The Irish junior womens team may be stepping up a level at the UCI Nations Cup in the Netherlands this weekend, but they have made a fantastic start to the three-stage race. In the opening stage TT today a 6.4km TT from Munstergeleen to Watersley both Lucy Bnzet Minns and Aliyah Rafferty finished []The post Irish junior team off to brilliant start in UCI Nations Cup, Netherlands appeared first on Sticky Bottle.

Ben O'Connor's time in the red jersey is running out at the Vuelta a Espaa. Tomorrow he should remain safe, but in the Puerto de Ancares today he lost more time and has Primoz Roglic already closeby. The Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale rider struggled in the final climb in what was another difficult day...

Stage 13 of the Vuelta a Espaa was a serious mountain day. Not overly hard until the final climb of the Puerto de Ancares. The victory was for the breakaway and Michael Woods was the strongest on the day, taking his third-ever Vuelta victory.Another day for the breakaway. 23 riders went up the roa...

Every week we show you the points that the top riders and teams have scored during the 2024 season, but the main reason why this is important is because of the 2023-2025 cycle. The Top18 scoring teams will be attributed a World Tour license from 2026 onwards and currently, there is still a big battl...

Ben O'Connor has without a doubt been one of the main headliners of the Vuelta a Espaa so far and after that being the case on the road, it was also the case on social media. The race leader launched criticism to the race organizers and then deleted his account shortly after. He now explains the si...

At Femme Cyclist, weve taken polls of our community multiple times on favorite mountain bike shorts. Shredly always comes out the winner. Thats convenient because they also happen to be mine (especially the short Limitless short with the yoga waistband)!Why are they so popular? Shredly is a woman-owned company that makes shorts that are fashion-forward, have high-quality construction, and actually fit regardless of your size or shape.In addition to shorts, Shredly also makes a bunch of other mountain bike pieces including jerseys, pants, a cute and unique romper, and chamois liners. Ive tested a bunch of their offerings, along with some help from my mom, sister, and a few girlfriends to see how they fit on different body types. This review goes over what we like about each piece (and what we dont)! Read on to learn more. Oh, and if youre interested in learning about Shredly as a company, make sure to listen to my podcast interview with Shredly founder Ashley Rankin.Also, dont forget to peruse my list of favorite mountain bike shorts for even more options.Table Of ContentsShredly shortsTrail RomperShredly All Time pantsBeyond Tech jerseyBiker chamSeamless Hipster GlovesWhere To Shop For ShredlyShredly.comREI.com*Evo.com*Shredly ShortsIf you havent tried a pair of Shredly shorts yet, youre missing out. But what pair to get?They come in two different waistband/fit options and four different length optionsit can all get a little confusing. For now, know that there is a All Time short (a more fitted, traditional short with a mid-rise waist and snap and zipper closure) and a Limitless short (a looser cut with a high-rise waist and yoga style waistband). Ill explain more shortly.Pros:4 Length Options, 2 Waistband/Fit OptionsComes in a wide range of sizes (not S,M,L!!)Cute prints and colors Secure, zippered pocketCons:Fit may be a little too baggy for someDont come with a chamois linerPrice: $98-$138Two Different Waistband/Fit OptionsShredly offers their mountain bike shorts in two different waistband options. There is the All Time short (previously known as the MTB Original) which closes via zipper/snaps and the Limitless short (previously known as the CURVY short) which has a yoga-style waistband.Personally, I think the yoga-style waistband on the Limitless short is THE BOMB and I cant imagine ever going back to a normal waistband again. It works well for curvy women of any size (myself included) who struggle with finding shorts wide enough for their hips and bum, but narrow enough for their waist.With the yoga band waist, you dont have to worry about muffin-top, plumbers crack, or any fly-related disasters. In my opinion, all mountain bike shorts should be made with a yoga waistband! (And in fact, since Shredly created this short, a few other brands have copied it). If for some reason you prefer a traditional zippered waist closure, then the All Time Shredly shorts will work well for you. This waist closes via (very fashionable) snaps, and zipper. That said, the back of the waistband is still stretchy, so it still provides a more forgiving fit than most traditional waistbands.The rise on the Limitless short is a little bit higher than on the All Time, so that might also influence your decision. Short Or Long: Pick Your PoisonThe Limitless short is offered in 7, 9, and 11 inch lengths; the All Time shorts are offered in all of those plus a super-short 5 length. The 11 short falls just above the knee and the 14 long falls just below the knee. The short shorts are well above, and let you get a little extra sun on your thighs.The 11 short is a fairly traditional length for a mountain bike short and offers a good amount of protection. But the 14provides even more protection. Its a good choice for using with knee pads for downhill days or for colder fall/spring riding. Its also nice for the taller ladies who might struggle to get enough coverage with other brands.Heres my mom in the 11 length. Shes 56 for reference.The Shredly 5 or 7 shorter shorts are fantastic for ladies who dont want to mess up their tan lines, or who simply like a shorter short. The 7 Limitless has become my personal favorite go-to short. My legs still get a little sun, the waistband is comfy, and they dont necessarily scream bike short so Im able to wear them for other activities as well.This is my favorite Shredly shortthe 7 Limitless.Lots Of Different Prints/DesignsShredly really made a name for themselves by leaving the boring black bike short behind and creating colorful and fun baggies for women instead. While youll see lots of brands following their lead today, Shredly was definitely the first.They still have one of the largest (and loudest) selection of designs. While I do know a few ladies who choose the more demure Shredly shorts (yes, they do offer a black short too), far more of my friends hoard the Shredly prints like their collector items.Black might be great for a cocktail dress, but the trail is the one place where its okay for women to be loud, silly, and a little crazyand Shredly reflects that vibe.A Looser FitMost women who mountain bike also have more muscular thighs, which is why Ive never understood why most mountain bike shorts are cut fairly narrow. The Shredly shorts arent cut excessively wide, but they do provide plenty of room for more