Cycling shorts are made around one thing ordinary shorts aren't: spending time on a bike. They give you cycling-specific coverage as you pedal, with options suited to road rides, mountain trails and everyday cycling. From a quick morning spin to a weekend measured in kilometres, they help make time in the saddle more comfortable.
Match the fit to the type of cycling you do most. Road cycling shorts usually sit close to the body, keeping excess fabric out of the way as you pedal, while mountain bike shorts tend to have a looser outer layer for more coverage and freedom of movement off-road. Whatever the style, the shorts should stay comfortably in place without riding up, shifting or restricting your pedal stroke.
Padding
Padding, often called a chamois, adds cushioning between you and the saddle and becomes more important as ride time increases. Thickness and shape vary, so more padding isn't automatically more comfortable. Consider how long you usually ride and look for padding that sits securely around your contact points without bunching or shifting as you pedal.
Storage and Pockets
Think about what you normally carry when you ride. Pockets can keep a phone, keys, card or energy gel within reach, while riders who already use a jersey, saddle bag or backpack may not need extra storage in their shorts. If pockets matter to you, check their position and security so your essentials stay comfortable and out of the way while you pedal.
Material and Breathability
Stretchy fabric allows cycling shorts to follow your legs through repeated pedal strokes without feeling restrictive. Lightweight, breathable materials are useful for managing heat on longer or warmer rides, while moisture-managing fabrics help handle sweat as your effort increases. Look for a material that balances stretch and breathability with enough durability for regular riding and washing.
Casual cyclists. You ride shorter distances, commute or head out for relaxed weekend rides. Comfortable, flexible cycling shorts with light padding can cover the essentials without adding features designed for longer hours in the saddle.
Road cyclists. You spend longer stretches in the saddle and want a close, streamlined fit. Look for fitted cycling shorts with well-positioned padding, breathable fabric and enough stretch to stay comfortable over longer distances.
Mountain bikers. You ride rougher trails where freedom of movement, durability and coverage matter. Baggier cycling shorts with a padded liner can provide saddle comfort while giving you more protection and flexibility on uneven terrain.
How to Care for Cycling Shorts
Wash cycling shorts after each ride, particularly padded styles where sweat and moisture can collect around the chamois. Turn them inside out and follow the care label to protect the outer fabric, stretch fibres and padding. Avoid fabric softener where advised for technical fabrics, and keep them away from excessive drying heat. Make sure the chamois is completely dry before wearing the shorts again.
Cycling shorts by type
Type
Best for
Padded cycling shorts
Regular and longer rides where saddle cushioning matters most.
Longer-distance riders wanting a secure fit without a waistband.
Bib cycling shorts
Trail and off-road rides where extra coverage and easy movement matter.
Mountain bike shorts
Wearing beneath outer shorts when you want discreet saddle padding.
Padding, or a chamois, becomes more useful as you spend longer periods in the saddle. It adds cushioning around your contact points and can help reduce friction through repeated pedalling. For short, casual rides you may be comfortable without it, whilst regular or longer rides are where padded shorts tend to make the biggest difference.
Should I wear underwear under padded cycling shorts?
Padded cycling shorts are generally meant to be worn directly against the skin. Adding underwear creates another layer of fabric and seams between you and the chamois, which can increase rubbing on longer rides. Check the care and usage instructions for your particular pair if you're unsure.
How tight should cycling shorts fit?
How can I reduce chafing when wearing cycling shorts?
Are bib shorts better than waist cycling shorts?
Cycling shorts should feel close and secure without restricting your pedal stroke or digging into your waist and thighs. A fitted design helps keep the chamois positioned correctly as you ride, whilst excess fabric can shift or bunch. Check the product size guide rather than simply choosing a smaller size for a tighter feel.
Start with a well-fitting pair that stays in place and doesn't bunch as you pedal. Wearing padded shorts without underwear can reduce extra seams and fabric, whilst keeping the shorts clean between rides prevents sweat and residue from building up around the chamois. On longer rides, correct saddle position and bike fit also play an important role in comfort.
Neither is automatically better. Bib shorts use shoulder straps to keep the waistband and chamois securely positioned without pressure around the waist, which many riders appreciate over longer distances. Waist shorts are simpler to put on and remove, making them convenient for recreational rides and riders who prefer a traditional waistband.
More Comfortable Kilometres Start Here
Time in the saddle puts pressure on the same contact points ride after ride, which is why cycling-specific shorts can make such a noticeable difference. From casual spins to longer road sessions, the level of padding and coverage you need changes with the distance. Set yourself up for the kilometres you actually ride and spend less time thinking about discomfort.
All SportsMenWomenKidsAccessoriesEquipment and LeisureHealth & NutritionBest DealsNew ArrivalsMarketplace
Hiking & Trekking
Swimming
Cycling
Fitness (Yoga/Pilates)
Camping
Running
