Women's cycling shorts put to the test: 10 pee-friendly models up to €260 compared

Our tester Birgit stands in front of the mirror, slightly irritated by something that doesn't seem right. She turns round and wonders why the trousers fit so strangely. The zip on the bib should be at the front - shouldn't it? Are bib shorts that are designed for the female pit stop a.k.a. pee break any different from normal bib shorts? She looks for the instruction manual to make sure.

Manufacturers have developed different names for the wee-wee break on the move: Gore calls it a "bio break", which describes the break for biological needs; the "pit stop" is also popular, while "loo break" sounds rather wooden. In international marketing speak, which is characterised by English, the term "pee-friendly" is increasingly gaining ground, which ultimately means that it is convenient to do your little business in specially designed cycling shorts without having to undress almost completely.

>> Cycling shorts for women: How the new pee-friendly bib shorts work

Cycling shorts with bibs: why they are so practical

In the past, bibless trousers were the preferred choice for the problem described above. Because without straps under the jersey or jacket, every break was relaxed and without unnecessary fumbling. Accordingly, cycling shorts with a waistband were the only option for those who wanted an uncomplicated pit stop. However, most women who cycle regularly and with dedication quickly realise that cycling shorts without bibs have other disadvantages apart from this one point. They slip, the waistband can roll in at the hips, the kidney area is not protected and the seat pad does not stay reliably in position.

Female cyclists prefer to wear bike shorts with braces (bib shorts) as they offer many advantages that waistband shorts do not. Manufacturers therefore had to find solutions to allow the shorts to be pulled down without having to remove the jersey or other tops. For our first major comparison test of these pee-friendly cycling shorts, we invited 14 manufacturers, 10 of which took part. Many well-known manufacturers are represented, from Assos to Velocio; the cheapest trousers are from Craft and cost 130 euros, while the Velocio model costs exactly twice as much at 260 euros.

These systems for pee-friendly bib shorts are available

The bib shorts with quick release can be roughly divided into three categories: While Gore and Bioracer use zips to separate the shorts, Assos, Craft, Isadore and Rapha use clips, magnetic fasteners and hooks and eyes to allow the straps to be detached. Endura, Pas Normal Studios, SQ-Lab and Velocio, on the other hand, rely on elastic material on the waistband and straps, which makes it easy to pull them down and up without the use of zips or hooks.

Overall, the trousers in the test show a solid performance and receive correspondingly good to very good ratings, although there are major differences in handling. Each of these trousers outperforms a standard bib short in terms of handling, with pull-down trousers offering the fastest pee break. The Assos trousers, which require the clips to be threaded, and the Craft trousers with the somewhat tricky hook system, on the other hand, require more time.

>> Even more cycling shorts for women and men in the test

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Incidentally, our tester Birgit quickly noticed the reason for the poor fit of the test trousers with the zip. She had simply put them on the wrong way round, with the "bib" at the back. Once she had taken the trousers off and put them back on the right way round, they fitted just like any other bib shorts - without any instructions.

The cheapest and lightest cycling trousers in the test

Almost all cycle clothing manufacturers now offer pee-friendly bib shorts for women, which are designed to enable a quick pit stop without the hassle of having to take them off. The test result is consistently positive, as all the shorts make the toilet stop easier and shorter. The testers rated the bib shorts that can be pulled down effortlessly thanks to elasticated straps, such as the models from Endura or SQLab, particularly highly.

The cheapest trousers: Craft ADV Aero Bibshort W

The lightest trousers: Pas normal Studios Women's Essential Light Bib

The shape of the seat cushion - which is best?

Experienced and trained female cyclists, like most men, usually prefer a thin, firm and smaller seat pad in their cycling shorts. The reason for this is that the pubic bone and the sit bones can compress even the thickest and softest pad after a short time, causing the displaced material between the skin and the saddle to rub, which can lead to skin irritation with every pedal stroke.

People who are less trained may initially find a very thin and firm cushion uncomfortable. However, after a certain amount of time, the tissue in the seat area becomes accustomed to the strain and the thinner and firmer seat cushion is usually perceived as more comfortable.

Open and close cycling shorts in three versions

Zips

In this version, the zips run either vertically at the back or horizontally on both sides above the hips. With a vertical zip, the cycling shorts split vertically and can be opened on both sides, which works well for short pit stops, but requires increased cleanliness when going to the toilet. Horizontal zips offer a little more room for manoeuvre. Both variants limit the elasticity of the bike trousers somewhat and can pinch slightly on bare skin.

Straps with hook, clip or magnetic fastening

The braces can be detached from the bike shorts either at the back only or completely. Most models use mechanical or magnetic clips as the fastening mechanism, while Craft uses a series of hooks and eyes that allow the tension of the braces to be adjusted at the same time. This design makes it possible to pull the trousers down a long way. However, rethreading the braces can be a test of patience due to the tension of the braces.

Pull Down

In the pull-down version, both the straps and the trousers are designed to be so flexible that the trousers and straps can simply be pulled down. This method is the easiest and quickest, but the straps can leave pressure marks on the shoulders over time due to the pulling pressure.

