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This review of cycling shorts was first published in March 2022 and was updated in June 2024. There’s still a lot of interest in this article. And lo and behold: many of the cycling shorts reviewed here are still available today. That’s why we’ve revised it once again for you. Enjoy reading!
The new test – read it now!
Overview: Cycling shorts put to the test
Men’s cycling shorts put to the test
- Dos Caballos DC34-2 Evo
- Everve Me Trousers
- Gonso SQlab Go Bib
- Assos Mille GTO Bib Shorts C2
- Café du Cycliste Mathilde Bib
- Castelli Premio Black Bib Shorts
- SQlab SQ-Short One12
- Sportful BFP LTD Shield Bibs
- Velocio Luxe Bib Shorts
- Isadore Gravel Bib Shorts
- Gorewear Long Distance Bib Shorts+
- Protective P-Traverse Bib
Women’s cycling shorts put to the test
- Assos Dyora Summer Bib Shorts
- Café Du Cycliste Mathilde
- Löffler W Bike Tights Hotbond RF XT
- Sportful Supergiara W Bibs
- Dos Caballos Ease Women’s Bib Shorts
- Protective P-Traverse W
When, at the end of the Ronda Extrema, every muscle fibre is begging to cross the finish line, even the slightest irritations in your cycling shorts become instruments of torture. Suddenly, a rough seam feels like a saw scraping against your thigh. The saddle presses through the worn-out chamois like a pin cushion. And braces that are too tight weigh on your shoulders like barbell bars weighing a hundredweight. Cycling shorts are the most important link between rider and bike. Lucky are those who have already found a pair that fits perfectly. For everyone else, we’ve tested 18 pairs of long-distance-ready bib shorts for women and men.
Significant developments in modern cycling shorts
It becomes clear from the very first fitting that today’s cycling shorts are a world away from the often baggy pairs of yesteryear. Perhaps some of you still remember the standard of cycling shorts from just a few years ago: narrow, sticky silicone leg cuffs pressed uncomfortably against the muscles, irritated the skin and still rode up. Thin straps with thick seams would bunch up on the shoulders. And the fabric of the cycling shorts sometimes had the elasticity of a Chinese crested dog’s skin. As a result, the chamois would slide between the saddle and your bottom, rather than sitting firmly under your sit bones to provide support.
Clear differences in the test of 18 pairs of cycling shorts
In contrast, today’s bib shorts are true luxury items. Even the more affordable models from Gonso, Protective or Sportful feature seamless straps that sit comfortably across the shoulders and distribute pressure over a wide area, rather than cutting into the skin at specific points. The tension of the straps has also changed and is generally tight enough to keep the rest of the bib shorts neatly in place. The cuts of the shorts have also evolved over the years. There are no longer any bib shorts in the test that we would actually advise against buying. And yet there are clear differences among the 18 men’s and women’s cycling shorts tested.
Thin or thick trouser padding – which is better?
When it comes to the chamois – which is, after all, the most basic component of cycling shorts – there is a vast range of thicknesses and firmness levels, ranging from what might be described as a plush sofa to a hard beer bench. Whilst occasional cyclists tend to opt for the soft ‘sofa cushion’ – which, however, can easily wear through over time – long-distance cyclists are better off choosing firmer padding. Thanks to regular training, their sit bones are generally well accustomed to the pressure of their body weight on the saddle. Furthermore, a thin, firm pad carries less risk of pressure points developing in the perineal area and blood vessels being constricted there. If the width of the padding also matches the distance between your sit bones, you’ll still be cruising relaxed over the finish line of that big marathon ride, even after many hours in the saddle.
A detailed review of men’s cycling shorts
Dos Caballos DC34-2 Evo
- Price: 190 euros
- Sizes: S–3XL
- Weight in M: 199 grams
- Facilities: seamless straps, wide stretch waistband; plenty of reflective detailing
- Upholstery length/width: 19 cm / 15 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: medium / 11 mm
- Country of manufacture: Albania
BIKE rating
- Comfort (40 %): 8/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 8/10
- Facilities (20 %): 8/10
- Quality (10 %): 9/10
Conclusion: The wide stretch waistbands keep the trouser legs firmly in place, though they may feel a little tight on thicker thighs. The breathable honeycomb fabric at the front is particularly comfortable. However, the high-waisted DC34-2 can feel a little constricting around the hips. It sits so securely there that the slightly loose straps almost seem superfluous. Whilst the wide padding suits many types of rider, over time it does exert slightly more pressure on the body than some competing products. Some of the seams are a little bulky.
