13 best womens cycling shorts
Women's cycling shorts are a crucial piece of apparel for female cyclists, whether they are recreational riders or serious athletes. These specialized shorts are designed to enhance comfort and performance during cycling activities. Here's what you need to know about women's cycling shorts:
Design and Fit: Cycling shorts are typically form-fitting to reduce wind resistance and minimize chafing during long rides. They are engineered to fit snugly against the skin without bunching up, providing an aerodynamic advantage.
Padding: One of the most distinguishing features of cycling shorts is the padded chamois or insert in the crotch area. This padding serves two primary purposes: to provide cushioning and reduce friction between the body and the bike saddle. The chamois varies in thickness and density, and different designs cater to various types of riding, such as road biking, mountain biking, or triathlon.
Materials: Women's cycling shorts are typically constructed from technical fabrics designed to wick moisture away from the body, keeping the rider dry and comfortable. Common materials include Lycra, spandex, and nylon blends, which offer stretch and durability.
Length: Cycling shorts come in various lengths, including:
Bib Shorts: These have suspenders that go over the shoulders, providing extra support and comfort. Bib shorts are a popular choice among serious cyclists.
Regular Shorts: Regular cycling shorts have an elastic waistband and no suspenders.They are convenient for quick bathroom breaks.
Capri-Length Shorts: Capri-length shorts extend below the knee and provide extra coverage. They are suitable for cooler weather or for those who prefer more coverage.
Seams: High-quality cycling shorts are designed with flatlock seams or minimal seams to reduce friction and chafing. This is especially important in areas prone to irritation, such as the inner thighs.
Gripper Bands: Most cycling shorts feature silicone gripper bands at the leg openings to keep the shorts in place during the ride and prevent them from riding up.
Reflective Elements: For safety during low-light conditions, some cycling shorts have reflective elements, such as logos or strips, to increase visibility to motorists.
Versatility: While primarily designed for cycling, some women's cycling shorts are versatile enough to be used for other athletic activities like spinning, indoor cycling, or cross-training.
Sizing: Choosing the right size is essential for comfort and performance. Sizing may vary between brands, so it's important to consult the manufacturer's size chart or try on the shorts before purchasing.
Care: Proper care is essential to extend the life of your cycling shorts. Most can be machine washed in cold water, but it's recommended to hang them to dry to prevent damage to the padding and fabric.
In summary, women's cycling shorts are a vital part of a cyclist's wardrobe, offering comfort, support, and performance benefits during rides of all lengths and intensities. They are designed with specific features, such as padding and moisture-wicking materials, to enhance the riding experience and reduce discomfort. Whether you're a casual rider or a competitive cyclist, choosing the right pair of cycling shorts is crucial for an enjoyable and pain-free cycling experience.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best womens cycling shorts on the market
Eco-daily Womens Padded Bike Shorts with Pocket, Women Cycling Shorts Wide Waistband Biking Bicycle Pants
Souke Sports
- 80% Nylon, 20% Spandex
- ACTIVE WICKING & FOUR-WAY STRETCH：The womens cycling shorts were constructed from a nylon/spandex-blend fabric, which features excellent moisture wicking properties to keep you cool and dry during long-distance rides. Meanwhile, these womens bike shorts will not only stretch to fit around your curves, but will also move with your body in the cycling motion like second skin.
- ANATOMIC & COMPRESSIVE FIT：The womens padded cycling shorts're cut with a unique 8-panel anatomic design, and moderate compression to offer your muscles support through the miles. The versatile bike shorts for women perfectly combines function and fashion for road cycling, spin class and multi-sports.
- 4D CUSHION PAD：These womens biking shorts feature a women's specific seamless chamois with 4D-foam, multi-density padding to provide maximum protection and unrivalled comfort in the saddle, without chafing and extra bulk. The soft, four-way stretch top layer moves with you as you pedal while perforated vents increase breathability and moisture management.
