Cycling shorts for womenVan Rysel Racer 3 women's bib shorts in test

Stefan Frey

 · 02.07.2025

With the Van Rysel Racer 3 cycling shorts, Decathlon has an extremely affordable bib short with modern features in its range
Photo: Georg Grieshaber

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The Van Rysel Racer 3 women's bib shorts from outdoor giant Decathlon are not only attractive because of their unbeatable price. The stylish cycling shorts also make a good visual impression. Our test shows whether this is confirmed in practice.

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The French outdoor giant Decathlon is also really stepping on the gas in cycling. Not only do the French company now have their own team taking part in the Mountain Bike World Cup. They also develop their own MTBs and cycling clothing at prices that would make many a high-end manufacturer sweat.

Women's bib shorts at a great price

With the Racer 3 road bike shorts Decathlon is now targeting female endurance bikers with its own Van Rysel brand and is making them an almost outrageously good offer. The French company is asking just 70 euros for the chic bib shorts in a blue pinstripe look. Given the prices of the competition, you could almost hang three of these shorts in your wardrobe.

Pleasant material and a great look. At first glance, there is little to criticise about the Van RyselPhoto: Georg GrieshaberPleasant material and a great look. At first glance, there is little to criticise about the Van Rysel

But that doesn't mean that you have to do without anything in the Van Rysel, because the features and cut are not wrong at first glance. For example, the modern leg cuffs are adorned with just a single flat seam. The straps are completely seamless, sufficiently tight and drape neatly over the shoulders. Female bikers don't even have to do without Elastic Interface padding. The feel of the fabric? Pleasant but a little slippery.



The straps are nice and wide, which distributes the pressure evenly over the shoulders. Airy mesh at the back should provide some coolingPhoto: Georg GrieshaberThe straps are nice and wide, which distributes the pressure evenly over the shoulders. Airy mesh at the back should provide some cooling
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Slight criticism in detail

However, there is also some criticism. The narrow silicone strip on the thighs is slightly tighter than the rest of the trouser legs, which is noticeable when pedalling. The stitched waistband presses a little on the stomach when cycling and the fabric is a little slippery on the saddle. Although the seat pad is well positioned, it is too soft and not supportive enough for long-distance trousers. However, the Van Rysel is easily suitable for a trip to the beer garden or an after-work ride. We'd almost go so far as to say: for this price, these trousers are a knockout.



The trouser legs only need a single seam. The silicone waistband is a little tightPhoto: Georg GrieshaberThe trouser legs only need a single seam. The silicone waistband is a little tight

Van Rysel Racer 3 Women's Bib Short - Info and price

Chic look, good cut but somewhat soft padding. The Van Rysel is more of a model for shorter ridesPhoto: Georg GrieshaberChic look, good cut but somewhat soft padding. The Van Rysel is more of a model for shorter rides
  • Price69,99 Euro >> available here
  • Weight (M): 163 grammes
  • SizesXS-XL
  • Made inChina
  • EquipmentSeamless straps and cuffs; mesh panel on the back; reflective
  • Upholstery Length/width/hardness: 20.5 cm / 15 cm / soft
  • Leg length (measured from the trochanter major): 27.5 cm

Evaluation & conclusion

Not really long-distance trousers, but definitely worth a recommendation for the pricePhoto: Stefan FreyNot really long-distance trousers, but definitely worth a recommendation for the price

Extremely affordable and stylish trousers with modern features such as seamless straps and leg cuffs. The soft material is somewhat smooth, the padding is not very pressure-resistant and quickly sags. Somewhat tight seams on the stomach and thighs and tight silicone cuffs reduce comfort.

Stefan Frey is from Lower Bavaria and loves the mossy, loamy trails of the Bavarian Forest as much as the rugged rock of the Dolomites. For technical descents, he is prepared to tackle almost any ascent - under his own steam. As an accessories specialist, he is the first port of call for questions about equipment and add-on parts, while as head of copywriting he sweeps the language crumbs from the pages of the BIKE print editions.

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