BIKE RATING: Good – 49 points
Everve Me Trousers
- Price: 160 euros >> available here
- Sizes: S–XXL
- Weight in M: 137 grams
- Facilities: seamless straps and cuffs; 9 levels of padding firmness; 2 waistband styles
- Upholstery length/width: 13 cm / 12 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: various hardnesses / 9 mm
- Country of manufacture: Germany
Bike review
- Comfort (40 %): 9/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 9/10
- Facilities (20 %): 7/10
- Quality (10 %): 9/10
Conclusion: With the Me trousers, the padding and fit can be tailored to your own needs. The configurator offers a choice of nine padding firmness levels as well as a slightly raised waistband. This means the Everve covers a wide range of uses. The very lightweight trousers fit snugly and are supple. Despite the small silicone dots, the rather short leg lengths tend to ride up slightly. Readjusting them is a bit fiddly. The small pads allow for little adjustment of position. The pads can be swapped out thanks to a special design featuring small pockets. Very good value for money. Made in Germany!
BIKE RATING: very good – 51 points
Gonso SQlab Go Bib
- Price: 130 euros
- Sizes: S–6XL
- Weight in M: 197 grams
- Facilities: seamless, rubberised leg cuffs; mesh back
- Upholstery length/width: 18.5 cm / 16 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: hard / 6 mm
- Country of manufacture: Turkey
Bike review
- Comfort (40 %): 8/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 10/10
- Facilities (20 %): 6/10
- Quality (10 %): 9/10
Conclusion: Even though the Gonso doesn’t quite measure up to the best shorts in the test in terms of fit, it’s an absolute bargain. The thin, firm padding remains pressure-stable even on the longest rides, but requires well-conditioned sit bones. The Gonso is therefore not the ideal choice for beginners. The fabric is comfortable, although it can feel slightly scratchy at times. The seamless suspenders are sufficiently firm and keep the shorts securely in place. We also liked the slightly longer leg lengths, whose wide, seamless hems effectively prevent the shorts from riding up.
BIKE RATING: good – 50 points
Assos Mille GTO Bib Shorts C2
- Price: 290 euros >> available here
- Sizes: S–TIR
- Weight in M: 189 grams
- Facilities: seamless straps and cuffs; 2 leg lengths; reflective detailing
- Upholstery length/width: 18.5 cm / 15 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: medium / 22 mm
- Country of manufacture: Bulgaria
Bike review
- Comfort (40 %): 10/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 10/10
- Facilities (20 %): 9/10
- Quality (10 %): 10/10
Conclusion: With the Mille GTO, Assos has struck the perfect balance between comfort and compression. The shorts fit snugly without feeling constricting. All the cuffs are seamless. Silicone dots discreetly secure the shorts to the thighs. The seamless straps, which cross at the back, keep the pad perfectly in place. Whilst you might feel a bit like you’re wrapped in a nappy when standing still, the extremely thick pad and the soft gusset in the crotch ensure comfort even after hours of riding. There is a minor criticism regarding the slightly scratchy strap attachments. The workmanship is top-notch; from experience, this is money well spent for years to come.
BIKE RATING: excellent – 58 points
Café du Cycliste Mathilde Bib
- Price: 250 euros
- Sizes: XS–XXL
- Weight in M: 206 grams
- Facilities: loose-fitting mesh top; seamless cuffs with silicone strips
- Upholstery length/width: 21.5 cm / 12 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: medium / 12 mm
- Country of manufacture: Albania
Bike review
- Comfort (40 %): 8/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 7/10
- Facilities (20 %): 9/10
- Quality (10 %): 9/10
Conclusion: The Mathilde has just a single seam along the thigh, which is very comfortable, whilst the hems are held securely in place by long silicone strips. However, the fit isn’t ideal. The narrow pad isn’t suitable for every rider and can sometimes slip a little whilst riding. The slightly old-school-looking mesh straps wrap around the body almost like a bodysuit, but they take some getting used to. Whilst they feel pleasantly airy to wear, their seams are constantly noticeable whilst cycling, and the material pinches a little. The pad is only of limited suitability for long distances and pressure on the sit bones becomes noticeable quite early on.