muscular quads. The shorts are easy to maneuver in and never hug or squeeze my quads. While this is a good fit for my body time and preferences, ladies with narrower bodies might prefer something with a narrower fit. Ive also heard some folks complain that they look a little frumpy or not tailored enough for their taste. Zippered Pocket.All of the Shredly shorts have two front hand pockets as well as a zippered pocket. The zippered pocket is a newer addition to the Shredly shorts and something we really appreciate. Its great to have a secure place to stash your phone, credit card, or car key.Wide Range Of Sizes Fit True To SizeOne of my favorite things about Shredly is that they offer their shorts in regular pant sizes. That means if you normally wear a size 8, simply order a size 8 in the Shredly shorts.I get really stressed looking out most brands S, M, L size charts trying to guess where I might fit and whether or not the shorts run true to size. Its a lot more work for a company to offer all those sizes rather than 3 or 4, but we greatly appreciate it.The sizes run from size 0 to size 24 (!!!!) depending on the short. I dont know any other company that offers that many sizes, and we love that they are so size inclusive. Dont Come With A Chamois LinerThe Shredly shorts are sold as baggies without a chamois liner. This means that youll need to buy a liner separately (assuming you like a chamois). Shredly offers two chamois liners (reviewed later on).Our Top Shredly Short PicksThere are tons of Shredly options, so you should have no problem finding the length and waist combo thats right for you. But if youre feeling overwhelmed, here are two of our faves.Limitless 14by Debra Bonkoski (my sister!)These shorts offer a flattering variation on the traditional mountain bike short silhouette. The longer length is convenient for wearing with knee pads on a gnarly downhill day, avoiding scrapes on an overgrown trail, or providingextra coverage on a chilly ride.Prone to chafing? The combination of the length, material and inseam gusset of these shorts helped my size 14 short thighs with a history of painful chafing, avoid discomfort on hot, afternoon rides.Shredly describes their curvy line as accommodating to all shapes, regardless of whether your shape is boxy, straight, hourglass, pear, or apple. The shorts range in size from 0-24 and the stretch in the material make these a no-brainer to reach for when you are feeling your best but also when you feel bloated. Although a separate chamois is available, I found these shorts incredibly comfortable on their own.After sitting trailside after attacking a steep climb, I was able to easily brush the dirt off the bum of these shorts thanks to the recycled poly/spandex blend. The yoga-style stretch waistband is a game changer in terms of comfort. After a long ride, the shorts hold their shape and are a great choice to wear for a post-ride drink with friends.Limitless 7by Kristen Bonkoski (me)As a professional bike short tester my drawers are overflowing with mountain bike shorts. And yet, I find myself grabbing the Limitless 7 short over and over.I like these short shorts so much, that I have a few pairs. For me, they are the perfect length for trail riding and bikepacking.They are short enough that they dont screw up my tan line, and they are airy enough that I get plenty of airflow on hot days. Theres also nothing about them that screams bike short so I felt comfortable wearing them to school pickup or around town on occasion as well.As with all the Shredly Limitless shorts, the waistband is incredibly comfortable. They are quick and easy to pull on and off for trailside potty breaks, and even on loooong bikepacking trips, the waist never dug in or irritated me. Finally, they are durable and brush off dirt easily, so I could wear them on multi-day adventures and didnt worry about sitting on the ground. Bottom-Line: Fun, Colorful, and Well-Fitting Mountain Bike ShortsShredly doesnt make the trade-off between form and function; they manage to excel in both categories. Their shorts come in the funnest designs and prints out there, and yet offer a wide range of sizes and cuts to fit all body types. Shredly Trail RomperLooking for something a little bit more playful than your average pair of mountain bike shorts? Check out the Shredly Trail Romper! This one-piece mountain bike uniform makes it easy to look pulled together and is sure to garner attention on the trail.Pros:Fun, stylish designDurable and stretchy materialNo plumbers crackAdjustable waistComes in larger sizesCons: Short in the torsoChallenging to go potty on the trailPrice: $138No Boring Cycling Kit HereThe biggest thing the Shredly Trail Romper has going for it is the fact that its unique. This doesnt look like every other black short, boring jersey get up on the trail.The Trail Romer comes in a couple of different colors, including the Graphite Tie Die design we tested. Flashy? Yes. Dull? No.I love that there is zero coordination required. You dont have to think about which jersey will match with which shorts. Nor do you have to worry about how well that jersey provides coverage or how low those shorts are cut. You wont end up with any plumbers crack or with your jersey pulling up to flash a bit of belly. Fit Will Work For You..Or It WontLike most clothing items, the Shredly Romper might work great for you, OR it might not. (Sigh).After coveting the Romper forever, I finally got one in a size medium. I wear a size 6 in all the Shredly shorts, so the medium should have been the right size for me according to the size chart.Unfortunately, it was HUGE. I am smaller on top than I am on bottom, so therein laid my problem. The shoulders were way too wide.I also have a long torso which made the shorts that much shorter AND gave me a bit of a wedgie. After reading other reviews, this seems to be a common complaint. If you are a longer torso girl, skip the romper. And if youre small on top, size down. After a few rides in the Romper, I decided it just wasnt comfy or flattering on me. (Sadness!). I passed it on to my girlfriend Ashley who it luckily fit really well.The one really nice thing is that the waist is adjustable and cinches down via buttons. Assuming you order the right size for your body, you should be able to get a nice tailored look. The Romper also comes in sizes from XS to 3X which we really appreciate. Options are generally limited for larger gals, and Shredly is doing a good job of being size inclusive. Wear With A Chamois Or WithoutI dont usually wear a chamois, so chose to wear the romper without one. Ashley, on the other hand, felt that the legs were way too short without so wore a pair of shorts underneath.You could also choose to wear the Shredly Biker Cham underneath the romper. They are made to match so the little bit of leg sticking out underneath looks intentional, not sloppy.The one issue to be aware of if wearing a chamois is the pee-trap