of technical features.
I got on well with the Aero shorts from the off, finding the chamois, stretchy bib straps and laser-cut leg grippers all really comfortable. The shorts feature Italian Kinetech fabric which features + 50 UPF sun protection and a sort of 3d wide pinstripe pattern on the outside, which is claimed to aid aerodynamics. Simple white Nalini logos keep things stylish.
There's a really useful pocket on the rear which is quite low down making it easy to stash a gel or spares in. Perfect for a race or fast ride.
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want Rapha quality without the price tag: We reckon the Core Cargos are as good as more premium Rapha shorts.
✅ You want a thick pad: Rapha's shorts have a thicker pad than many.
❌ You want more flexible carrying capacity: Rapha's pockets will work for gels and food but not larger items.
❌ You want more breathability: The Core Cargo shorts run a little warm.
Rapha bib shorts, with a few notable exceptions like the Powerweave, tend to have a thicker chamois pad. If that's what you're after then these, or the more pricy non-core Cargo Bibs are definitely worth a look. I've used both on the same bike tour and the difference between the two once you discount the reflective details is marginal, so I'd save your money and use it for a big lunch out on the road. What's more, the leg grippers on the Core version are more comfortable too.
If you don't want the Albion bum tube, and instead want a more standard 2 rear pockets under your jersey then these are my pick, unless you want to pay double for the real luxury of the Pearl Izumi Expedition Pro. The main drawback is they're just not quite so breathable as some others, but I managed just fine even on days when the temperature was above 30 degrees Celsius.
Check out our Rapha Core Cargo bib short review for more details. We've also reviewed the standard Rapha Core bib shorts, which we reckoned provided premium performance without the price tag, but again were a little warm once the weather heats up.
13. Pearl Izumi Expedition Pro
Our expert review:
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want comfort in your cargo shorts: We rate these shorts as the most comfy with pockets.
✅ You want a drop tail: Unusually, even the men's version of the shorts get this feature.
❌ You want a good selection of pockets: The single rear pocket and small leg pockets offer minimal storage capacity.
❌ You want floral prints: They're off the menu now.
If I could choose only one pair of adventure bib shorts I'd still go for the Albion, for the added utility. However, if you want the absolute best pair of shorts for a comfort perspective then the Expedition Pro from Pearl Izumi is nigh on unbeatable. The fabrics are soft, just the right amount of compressive, and there are barely any seams anywhere to add pesky pressure points.
The straps are laser cut with no edge stitches, so they disappear completely, and they're designed in such a way that you can drop the tail of the shorts down without taking them off when nature calls. The fabric too is water repellent, the chamois is brilliant and stays put, and the leg grippers are perfectly firm, invisible, and never uncomfortable.
The price you pay though is... the price. These are nearly double the cost of the other options in this segment, and you can't even get the jazzy floral print anymore (sorry fashionistas, you wish you were as cool as me!). Don't be tempted to go for the standard Expedition shorts from Pearl Izumi thinking you'll get basically the same thing (as is the case with the Rapha cargo options); the standard version doesn't have a great fit, with a saggy bottom which allows the chamois to be too mobile.
For more details check out our Pearl Izumi Expedition PRO Bib Short review.
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a low-priced winter option: Endura's winter shorts are well-priced.
✅ You want reflective details: There's plenty of low-light visibility.
❌ You want a more premium option: The bibs and grippers are more basic than Rapha's.
❌ You don't want the zipper: Although useful, it can dig in and rub on your upper body kit.
Part of Castelli's Unlimited range, the Unlimited Cargo Bib Shorts are available for men and women and are pitched at both gravel riding and greater practicality for road use. They include two mesh pockets in the legs, with flaps to help stop stuff falling out and a further two in the rear of the bibs, without flaps, although these are awkward to access when riding.
You get the Kiss Air 2 seat pad, Castelli's second-tier design, although we still found it comfortable for seated rides and also when walking around off-bike. The straps too, although thin, are comfortable for the long haul. The fabric is a little lightweight for UK off-season riding, but a good summer choice. It wicks well, feels airy and doesn't show sweat.
While Castelli's kit is in general now much more true to size than in the past, we followed the brand's advice and sized up, which ensured a good fit. The Unlimited Cargo bib shorts compete in a crowded market though, so there are several similarly priced options worth considering.
Read our Castelli Unlimited Cargo bib shorts review for more.
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a low priced winter option: Endura's winter shorts are well-priced.
✅ You want reflectives: There's plenty of low light visibility.
❌ You want a more premium option: The bibs and grippers are more basic than Rapha's.
❌ You don't want the zipper: Although useful, it can dig in and rub on your upper body kit.