BIKE RATING: Good – 48 points
Castelli Premio Black Bib Shorts
- Price: 230 euros >> available here
- Sizes: S–3XL
- Weight in M: 147 grams
- Facilities: seamless straps and cuffs; mesh back
- Upholstery length/width: 20 cm / 12 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: medium / 15 mm
- Country of manufacture: Moldova
Bike review
- Comfort (40%): 9/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 9/10
- Facilities (20 %): 8/10
- Quality (10 %): 9/10
Conclusion: The Castelli is the ultimate minimalist and designed purely for racing. It consists of just three panels and has virtually no seams. The fabric is extremely lightweight yet firm, keeping you cool whilst supporting your muscles. Rubberised seams keep the leg cuffs and shoulder straps firmly in place. However, getting them on is a bit of a faff, as the shoulder straps tend to roll up a lot. The pad is a little on the narrow side, but is positioned in just the right place in the shorts and, thanks to its gel insert, offers excellent comfort even on long rides. Creases can form in the crotch area when pedalling.
BIKE RATING: very good – 54 points
SQlab SQ-Short One12
- Price: 200 euros >> available here
- Sizes: XS–XXL
- Weight in M: 193 grams
- Facilities: seamless straps; wide stretch waistband with silicone
- Upholstery length/width: 20 cm / 16 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: hard / 4 mm
- Country of manufacture: Italy
Bike review
- Comfort (40%): 8/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 10/10
- Facilities (20 %): 7/10
- Quality (10 %): 8/10
Conclusion: At first glance, the SQlab is a high-quality standard bib – wide, breathable and seamless leg cuffs, comfortable, sufficiently taut straps that keep the shorts well in shape. It’s only when you look inside that the real excitement is revealed. The Ergo experts have opted for a four-millimetre-thick, very firm pad that retains its shape even on long rides and doesn’t sag. Experienced cyclists find this type of pad very comfortable. The wide design allows room for changing position, though there is a little less space at the front in the crotch area. When walking, the wide pad presses into the gluteal muscles.
BIKE RATING: very good – 51 points
Sportful BFP LTD Shield Bibs
- Price: 160 euros >> available here
- Sizes: S–3XL
- Weight in M: 158 grams
- Facilities: seamless mesh straps; abrasion-resistant Cordura fabric on the outer side
- Upholstery length/width: 21.5 cm / 12 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: soft / 13 mm
- Country of manufacture: Croatia
Bike review
- Comfort (40%): 8/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 8/10
- Facilities (20 %): 9/10
- Quality (10 %): 9/10
Conclusion: Thanks to their intricate cut, the Sportful trousers fit the wearer particularly well. However, the numerous seams are not always ideally positioned, and the trousers also run very small. Breathable mesh leg cuffs provide cooling and stay in place even without silicone. The tight mesh straps, on the other hand, are difficult to adjust. Cordura fabric protects the thighs in the event of a fall. The chamois is one of the softest in the test and wears through more quickly on longer rides. The mesh on the thighs is see-through, which takes some getting used to.
BIKE RATING: good – 50 points
Velocio Luxe Bib Shorts
- Price: 239 euros
- Sizes: XS–XXXXL
- Weight in M: 163 grams
- Facilities: seamless stretch straps and cuffs; available in a wide range of colours
- Upholstery length/width: 19 cm / 13.5 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: medium / 13 mm
- Country of manufacture: Italy
Bike review
- Comfort (40%): 10/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 8/10
- Facilities (20 %): 9/10
- Quality (10 %): 8/10
Conclusion: No other shorts in the test are more comfortable to wear than the Velocio. The fabric literally caresses the skin; the seams are visible but cannot be felt. Even the straps that cross at the back rest smoothly on the shoulders, yet still have enough elasticity to keep the shorts in place whilst cycling. You can happily ride for longer, as the medium-firm pad is well-positioned and offers plenty of comfort. Otherwise, the stylish Velocio is kept fairly simple, but is available in a range of smart colours and is neatly finished; however, the material is not very abrasion-resistant.
BIKE RATING: very good – 54 points
Isadore Gravel Bib Shorts
- Price: 210 euros
- Sizes: XXS–XL
- Weight in M: 175 grams
- Facilities: DWR coating; abrasion-resistant material; back pocket
- Upholstery length/width: 17 cm / 13 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: medium / 12 mm
- Country of manufacture: Czech Republic
Bike review
- Comfort (40%): 8/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 8/10
- Facilities (20 %): 10/10
- Quality (10 %): 10/10
Conclusion: The standout model in the test features a water-repellent finish and a ceramic-coated surface, meaning the Isadore is ideally equipped for off-road use. In fact, the fabric feels surprisingly robust, though it is also extremely stiff. So, with these gravel bib shorts already having a snug fit, it’s best to go for a size larger. Otherwise, the fabric will dig into your hips whilst cycling. The leg cuffs and straps are seamless and fit securely. The large back pocket is handy. The thin padding is similar to that of the Gore trousers, but isn’t quite as resistant to pressure over the long term.