- CRAFTED DETAILS：A wide waistband works in conjunction with the elastic silicone leg bands to keep the bicycle shorts securely in place, and free of any pinching or bunching. No embarrassment front seam for greater freedom of movement. A rear pocket offers safe storage of small valuables, and reflective elements increase your visibility in low-light conditions.
- HIGH DURABILITY &100% SATISFACTION：The excellent stitching fosters durability that won’t be subjected to wear-and-tear while the flat seam design minimizes chafing and supports a proper fit. If for any reason, you are unhappy with our women padded bike shorts, we will offer a free replacement or a full refund as per your wish.
User questions & answers
| Question: | where are these produced |
| Answer: | Unfortunately China. Its very hard to find this type of gear made in USA! It is well made. |
| Question: | Are biking shorts with padding good for a spin class |
| Answer: | Don’t spin but I think they would be fine if you need a little padding |
| Question: | Are these gel or foam padding |
| Answer: | Foam |
| Question: | Are they see through from the back |
| Answer: | no |
Eco-daily Cycling Shorts Women's 3D Padded Bicycle Bike Biking Underwear Shorts
Eco-daily
- Polyester/Spandex
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND BREATHABLE - Our Eco-daily 3D padded underwear shorts are made of 85%Polyester ,15%Spandex，which effectively absorb moisture and release sweat from the skin and keeps you dry and cool. ★Meanwhile, they will not only stretch to fit your curves spectacularly, but also move with your body in the cycling motion, almost like second skin.
- DESIGNED SPECIALLY FOR WOMEN - Our women’s 3D padding has cut-away areas, multi-dimensional and multi-thicknes density foam and shorter, shaped designs to help you support your sit bones and prevent you leaning too far forward onto more sensitive areas, causing discomfort. ★And the women bike underwear shorts are perfect for commuting and leisure rides, giving you the chance to comfortably ride in your favourite skirt, trousers or shorts!
- 3D THICKENED PROTECTION PAD - Our biking underwear shorts are designed with an ultra durable, premium, stitched 3D foam padding to fit nicely around your hips without deforming and slipping and to protects your hipbone from injuries during long-distance cycling. ★Besides, super light and highly breathable, keeping skin away from sweat irritation, to prevent you from any discomfort such as senses of greasy, or sticky.
- CLOUD-LIKE COMFORT WITHOUT CHAFING - ★Gripper-free legs won't roll up but can minimize the incidence of chafing and discomfort. ★The waistband is 1.2 inch wide with cover-stitched hems and has an attractive dip in the front that keeps shorts secure and ultra-comfortable. ★Flatlocked seams are soft and smooth next to your skin and seam ends are tacked that won’t be subjected to wear-and-tear.
- 100% SATISFACTION - Your satisfaction is our top priority and we are confident you will be pleased with our bicycle underwear and service. Still, if you are not absolutely happy with our product, we could offer you new replacment or refund. So why not start now? Enjoy a pain-free happy riding time after using our cycling underwear shorts.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is there any latex anywhere on the shorts |
| Answer: | No latex on the shorts |
| Question: | I just got them in the mail and the elastic seems like it might twist in the wash. Has that been an issue for anyone |
| Answer: | I wash mine by hand, and they dry so quickly too ;) |
| Question: | Are these 3D cycling shorts machine washable |
| Answer: | Yes, I do not put them in the dryer but they air dry quickly. |
| Question: | My waist is 28 inches, what size should I get |
| Answer: | Check out the last pic w sizing chart re: waist and weight above. I’m 5’2” and a 120 lbs and small worked for me. |
VEBE Women High Waist Cycling Shorts Comfort 3D Gel Padded Bike Bicycle Biking Pants
VEBE
- Zipper closure
- This cycling shorts using of breathable fabric, do not accumulate sweat or cause sticky ,keeping cooling all the way on your road, giving us best cycling experience, enjoy cycling!
- 3D Protective Gel Pad: The cycling shorts padding using of soft smooth fabric, give you second-skin feeling, no chafing caused. And the gel padding in the right of crotch area to protect your most sensitive area by absorbing vibration and reducing saddle sore.
