By Robyn Daly
Shorts are the only thing sitting between the saddle and your sensitive undercarriage, so it’s worth
spending time and money getting the best fit and performance. The range of styles and options
available can be overwhelming, so we’ve simplified things based on our own experience test driving
more than a few pairs of women’s shorts!
Put your money where your butt is
Aside from a comfortable saddle, a good pair of cycling shorts will keep you comfortable and dry for
short spins as well as the epics. Areas of soft tissue need protection, which is where the chamois
(padding) comes in.
The old adage “You get what you pay for” applies. Sure, you can buy a cheap pair of house-brand shorts
or tights from discount sports retailers or even from a supermarket and make do with them. However,
these are cheap for a reason and tend to have padding with little or no breathability, no anti-bacterial
properties and minimal moisture management. Any woman who appreciates the importance of
feminine hygiene will agree that cheap won’t be so cheerful after a while.
The key factors to consider when choosing cycling shorts or tights are:
1. The chamois. A good waffle foam padding is lightweight, comfortable and breathable. There are
options with gel inserts which you may also find comfortably, however, these tend to be slightly
heavier. The chamois should look bunched when the shorts are on the hanger, but must sit
smoothly when you try them on. If there’s any sagging in the crotch area, consider a smaller size
or a different style.
2. The waistband. The best fit for half shorts will be a wide waistband that is higher at the back to
counter the stretching you’ll do over the bike and to prevent the waistband digging in.
3. Leg fit. Women have a higher percentage of body fat than men, so we’re a little more conscious
of how our thighs look in shorts. Aim for a close, supportive fit that doesn’t restrict blood flow or
movement.
4. Leg elastic. The leg cuff can be a tricky one to get right. The fit should be tight enough to
prevent the shorts riding up when cycling, but not so tight to cause your thighs to balloon out
the bottom.
5. The finish. Pay attention the edges of the chamois and seams – the poorer quality shorts may
have unfinished edges which can irritate the skin and cause chafing
If you’re looking at bib shorts, do yourself a favour and choose an easy-pee pair that allows a comfort
break without having to remove all your top layers just to get the shorts down. The good brands will
have a choice of styles, such as cross-over straps (Castelli) or clip-on straps (Assos) to make this possible.
How to choose the best chamois for women’s cycling
A good chamois will help prevent dreaded saddle sores and vaginitis. There are four key factors that
should guide your choice.
1. Antibacterial properties
2. Breathability
3. Sweat wicking
4. Quick drying capabilities
Our pick of the best cycling shorts for women
Assos GT Half Shorts C2
The GT range from Assos ticks all the boxes. It has a super moisture-wicking chamois with the Assos
patented 3D Waffle of three layers of perforated foam that have been thermoformed (heat shaped) to
keep the chamois sitting nicely in place. It is very light and breathable and offers all-important shock
absorption.
The GT C2 is available in half shorts and a model with a bib. The half shorts are a top buy as their unique
V-shaped waistband keeps the shorts in place and has a high back to prevent a gap between the shorts
and your jersey. Super comfortable, the waist conforms to your body and doesn’t bunch or dig in like
many other brands.
The cuff elastic is quite firm, which might not appeal if you are carrying a little more thigh ‘padding’ than
you’d like. In this case the Castelli may be a better bet.
As bib shorts go, the Castelli Endurance bib shorts are great value for money while offering Castelli’s
most luxurious seat pad, the Progetto X² Air Donna seamless seat pad tailored for women. It is comfy
indeed!
Constructed of two densities of foam and gel pads strategically placed to absorb vibrations and improve
ride quality, it has a soft upper layer that moves with the skin. The fabric has excellent wicking abilities.
Highlights of the design are the long and stretchy bib straps which can be crossed front or back. For the
pit-stop friendly option, simply cross the straps at the front, allowing you to whip the shorts down at the
back. The other great feature of these shorts is the GIRO³ leg grippers, which hold the legs of the bib
shorts gently yet firmly in place without creating a bulge in your thighs.
For such a high-specced bib short, Castelli Endurance Women’s Bib Shorts offers the best value for
money.
Both bib shorts and half shorts have their benefits and drawbacks and your choice will probably be
swayed by personal preference.
Bib shorts tend to be a bit more expensive and some styles don’t accommodate quick comfort breaks
without you shedding the top layers. That said, bib shorts stay in place and offer support better than
half shorts and so are generally best for long-distance cycling and racing. They’re a bit OTT for the indoor
trainer though. But hey, we won’t judge!
Half shorts are making a comeback, partly owing to the rise of indoor training and partly because
manufacturers are getting closer to designing a perfect fit. They are ideal for shorter spins, work
commutes, a quick dash to the loo and a workout indoors.
Now that you’ve invested in a good pair of cycling shorts, let’s get the most out of them. Tights are a
useful addition for winter, however you can wear shorts and add a pair of cycling leg warmers for cold
days. Simply roll the leg warmers on and pull your shorts up over them. Good quality ones will stay in
place and keep your legs snug. Bontrager, Castelli and Assos all make good quality leg (and arm)
warmers to keep you snug.
Yes, and you absolutely should. Cycling shorts are designed to be worn with nothing underneath to
reduce friction while managing moisture. Add a pair of knickers and suffer the consequences.
1. Choose the best chamois you can afford
2. Don’t wear underwear with cycling shorts to prevent friction
3. Always wear fresh shorts
4. Use an antibacterial chamois cream for women
5. Waxing and shaving sensitises the skin so avoid doing your bikini region this within three days of
a big ride or race
6. Don’t hang around in your cycling shorts when not on the bike
7. Shower or bath as soon as possible after your ride
8. Know what’s in your chamois and how to look after it
