The best cycling shorts in the UK 2023

Just as important as a helmet or knee pads, cycling shorts are an essential piece of clothing to optimize the cyclist's performance. They also provide a comfortable ride while limiting injuries on the outside of the thighs in case of a fall and those due to friction at the crotch. You need to choose your cycling shorts carefully, whether you're an amateur or professional cyclist. Read our guide to find out more.

Nicewin Sports - Men's Cycling Shorts 1
8/10

Editor's Choice

Nicewin Sports - Men's Cycling Shorts

The best cycling shorts in 2021

Suitable for mountain biking, road cycling and other outdoor sports, these cycling shorts are your comfort ally. Its unique material and design offer maximum comfort without skimping on style.

28 £ on Amazon

These Nicewin shorts combine elegance and performance. The comfort is there thanks to its exceptional quality chintz fabric. The design of the cycling shorts is unique and adds a classy touch to your cycling suit. The cycling shorts also have a 3D stereoscopic cushioning that absorbs vibrations and the wider design fits your hips perfectly.

The material of which these cycling shorts are made is breathable, which allows for efficient and fast moisture wicking to keep you cool and dry even in extreme weather conditions. As far as fit is concerned, you have nothing to worry about as silicone particles on the leg openings keep the shorts in place. There will be no risk of irritation caused by perspiration.

Nooyme - Cycling shorts for women 2
8/10

Inexpensive

Nooyme - Cycling shorts for women

The best entry-level cycling shorts in 2021

Introducing the Nooyme, an inexpensive women's cycling shorts. Rejoice ladies, because the brand promises comfort and safety with this model thanks to its reflective stripes and its stretchy and breathable fabric.

19,99 £ on Amazon

The fabric of the Nooyme cycling shorts is made of 80% polyamide and 20% elastane, offering both flexibility and comfort to women cyclists. These materials allow for increased breathability for uninterrupted oxygen supply, preventing any type of rash or chafing injury.

These cycling shorts are also designed to exert minimal and ingeniously distributed pressure on your muscles to allow for constant blood flow to your lower body. In addition, the Nooyme has silicone studs and a wide waistband, plus leg straps on the thighs for optimal support. This cycling shorts will not slip off while riding.

Van Rysel Ultralight black 3
9/10

Top of the line

Van Rysel Ultralight black

The best high-end cycling shorts in 2021

Where bib shorts costing 150 euros or more are commonplace, we liked to find this top of the line Van Rysel bib shorts model for less than 100 euros. It has nothing to envy the more expensive models.

56 £ on Decathlon

The Van Rysel Ultralight is made of perforated fabric, which allows the skin to breathe while providing a nice, cool feel. These cycling shorts minimize sweating and compression of your muscles, which can sometimes become a problem when the temperature rises while you are pedaling. The model comes with a high density foam (120 kg/m3) to ensure a comfortable and painless seat.

This top of the line cycling short is made from a combination of polyamide (64%), polyester (23%), and elastane (13%). The resulting material is called ECO X-Fifty and offers an extremely soft feel and good moisture wicking. Machine washable at 30°C and do not dry clean. The use of chlorine and forced drying on a radiator are also not recommended.

X-Tiger - Cycling jersey + cycling shorts 4
8/10

A great choice

X-Tiger - Cycling jersey + cycling shorts

Excellent for long distances

Designed for long-distance cycling, this X-Tiger set consists of a jersey and cycling shorts with suspenders. It has won rave reviews from amateur cyclists. Be careful though, as this set runs small.

33,60 £ on Amazon

The 100% polyester fabric of this jersey + cycling shorts combo added to its knitted fiber surface efficiently wicks moisture. Keep you dry and cool for hours. The full-length zipper with top cap prevents chafing on the chin and neck. The 3 standard pockets on the back of the suit are convenient for storing your phone, wallet, etc. There is also reflective tape to keep you visible at night.

At X-Tiger, we don't mess around with comfort. For proof, note the 5D gel padding in the insert of these shorts. It effectively absorbs shock and vibration. The shorts also optimize muscle performance without impeding movement thanks to the seamless surface design and a combination of foam and silicone. However, be aware that this set runs small. So, look for a larger size when you buy one.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best cycling shorts

Any specific needs?

