Bib Shorts vs. Cycling Shorts: What’s Best for Long Rides?

If you’re looking for cycling shorts on your next long ride, you’ve probably seen two choices: cycling shorts and cycling bib shorts. We often get asked which of the shorts is the better option, and our answer is - it depends.

Some customers prefer bibs while others gravitate to shorts. Either way, choosing the right one is important for longer rides, because you want to be as comfortable as possible, and your shorts can play a huge role.

In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between cycling bibs and cycling shorts. We hope this will help you understand which option suits your riding style and ensure your next ride is the most comfortable one yet.

Bib vs Cycling Shorts: Understanding the Basics  

What Are Bib Shorts?

Bib shorts are a type of cycling shorts with built-in suspenders (otherwise known as “bibs”) that go over your shoulders. These one-piece shorts are designed without a waistband, which means there’s little to no pressure on your stomach while riding long distances. 

Most bib shorts also come with high-quality chamois, making them ideal for long-distance riders. These are padded inserts sewn inside the shorts for added cushioning, moisture, and support.

Because they have added suspenders, bib cycling shorts are designed without a waistband, which reduces the pressure on your stomach while riding. They also tend to stay in place while you ride, preventing your shorts from riding down (any riders who have experienced lower back sunburn will know what we mean!)

Some of the popular cycling bibs in our online store are the Castelli Espresso Bibshort and Castelli Competizione Bibshort 

What Are Traditional Cycling Shorts?

Cycling shorts, on the other hand, are your more traditional, elastic-waist style shorts with padding. These bicycle shorts are designed to be mobile and simple and are generally more affordable than bibs. For many casual riders or commuters, they are a practical and simple choice.

While they might not be as snug as bibs, cycling shorts are lightweight, easy to wear, and often more budget-friendly. However, they are known to be less comfortable than bibs during longer rides.

Still, bicycle shorts are some of our customers favourite, particularly the Castelli Velocissimo IV Short and Castelli Entrata Cycling Short. 

Key Differences Between Bib Shorts and Cycling Shorts

At a glance, here’s the key difference between bibs and bicycle shorts. 

Comfort on Long Rides

So, which one is better for a longer ride? In reality, a big part of comfort comes from the quality of the chamois rather than cycling shorts or bibs. Good quality chamois can have better performance in absorbing shock, reducing pressure points, and preventing chafing. 

Bib shorts typically have a higher-end chamois with better contours and padding. Since they stay firmly in place, you also won’t get uncomfortable shifting or bunching as you ride. The other big advantage a bib short offers over a short is less chafing. The elastic band in shorts often fails to hold the chamois or shorts in the right place, causing unwanted rubbing. However, the straps on the bib shorts are better at holding the chamois in the right place, reducing movement that may cause chafing

Another big factor that can influence your decision is the fit. Because bibs avoid pressure on the waist, many riders find them more comfortable during long rides or in riding positions that compress the torso. 

However, everyone’s body is different. Some riders may find the straps annoying or too warm, especially in summer. Shorts are also less expensive than bibs, so many riders end up choosing shorts and later upgrade to bibs. 

If you're new to cycling or have a specific body type, we recommend trying both types of shorts before committing to find what works best for you.

The Pros and Cons

Bib Shorts

Pros

• No waistband, which may give better airflow and less pressure on the  stomach
  
• Stays firmly in place, no tugging or slipping
  
• Supportive fit, especially for long-distance rides
  
• Better coverage on the back, which prevents sunburn and is greater on cooler days

Cons

• Less convenient for bathroom breaks
• Can feel warm and stuffy in hot weather
• Usually a bit pricier
  
  

Cycling Shorts

Pros

• Easy to put on and take off
  
• Lightweight and breathable
  
• Budget-friendly and widely available

Cons

• Waistband can dig in, especially on longer rides
  
• More prone to moving or slipping while riding
  
• May have lesser support or structure for longer distances

What to Wear Based on Ride Length

If you’re wondering whether to wear bibs or regular shorts, here’s what we generally recommend based on your riding distance 

• Short rides (under 1 hour): Traditional cycling shorts will likely be fine. They’re quick, easy, and comfortable enough for a casual ride. 
  
  
• Medium rides (1–3 hours): Either option can work well here. If you're heading out regularly and comfort is becoming more important, you might start leaning toward bibs.
  
  
• Long rides (3+ hours): Possibly bib shorts. The secure fit, better support, and additional padding make them highly comfortable for hours-long wear. 

In saying that, both options are great for endurance cycling, and it really is a matter of preference. We recommend choosing your type of shorts based on what kind of feel you prefer. 

Choosing What’s Right for You

Here are a few tips to help you decide if bibs or shorts are right for you:

• Try them on: Always try bib shorts or cycling shorts in a riding position if possible. What feels good standing up might feel completely different once you're on the bike.
  
  
• Check the chamois: Whether bibs or shorts, always invest in high-quality chamois. That’s the part of the garment that will make the most difference in your bib or shorts! 
  
  
• Stitching and materials: Look for well-finished seams, breathable fabrics, and sturdy straps or waistbands in both options. 
  
  
• Weather conditions: If you mostly ride in hot climates, you may prefer lightweight shorts. But if you often ride in cooler weather, bib shorts give you extra warmth and coverage.

Key Takeaway

Choosing between bib shorts and cycling shorts is a personal preference. Many riders prefer bib shorts due to their fit and padding, but traditional cycling shorts are easy, convenient, and can also do the job well.

Need help finding the right pair for your next ride? See Rouleur’s range of cycling shorts and cycling bibs online, or visit us at our physical Cycling store in Auckland. Our friendly team is here to help you choose the right clothing that gives you the best comfort.