- Widen anti-slip leg band: There are anti-slip particles in the interior of this bike shorts to prevent from riding up or leave marks during cycling, more comfortable and do not make us itchy.
- Widen Waist band: widen bands stitched securely without being flip over.
- We offer free replacement and full refund of any size issue, please feel free to contact us. What You Get: Great cycling experience with this cool cycling shorts, ONE YEAR after-service of free replacement and refund, no reason asked.
Amazon Brand - Core 10 Women's (XS-3X) Knit Waistband '2-in-1' Run Short with Built-in Compression Short
Core 10
Product description
An Amazon brand - This 2-in-1 run short features a lightweight form-fitted boy short liner, hidden storage pockets, and adjustable drawcord.
- 88% Polyester, 12% Spandex
- Imported
- Pull On closure
- Machine Wash
- This 2-in-1 run short features a lightweight form-fitted boy short liner, hidden storage pockets, and adjustable drawcord
- Lightweight moisture-wicking woven short fabric paired with a smooth knit waistband, stylish mesh inserts, and light compression boy short liner
- 3.5" form-fitted liner short, semi-fitted 2.5" outer shell
User questions & answers
| Question: | Are the 2 sewn together along the leg? Im worried about the top layer riding up in to the crotch area while I walk, and constantly pulling it down |
| Answer: | No they're not sewn together along the leg, just at the top. I have trouble with shorts riding up, and these DO do that some, but not as bad as some of the others I've tried. Plus I've got the black on black, so if the inside or outside shorts ride up a bit, it's not as noticeable to others, and they're so comfy that I don't really notice either. I'm very fidgety with my clothes, and I came back to buy a second pair of these I liked them so much. Hope that helps! You can always prime wardrobe and send them back too |
| Question: | What is the length of the XL |
| Answer: | approximately 5 inches for the under layer |
| Question: | Does the inner lager have a pocket for a phone |
| Answer: | No they do not have a phone pocket. |
| Question: | Do these fit true to size |
| Answer: | They fit true to size. |
Amazon Brand - Core 10 Women's (XS-3X) Knit Waistband Woven Run Short with Internal Brief Liner and Zip Pocket - 2.5" Inseam
Core 10
Product description
An Amazon brand - This workout short is your go-to "shorty" short, if you are looking for minimal coverage so nothing gets in your way.
- 88% Polyester, 12% Spandex
- Imported
- Pull On closure
- Machine Wash
- This workout short is your go-to "shorty" short, if you are looking for minimal coverage so nothing gets in your way
- Lightweight moisture-wicking woven fabric shell paired with a smooth knit waistband, stylish mesh inserts, and hidden moisture-wicking brief liner
- 2.5" Inseam; Slim fit at waistband and through hip, fitted brief liner
User questions & answers
| Question: | When will these be back?! They are my absolute favorite shorts ever |
| Answer: | That are my favorite too! I didn’t know they were not available anymore! I’m glad I bought two pairs. |
| Question: | Is the grey color see through |
| Answer: | No it’s not, and by the way I absolutely love these shorts, I two pairs and have washed and worn many times, very comfortable. |
| Question: | How are they with getting wet? I’m looking for something to hike waterfalls in |
| Answer: | They are great! I even wore them in the ocean once! |
| Question: | What size if I’m 130 lbs., 5’8”, size 4 ? Small/Med |
| Answer: | I’m 160lb and a large fits me well. I would say a maybe a small for you? |
Amazon Essentials Women's 3" Inseam Padded Cycling Short
Amazon Essentials
Product description
An Amazon brand - Train in confidence with this athletic cycling short featuring 4-way stretch fabric, a flattering wide waistband and flatlock-stitching for maximum comfort and mobility
Amazon Essentials is focused on creating affordable, high-quality, and long-lasting everyday clothing you can rely on. Our line of women's apparel includes cashmere sweaters, fleece and down jackets, and more, including plus-size options. Our consistent sizing takes the guesswork out of shopping, and each piece is put to the test to maintain the highest standards in quality and comfort.
