Honestly, These Are The Best Women's Padded Cycling Bibs & Bike Shorts For All Sizes [2024]
/Let’s talk about padded cycling shorts or bibs for women — we have come a long way in fit, size and design.
If you’re new to the cycling world or have already been few years into your journey, you would know that fit is everything.
A pair of good bike shorts is god-sent! Wearing proper cycling shorts is important because there’s only so much chamois cream one can use. The true testament to the shorts is whether or not they're breathable.
At the beginning when I didn’t want to be a full-suited lycra-clad cyclist, I opted for liner shorts when bicycle touring but I became more comfortable over time and ditched that for a pair of cycling shorts.
To be a full-suited cyclist, it can be quite a journey as most people discover to what extent they’re willing to spend on clothing.
Cycling clothing has reached few notches higher in terms of price! But after starting at the bottom of the cycling spectrum in terms of gear, you definitely feel the difference.
Here is the full list of recommended women’s cycling shorts to purchase whether you’re going full bib, or just want cycling shorts. Before that, I have addressed a couple of important things:
How to choose women’s cycling shorts?
Wearing my full-clad cycling shorts for women
To bib or not to bib? That’s perhaps the most important thing.
If it’s your first time, I would recommend trying the shorts to get used to it but after a few tries and annoyance of the elastic band, you may likely want to switch to bibs. This reduces chafing as the shoulder straps hold everything in place.
Bib shorts have a huge difference in comfort and longevity because the pad gets you through those long rides.
Having said that, waistband bike shorts have come a long way and the brands recommended below do a pretty good job in finding ways to make it breathable.
Here are some pros and cons or whether you should go the bib or shorts route:
Bibs: The Pros
Better chamois hold
No sagging and seal your gut
No waistband cutting into your belly.
Bibs: The Cons
Generally hotter for tropical climates
Not the easiest if you’re on a pee break
Tall torso? Perhaps a height to waist ratio issue.
Shorts: The Pros
Great for keeping cool
Easier toilet breaks
Shorts: The Cons
Elastic band tightness
Higher chance of exposing your lower backs
Doesn’t conceal your gut as nicely as the bibs
I do write about which ones are the best out there and so far Pearl Izumi’s have been nothing but amazing when it comes to cycling shorts.
Also Read: Best Women's Cycling Kits That Are Actually Flattering
Do you wear anything under your bike shorts?
The answer is no. I used to wear seamless underwear and then the chafing got worst, and full commando it was.
The chamois inside of your shorts was made for direct skin contact to prevent any friction. The fabric is made to wick moisture and dry as quickly as possible.
So are padded shorts worth it?
Sure, they’re tight and you may get more people staring at you since it really hugs your curves! Ultimately, they’re now a fashion statement with brands like H&M even selling cycling shorts (minus the pads) because athleisure is in.
But lucky for you, you’re wearing it because you want to enjoy cycling and ensure you’re comfortable on rides even to your favourite cafe. They help you ride faster and more efficiently.
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. I only provide unbiased and completely honest recommendations. Read more about the site’s privacy policy.Best Women's Cycling/Bike Shorts For All Sizes
Women’s Waistband Cycling Shorts
1. Castelli Prima Shorts
If we’re talking about high-performance and a really good value for money, Castelli shorts check all the right boxes.
It sets a high standard when it comes to performance cycling apparel, and the Prima Shorts receive comfort and elite-level design at an affordable price-point.
They understand the female form and know that “cycling shorts” is not just a beginner tool but it can be all-encompassing shorts designed for even the most seasoned riders.
It brings high performance to the Prima's chamois as well with the KISS AIR2 and an updated top-cloth for all-day softness and comfort. Giro3 leg grippers keep the shorts in place during sprint efforts, and the reflective details add low-light visibility as you chase the sunset.
You definitely may wanna size up as well!
2. PEARL iZUMi’s Women’s Pro Shorts
Source: Pearl Izumi
These shorts are like butter for the bum! PEARL iZUMi’s Women’s Levitate PRO Chamois are crafted for the long rides and even for your indoor cycling sessions — their USP is their luxury chamois that is made with Italian PRO Transfer fabric.
Seven carefully engineered panels are used to minimised seamings creating a rather smooth silhouette!
If you’re all about making that smooth transition and want a sleek finish, this is the only shorts you’ll ever need especially for 50-100 mile days!
It also has a flattering wide waistband for superior comfort without all that necessary sag and dig marks!
3. Wild Rye Bike Shorts
some of the best bike shorts are from wild rye
If lycra is not your thing and you’re looking for an option on perfect breezy days, Wild Rye is an amazing brand that carries biking shorts made for women regardless of regardless of age, background, size or skill level.
Their unique shorts comes in different prints, styles and it is well suited for long saddle days or even short bike rides.
Some of the best bike shorts worth checking out are the eleanor chammy, Freel FLEX Bike Short and alyssa chammy.
You’ll see on the site that there’s a HUGE sale happening right now on their site at about 70% OFF sale items.
4. PEARL iZUMi Women’s Escape Quest Shorts
Source: Pearl Izumi
We all may not be willing to spend that much money if you’re still dipping your toes in the cycling world. PEARL iZUMi’s budget version of endurance cycling shorts is perfect for beginners!
These run slightly small and may need to be sized up! While the “pro” clothes are always better, but these are equally amazing for the price point and quality.
They also come in a nice navy blue colour other than the usual black coloured cycling shorts!
5. Terry Power Bike Shorts
Source: terry’s bicycles
Fancy compression bike shorts that are built for those touring days? Terry is known for cycling apparel made by women to ensure more women are riding bicycles – comfortably, safely and beautifully.
This Power Bike Short gets its name from the high elastane content of the special fabric that's been sourced from Italy.