The best cycling shorts in 2021

The best entry-level cycling shorts in 2021

The best high-end cycling shorts in 2021

Excellent for long distances

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best cycling shorts

THE BEST CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
Nicewin Sports - Men's Cycling Shorts 5
8/10
Nooyme - Cycling shorts for women 6
8/10
Van Rysel Ultralight black 7
9/10
X-Tiger - Cycling jersey + cycling shorts 8
8/10
OUR SELECTION
Nicewin Sports - Men's Cycling Shorts
Nooyme - Cycling shorts for women
Van Rysel Ultralight black
X-Tiger - Cycling jersey + cycling shorts
Suitable for mountain biking, road cycling and other outdoor sports, these cycling shorts are your comfort ally. Its unique material and design offer maximum comfort without skimping on style.
Introducing the Nooyme, an inexpensive women's cycling shorts. Rejoice ladies, because the brand promises comfort and safety with this model thanks to its reflective stripes and its stretchy and breathable fabric.
Where bib shorts costing 150 euros or more are commonplace, we liked to find this top of the line Van Rysel bib shorts model for less than 100 euros. It has nothing to envy the more expensive models.
Designed for long-distance cycling, this X-Tiger set consists of a jersey and cycling shorts with suspenders. It has won rave reviews from amateur cyclists. Be careful though, as this set runs small.
Fabrics
80% nylon and 20% elastane
80% polyester and 20% elastane
Polyamide 64%, polyester 23% and elastane 13%
87% polyester and 13% lycra
Sizes
S to XXL
S to 3XL
S to 2XL
M to 3XL (Asian size)
Padding
4D gel
High-density 4D cushion with 6 layers of sponge
High density foam (120kg / m3)
5D gel
Reflective coating
Breathability
Robustness

Help us improve this table:
Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!

Buying guide - cycling shorts

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How to choose your cycling shorts

Here are the parameters to consider when choosing a cycling shorts.

#1 - The design

Cycling shorts are designed differently for men, women and children. Indeed, the cycling shorts vary according to the age and gender of the cyclist. Some models may or may not come with suspenders. Men's shorts are longer than women's shorts. And they have a central seam to keep them in place, and in full respect of the male morphology.

Women's shorts are shorter to look more feminine. Their design takes into account women's slimmer waistlines, wider hips, and a seat that is specific to women's posture. If a woman prefers the strapless version, there are models with straps centered between the breasts to avoid compressing them and ensure comfort and convenience for women cyclists.

Finally, children's cycling shorts are usually strapless. Little budding cyclists (no distinction between boys and girls) can get their cycling shorts as young as 6 years old.

#2 - The size

Opt for cycling shorts that perfectly fit your body, without compressing your body. If your fit is too tight, it could impede your circulation. If it's too big or not big enough, it could cause chafing or pull up your thighs with each pedal stroke.

#3 - Foam or gel insert

If you're riding for long distances, make sure the insert of your cycling shorts is of high quality to guarantee optimal comfort. If you're riding for long distances, make sure the insert of your cycling shorts is of the highest quality to ensure comfort, by choosing an insert that contains gel. With this type of insert, you will be able to ride for several hours comfortably. In most cases, the gel insert is thicker and more comfortable than the foam insert.

For the occasional or short distance cyclist, the gel insert cycling shorts will be the best option. And if you are a seasoned cyclist, a technical foam insert is an excellent choice for longer distances. It has the advantage of adapting very well to the cyclist's morphology, is lighter and breathable, and above all, reduces friction.

#4 - The season

For summer, the ideal would be to opt for a short or ¾ length cycling shorts. For better winter riding, cycling tights are more appropriate. Also consider the material the shorts are made of. For hot summer weather, choose breathable materials, while for cold winter weather, a thicker, warmer material with a protective membrane will be perfect.