- 73% Polyester, 27% Elastane
- Imported
- Machine Wash
- Train in confidence with this athletic cycling short featuring 4-way stretch fabric, a flattering wide waistband and flatlock-stitching for maximum comfort and mobility
- Stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric helps keep you cool. 3" Inseam, built-in pad for cycling
- Sport made better: we listen to customer feedback and fine-tune every detail to ensure quality, fit, and comfort
- Check out more from Amazon Essentials by visiting amazon.com/amazonessentials
- Model is 5'10" and wearing a size S
Amazon Essentials Women's Performance Active Short
Amazon Essentials
Product description
An Amazon brand - Whatever your sport, train in confidence with these athletic shorts
Amazon Essentials keeps you moving from the moment you step out the door. You'll find performance tees, hoodies, gym shorts, and more made with quality fabrics at stock-up prices. Whether you're heading out for a jog or running errands with the kids, our apparel is made to work out, live in, and lounge.
- 88% Polyester, 12% Spandex
- Imported
- Machine Wash
- Whatever your sport, train in confidence with these athletic shorts
- Featuring a flat, wide waistband and flatlock-stitching for maximum comfort and mobility
- Sport made better: we listen to customer feedback and fine-tune every detail to ensure quality, fit, and comfort
User questions & answers
| Question: | I am 5,6 teen that weighs 116 what size should I get |
| Answer: | These are definitely true to size... I'm guessing small to medium. But stick with what you normally would buy. |
| Question: | why is there no size chart? Extra small small medium and large can mean anything the maker wants it to mean! Does xs=(2/4) or (00/0)? I'm a 4, prob S |
| Answer: | These seem to run a bit snug. I am a 0/2 and got a small in these that fit well. I usually wear an XS. The waistband is pretty snug and not as stretchy as the rest of the short. You might find that medium will work for a size 4. |
| Question: | What is the inseam and are they see through? I'm wanting to use them with my tankini top, bottoms that came with it are too big. Thank you |
| Answer: | If these are the ones with the label "Marina Threads" (and I think they are), the inseam on mine is 2-inches. These are very short. They're lined, so they're not see through. I have the size 18. Nice, substantial stretch shorts. Well made. |
| Question: | Come on, dude. What is the inseam length?? Why do i even have to ask |
| Answer: | They are short. We bought them to wear under cheer skirt. |
Pearl iZUMi Women's W Escape Sugar Cycling 3Qtr Tight
Pearl iZUMi Ride
- 100% Other Fibers
- Imported
- Pull On closure
- Machine Wash
- SELECT Transfer Dry fabric sets the benchmark for compression with comfort and moisture-wicking
- Flattering wide waistband, inspired by yoga pants, for superior comfort and minimal shifting
- Silicone leg grippers hold shorts in place smoothly while you move
User questions & answers
| Question: | Do these have any compression |
| Answer: | Yes. Great compression bike tights. I struggled a bit at first to get them on but they're worth the work |
| Question: | Are these upf rated |
| Answer: | i do not know |
| Question: | Do they have a drawstring |
| Answer: | No drawstring. Snug fitting |
| Question: | what is the fabric content & please include percentages |
| Answer: | From the product description: "Main Body: 88% nylon, 12% LYCRA elastane Color Splice: 91% polyester, 9% LYCRA elastane" |
Club Ride Apparel Savvy Cycling Short - Women's Biking Shorts
Club Ride Apparel
Product description
Meet our lightest weight, women’s bike short! This style fits like your favorite board short but performs like a bike short. The no-zip gusseted fly & draw-cord adjustment system create a streamlined weightless-ness that is unprecedented in mountain bike shorts!
- Drawstring closure
- CYCLIST COMFORT: Our riding apparel transitions easily from dirt road to dining establishment, so you spend more time riding, and less time on wardrobe change. Focus on your ride, not your clothing.