factor. When/if you have to pee in the woods, youre going to have to strip all of the way down.If you are wearing just undies (or a short pair of chamois like the Hipster Cham), you could theoretically pull your undies and the romper to the side and pee without undressing. Whether or not you are coordinated enough to do this is up to you.Fabric Is Durable Yet StretchyThe fabric on the Shredly Trail Romper is synthetic and quite thick. At first, I thought this might make it hot or unbreathable, but that wasnt the case.Even Ashley, who is notoriously hot bodies, felt that the Romper was comfortable. It was surprisingly breathable for someone who is a heavy sweater.The fabric also has a fair bit of stretch to it, making it both comfortable and easy to maneuver in. Shredly All Time PantsThe moto-inspired Shredly pants have become my go-to bottoms for downhill bike park days. They can also be used for general trail-riding although are not my favorite pant for that style of riding.Pros:Flattering, comfortable cutLong ankle zippers allow you to access knee padsLots of colors/printsDecent airflowLarge range of sizes Cons: Knee is not reinforcedNo crash replacement policyMoto Inspired DesignWith A Feminine FlairThese pants are more gravity oriented than trail, and look a lot like a moto or BMX pant with their slimmer fit. That said, most moto pants Ive worn are awfully masculine, and these manage to offer a feminine touch with the pintuck detailing and fun colors/prints.I found that they were a great option for the downhill bike park. They provide plenty of room to maneuver but are slim enough, particularly in the bottom half, that they wont snag or get caught in your drivetrain. I did try them for trail riding, but theyre not my top pick for singletrack cruises due to the slimmer fit and fabric. The fabric is thicker (for protection and durability) and feels synthetic. The small vents up the back half of the leg allow decent airflow when youre sitting on the chairlift, but not equate to great breathability when youre chugging up a mountain.For downhill days though, oh la la, I was a big fan. The best thing about them was the ability to access my knee pads! Both legs have a nice long zipper that can be used to put on or take off knee pads without having to undress. Cause how wants to drive up the mountain wearing knee pads?!? Not me.While I do think these are a great pick for gravity riding, there are a couple of things that might give the most aggressive riders pause. The first is that the knees are not reinforced. This is where most pants will tear if crashed in, so thats a bit of a bummer. Also, unlike brands like Dharco, Shredly doesnt have a crash replacement policy, so if you ride hard and shred these, youre probably out of luck.Large Range Of SizesLike the rest of Shredlys offerings, the pants come in a large range of sizes (0 to 24). According to the website, Shredly recommends ordering up a size on these, but I went with my normal size (a 6) and they fit just fine.There is plenty of room for my larger hips, bum, and thighs, and the waistband provides a good fit on my narrower waist thanks to the stretchy waistband. While the pants have a traditional zipper, snap closure, the back of the waistband is elastic and fits snugly without being restrictive.Plenty Of Pocket SpaceUnlike trail rides where I usually have a hip pack AND some sort of bag on my bike, when Im downhill riding I have.nada. That leaves pockets as the sole place to carry essentials.Thankfully, the Shredly pants have four large zippered pockets (two at the hips and two on the legs). I used these to fit my lift pass, credit card, cash, car key, and snacks.There is even enough room for my phone, although I found that putting something that bulky in my pocket did limit my ability to maneuver on the bike. Other Shredly Pant OptionsLike the Shredly shorts, the pants come in an All Time and Limitless version. The pants I have are the Vented All Time pants. I havent tested the Limitless pants, but they do appear to be a little looser fitting and more oriented for cool weather trail riding, if thats what youre looking for. Like the Limitless shorts, they also come with a full yoga waistband.Beyond Tech JerseyThe Beyond Tech jersey comes in several versions: short-sleeve, 3/4 sleeve, and long sleeve (which is what I have). Its a silky, loose-fitting a stink free top that comes in fun prints to match your other Shredly pieces.Pros:Stink-resistantLoose fit doesnt rub or tugSize inclusiveCons:Expensive for a synthetic jerseySeamless Construction, Stink-Free FabricSomething thats quite unique about the Beyond Tech jersey is its seamless construction. All of the seams (including at the neck, sides, and waist) are bonded rather than stitched. For those of us with sensitive skin, this is huge! And there are no tags to rub either.The fabric is silky-feeling and isamazinglypretty stink free. Shredly explains: the jersey is treated chemically-free with FAR infrared ray and negative ion technology to achieve anti-bacterial and odor properties. Sounds crazy, but it seemed to work for me!Size-inclusive, loose fitThe Beyond Tech jersey has a looser, less fitted cut. This worked well for me on hot downhill days as I got plenty of airflow and never felt restricted.It also comes in plenty of sizes (xs thru 3xl). That said, I ordered a size small and felt like it was a little too big. If Im an XS, I have trouble believing tinier ladies will get a good fit in this jersey. The long sleeves have thumb holes which are fun off the bike, but on the bike, Im not sure of the purpose. They are awkward to use with glovesso I just didnt. Shredly Biker ChamWho says a chamois has to be boring? Or hidden underneath your clothes?The Shedly Biker Cham is longer and more substantial than most so that you can wear it under your baggies, or all on its own!Pros:Well constructed chamoisCan wear with or without baggiesPocket spacePretty designs, cute leg scallopsCons:Not all women will like the longer inseam and high waistHotter than thinner chamois linersPrice & Where To Buy:$98 ListBuy at Shredly.comBuy at REI.com*Well Constructed ChamoisChamois liners fall all over the spectrum in terms of quality of construction. Many liners that come with baggies are almost an afterthought.If youre looking for a high quality liner, Id highly recommend the Shredly Biker Cham. Both the chamois itself as well as the short material are high quality in fabric and construction. These should last MANY wash cycles.The chamois itself is fairly substantial. The padding is thick enough that you could wear this for an all day ride. (If youre looking for something more minimalistic, check out the Shredly Hipster cham instead).The Shredly chamois (right) has a much higher quality chamois than your average liner. Compare it to the Pearl Izumi liner (left).Can Wear On Their OwnId consider the Biker Cham as more of a cycling short than a liner short. Yes, you