It has more compression than their other bike shorts and is slightly longer so it supports the entire hamstring and quadricep muscles.
The shorts are outfitted with a deep pocket making it quite the unique style from other cycling shorts out there in the market.
It is built for enhanced support and reduced muscle fatigue especially for those who really need a 2-in-1 cycling shorts if you’re bicycle touring!
6. Terry’s Navaeh 7 Bicycle Short
Source: terry’s bicycles
Not all cycling shorts are meant to be aero, sleek and built for speed — Terry’s cycling shorts are great for casual wear, unpaved terrain with a very flattering cut and ample pocket systems.
It comes with padded liner for great on/off bike versatility and is also available in an 11" length.
There are two colours to choose from — classic black and a breezy blue!
This is great for touring, mountain biking or just general comfort if you’re not into tight clothing and still want performance and comfort!
7. Terry’s Wayfarer Bike Shorts
If you want the most comfortable bike shorts that are almost like a second skin, Terry’s Wayfarer bike shorts fits that perfectly well!
Made from nylon with a satin matte finish and high spandex for a compression fit, this is the kind of short that’s perfect for long touring rides.
You can comfortably ride in it all day as it has a wide waistband and known to have elastic-free hem treatment if you don’t like grippy ones and compression.
It has a Flex Air Chamois and a longer 11 inch inseam so you be assured it is all about comfort at the end of the day.
The 3 colour options are also great if you’re bored of the usual black bike shorts.
You also have pockets which is a lifesaver when you need easy access to snacks, keys or your phone.
8. Nooyme Women’s Bike Shorts
Sometimes getting an emergency pair that doesn’t cost too much is what we need! The Nooyme women’s bike shorts is a great alternative for an affordable and budget-friendly bike short.
The cycling shorts are longer and higher at the back than at the front. You'll find they're comfier when riding.
The shorts work well for your around town, events, group rides, commuting, bike paths, weekend outings, spinning/gym using.
The padded shorts have added pocket for putting your phone, key, small items.
Women’s Cycling Bib Shorts
9. Gore Distance Bib Shorts+ 2.0 - Women's
If you’re on the saddle for days, some shorts are really worth the extra bucks.
The GOREWEAR Distance Bib Shorts+ 2.0 is made for long endurance-based days in the saddle where comfort is a priority. This is all and everything a women’s cycling bib shorts will ever need: wicking, breathable fabrics, a soft waistband, and a windproof, comfort-driven seat insert.
There’s a special Expert Distance 2.0 Seat Pad with a GORE WINDSTOPPER liner if you’re all about going the distance without painful discomfort or biting winds cutting the ride short.
10. SUGOi Evolution Bib Short - Women's
This brand is all about inclusivity and the right price point!
The SUGOi Evolution bib shorts comes with an airy, minimal mesh bib that's kind to the bib-shy.
The supportive Evo Plus fabric, which is cut high on the waist and lower back, will likely pull you quickly into the pro-bib camp, as it provides extra stability to your muscles while you're stretched out in the saddle while remaining breathable as you sweat.
Sugoi also lines the Evolution with its top-tier RC Pro Chamois, which blends cushion and pressure relief with a stretchy, breathable design that won't feel inhibiting whether you're training or trying out your first century.
It is everything and above, and plus point absolutely beginner friendly as well!
11. Pearl Izumi Women's PRO Bib Shorts
Source: Pearl Izumi
There’s nothing boring or plain about Pearl Izumi’s dynamic PRO bib shorts. With colours such as paisley stipple and beachglass eclipse, you’re in for a vivid right with this top of the line bib shorts.
It is built for long rides and those who treasure luxurious technical fabric especially where speed and efficiencies are concern.
The wide, laser-cut bib straps eliminate the need for additional binding allowing a barely-there, yet supportive fit, and their unique crossover strap design allows drop-tail convenience without the need for zippers or clasps.
Overall, this is built for women who want performance, looks and the right feel! If you’re in need of a nice upgrade, this is the ultimate bib shorts to get!
As an alternative from this version if you’re aiming for longer distances, you could also opt for the expedition version with cool cargo pockets compartment!
12. PEARL iZUMi Women's Attack Bib Short (with sustainable materials)
Source: Pearl Izumi
What’s great about PEARL iZUMi is that they consider all price-points and all levels — this a great entry-level bib shorts for cyclists of all levels!
They have taken many of the features found in their most sophisticated bibs and combined them in this value-packed short.
It is also made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester yarns and they have used the material’s natural stretch to reduce any seams.
They feel and look great and are also provide an elegant nature break convenience!
13. PEARL iZUMi Women's PRO Bib Short
As part of PEARL iZUMi’s new collection, they have launched the latest women’s pro-bike shorts for longer rides. Also don’t forget to check out their site with up to 25% off as there’s currently a post-summer sale going on
I hate anything that cuts into my skin, so the fact they have a wide laser-cut bib straps that is almost barely there is perfect for those 100km rides!
You can consider this the best top of the line range when it comes to bib shorts — it is built for the female form and offers nature break convenience without the need for clips, zippers or special adjustments.
They even have a cool floral version if black is not your jam!
14. CEROTIPOLAR Women's Cycling Bibs
Designer cutting for half the price, Cerotipolar cycling bibs are high compression eco-friendly cycling bibs. This bike shorts was designed for long-distance riding and the UPF50+ fabric provides longer leg protection from sunburn.
The style may be similar with its upper mesh straps and grippy band but some reviewers say that their chamois perform better than some expensive brands out there.
If you’re looking for an alternative and do not want to spend too much money, this is a great affordable option for beginner cyclists.
Also Read:
Got a favourite? Share with me in the comments below on your preferred cycling shorts!
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