A cyclist’s first instinct when feeling discomfort in the saddle area is to want to change the seat. In some cases you wouldn’t be wrong, but most of the time a good pair of bib shorts and an ergonomic bike fit can solve a lot of problems!
You have several bib short options to choose from!
If you’re riding more than just around the block, choosing the right bib shorts is crucial to making your ride enjoyable. For men and for anyone who doesn’t like shopping, let me say it straight: finding the right fit for the right person is not necessarily easy. Trying on bib shorts is a lot like trying on jeans. You don’t want a waistband that’s too tight, and you want your butt nicely shaped ;) You should feel a slight pressure just above your glutes so the shorts don’t crease or form a little point there. Sit down, bend your knees, move as if you were on the bike so that nothing gets in the way of your workout or your movements.
Prix
As mentioned above, cycling shorts are essential, and this is not where you want to cut corners if you want to enjoy your ride.
You should expect to pay between $100 and $200 for a mid-range pair of shorts and more than $200 for a high-end pair. Not only will they be more effective, they’ll also be more durable. You’re paying for the performance of the chamois and for the superior quality of the materials used; the fabrics will better withstand sweat, sun and repeated washing.
For hybrid or mountain bikes, some riders prefer to wear shorts, a skirt or pants over their bib shorts. In that case, an under-short style bib can be a great, more affordable and more breathable option. Ask in store for more information; an advisor can help you choose the best option for your needs.
How do you choose the right chamois?
Thick? Firm? Soft? Gel? I’ve compared shorts to a pair of jeans; now I’ll say it, choosing a pair of shorts is as personal and complex as buying a mattress! Unfortunately, returns are not accepted, and sometimes you may end up less than satisfied with a purchase.
The main criteria are elasticity, shock absorption, ventilation, and moisture‑wicking capacity. Together, these elements will help you avoid numbness and improve your blood circulation and comfort. To narrow down the features and give you some shopping tools, make sure you have:
- A chamois with 4-way stretch (better stretchability) or something equivalent. Most of the time it will stretch on the sides and have double stretch on the top.
- An “anti-shock” layer or a high-density anti-vibration insert
- Some companies offer chamois pads in several thicknesses, while others offer relatively thin but denser pads (e.g., 100 kg/10 mm), and this density/thickness ratio will vary according to the size of the shorts, and therefore the rider’s weight.
- Ventilation is often easy to spot, either through small ventilation holes or mesh sections. Otherwise, some breathable materials will offer excellent thermoregulation. In principle, a pair of bib shorts chosen in our $100–$200 price range will meet all of these criteria.
The right fit…
Another technical point to consider when trying them on: the width of the crotch area. You’ll need to make sure you don’t have skin pulling or pinching between your thigh and the saddle when you pedal. This is where the choice between a Small and a Medium matters. If it’s too big, the chamois may be too wide and create friction; if it’s too small, your thigh will jump and catch as you pedal. Most shorts offer lower waistlines (especially women’s models) or a soft front band to avoid cutting off circulation. If the waist feels too low, it may be because you need to go up a size. There’s a miracle solution that few people tend to try: the bib! That famous bib short that looks like a wrestler’s uniform—but please, get that image out of your head and try one on. Those who discover bibs never go back to standard shorts.
Which brand?
Gore, Craft, Sugoi and Pearl Izumi are among the top-selling brands. Each of these companies offers a range of products comparable in terms of quality, and even the big brands have bib shorts under $100, so you need to be careful! Make your purchase count, treat yourself to good quality and enjoy a comfortable ride. Ask a sales associate for help—they’ll guide you in the right direction.