can absolutely wear this under your baggies, BUT they work even better solo.Unlike many liner shorts, the Biker Cham is made of a thick, durable material. This means they arent see through; but it also means they are a little hot for my liking underneath a pair of baggies (at least during the hot summer months).Wide, High Rise Waist BandThe waistband on the Biker Cham is different than most chamois weve tested. Instead of an elastic band, there is a much wider panel.This makes it nice in that there is nothing to dig into your middle. It is also higher cut than most, so it holds your belly and you dont get that little roll of fat. That said, I didnt love the higher waist underneath many of my shorts. It worked well under my Shredly Limitless shorts with their higher waist, but less so with nearly every other pair of baggies I own. With most shorts, there was a section of chamois sticking up over the top of the baggies.Fairly Long Inseam, But Cute Scallop At LegThe inseam on the Shredly Biker Cham is 7 inches. This makes it longer than most chamois. My much loved Club Ride June chamois, for instance, has a 3 inch inseam.If you are wearing baggy shorts that are 7 inches or less, the Biker Cham will stick out of the bottom. Even if youre wearing longer baggies, they are likely to ride up while the Biker Cham wont (thanks to the grippers on the leg).Now, this might not be the worst thing in the world. The scallop and perforations at the bottom of the leg are very cute. But whether or not you want your liner to show under your shorts is a very personal style choice.Small Side PocketsAnother nice touch on these shorts are the small side pockets on both legs. Can they fit much? No. But you can certainly stick a bar or gel or some cash in there. The pockets also make them nice for use at spin class where you might want to stash a locker key or gym pass. More Affordable Than The Closest Competitor$98 might seem like a lot for a chamois. And in fact, some of our other favorite chamois cost half of that.Still, the closest competitor to the Biker Cham is the Wild Rye Eleanor Chammy. The two shorts are VERY similar in quality and design. Both can be worn with or without baggies, both have side pockets and a high waist, etc, etc, etc. That said, the Wild Rye Eleanor Chammy* is about $20 more. Wed say save those extra bucks and buy this one instead. Seamless HipsterUnlike the Biker Cham, which can be worn without baggies, the Seamless Hipster is a chamois that is designed to be worn under something. And unlike many chamois liners, these are short enough to fit under ANY short, including the 5 shorts. Theyre also super minimalistic.Pros:No leg bands to chafe or rubDoesnt feel like a diaperCan be worn under short shortsCons:Minimal chamois may not be enough for longer ridesExpensive for a very thin clothing itemNothing to rub or irritateI have really sensitive skin AND I have a tendency to get saddle sores right in my leg/crotch crease where undies rub, so Im a big fan of the fact that these are seamless. Well *almost* seamlessthere is a seam at each hip.But around the leg, there is no seam, no elastic, no stitching, nothing to rub or irritate. Does this cause a problem with the bottoms riding up? Surprisingly, it didnt seem to for me. VERY Thin ChamoisOf all the chamois liners Ive tested, this has got to be the thinnest. If youve ever had a pair of tri shorts, thats what these are like. The chamois is basically a very thinly padded fleece-y liner. This is ideal if, like me youre not a big fan of bulky padded chamois. For some folks, chamois can cause more problems than they solve. All that padding and accumulated sweat can cause chafing, saddle sores, yeast infections, etc.If that sounds like you, but youre not brave enough to forgo a chamois altogether, this might be a good option.Expensive For What They AreMy only complaint with this liner is the cost. These are, essentially, a couple of very thin, very small pieces of fabric. $58 seems wildly high.The Club Ride June chamois, for instance, comes in at $40 and my favorite budget brief from Baleaf costs even less. Shelling out the extra dough for these might be painful. Shredly GlovesLooking for a pair of well fitting, super CUTE gloves for trail riding? These might be your jam.Pros:Super cute colors, designsLightweight, breathable constructionFit well, multiple sizesCons:Less protection & less durable than more substantial glovesFit Female Hands. And Look Cute!One of my biggest complaints about mountain bike gloves are that theyre usually unisex and come in like 3 sizes, leaving the size small to supposedly fit all women. Needless to say, I never feel like I get a great fit with those gloves.The Shredly gloves on the other hand, are sized for women, and come in SIX sizes, so youre ensured to get a good fit. That right there is reason enough to buy these gloves. I followed the Shredly size chart, and what do you know, my gloves fit like a glove, ha!Because they fit well I feel like I have more dexterity to do things with the gloves on. Im not constantly taking them on and off out on the trail. The fingers actually work with the touchscreen on my phone too, so thats helpful. Finally, theyre incredibly cute. They come in a wider variety of prints, and match the rest of the Shredly apparel. So you can put together a super cute fit that includes your gloves.Lightweight And BreathableFor summer riding, these are awesome. Theyre lightweight (you can actually feel the grips thru them) and the thin uppers provide good airflow. Weve had ridiculously hot weather in Boise this summer, and these gloves have been my top choice on sweaty days.The flip side, of course, is that the thinner construction makes them less durable. (Ill likely need a new pair in the spring). And they provide less protection for gravity riding or on overgrown trails. Oh, and theyre not great for winter riding (duh). Lifes a trade-off. Pick whats most important to you. More Mountain Bike Clothing OptionsLooking for cute stuff to wear on the bike? Make sure to check out these articles before you go!10 Best Womens Mountain Bike ShortsWhat To Wear Mountain Biking: Everything You Need To Know!9 Best Womens Mountain Bike PantsAbout The ReviewerKristen Bonkoski is the founder and owner of Femme Cyclist.An avid cyclist for a few decades now, she took to cycling during her late teen years a time when she needed something to help boost her self-esteem and confidence.Mission accomplished, the sport has become an important part of her life. Kristens favorite disciplines are mountain biking andbike commuting, although youcan also find her crankingout a century on her road bike and touring with her husband and son. If it has to do with two wheels, she enjoys doing it.Kristen is a certified USA Cycling coach, and she runsRascal Rides, a website about biking with kids.IG:@femme_cyclistThe post Review: Shredly Shorts, Pants, Chamois, & More appeared first on Femme Cyclist.

