If you ride long enough, you eventually discover that bib shorts matter more than almost any other piece of kit. They decide how every kilometre feels, how easily you settle into the saddle and whether you finish a long route admiring the scenery or shuffling unevenly into a cafe pretending your butt isn’t on fire.
Bib shorts are designed to remove the little annoyances with standard waist shorts. There’s no waistband digging in, no creeping fabric and no need to hoist them back into place every time you move on the bike. After all, comfort isn’t just about padding. It’s about stability. It’s about things staying put so you can simply ride.
This guide explores what makes bib shorts super. We’ll look at comfort, fit, value and long ride performance, with models that are consistently popular. And because comfort is quite personal, we’ll cover the details that make bib shorts feel like they were built just for you.
Now, let’s get into it.
Why choose bib shorts over regular cycling shorts?
Bib shorts look unusual at first. They’re part shorts, part suspenders and part ongoing riddle for anyone who hasn’t yet made peace with the strange design of cycling kit. But once you clip in and give them a fair go, the logic clicks into place. Bib shorts skip the waistband entirely, sparing you that slow squeeze across the stomach and letting your upper body move naturally. It matters on steep climbs when you’re trying to breathe like a functioning human and not give the impression you’re in a losing battle with your own clothing.
- For more detailed reviews and specific recommendations for both the best men's cycling shorts and top women's cycling shorts, check out our previous posts.
The straps keep the chamois exactly where it should be. No shifting, no sagging and no pinching. You’ll feel supported around the hips and pelvis, which makes both short and five hour rides far more comfortable. It’s one of those upgrades where, once you experience the difference, you rarely go back.
Key features to look for in the best cycling bib shorts
Buying bib shorts can feel overwhelming. There are endless fabrics, fits and chamois designs, but here are the features that truly count.
Chamois and padding quality
The chamois in the shorts is most important. A good one provides support without bulk, using multi-density foam to cushion where needed while remaining low-profile elsewhere. Top-tier pads resist flattening and shifting during rides. They consist of multi-density, high-quality foams like polyurethane, combined with gel inserts, often layered for targeted support, breathability (using air mesh or carbon fibres), and effective moisture-wicking and antibacterial features. Designed with anatomical shaping and seamless construction, these pads minimise friction, pressure, and chafing on long rides, offering a modern alternative to traditional leather back in the day.
Look for:
- Multi density foam or gel layers.
- Anatomical shaping that follows riding posture.
- Minimal seams to reduce friction.
- Ventilation channels for airflow.
A good pad shouldn’t feel like a sofa cushion or, worse, like you’re sitting on a rolled-up napkin. It should just quietly get on with the job.
And to echo what cycling coach Andy Layhe says:
“As a coach, I tell riders not to buy bib shorts on looks alone. The padding and comfort are everything: you want a quality multi density pad that stays put and protects properly, plus mesh bib straps for ventilation and a strong elastic leg gripper so the shorts don’t creep up or bunch as you ride. Also, while there are men’s and women’s specific bibs, comfort is personal, so it’s key to go with what actually works for your body, your saddle, and your riding time.”
Fabric, compression and leg grippers
Good bib shorts use performance fabrics that support your muscles without feeling restrictive. Compression helps with stability on long rides, and high-quality textiles last longer. Leg grippers should be firm but comfortable so the shorts stay in place.
Bib strap design, breathability and fit
Straps don’t get enough attention, yet they’re crucial. The best ones are soft, wide and breathable. They sit flat, stretch with your movement and are not felt while riding. In other words, don't dig into your shoulders.
Things to look for:
- Wide, comfortable straps.
- Soft stretch materials.
- Mesh panels for ventilation.
- Stable anchoring to keep the chamois centred.
Durability, seams and value for money
Cycling kit goes through a lot. Sweat, washing, and sunlight all wear down fabric. Look for strong stitching, flat seams and fabrics that keep their shape season after season.
Best bib shorts for long distance and endurance rides
After a few hours on the bike, small irritations become big problems. Endurance bib shorts focus on stability, breathability and comfort that lasts.