In the winter sometimes you just want gear that gets the job done without fanfare. The thermal version of the FS260 Pro bib shorts are a worthy winter companion for more or less any ride, without having to splash out a load of cash.
They feature a lovely high waist, with a zipper to help you get into them and access anything vital during a nature break. This higher waist does make them a very cosy feeling short. They don't have the wind resistance of the Rapha Pro Team shorts, but for the price they're extremely hard to fault. They're comfortable, warm, and reflective, and given they were a little less premium than others I tended to opt for them on filthy winter gravel rides, which they put up with without any issues at all.
The leg grippers and straps are noticeably less premium than Rapha's, but they are perfectly comfortable all the same. In my experience, when the elements close in and its cold, wet, and windy, there's not a single neuron devoted to straps or leg grippers unless they are truly awful.
Pair these with the Endura Pro SL leg warmers (my outright favourite pair) and you've got a stellar winter riding setup.
For more details, check out our Endura FS260-Pro Thermo bib shorts review.
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want comfortable, affordable shorts: We rated the Entrata 2 bib shorts as among the most comfortable lower priced shorts we've used.
✅ You want breathability: Castelli's fabrics offer high breathability for hotter rides.
❌ You want long ride comfort: We found the pad tended to compress on longer rides.
❌ You can afford to spend a bit more: There are better options available at a slightly higher price.
The Castelli Entrata 2 bib shorts are the brand's entry-level men's shorts. They're available as waist shorts if you don't want bibs.
The shorts include Castelli's Kiss Air 2 pad, which is a notch down from the Progetto 2 Air pad in its pricier shorts, being a little thinner with less dense foam. Nevertheless, we rated the Entrata 2 shorts among the most comfortable we've worn at the sub-£100/$110 mark and there's significant trickle-down tech from Castelli's pricier shorts.
The hemless leg grippers are comfortable, there are two reflective tabs on the rear legs and the slightly compressive fabric works well. We did find the raised seams left a mark on our skin, although this doesn't affect the performance. We reckon it could be worth splashing the extra cash on the Rapha Core shorts though.
You can read more in our Castelli Entrata 2 bib shorts review.
How to choose the best cycling shorts for you
The process of choosing the right cycling shorts for you is the same as with many things you'll buy.
What type of cycling shorts do I want?
Am I looking for a pair of lightweight summer shorts or do I want more warmth for cooler rides? Do I want water resistant DWR treatment to fend off the odd shower? Do you want a compressive fit to suppurt muscles or a more forgiving fit for longer rides? All are available.
How far and often you ride will also have an effect on what will be the best bib shorts for you. If you're just going for short blasts once or twice a week, a cheaper pair of shorts may be fine. If you're going for rides of a half day or longer, you'll probably want something more sophisticated.
How much do you want to spend?
You'll probably have an idea of what you want to spend, but might not know exactly what level of short that'll get you. Cycling shorts can be very expensive. These higher spec shorts will be more comfortable for longer or more frequent rides though. They'll probably hold up for longer than a cheaper pair too, with less tendency for the fabric to relax and the fit to get loose and uncomfortable or seams too give way, so it's worth stretching the budget.
What type of riding do you do?
You'll also know what type of riding you do, but might not know the features to look out for in the best cycling shorts. Shorts for gravel riding are in general more robust than those designed for road use, for example. Our pick of thermal shorts above will keep you more comfortable on cooler rides.
Do you want pockets?
Cargo bib shorts are a relatively new option. They're handy to relieve pocket bulge in jersey back pockets and avoid having to carry too much on the bike itself. You may not need them for short rides, but if you're out for longer they're a good option, that may not add too much to the price of your shorts.
What leg length do you want?
Cycling shorts are normally worn long, so if you have longer legs, you may want to look for shorts to match. On the other hand, you don't want your shorts to extend to the knee. Too long and they could irritate the tendons in the back of your thighs.
How compressive do you want your shorts to be?
We've got more details on the benefits of a more compressive fit below. Even if you don't want compression, in general you want a tightish fit, to help keep the pad in place.
Everything you need to know about the best cycling shorts
What features should I look for?
As with most purchases the first step is to set your budget, but beyond that it's time to focus on what features you want.
Cycling shorts used to be designed for summer use only, although the wool-based fabrics used in the past were nowhere near as lightweight until the emergence of polyester with a dose of lycra as the go-to fabric mix.
Now, you can buy very lightweight summer cycling shorts, made of highly technical, very breathable lightweight fabrics, even with some mesh panels discretely included. They often have a compressive fit for muscle support.
As an alternative, heavier weight brushed back thermal shorts are now an option, offering extra insulation for cooler weather. Many of these shorts are surface coated for water repellence too, since cold and wet have a habit of coming together.