- FORM & FUNCTION: Riding in comfort requires high quality gear. Lightweight stretch fabric & no-zip gusseted fly & draw-cord adjustment are just a few outstanding details of these cool cycling shorts.
- UNIQUE & VERSATILE: Our cycling clothes for women are designed by riders for riders. Our casual premium biking apparel is technical enough to ride in, and stylish enough to live in.
- LIGHTWEIGHT RIDING SHORTS: Flat elastic interior drawcord, and superlight fabric keep you looking and feeling cool. RideLight reflective accents keep you safe on the road.
- CASUAL COOL FOR THE BICYCLE ENTHUSIAST: Board short looks, trim fit with 11" inseam, 3 storage pockets and ultra lightweight fabric make a great pair of cycling shorts. 95% Poly / 5% Spandex
User questions & answers
| Question: | Do these have a liner with gel in the bottom area |
| Answer: | No, this style does not have a liner. |
RIUIYELE Women's 3D Gel Padded Breathable Lightweight Bicycle Bike Shorts …
Product description
Description:
Features:
Designed for women cyclist specifically. Made of Polyester/Nylon and Silicone + sponge: light, soft and comfortable, and without pressure to your body.
The special construction of pad: absorb moisture, perspire and dry fast, with good elasticity and breath-ability.
Size is optional: XS=26.25"-27.55" S=28.87-3S=28.87-3S=28.87-30.18.180.18 M=31.5-32.8", L=34.12-35.43" ,XL=36.74-38.06" ,XXL=39.37-40.68", XXXL=42-43.3" (waist measurement).
Provide super flexibility and keep your body dry.
Air permeability 3D pad supply comfort race.
Package Includes: 1 cycling shorts.
- Size is optional: XS=26.25"-27.55" S=28.87-3S=28.87-3S=28.87-30.18.180.18 M=31.5-32.8", L=34.12-35.43" ,XL=36.74-38.06" ,XXL=39.37-40.68", XXXL=42-43.3" (waist measurement).
- Provide super flexibility and keep your body dry.
- Air permeability 3D pad supply comfort race.
- Designed for women cyclist specifically. Made of Polyester/Nylon and Silicone + sponge: light, soft and comfortable, and without pressure to your body.
- Made of Polyester/Nylon and Silicone + sponge: light, soft and comfortable, and without pressure to your body.
User questions & answers
| Question: | What size is best for 133lbs size |
| Answer: | Size M is fit . Thank you for your question. |
| Question: | what percentage of silicone or elastane |
| Answer: | Very little. Legs roll up easily. |
| Question: | is this made in china |
| Answer: | Didnt know it at the but yes....and I still haven't recieved them as they are on a slow boat since may 16. Look elsewhere |
| Question: | where are the XS sized shorts? are they really gel padded |
| Answer: | Yes,it’s gel padded. This style don’t have XS. S is also small . Thank you |
Pearl Izumi - Ride Women's Journey Shorts
Pearl iZUMi Ride
Product description
With it's front hand pockets and casual styling, the Journey Short is a great multi-purpose lined short for running errands or for longer trips when on-and-off the bike functionality is key.
- 100% Polyester
- Imported
- Snap closure
- Machine Wash
- Spring/summer 2016
- Elastic waistband; Snap front closure with zip fly; Center back stash pocket
- Detachable liner with w's MTB 3D Chamois; 6 inch
- Country of Origin:China
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the inseam of the outer short |
| Answer: | I believe it's 4 or 5 inches. I'm not a small woman, and these shorts are very comfortable and the length is perfect for someone with larger thighs |
| Question: | Does the outer shorts/shell stretches |
| Answer: | Yes. I have three pairs. They are great and hold up well. |
| Question: | what's the inseam on these |
| Answer: | It has a pad underwear that you can remove easily. The inner short is kind of small and rolls up in thr butt area. The shorts are great and light but not the inner short |
| Question: | Do these shorts have padding |
| Answer: | yes, and it can be removed. |
Product features
W Journey Short
Run-inspired styling lets you take this short from the trail to spin class— and beyond!