Adding to his points clasification lead, Wout Van Aert now also seizes control in the King of Mountains classification after having added 14 points to his tally in the thirteenth stage of Vuelta a Espana on top of finishing 5th on the very steep final climb.The Visma | Lease a Bike didn't really hav...

Looking for a pair of womens mountain bike pants for the downhill bike park or for the cooler days of autumn? Youre in the right place (and the right time).It was only a couple of years ago that most of the pants on this list didnt exist. Like most mountain bike apparel companies just forgot that women (and cooler weather and aggressive riding) even existed. Fortunately, thats not the case today. There are plenty of really excellent options. To help you choose amongst them, weve personally tested as well as surveyed our community to figure out which ones are best. Of course, no one pant is the best for all types of riding or all body types. For that reason, weve tried to include a wide range of womens mountain bike pantsones for downhill riding, trail riding, wet and cold riding, ones for skinny women, curvy women, and tall women.Read on to find the best pair for YOU.Photo Credit: DharcoOur Top PicksPantGreat ForPriceWild Rye FreyahDownhill riding$199Pactimo Range PantTrail riding$110Dharco GravityDownhill riding$156Club Ride Joannie CapriTrail riding$89Shredly All Time PantDownhill riding$148Peppermint MTB OverallTrail or downhill$190Pearl Izumi Trail LaunchTrail riding$150Wild Rye FreyahPrice: $199Buy at Wild-Rye.comIm pretty crazy in love with all things Wild Rye, so its not a surprise that the Wild Rye Freyah is at the top of this list. This is a slim pant and is designed primarily for downhill bike park riding, but can go over fleece leggings for winter trail riding as well. Like all things Wild Rye, the Freyah is designed specifically for womeninstead of being a shrink it and pink it affair. The pant fits women of all leg lengths thanks to the cute, rollable cuffs.The material is the same stretchy nylon that I love on my Wild Rye Freel shorts. Its comfortable, fits well, and is great at repelling dirt. So you can wear these several times before they need to be washed.The only thing to be aware of is that these pants have faded over time and much faster than I would have preferred. I still wear them but theyre not quite as cute as they once were. Read Our Review: Wild Rye FreyahPactimo Range PantsPrice: $110Buy at Pactimo.comThe Pactimo Range Pants are very well the most comfortable mountain bike pants around. Or maybe just the most comfortable pants around, period.These are a looser fit than many of the other moto style pants listed here and are great for trail riding or bikepacking. They can also easily be worn off the bike for hiking or other outdoor activities.They do a great job of shedding dirt and rain, and can be used like a rain pant in light drizzle.My only complaint was that they could be quick to wrinkle if you dont grab them from the dryer right away. Read Our Review: Pactimo Range PantsDharco GravityPrice: $156Buy at Evo.comThe Dharco Gravity pants are tight, yes, but theyre also super stretchy. Think of them kind of like your favorite pair of pants you put on after youve eaten too much.The material isnt only stretchy, its also durable and water-repellant. That makes these great for long, wet rides in the PNW. I also really appreciate that the waistband is a separate tapered panel and that the back comes up high enough that you dont ever have to worry about plumbers crack. Do be aware that these pants fit a little tight, and it can be tricky finding the right size on their fit chart.Read Review: Dharco GravityClub Ride Joanie CapriPrice: $89.95Buy at ClubRide.comSomewhere between a short and a pant, the Club Ride Joannie Capri provides just another warmth and coverage for shoulder season riding. In fact, these are my go-to bottoms for autumn riding.The pants are loose fitting and unlike many mountain bike pants that claim to work well with knee pads, these ones actually do. The bottom cuff is feminine and cute as well.If you plan on wearing the Joanie around town, it works well for that as well. There are reflective accents for added visibility on the road, and the pants dont scream bike pants, so they can be worn to the pub or the store and still look good.They do show dirt easily, but are easy to dust off. Read Our Review: Club Ride Joannie CapriShredly All Time PantPrice: $148Buy at REI.comThe Shredly All Time Pant is my recent go-to for downhill bike park days, thanks to its performance BUT also to how dang cute they are! The design is moto-inspired design with a feminine flair. These pants offer a flattering fit, plenty of room to move, and a slim profile that wont snag on your bike. Theyre equipped with long ankle zippers that allow easy access to knee padsa huge win for anyone who hates wearing pads while driving up the mountain.That said, there are a couple of downside for more aggressive gravity riders. The pants lack reinforced knees and a crash replacement policy.Available in a wide range of sizes (0-24), they feature a stretchy waistband for a comfy, adjustable fit. Plus, with four roomy zippered pockets, theres enough space to stash essentials like lift passes, snacks, and your phone.Finally, of the downhill pants on this list, theyre the most affordable. That means youll have more cash for snacks at the end of the day. Read Review: Shredly All Time PantPearl Izumi Womens Launch Trail PantPrice: $150Buy at PearlIzumi.comDesigned for trail riding, the Pearl Izumi Launch pant is equal parts comfortable and functional. These pants work so well, youll forget youre wearing them.Our favorite thing about the Launch pant are the large, usable pocketssomething we dont see a lot of with womens mountain bike clothing. The pant has a looser fit but is tapered at the bottom with an elastic cuff.While these pants work best for shoulder weather riding, there is enough room underneath that you can wear leggings for winter riding.Con? It only comes in one color (grey). Read Our Review: Pearl Izumi Launch