BIKE RATING: a good 50 points
Gorewear Long Distance Bib Shorts+
- Price: 200 euros >> available here
- Sizes: S–XXL
- Weight in M: 177 grams
- Facilities: seamless waistband and straps; windproof panel in the crotch; back pocket
- Upholstery length/width: 20 cm / 12.5 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: hard / 10 mm
- Country of manufacture: China
Bike review
- Comfort (40%): 8/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 9/10
- Facilities (20 %): 10/10
- Quality (10 %): 10/10
Conclusion: The Gore feels lovely against the skin; the fabric is soft and supple, and the few seams are barely noticeable. Despite the thin silicone band, the leg cuffs do not ride up, provided your thighs are muscular enough. The fabric could do with a little more elasticity. Despite the rubberised finish, the straps do not hold the trousers in place perfectly; they also roll up considerably when putting them on. Gore also uses a thin, rather firm pad, which supports the rider’s weight well and is suitable for long rides. A windbreaker in the crotch area protects against getting cold on long descents.
BIKE RATING: very good – 52 points
Protective P-Traverse Bib
- Price: 130 euros >> available here
- Sizes: S–3XL
- Weight in M: 206 grams
- Facilities: seamless straps; mesh back; wide, elasticated cuffs
- Upholstery length/width: 21 cm / 10.5 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: medium / 15 mm
- Country of manufacture: Lithuania
Bike review
- Comfort (40%): 7/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 6/10
- Facilities (20 %): 8/10
- Quality (10 %): 8/10
Conclusion: A simple cut, classic leg cuffs and slightly thicker seams – you can tell the Protective is a fairly affordable option. The padding is extremely narrow and really needs to fit the distance between your sit bones perfectly; otherwise, you’ll quickly find yourself sitting off-centre. The materials lack a bit of elasticity, whilst the leg cuffs are rather tight. Even the comfortable braces don’t keep the shorts in the best possible position. Due to the cut’s lack of shaping, the P-Traverse forms creases in the hip crease, which can become uncomfortable on long rides. A solid pair of entry-level trousers for shorter rides.
BIKE RATING: satisfactory – 44 points
Women’s cycling shorts: a detailed review
Assos Dyora Summer Bib Shorts
- Price: 200 euros >> available here
- Sizes: XS–XLG
- Weight in M: 156 grams
- Facilities: seamless X-shaped straps; wide, rubberised stretch cuffs
- Upholstery length/width: 21 cm / 13 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: medium / 11 mm
- Country of manufacture: Bulgaria
Bike review
- Comfort (40%): 9/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 9/10
- Facilities (20 %): 9/10
- Quality (10 %): 10/10
Conclusion: In typical Assos fashion, the Dyora only fits perfectly once you’re in the saddle. The robust fabric provides light compression and fits snugly against the body. The wide, taut straps run comfortably along the sides of the chest, keeping the shorts perfectly in place, but may dig into the shoulders. We recommend buying a size larger if possible. Leg cuffs with woven-in silicone and the slightly raised waistband ensure plenty of comfort even on long rides. The pad is well positioned and moves with the rider. A minor criticism: the seams in the hip crease and where the straps attach are slightly scratchy.
BIKE RATING: very good – 55 points
Café Du Cycliste Mathilde
- Price: 250 euros
- Sizes: XS–XL
- Weight in M: 180 grams
- Facilities: Mesh bodysuit; seamless, elasticated cuffs; chest clip
- Upholstery length/width: 17.5 cm / 12.5 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: soft / 12 mm
- Country of manufacture: Albania
Bike review
- Comfort (40%): 9/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 6/10
- Facilities (20 %): 10/10
- Quality (10 %): 9/10
Conclusion: If you’re looking for a really stylish pair of cycling shorts, you should check out what the French have to offer. The Mathilde also won over all the female testers with its supple comfort. The comfortable fabric hugs the legs, and there are no seams that can be felt. The silicone-free cuffs on these longer-cut shorts are also excellent. What’s more, the mesh panel makes you feel well-supported all round. The only places where the fit is a bit tight are at the nape of the neck and under the armpits. The soft padding is well-positioned, but it does tend to flatten a bit on longer rides. When it’s time for a toilet break, you have to awkwardly wriggle out of the cocoon.