#5 - The course and discipline practiced

For bikepacking, gravel or forest rides, a short with a gel insert will offer you more comfort although it displays less breathability. This is largely offset by the fact that gel inserts are better at absorbing vibrations than foam inserts. Fortunately, cycling shorts inserts come in several types to be able to meet all the needs of cyclists (triathletes, racers, occasional mountain bikers, experienced bikers, etc.).

#6 - The comfort

To guarantee a comfortable and pleasant ride as well as a smooth pedaling, bet on a well elastic shorts that sticks to you like a second skin, without affecting your blood circulation. It is also essential that the material used be able to evacuate perspiration efficiently. This way, the cyclist can stay dry for hours.

Some points to know

  • Your cycling shorts are too big when they come up to your thighs
  • Your cycling shorts are too small if the straps hurt or leave marks on your skin
  • Your cycling shorts are too small if you feel too much pressure on your thighs
  • The insert should be positioned over the groin and perineum area to ensure comfortable and pain-free cycling
  • A cycling short with reflective strips will ensure your safety during night cycling or when visibility is low
  • When it comes to washing, avoid fabric softeners that remove the technical properties of the shorts, avoid the dryer, and avoid washing at temperatures above 30°C.

The different types of cycling shorts

Let's review the types of cycling shorts on the market, with their advantages and disadvantages.

Waistband cycling shorts

It is a kind of tight shorts without straps, which keeps the cyclist cool thanks to the breathable fabric. The advantage with this outfit is that it avoids the inconvenience of sinking straps and makes pee breaks easier. It is especially suitable for short bike rides in the summer to keep cool.

However, waistband cycling shorts can compress your belly uncomfortably and their thick material at the waist can absorb sweat. This is certainly unpleasant because the waistband is held against your skin. Also, in the long run, strapless cycling shorts tend to slip.

Straps cycling shorts

Strapless cycling shorts are a 2-in-1 combination (shorts + straps). It is more suitable for long bike rides. By opting for bib shorts instead of waist shorts, you won't interfere with your diaphragmatic breathing. The straps, which are removable on some models, have the secondary advantage of keeping the shorts in place and reducing chafing. This way, your shorts will remain in the same position throughout your ride.

However, the extra material that makes up the bib bike shorts can quickly make them warmer to wear, a little less breathable and therefore more uncomfortable. In addition, the need to remove your jersey before the shorts can be lowered makes pee breaks much more complicated... Especially if you are a woman!

Cycling shorts or mountain bike shorts?

Cycling shorts

Cycling shorts are the right outfit for long bike rides or races. Most cyclists prefer them to shorts. This is because the cycling shorts are comfortable thanks to the inner lining known as the "chamois" which comes in a variety of styles to suit all seasonal needs. The design of the chamois has been carefully thought out to fit the body type of the biker, whether he is a man, woman or child.

With or without suspenders, the cycling shorts are able to ensure better shock absorption and, above all, reduce friction. However, strapless cycling shorts tend to slip over time. This can cause discomfort and quickly become frustrating for cyclists, while bib shorts can be a little inconvenient for some.

Mountain bike shorts

Mountain bike shorts are shorts, most models of which are equipped with a special skin or foams to enjoy cycling in total comfort. The advantage of this type of shorts is that they are loose enough to give the biker more freedom of movement, and the material used is also light and breathable. Some materials are even abrasion resistant. Depending on your sensitivities and convenience, the MTB shorts can also come with or without integrated shorts.

So you can decide to wear a cycling short under your MTB shorts or not. Finally, the MTB shorts have zippered pockets that allow you to have at hand quickly the small objects that are useful to you, and to take them with you without risking to lose them on the way. This can be your smartphone, your multifunctional tools for bike, etc..

Verdict

In short, the choice between MTB shorts and cycling shorts will depend on your needs, your sensibilities and your route. If you want more freedom of movement, shorts will suit you better. However, nothing beats the security of cycling shorts.

If you're worried about the shorts not fitting properly, opt for the version with removable straps, and make sure the material they're made of is breathable. This will allow you to wick away sweat and stay cool and dry throughout your bike rides.

Why buy cycling shorts?