Trail PantPeppermint MTB OverallPrice: $190Buy at PeppermintCycling.comIve received more compliments on the Peppermint MTB Overall than any other piece in my bike wardrobe. The overalls are both unique and playful. The fit is flattering and comfortable, and the stretchy, adjustable straps make it easy to tailor to your shape. The lightweight, elastic material allows for easy movement and comfortable long rides. With generous pocket space, these overalls also ticked the box for practicality.However, there were a couple of drawbacks that came with the design. For one, using the restroom outdoors was a bit tricky given the one-piece nature of the overalls. Also, there was a lack of reinforcement in the knee and butt areas that couldve offered added protection for more challenging rides. Overall, I was more than happy to put up with these minor drawbacks for how cute and comfortable they are. Read Our Review: Peppermint MTB OverallAbout The Reviewers And How We TestedKristen Bonkoski was the lead tester and is the founder and owner of Femme Cyclist. Kristen is a certified USA Cycling coach, and an avid mountain biker. IG:@kristenlbonkoskiJane Gerritsenbought her first mountain bike at age 52 as retirement prep and since that time, themountain bike community has opened up her world to new goals, new adventures and best of all, new friends. She is most grateful for her time at home, where she is learning to renovate her garage, try new recipes, write, and of course, plan her next mountain bike adventure.Malorie Gagehas been mountain biking, road, gravel cycling for many years. She lives in Colorado where shes raising two tiny humans and balancing biking and motherhood.Were all mountain bike obsessed, so we tested these pants by just going about our regular lives. Kristen lives in Idaho and has traveled to bike parks all over the west, including Whistler, putting pants to the challenge on downhill runs. Jane lives in Ontario and bikes year round, testing pants on snowy trails. And Malorie tests pants for us by riding high alpine trails in Colorado. You can rest easy knowing these pants have been crashed in, traveled with, and put through numerous wash cycles in our testing. Things To Consider When ShoppingStill not sure what pair of pants are best for you? Here are some things we like to keep in mind when making a purchase.Type Of RidingLike most things in life, no one pair of pants is really going to do it all. Therefore its important to consider what the primary use these pants are going to get.Are you planning on racing BMX? Do you have a season pass the downhill bike park? In these cases, you want to look for more tailored pants, with plenty of protection, that still offer room for knee pads.If youre planning on trail riding, you may or may not need room for knee pads, but you probably want a more casual, comfortable vibe. Weather ConditionsIf you are going to be riding the bike park or BMX track in the summer, you want a pant with plenty of breathability (like the Fly Racing Lite). For autumn riding, I really love a casual capri like the Club Ride Joanie. And for winter, I want something thats treated for wet weather and that offers enough room for layering.Waist ClosureJust like with mountain bike shorts, a good waist closure is imperative to loving a pair of pants. We prefer bottoms that have an adjustable waistband. With mountain bike pants, these are likely to be a velcro strap, though on race-oriented pants, youll also find some pants have a ratchet closure. Finally a higher panel at the back is preferable so you dont have to worry about plumbers crack. Room For Knee PadsDo you want or need to wear knee pads with your pants? If you do, make sure to take this into consideration because a surprising number of pants do NOT work well with pads. Additionally, if youre trail riding and plan to take the pads on or off youll want a pant with a wider ankle. Many downhill oriented pants, require you to put the pads on BEFORE putting your pants on, which means its no small feat to get the pads on or off on the trail.Room For Chamois And/Or LayersDo you want to wear a chamois with your pants? Or wear a pair of leggings underneath for colder weather. If so, youll want to steer clear of some of the tighter fitting pants which are designed not to wear additional layers underneath.Fabric WeightThe heavier the fabric, the more durable it will be and the more protection it will provide in a crash. That said, heavier fabric can also be hotter and less comfortable. Pick your poison.The other thing you might want to look for are reinforced knees and bottoms. This can offer a good balance between durability, protection, and comfort. Women Specific?Our favorite bottoms are designed specifically for women (think Wild Rye). Way to many womens mountain bike pants are actually smaller versions of their best-selling mens pants. This doesnt always result in a great fit for females.SizingSimilar to the point above, we appreciate companys that offer a wide range of sizes for women. Mountain bikers dont come in just one size!Weve found we get the best fit from brands that offer true clothing sizes (2,4,6,8, etc) as opposed to those that only offer small, medium, and large. More Stuff You Might Like5 Best Womens Mountain Bike Shorts & How To Choose!7 Best Womens Mountain Bike Helmets9 Womens Mountain Bike Jerseys You Will LoveAbout The AuthorKristen Bonkoski is the founder and owner of Femme Cyclist.An avid cyclist for a few decades now, she took to cycling during her late teen years a time when she needed something to help boost her self-esteem and confidence.Mission accomplished, the sport has become an important part of her life. Kristens favorite disciplines are mountain biking andbike commuting, although youcan also find her crankingout a century on her road bike and touring with her husband and son. If it has to do with two wheels, she enjoys doing it.Kristen is a certified USA Cycling coach, and she runsRascal Rides, a website about biking with kids.IG:@femme_cyclistThe post Best Womens Mountain Bike Pants I Tested appeared first on Femme Cyclist.

