Bib shorts are one of those key cycling pieces you need to care about — you don’t want to be 90 minutes deep into a headwind, regretting every seam. Whether you’re slicing through city streets, stacking up weekend mileage, or just here for the cafe drop-ins, bib shorts are the unsung backbone of your ride.

Fit, fabric, and features aren’t marketing fluff — they’re the trinity of ride-or-die comfort. And hopefully most obviously, your choice and what you prioritise should reflect your ride style. Short spin? Flexibility and airflow. Long haul? Cushion, baby. Crit racing? Speedy silhouettes and barely-there weight. Gravel? Packability and durability are your besties.

Fit is foundation

Bib straps should sit softly, it shouldn’t feel like the elastic is punishing you. If the legs pinch or the straps dig in, this isn’t your size, model or brand. Look for compressive-but-kind leg grippers and straps that lay flat — even better if they’re laser-cut or bonded.

Tip: Different brands build around different body shapes. What works for your friend may feel all wrong for you. Try a few.

Fabric is code for performance skin

High-performance bibs aren’t just tight — they’re second skin. If you’re chasing watts, pushing intervals, or shaving seconds off your lap splits, you want everything locked down.

Aerodynamics and flexibility are the holy grail. Top-tier options use laser-cut panels, bonded seams, and precision-placed elastic bands to keep the bib hugging like a technical exosuit. These fabrics stretch where they need to, compress where they should, and disappear when you're in the drops. These are not your casual Sunday ride bibs.

High-performance bibs for women

High-performance bibs for men

The chamois is engineered comfort

If you’re out there for hours, your saddle’s best friend is your chamois. For endurance riders, a high-density foam or multi-layer insert makes a difference that your sit bones will thank you for. Racing or short spins? Go minimal. Lighter, sleeker pads are less bulky and dry quicker.

Tip: Women’s-specific designs matter — look for gendered fits, not just “unisex” cop-outs.

Bonus tip: If you’re going long distance, consider cargo bibs with pockets.

The best women's endurance bibs

The best men's endurance bibs

Essentials are key

New to cycling and unsure if you’ll stick it out? The pro tip here is to focus on the essentials. Prioritise a decent chamois and skip gimmicks. Build your bib wardrobe slowly — if you fall in love with cycling, your taste will evolve with your saddle time.

Only the essentials for women

Only the essentials for men

Innovation is exciting

The best bibs are quietly clever. Women’s bibs now come with drop tail designs (so you can pee without stripping in a bush — yes, really), magnetic clasps, or zip-free releases. For long-distance riders or bikepackers, look for wide straps that don’t shift, micro-adjustable tension systems, or cargo bibs with pockets that don’t sag.

But the bottom line is that your bib should serve your ride, not your ego. Get the pair that fits your body, supports your ride, and makes you want to get back on the saddle.