Instructions for pulling down: To pull down the trousers, place both hands behind your back. Find the inside of the straps with your thumbs and guide them under the fabric at the base of the trouser box. From this position, you can slowly squat or sit down while your thumbs or hands push the trouser box down at the same time. The straps slide past the buttocks.

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At a glance: The 10 tested cycling shorts for women

Bike shorts Assos Uma GTV Bib Shorts C2

• Price: 200 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Bulgaria
• Weight (size S): 170 grammes
• Sizes: M to XXL
• Pee function / Features: Rear braces with clips, comfort leg cuffs, comfort straps, floating padding sewn to the front and back
• Upholstery length, width / hardness: 23, 13 cm / soft

Valuation

• Carrying properties (30 %): 7 out of 8 (grade: 1.5)
• Pee function (30 %): 6 out of 8 (grade: 2.0)
• Seat cushion (20 %): 7 out of 8 (grade: 1.3)
• Equipment (20 %): 6 out of 8 (grade: 2.0)

Overall grade (100%): 1.7

Conclusion

The material is firm and dense, which feels comfortable, but may be too warm in very hot temperatures, especially with long trouser legs. The padding is soft and hardly chafes thanks to the floating fastening. The clip fasteners are easy to reach.

Pee-friendly cycling shorts: Bioracer Epic Women's Bibshorts

• Price: 147 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Europe
• Weight (size S): 205 grammes
• Sizes: XS to XL
• Pee function / Features: Rear zip, comfort leg cuffs, reflective material
• Upholstery length, width / hardness: 20, 13 cm / medium

Valuation

• Carrying properties (30 %): 5 out of 8 (grade: 2.5)
• Pee function (30 %): 7 out of 8 (grade: 1.5)
• Seat cushion (20 %): 6 out of 8 (grade: 2.0)
• Equipment (20 %): 5 out of 8 (grade: 2.6)

Overall grade (100%): 2.1

Conclusion

The vertical zip for opening and dividing the trousers at the back is easy to reach, but reduces the elasticity of the trousers somewhat. The straps have a tendency to roll up.

The cheapest women's shorts: Craft ADV Aero Bib Shorts W

• Price: 130 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: China
• Weight (size S): 155 grammes
• Sizes: XS to XXL
• Pee function / Features: Braces with hook fastener, comfort braces, reflective material
• Upholstery length, width / hardness: 22, 13 cm / firm

Valuation

• Carrying properties (30 %): 6 out of 8 (grade: 2.3)
• Pee function (30 %): 4 out of 8 (grade: 2.8)
• Seat cushion (20 %): 6 out of 8 (grade: 2.3)
• Equipment (20 %): 6 out of 8 (grade: 1.8)

Overall grade (100%): 2.3

Conclusion

The cheapest trousers in the test. The material seems a little loose, which means that the padding is not optimally fixed in place. The hook fastening at the back works well, but requires some skill. The mesh straps feel a little scratchy on bare skin.

Endura Women's Pro SL Bibshorts

• Price: 140 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: China
• Weight (size S): 210 grammes
• Sizes: XS to L
• Pee function / Features: Slip-on trousers, comfort straps, comfort leg cuffs, money-back guarantee (90 days), crash replacement
• Upholstery length, width / hardness: 23, 13 cm / solid

Valuation

• Carrying properties (30 %): 5 out of 8 (grade: 2.3)
• Pee function (30 %): 8 out of 8 (grade: 1.0)
• Seat cushion (20 %): 5 out of 8 (grade: 2.7)
• Equipment (20 %): 4 out of 8 (grade: 3.0)

Overall grade (100%): 2.1

Conclusion

The front of the cycling shorts is closed like a full-body suit, which makes them a little heavier. The pee function is one of the best in this area. However, the very sticky gel print on the leg cuffs makes them a little longer to put on.

Gore Wear Ardent Bib Shorts Women's

• Price: 150 Euro
• Country of production: Romania
• Weight (size S): 170 grammes
• Sizes: XXS to L
• Pee function / Features: two side zips at the hips, comfort leg cuffs, comfort straps, reflective material
• Upholstery length, width / hardness: 22, 13 cm / medium firm

Valuation

• Carrying properties (30 %): 6 out of 8 (grade: 2.0)
• Pee function (30 %): 6 out of 8 (grade: 2.0)
• Seat cushion (20 %): 5 out of 8 (grade: 2.5)
• Equipment (20 %): 6 out of 8 (grade: 2.2)

Overall grade (100%): 2.1

Conclusion

The horizontal zips are barely noticeable when pedalling, but can be a little scratchy when putting on or taking off the trousers. The padding is well positioned, but is a little bulky and is more noticeable when pedalling than on the other trousers tested.