Champion Women's Absolute Bike Short with SmoothTec Waistband
Champion Women's Activewear
Product description
The Champion absolute bike short with SmoothTec waistband gives you comfort and beauty in motion. Its 360 degree chafe-resistant waistband is lightweight and ultra-sleek. Other features include stretch and quick drying Champion Vapor technology to keep you cool and dry.
- 89% Polyester, 11% Spandex; Liner: 63% Polyester, 27% Cotton, 10% Spandex
- Imported
- Machine Wash
- Smoothes band for chafe-resistance
- Wicking for moisture management
- Stretch for ease of movement
- Reflective elements for visibility
- 7" inseam
User questions & answers
| Question: | Do these shorts have a hidden pocket in waistband |
| Answer: | Sorry,, we do not carry this item. |
Terry Highly Rated Breakaway Performance Cycling Knickers for Women
Terry
- 77% Nylon, 23% Spandex
- Elastic closure
- DESIGN: Designed by Terry using Elastic Interface Technology, this Breakaway Performance Cycling Knickers have an improved 2018 version with more padded Fleet Chamois. The 4-way stretch pad with soft wings provides excellent freedom of movement on the saddle, protection for sensitive areas and great fit inside your shorts so you can walk around in comfort.
- FABRIC: 75% nylon/25% spandex. Nylon/spandex for moderate compression; Made of a silky, lightweight performance fabric that will allow you to use them comfortably in a wide variety of temperatures without overheating.
- FEATURES: Sculpted 6 panels with moderate compression fit; Wide-elastic-free waistband; Flat-seam construction; 2 inch elastic-free leg bands; Ultra-soft thread; Higher rear rise; 18 ¾ inch inseam.
- CHAMOIS: Italian Fleet Chamois NEW-Made in Italy using Elastic Interface Technology, this 4-way stretch pad with soft wings provides excellent freedom of movement on the saddle, protection for sensitive areas and great fit inside your shorts so you can walk around in comfort. Seamless construction; multi-density foam padding; light, smooth microfiber fabric that reduces bulk at inner thigh to reduce chafing.
- 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED: Ride it. Wear it. Love it or Return it. We're proud of the products we sell and we back them unconditionally. If for any reason you're not completely satisfied with your Terry purchase, please do not hesitate to contact us.
User questions & answers
| Question: | How is the size |
| Answer: | I have a giant warp from 2000 and it fits. I think it will fit any standard bike. I’ve been riding on it for 2 months now and have no sore butt. I ride about 40 mins at a time, 2x week. |
| Question: | Size chart to see the right size to buy |
| Answer: | Yes 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 |
Product features
Breakaway Knicker
- Awarded Editor’s Choice by Bicycling magazine
- More coverage and seasonal usability
- Silky, lightweight fabric that will allow you to use it comfortably in a wide variety of temperatures without overheating or getting sunburned
- Sculpted 6 panels with moderate compression fit
- Wide, elastic-free waistband
- 2- inch elastic-free leg bands; flat seam stitching; higher rear rise
- 18 inch inseam
- Made in the USA.
Comfort Chamois
Soft, hygienic, stretch chamois with anatomical shaping for comfort; seamless, monodensity foam with natural antimicrobial cover. Made in Italy.
Reticulated Chamois
NEW – Uses reticulated foam technology, creating a pad that’s significantly thinner and lighter, more breathable and ideal for indoor conditions. Narrower, seamless, 4-way stretch Elastic Interface Technology chamois with Terry’s innovative soft wing construction. Antimicrobial cover. Made in Italy.
Minimalist Chamois
Barest essential, seamless uni-pad made of fleece.
Flex Air Carbon Chamois
- Higher performance fabric made of a blend of X-Tract
- Special channel structure and Carbonium with carbon threading
- Higher level of moisture transfer, faster drying, and natural anti-static
- Antimicrobial properties
- Softer, breathable surface fabric
- Made in Italy
High Quality
Highly Rated
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