To better evacuate perspiration

When you ride your bike, you can't help but sweat. This is perfectly normal! Ordinary pants and shorts can retain and soak up the sweat your body produces. One of the benefits of cycling shorts is that they allow your body to breathe well under stress. They are made of a special fabric that effectively wicks moisture away from your skin (lycra, spandex, nylon and polyester). This prevents chafing, rashes and will keep you cool.

For comfort and style

Cycling shorts fit your body like a second skin. In addition to giving you style, padded cycling shorts make cycling much more comfortable and efficient, and help you ride faster and longer. So if you're a beginner and want to look like a professional cyclist, wearing shorts will satisfy your desires.

To keep your muscles compressed

Cycling shorts can compress your muscles. Runners, weight lifters and other athletes wear compression garments because they know that wearing shorts reduces muscle soreness and fatigue. This is especially good for you after a long bike ride.

To allow for freedom of movement

One of the strengths of cycling shorts is their elasticity. They will allow you to pedal faster without any discomfort. You'll immediately feel the difference if you compare them to normal shorts or pants when cycling.

For more aerodynamic feel

Because cycling shorts are tight fitting and feel like a second skin, they are ultra light and reduce your wind resistance. This allows the cyclist to use a little less energy to travel the same distance.

The best brands of cycling shorts

In our opinion, the best brands of cycling shorts in 2022 are :

Nicewin
Nooyme
Van Rysel
X-Tiger
Castelli

Nicewin is an emerging sports and outdoor brand focused on customer experience. The brand focuses on the research and design of cycling shorts, jackets and gloves. It employs talented designers to deliver the ultimate.

Created in 2015, Nooyme Sports is a new brand that designs cycling apparel and sportswear. Currently, More than 200,000 cycling fans in Germany, America and Japan turn to Nooyme's products.

Van Rysel is a popular brand for cyclists looking for high-end gear. As for the comfort and sturdiness of its products, you won't regret it: textiles, glasses, helmets, bikes, etc., it knows how to do everything.

X-Tiger Team was founded on December 5, 2013. The brand produces truly original equipment and offers a wide selection of high-quality cycling apparel, protective gear, helmets and cycling accessories.

As early as 1910, Castelli designed the first cycling outfit for Alfredo Binda (5-time Giro winner) and then the other champions Coppi, Bartali, etc. The brand eventually meets the expectations of the most demanding cyclists.

What is the price cycling shorts

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
10 £ to 25 £
Mid-range
25 £ to 45 £
High-end
more than 45 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Washing a pair of cycling shorts

Use a mild detergent. Opt for the gentle cycle on your washing machine and a cold water setting. You can use the extra rinse cycle to make sure no detergent remains after washing, as any soap residue can clog the fibers of your shorts and interfere with the fabric's proper breathability.

Clean the cycling shorts after each ride

You can wash your cycling shorts as often as you like, as long as you follow the recommended care instructions. If you tend to sweat a lot, wash your outfit after every bike ride. If necessary, wash it when you feel it's necessary.

Don't wear underwear!

Don't wear panties or briefs under cycling shorts. Wearing underwear makes your shorts inefficient especially in terms of friction control and moisture management.

Take a shower

After each cycling trip, remove your shorts and immediately take a shower or bath. Despite the moisture-wicking ability of the best cycling shorts, even a chamois after a long day of cycling becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.

Apply cream

While wearing a cycling shorts can go a long way toward improving the comfort of riding a bike, applying an appropriate cream to the inside of the chamois can help reduce crotch chafing from a long day of cycling.

FAQ

How do you wear cycling shorts?

Under a cycling short, no underwear is worn. This cycling suit is already equipped with an insert, commonly known as a chamois, which ensures exemplary comfort and support for the cyclist. Respecting the morphology of the latter, the chamois has an antibacterial treated bottom and made with a limited number of seams to avoid chafing at the crotch.

Why do you wear cycling shorts?