Either type of shorts is also available with pockets. These so-called cargo bib shorts usually have a slip pocket in the outer thigh and may add rear pockets too. They're designed to cater for the bikepacker and long distance endurance rider, but the pockets in cargo bib shorts are a useful addition for all riders.
Why choose thermal cycling shorts?
You might think thermal cycling shorts are an odd option; why not just use some of the best winter bib tights? Versatility, that's why. The seasonal range of winter cycling shorts, when you add in a pair of the best leg warmers or knee warmers, is far greater than any set of bib tights. They can serve well even on plenty of summer rides in the UK.
If you want to go full pro you can slap on a thick layer of embrocation to heat up your bare lower legs, just be careful with it as it's spicy stuff!
Why choose cargo bib shorts?
If you want a deeper dive into the best cargo bib shorts, or just a few more options to mull over, we do have a dedicated guide to the hottest subcategory of cycling shorts.
Personally I ride in cargo bibs almost exclusively, on road or off, because I like the versatility, but they tend to be de rigeur for gravel riding. The options here are my personal favourites, having ridden innumerable pairs.
The main benefit over normal cycling shorts is either extra storage to supplement the pockets in your cycling jersey, or the fact that with the pockets in your shorts you are free to wear whatever you want on top to signal to everyone just how gosh darned radical you are; you rock that oversized t-shirt, it looks great!
What are the most comfortable cycling shorts?
The most comfortable cycling shorts are, like saddles, a personal choice and there is no one size fits all solution. All good cycling shorts have some common features though: a well designed, comfortable chamois pad; a close but not constricting fit to keep it in place; straps that don't dig into your shoulders; and leg grippers that keep the lower legs in place without making your legs look like sausage links.
There is some degree of trial and error involved with finding your dream shorts, but the options here are ones that we've collectively got on well with.
Are expensive cycling shorts worth it?
As with most things in cycling there is a point of diminishing returns; paying twice as much won't necessarily make you twice as comfortable. That being said, you will usually get a better fit, better materials, more comfortable straps, better leg grippers, better breathability, more durability, and a more well-thought-out chamois pad the more you pay. Despite being a proponent of decent budget options, the most comfortable shorts I've ever used are one of the more expensive pairs.
Do padded cycling shorts make a difference?
While there are some ultra racers with backsides of steel who can ride without padded shorts indefinitely, for the rest of us having padding in our shorts will absolutely make life more comfortable, even more so if you apply some anti-chafe chamois cream.
Road and gravel bike saddles are relatively unpadded, working on the assumption that the padding comes from the shorts, so going without can be quite a hard ride for your sit bones. If you're scared to make the leap just trust us, it's better.
If you're adamant about not wearing padding then consider opting for a leather saddle, that'll break in to match your personal anatomy for greater comfort.
How tight should cycling shorts be?
In general they should be tight enough to have a next-to-skin fit all over, with no saggy spots, but not so tight that they feel restrictive in any way. You should still be able to pull the material away from your legs with a pinch, and if you can't you may be stretching the Lycra so thin that it becomes embarrassingly translucent.
Some more race-oriented shorts offer a compression fit, which will feel tighter. The aim of these is to better support your muscles during high intensity efforts, but they should never restrict a full range of motion; if they do, they're too small.
What colour is best for cycling shorts?
Traditionally, cycling shorts were always black. That's changed now, with other dark colours including navy blue and grey available. Gravel cycling shorts often come in earth colours to match the gravel aesthetic; think dark green, maroon or brown.
White shorts may seem like a good idea to keep you cooler on hot summer rides. Unless you're the World Champion, they're normally avoided though. Once stretched, white lycra can become a bit see-through, a tendency that can get all-too exaggerated if your shorts get wet. It's difficult to keep white shorts looking white over multiple washes too.
Do you go commando in cycling shorts?
Yes. This is usually the graduation moment that all cyclists go through, but I'm afraid to say cycling shorts are to be worn without underwear. The chamois pad is designed to sit directly on your skin, especially if chamois cream is involved, and adding a layer of cotton (or whatever other material your underwear is made of) creates the opportunity for saddle sores as the fabric may crease and fold, leaving pressure ridges.
What's more, cotton especially is very absorbent, will get damp and so is not hugely hygienic and can quickly lead to saddle sores.
What makes for a comfortable chamois pad?
There's a lot of tech that goes into a modern chamois. It will consist of multiple layers of foam padding of different densities, often with ventilation holes, sometimes with gel inserts and with a soft, absorbent top layer next to your skin.
You don't want your chamois to be too thick though, as you'll sink into it, you'll get sweaty and it will be prone to rub.
