Womens Bike Shorts

Hey ladies! Find out about bike shorts here

The world of cycling gear can seem complicated, so check out this simple guide to buying womens bike shorts.

Fit and function

When looking for a pair of shorts, closely inspect the seams and chamois. Womens bike shorts are designed without a seam down the middle, which prevents chafing. Your chamois, if it's not already tailored for a woman (i.e. without the terry pad common in men's shorts), will ideally include an anti-microbial layer to prevent bacteria and mold growth. Padding thickness is entirely up to you. The cut and taper are also different in womens biker shorts -- since a woman's waist is narrower, womens-cut shorts are more tapered above the hips and feature tighter waistbands than men's-cut shorts. Leg lengths also vary -- many women prefer shorter bike shorts than men, but taller women will need longer shorts.

Popular materials

Womens bike shorts come in an assortment of fabrics. The industry standard is spandex, which is a form-fitting fabric with little to no wind resistance and a sleek look, often blended with polyester for breathability. Riders who prefer a looser cut than is provided by spandex will find an ideal alternative in touring shorts. Comfortable enough to hike, shop, and go out in, these boxer-style shorts are made of nylon blends, and offer more room and a less-binding crotch than Lycra -- bike shorts you can feel comfortable wearing when you're not cycling. Take heed: don't wear underwear under tight spandex shorts, as undergarments will cause unwanted bunching and chafing.

Make sure to try an assortment of womens bike shorts before you buy to guarantee maximum personal comfort and style.