Wearing a cycling shorts is essential for a pleasant ride, and without injuries. This piece of clothing protects your most sensitive areas from the pain that can result from sitting on your bike for long periods. Cycling shorts come with a specially formulated insert to fit the cyclist. Made of breathable fabric, cycling shorts allow cyclists to stay cool and dry on their bikes for hours on end. Not only do shorts reduce friction, but they also absorb the shock of your mountain bike rides. As a result, it's important to choose the quality of the cycling shorts insert.

What is the life span of cycling shorts?

The life of your cycling shorts will depend mostly on their quality, frequency of use and maintenance. An entry-level model will last you one season. But in general, a cycling short will last 1 to 3 years. The best solution is to either invest in a top of the line outfit that will last you a long time rather than shelling out money several times over on entry level shorts, or in mid-range ones that offer a good lifespan while still providing satisfactory performance.

I have very sensitive skin to skin-to-skin friction, textile-to-skin. What do you recommend?

If you have skin that is particularly sensitive to rubbing, be aware that there are special creams formulated for this purpose. Applied in a thick layer on the crotch, they prevent irritation and heating due to friction. All you have to do is make sure that your shorts are of high quality.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. How to wear a cyclist?, magazine-avantages.fr
  2. How to stop your butt from hurting on a bike (and how to choose the right cycling shorts), blog.utagawavtt.com
  3. How to choose the right size of cycling shorts?, poli.fr
  4. What are the benefits of compression garments?, wodnews.com
  5. The health of your skin... under the shorts!, velomag.com
  6. How to care for your cycling clothes to make them last?, matosvelo.fr
  7. How to clean your cycling gear?, magazine.deporvillage.fr
  8. How to care for your cycling clothes?, grosbraquet.com
  9. Gear up for a safe bike ride, consumerreports.org
  10. Cycling clothing guide: 5 ways proper kit can boost your riding, road.cc
  11. Why do cyclists dress like that?, cyclingmagazine.ca
  12. 6 Versatile Ways to Wear Your Bike Short, theeverygirl.com
  13. Bike Shorts | Over 400 Road Bike Shorts in Stock ...., alltricks.fr
  14. Bike Shorts - EKOI, ekoi.fr
  15. Bike Shorts - Your discount bike shorts on ..., probikeshop.fr
  16. Bike Shorts Road | Cycling Shorts | Decathlon.fr, decathlon.fr
  17. Bike Shorts Collection to discover ...., poli.fr
  18. Cycling shorts for men | Decathlon, decathlon.fr
  19. Cycling shorts & tights - LOOK Cycle, lookcycle.com
  20. Cycling shorts - EKOI - EKOI, ekoi.fr
  21. Cycling shorts for men - buy cheap - GO Sport, go-sport.com
  22. Cycling shorts and tights for men | Rapha website, rapha.cc
  23. Cycling shorts for men, women and children, noret.com
  24. Cycling shorts for men, women and children ..., shemsy.fr
  25. TenueVelo.com - The number 1 cycling shorts and jerseys ..., tenuevelo.com
  26. Men's road shorts | Mavic, mavic.com
  27. Buying Guide 2020 - Cycling shorts in comfort - Vélo Mag, velomag.com
  28. Cycling shorts - Black Friday Cdiscount Sport, cdiscount.com
  29. Mountain bike shorts - All the shorts at great prices on ..., probikeshop.fr
  30. Cycling shorts - Assos Mavic X cycling shorts ..., materiel-velo.com
  31. GORE® cycling shorts for men | Bicycle & MTB | GORE® WEAR | FR, gorewear.com
  32. Buy cycling shorts - Summer-Winter cycling shorts - Bib shorts, materiel-velo.com
  33. Cycling shorts sale Serge DUTOURON SA - Parts and accessories ..., sergedutouron.com
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
Nicewin Sports - Men's Cycling Shorts 9
Nicewin Sports - Men's Cycling Shorts
Nooyme - Cycling shorts for women 10
Nooyme - Cycling shorts for women
Van Rysel Ultralight black 11
Van Rysel Ultralight black
X-Tiger - Cycling jersey + cycling shorts 12
X-Tiger - Cycling jersey + cycling shorts

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