Isadore Women's Signature Clippee Syst. Bib Shorts 2.0

• Price: 190 Euro
• Country of production: Portugal
• Weight (size S): 190 grammes
• Sizes: XXS to XL
• Pee function / Features: Magnetic fasteners on the braces, comfort leg cuffs, latch pocket, reflective material, made from recycled material
• Upholstery length, width / hardness: 22, 13 cm / medium firm

Valuation

• Carrying properties (30 %): 5 out of 8 (grade: 2.3)
• Pee function (30 %): 6 out of 8 (grade: 2.0)
• Seat cushion (20 %): 8 out of 8 (grade: 1.0)
• Equipment (20 %): 6 out of 8 (grade: 1.8)

Overall grade (100%): 1.8

Conclusion

Thanks to the magnetic fasteners, the straps can be easily detached from the trousers; however, the magnets can be felt when pedalling. The padding is extremely comfortable and fits perfectly. The trousers also have a bar pocket on the right trouser leg.

The lightest cycling shorts for women in the test: Pas Normal Studios Women's Essential Light Bib

• Price: 255 Euro
• Country of production: Portugal
• Weight (size S): 150 grammes
• Sizes: XXS to XXL
• Pee function / Features: Slip-on principle, comfort straps, comfort leg cuffs, latch pocket
• Upholstery length, width / hardness: 20, 13 cm / solid

Valuation

• Carrying properties (30 %): 8 out of 8 (grade: 1.0)
• Pee function (30 %): 7 out of 8 (grade: 1.5)
• Seat cushion (20 %): 7 out of 8 (grade: 1.2)
• Equipment (20 %): 7 out of 8 (grade: 1.4)

Overall grade (100%): 1.3

Conclusion

These are the lightest trousers in the test; their material feels comparatively thin and is particularly suitable for summer temperatures. They offer very good wearing properties and an inconspicuous pad, but are relatively expensive.

Rapha Women's Detachable Bib Shorts

• Price: 260 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Portugal
• Weight (size S): 185 grammes
• Sizes: XXS to XL
• Pee function / Features: Braces with clip fastening at the back, comfort leg cuffs, reflective material
• Upholstery length, width / hardness: 26, 15 cm / medium firm

Valuation

• Carrying properties (30 %): 5 out of 8 (grade: 2.3)
• Pee function (30 %): 7 out of 8 (grade: 1.4)
• Seat cushion (20 %): 5 out of 8 (grade: 2.5)
• Equipment (20 %): 7 out of 8 (grade: 1.6)

Overall grade (100%): 1.9

Conclusion

The clip fastener is very easy to use. The trousers have a relatively firm and very large pad, but this is not held in position optimally, which creates a certain nappy feeling. The airy braces made of mesh material tend to roll up.

The one with the firm padding: SQlab SQ-Short One 12 Women

• Price: 200 Euro >> available here
• Country of production: Lithuania
• Weight (size S): 170 grammes
• Sizes: XS to XXL
• Pee function / Features: Slip-on principle, comfort straps, comfort leg cuffs
• Upholstery length, width / hardness: 20, 16 cm / solid

Valuation

• Carrying properties (30 %): 8 out of 8 (grade: 1.0)
• Pee function (30 %): 8 out of 8 (grade: 1.0)
• Seat cushion (20 %): 8 out of 8 (grade: 1.0)
• Equipment (20 %): 6 out of 8 (grade: 2.0)

Overall score (100%): 1.2 (TOUR test winner)

Conclusion

The test-winning trousers fulfil the highest demands in all functional criteria, only the reflective material is missing. The thin, firm and securely positioned seat pad ensures comfort. The pit stop is uncomplicated and quick.

The most expensive bib shorts for women in the test: Velocio Women's Luxe Bibshort

• Price: 261 Euro
• Country of production: Italy
• Weight (size S): 180 grammes
• Sizes: XXS to XXXL
• Pee function / Features: Slip-on principle, comfort straps, comfort leg cuffs, reflective material
• Upholstery length, width / hardness: 23, 14 cm / solid

Valuation

• Carrying properties (30 %): 7 out of 8 (grade: 1.5)
• Pee function (30 %): 7 out of 8 (grade: 1.5)
• Seat cushion (20 %): 6 out of 8 (grade: 1.8)
• Equipment (20 %): 7 out of 8 (grade: 1.4)

Overall grade (100%): 1.5

Conclusion

The most expensive trousers in the test are very comfortable to wear in all categories. Only the circumferential and somewhat bulky seams on the comparatively narrow leg cuffs could be annoying.

Our test procedure

The test was carried out by our sister magazine TOUR. Before the test, all cycling trousers were washed according to instructions and assessed by our testers according to four differently weighted criteria:

• Carrying properties (30 per cent): The documented impressions and experiences of the testers form the basis for the assessment of the quality and function of the straps and waistband, cuffs, feel of the fabric and the overall construction.
• Pee function (30 per cent): We assessed the handling and time required when comparing the opening concepts. The trousers that were easiest and quickest to use in every situation received the best ratings.
• Seat cushion (20 per cent): A seat pad is considered good if it fulfils its function inconspicuously. To do this, it must be reliably held in place by the material of the trousers and provide good cushioning in the area of the sit bones without causing chafing when pedalling.
• equipment (20 per cent): Various factors are taken into account in the assessment, including the workmanship and quality of the straps and the opening mechanism, the design of the leg ends, the use of flat seams, the presence of reflective material, the sensible placement of mesh material and additional extras such as pockets.