BIKE RATING: very good – 51 points
Löffler W Bike Tights Hotbond RF XT
- Price: 140 euros >> available here
- Sizes: 34–46
- Weight in M: 160 grams
- Facilities: Wide, comfortable waistband; reflective stitching; fleece lining at the back
- Upholstery length/width: 19 cm / 13 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: medium / 14 mm
- Country of manufacture: Austria
Bike review
- Comfort (40%): 7/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 8/10
- Facilities (20 %): 10/10
- Quality (10 %): 9/10
Conclusion: Löffler sews the pleasantly soft fabric panels together using special, reflective seams. This enhances comfort and safety. The waistband sits nicely high on the stomach, and the lower back is additionally protected by a layer of non-woven fabric. However, whilst cycling, the waistband can fold over and press against the stomach. The slightly thicker padding is positioned just right and remains sufficiently pressure-stable even on longer rides. The silicone on the rather classic-style leg cuffs can feel a bit tight when worn. Even without straps, the Löffler sits securely, making it convenient for toilet breaks.
BIKE RATING: good – 49 points
Sportful Supergiara W Bibs
- Price: 140 euros >> available here
- Sizes: XS–XXL
- Weight in M: 163 grams
- Facilities: Mesh straps; rubberised leg cuffs; side and back pockets
- Upholstery length/width: 19 cm / 15 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: soft / 13 mm
- Country of manufacture: Italy
Bike review
- Comfort (40%): 7/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 8/10
- Facilities (20 %): 10/10
- Quality (10 %): 8/10
Conclusion: You literally have to squeeze into the Supergiara – or buy it a size larger. The trousers almost force you into a cycling position; their straps sit tightly and roll up slightly whilst riding, which not every tester found comfortable. The fabric provides a slight degree of compression, but also feels a bit scratchy. The rather longer leg cuffs are held in place by sticky silicone, though none of the testers complained of any tugging or skin irritation. Although the seat pad is on the softer side, it’s wide enough to allow you to change position every now and then.
BIKE RATING: good – 47 points
Dos Caballos Ease Women’s Bib Shorts
- Price: 130 euros
- Sizes: XXS–XXL
- Weight in M: 141 grams
- Facilities: seamless mesh straps; wide leg cuffs with silicone
- Upholstery length/width: 21.5 cm / 14.5 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: medium / 13 mm
- Country of manufacture: China
Bike review
- Comfort (40%): 7/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 7/10
- Facilities (20 %): 9/10
- Quality (10 %): 8/10
Conclusion: The fact that the straps on the Ease don’t dig in, even though they run across the front of the chest, is down to their low tension. You could almost do without them. The shorts fit well even without them, although the numerous seams – particularly the seam across the tummy, which the testers found a bit of a nuisance – do reduce comfort slightly. Furthermore, the cut isn’t ideally suited to the cycling position and noticeably creases whilst pedalling. The pad feels rather thin, but moulds unobtrusively between the body and the saddle without causing any pressure points. Despite the silicone on the hem, the rather short trouser legs tend to ride up.
BIKE RATING: good – 47 points
Protective P-Traverse W
- Price: from 90 euros >> available here
- Sizes: 36–46
- Weight in M: 163 grams
- Facilities: wide, fitted waistband; elasticated leg cuffs; side pocket
- Upholstery length/width: 19 cm / 10.5 cm
- Upholstery firmness/thickness: medium / 15 mm
- Country of manufacture: Lithuania
Bike review
- Comfort (40%): 7/10
- Seat cushion (30 %): 7/10
- Facilities (20 %): 9/10
- Quality (10 %): 8/10
Conclusion: The second strapless model in the test also suffers from the problem that the waistband rolls up at the stomach, causing pressure marks. Otherwise, however, the high-cut P-Traverse is quite comfortable to wear and fits the wearer well. The material has the same elasticity all round; it feels a bit cheap when you’re sweating profusely, but the seams are barely noticeable. A plus: the hems of the long trouser legs don’t press directly against the muscle. The generous silicone insert is a bit of a nuisance. As with the men’s trousers, the padding is very narrow and leaves little room for changing position.
BIKE RATING: good – 46 points
Stefan Frey
Editor