Higher quality chamois pads are made of higher density foam layers, so you sit more on top of them but are still isolated from the saddle. You'll usually get a less padded, thinner central channel to reduce pressure on soft tissues. The higher density foams are more expensive, so you'll usually find them in more expensive shorts.
We've got all scientific over chamois pads and taken a pile of shorts to the lab to pressure-map their pads on a pair of saddles to understand better what makes for saddle comfort. Take home message: although a more expensive pair of shorts may help, find a saddle that you're comfortable on first. Read our guide to the best road bike saddles and the best gravel bike saddles for advice.
If you're wondering why it's called a chamois, in days gone by it was made from a single layer of leather cut from a chamois goat. This wasn't the most comfortable thing between you and your saddle, so padded synthetic seat pads have taken over.
Do I need bib straps?
No, but they help a lot. Most new cyclists start with one pair of budget strapless shorts and then quickly realise, usually after these sag and slip down resulting in a cold lower back, that straps might actually be a good thing after all.
The cycle of standing and sitting when riding tends to move a waistband around and the elastic can dig into your stomach when riding. Women cyclists, however, may prefer waist shorts for their easier comfort breaks.
Cycling kit looks silly from an objective standpoint, but there's a good reason that all the men's cycling shorts in this guide have straps. They keep everything in the right place and prevent sagging, ultimately making you more comfy on the bike, which is what it's all about.
How should bib straps fit?
For straps to work, they need to be short enough to hold up the top of the shorts. That can make some bib straps feel a little tight over the shoulders when standing. Once on the bike, you're more bent over though, so straps that were tight suddenly feel just right when riding.
If you're trying a pair of shorts on prior to purchase, check the fit of the straps in the riding position, not just when standing upright.
How do I pee in bib shorts?
The material that cycling shorts are made of is usually stretchy enough to allow access to the male anatomy just by pulling the front of them down. You may need to adopt a bit of a forward lean, but it's easier than getting completely undressed.
Some winter bib shorts have a higher front for extra insulation and include a short zip to help with comfort breaks. We've never found the zip very useful though, as there's usually enough stretch in the fabric not to need it.
For those without a penis, or those in need of a slightly more involved nature break (yes, a poop) you will need to take your jersey off and then pull the shorts down wholesale. Some cycling shorts, the majority of them women's specific for good reason, feature a 'drop tail' design that allows you to pull the rear of the shorts down without having to get totally undressed.
How do I wash cycling shorts?
Most cycling shorts need to be washed in cool water, usually at no more than 30C, to help keep the Lycra/spandex in good shape and stop it losing its elasticity. You should choose a short/delicate cycle and wash inside-out. A wash bag will help to keep your cycling shorts in good shape.
You should also use a mild sports detergent rather than a standard laundry detergent, as the latter can degrade the fabric. It can also leave residues which make the fabric's wicking qualities less effective and, in the case of DWR-treated shorts, stop the water repellent coating from working.
Always air dry your shorts and never use a tumble dryer; it's another thing that will degrade the fabric.
How do we test the best cycling shorts
Hours and hours in the saddle is the only way. Even when we're not testing shorts specifically, if we're riding a bike we are invariably wearing a set of cycling shorts, so each and every ride we get more clued into what works and what doesn't.
Critical is the comfort of the chamois pad, so we consider this carefully. It needs to be thick enough for the intended use, without rubbing or moving around. The latter relies on the shorts having a good fit and being made of quality fabrics. There's no substitute for Lycra content here.
We also look at how well the leg grippers keep the shorts in place and whether the bib straps are comfortable. For summer shorts, air circulation is vital.
For specific duties there also comes specific testing. The thermal shorts I've tested in Atlantic storms on the clifftops of Cornwall and cargo bibs have been laden with snacks and accessories.
My colleagues have used the sweaty world of indoor cycling to put those designed for the hottest, most humid conditions through their paces. There's a whole world of indoor cycling clothing, including shorts, designed specifically for this too.
For more details on our testing and scoring methods, we have a detailed How We Test page.
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Will joined the Cyclingnews team as a reviews writer in 2022, having previously written for Cyclist, BikeRadar and Advntr. He’s tried his hand at most cycling disciplines, from the standard mix of road, gravel, and mountain bike, to the more unusual like bike polo and tracklocross. He’s made his own bike frames, covered tech news from the biggest races on the planet, and published countless premium galleries thanks to his excellent photographic eye. Also, given he doesn’t ever ride indoors he’s become a real expert on foul-weather riding gear. His collection of bikes is a real smorgasbord, with everything from vintage-style steel tourers through to superlight flat bar hill climb machines.
- Graham Cottingham
- Tom WieckowskiTech writer
- Josh CroxtonAssociate Editor (Tech)