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Whether youre looking for a new pair of chamois to go under your favorite pair of mountain bike baggies, some padded cycling underwear to wear to spinning class, or a good bike liner short to wear on your bicycle commute to work, youve come to the right place. Weve personally tested every pair of chamois on this list, and narrowed it down to ten of our favorite pairs of padded cycling underwear to help make your ride a little bit more comfortable. Well also discuss what you should look for in bike underwear (also known as a chamois) so you pick the right pair for your bottom side.But First..Whats A Chamois?If youre already familiar with chamois and bike shorts, you can skip this section.That said, a lot of women searching for a pair of cycling underwear arent familiar with the term. A chamois is a pad thats sewn into your bike shorts or a liner that goes under your shorts (or pants or skirt). If you already have padded bike shorts, then youre good to go. You dont need a liner! But if you have a pair of baggy mountain bike shorts without padding OR you want to wear padded underwear under a skirt, dress, or pair of regular shorts, then youll want to look for a liner with a chamois. A good chamois is one of the most important factors to a womans enjoyment on the bike, and yet one of the most ignored. Many of us simply accept the sub-par chamois that came in our favorite bike shorts or skip the padding all together because its just not comfortable.If youve been struggling with pain or chafing on the bike, then its probably time to try a new liner or pair of padded shorts. Our Favorite Bike Chamois/UnderwearWhat We LovePrice (List)POC Re-Cycle BoxerSoft, recycled polyester material$80Shredly Biker ChamBeautiful colors and prints$98Club Ride JuneDoesnt feel like a diaper$40Club Ride Drift ChamoisMedium thickness chamois$50Club Ride MontchamComfort for long rides$60Baleaf Cycling UnderwearBudget pick$21.99 *Shredly Seamless Hipster Minimalistic for folks who want less$58Wild Rye Eleanor ChammySuper comfy pad and waist$115Terry Mixie LinerPairs well with cycling skirts$53Terry Universal LinerSmall pad fits smaller women$40* Last updated: 2023-10-07 at 09:58 More InfoPOC Re-Cycle BoxerPrice: $70 ListBuy at Amazon.comPOC makes my favorite helmets, and I rather dig their Re-Cycle short liner as well. The material on these boxer-briefs are super soft, and it is made from (you guessed it) recycled polyester. It is breathable and quick drying, even when being tested in Florida heat and humidity. Compared to their previous liner (the Essentials boxer), the Re-Cycle brief is cut a bit more generously (not to tight) and is a bit more affordable. These were are two cons about the previous bottom, so were happy to see them addressed in the Re-Cycle.The other change is that the POC liner now has a more substantial chamois and is suitable even for multi-hour epics. This is great for those looking for plenty of padding, but steer away if you want a more minimalistic pad. Malorie, whos the mom of two little ones, also appreciated that the waistband is comfortable and didnt dig in. The only complaint is that theres no elastic or other gripper on the leg, and they have a tendency of riding up. Read Our Review: POC Womens Essential BoxerShredly Biker ChamPrice: $98Buy at REI.comThe Shredly Biker Cham is probably the prettiest chamois liner youll ever seeso go ahead, let it peak out the bottom of your shorts or even wear it on its own. Theres nothing that screams underwear about the Biker Cham so you can easily wear it under your baggies OR by itself.It comes in several adorable colors and prints and coordinates well with Shredly shorts. The perforation at the bottom adds a little feminine touch. We also really like that there is a pocket (unusual!) thats big enough to fit a phone (or in my caseemergency cash and ID). The other unusual thing about this chamois is the high-waist and wide waistband. This does a good job of keeping the belly tucked in, and doesnt dig into your midsection. While I like this when I wear the bottoms on their own, its a bit awkward when paired with baggie shorts. Read Review: Shredly Biker ChamClub Ride June, Drift, And Montcham ChamoisPrice: $40 (June), $50 (Drift), $60 (Montcham)Buy at ClubRideApparel.comClub Ride makes my favorite chamois liners. In fact, all three of their chamois options are good enough to make this list. Club Rides chamois liner range is cleverly categorized by suggested ride times: 1, 2, and 3 hours. That said, your personal preference (how thick you like a chamois) should be the primary guide in choosing a liner, rather than the ride time recommendation. The liners vary in padding thickness and inseam length. The 1-hour June liner is the most minimalistic. The padding is thin and ideal for those who prefer a lighter chamois. Despite its suggested one-hour limit, it can comfortably be used for longer rides, especially for minimalists or for spin classes.The June liner is notable for its short inseam, allowing it to fit under most shorts (even short shorts). It has soft, stretchy fabric which is comfortable and non-irritating, but its lack of elastic bands at the bottom can lead to the legs rolling up during a ride.June chamoisDrift chamoisMonthcam chamoisThe 2-hour Drift liner will be the best choice for most women. It strikes a good balance between padding and bulkiness. This liner is suitable for a wide range of rides and riders, with breathable fabric and padding that provides adequate support for all but the very longest rides. The lack of elastic bands on the legs is a plus for those with skin sensitivities, though it can lead to the legs riding up (just like with the June). Finally, the 3-hour Montcham liner is designed for longer rides and has more substantial padding than the June or Drift. It also offers more compression which might be a concern for those with muscular thighs. Additionally, its longer inseam length makes it more challenging to fit under shorts. All three chamois now come in really adorable prints and colors as well. Read Our Review: Club Ride Chamois Baleaf Cycling UnderwearPrice: $30 ListBuy at Amazon.comThe Baleaf Cycling Underwear is my #1 pick for women on a budget. Even though these are entry level bike underwear, I still wear them quite often even though theyre tucked in my drawer with much more expensive options.These are great undies for women brand new to cycling, for use at spinning class, or for bike commuting. The padding is moderate, and works great for all but the longest rides.The waistband and chamois are comfortable, although they arent seamless. If you have really sensitive skin you may want to upgrade.Read Our Review: Baleaf Cycling UnderwearShredly Seamless HipsterThe Shredly Seamless Hipster is a minimalist chamois designed to be worn under any short, even short shorts. Unlike the Shredly Biker Cham, these cant be worn alone, but their seamless design (except for a small seam at the hips) prevents chafing and irritation, making them a great option for those with sensitive skin or who tend to get saddle sores.The chamois is incredibly thin, much like what youd find in tri shorts, which is perfect if you dislike the bulky feel of traditional padded liners. However, this minimal padding might not provide enough comfort for longer rides. And while theyre great for preventing the chafing and saddle sores that thicker chamois can sometimes cause, the price is a bit steep at $58, especially considering the thin fabric.If youre looking for a barely-there chamois that can be worn under anything, the Seamless Hipster is a good pick, but youll have to decide if the premium price is worth it for such a minimalistic option.Read Review: Shredly Seamless HipsterWild Rye Eleanor ChammyPrice: $115Buy at Wild RyeLike the Shredly chamois, the Wild Rye Eleanor Chammy is designed to be worn with or without shorts over it. Its incredibly adorableand comfortable too. We really like the waist on the Eleanor which is far superior to most. Its wide, stays in place, and doesnt dig in. Like the Shredly chamois, however, the high waist can be awkward if paired with baggies with a lower waist. The padding is incredibly soft and comfortableand is made in Italy to boot. Of course, that helps add to the price.which is really high. This is the most expensive chamois liner on this list. Is it worth the price? Probably yes, if you plan to wear these as both a short and liner. If youre only gonna use it as a liner, there are less attractive but equally comfortable chamois. Full review coming soon!Terry Womens Mixie Bike Liner & Terry Universal Bike LinerTerry MixieTerry UniversalPrice: $53 (Mixie), $40 (Universal) ListBuy at TerryBicycles.comTerry is the leader in women-specific cycling apparel, so were notsurprisedthat their chamois is better than most. The Terry Mixie is a great choice for any women who prefer a minimalistic chamois. They also happen to come in pretty prints and coordinate well under the Terry Mixie skirt, or any cycling skirt for that matter. The Mixie is a bit longer than mostmore a short length than a boxer or briefwhich is great for those who prefer a little extra coverage but doesnt work as well under short shorts. The Terry Universal liner has the same urban chamois pad as the Mixie liner but is a little shorter (and only comes in black). This pad has a smaller surface area, which works well for upright, around town riding. But it also works great for women like me who are on the smaller side. No matter what type of riding Im doing, this chamois works well for my body. If you often find yourself feeling like youre wearing a diaper, or that the padding on your liner is too long or wide, youll like this one. If you like lots of padding, youll hate it! Both the Mixie and Universal liners are quite affordable, but dont have the same level of breathability of more expensive chamois like the POC Re-Cycle boxer or the Mons Royale Merino liner. Read Our Reviews: Terry Mixie and Terry UniversalAbout The Reviewers & How We Created This ListKristenMalorieAll the liners on this list were tested by either myself (Kristen Bonkoski) or fellow Femme Cyclist product tester Malorie Gage. These are chamois that we have either loved and worn for years, or that we bought and tested on the recommendation of our amazing Femme Cyclist community.We tested them by going about our normal business: going on mountain bike rides in Idaho, Colorado, and Florida, doing a Saturday brewery tour by bike, and heading out to the bike trainer in the garage. Every liner has been worn for countless hours and gone thru just as many wash cycles. What To Consider When Choosing A Bike Short LinerNot sure which of these liners are best for you? Read on for some tips on how to choose.Type of RidingWhat type of riding are you going to be doing? Depending on whether you are going to be commuting, riding around town, or mountain biking, your choice might be different. Mountain Bike Chamois While most (but not all) baggy mountain bike shorts come with a pair of chamois, we actually prefer to buy our chamoisseparately. Why? Just like every woman is different, so is every womans underside. Some women prefer skinny chamois, while others like more padding. If you are experiencing chafing, saddle sores, or general discomfort, chances are, switching your chamois might help.The other awesome thing about buyingseparatechamois is that you can wear them with any short. And you can wear the same pair of shorts several times while putting on a fresh liner everydaywhich is particularly nice when doing a week-longbike packingtrip, for instance.Best Choices For You: POC boxer, Shredly Biker Cham, Wild Rye Eleanor Chammy, Club Ride DriftCommuting / Recreational RidingWhether youre riding to work or simply cruising the bike path on the weekend, chances are you dont want to don lycra bike shorts. The good news is that you can put some padded cycling underwear under your favorite skirt, shorts, or pants, and cruise in comfort. Instead of a more bulky chamois look for a liner with a minimalistic chamois. Chances are you are riding shorter distances and dont want a bulky diaper under your outfit. The other thing to consider is the lengthif the liner has too long of an inseam, it might not work under your clothes. Best Choices For You: Terry Mixie, Terry Universal, Club Ride JuneSpinning / Indoor CyclingWhether youre headed to spin class or simply hitting up the trainer in the basement, youll probably want a more minimalistic chamois. Thats because when were riding indoors, we usually only ride for an hour or two.If you plan on wearing your liner under a pair of regular gym shorts, youll also want to make sure the inseam is pretty short.Best Choices For You: Baleaf UndiesRead Also: What NOT To Wear To Spin ClassChamois ThicknessOne thing to consider before ordering a pair of liners is how thick the chamois is. The thicker the chamois the better suited it is for longer rides, but even then, some women may prefer more minimalistic chamois.In fact, over time, you may want to experiment with chamois of different thicknesses to see what feels most comfortable for you.Chamois on this list with thicker pads include the Club Ride Montcham, the POC Re-Cycle Boxer, and the Wild Rye Eleanor. Thinner pads include the Terry Mixie and Universal liners, and the Club Ride June. Inseam LengthThe liners on this list vary quite a bit in terms of inseam length. Some really look like underwear, while others look like briefs, and some look like full-length shorts.Consider what you want to wear the liner underneath when choosing. Theres nothing worse than having your liner stick out of the bottom of your short legs.Material & StitchingMost of the liners on this list are made of a synthetic material. The Mons Royale, liner, however is made of merino wool. If you prefer natural materials, then that might make an easy decision for you. The other thing to consider is whether the bottoms are seamless. Women with very sensitive skin will want bottoms without any seams that rub. Seams can also help contribute to saddle sores. Ability To Wear The Liner By ItselfMost chamois liners are designed to be worn underneath baggy shorts (or pants). Some, however, can be worn with or WITHOUT a liner. Both the Wild Rye Eleanor Chammy and the Shredly Biker Cham are two options that work just as well on their own as they do under baggy shorts. This makes them nice if some days you like to wear baggys (to the bike park perhaps?) but other days like to go more minimalistic.More Reading to Make Sure Your Butt is HappyBike underwear isnt the only thing you can do to help your bottom side stay comfy on the bike. We also recommend picking a great saddle and possibly a chamois cream as well. Read on to learn more!9 Best Womens Bike Saddles & How To Choose!7 Best Chamois Creams for Women & How To Use It!How to Prevent and Heal Saddle SoresAre You Listening To The Femme Cyclist Podcast?!?A podcast for women who love bicycles! We we celebrate all forms of riding and all forms of women, so whether youre a road cyclist, mountain biker, or bike commuter, youll find your community here. Each week well week bring you interviews from inspiring women, and offer tips and tricks to help you thrive on the bike.The post Best Womens Cycling Underwear & Chamois Liners appeared first on Femme Cyclist.