How to Choose the Right Cycling Shorts & Leggings
Keep yourself comfortable on your next bike ride or commute to work, with a pair of bike shorts or leggings from our cycling range. Our leggings and shorts for cycling will allow for ease of movement, keeping you happy as you ride. Whether you're an avid cyclist or a leisurely rider, there is something for everyone in the Trespass range. Our range includes padded shorts, cycling leggings, and lightweight cycle shorts - suitable for men and women. You’ll also find a range of cycling clothing, from cycling jackets to bike helmets and accessories.
Padded Bikers
Heading on an extra-long cycle, or maybe you’re training for a triathlon? Either way, we have you covered. Our padded bikers feature gel inserts or foam pads designed to provide ultimate comfort on the saddle. Cycling shorts are one of the most important pieces of clothing for any keen cyclist - that’s why we’ve designed our padded cycling shorts with technical fabrics and built-in padding so that you can cycle full speed ahead.
Different styles of cycling shorts and cycling leggings are designed to suit specific riding styles and conditions.
- Padded cycling shorts: Designed for comfort on longer rides, padded cycling shorts include foam or gel padding that reduces pressure on the saddle and helps prevent discomfort over time.
- Road cycling shorts: Close fitting and aerodynamic, these shorts are built to reduce drag and support performance during road cycling and training sessions.
- MTB cycling shorts: Often looser in fit and made from more durable fabrics, MTB styles are suitable for mountain biking and trail riding, where freedom of movement matters.
- Bib shorts: Featuring shoulder straps instead of a waistband, bib shorts stay securely in place and distribute pressure evenly, making them popular for endurance rides.
- Cycling leggings: Full length options designed for cooler conditions, cycling leggings provide coverage, warmth, and comfort while maintaining flexibility on the bike.
Each option offers a different balance of support, coverage, and comfort depending on how and where you ride.
Materials, Performance, and Comfort
The performance of cycling shorts and cycling leggings depends heavily on the materials used and how they work together.
- Breathable materials: Help regulate temperature and keep skin dry by allowing sweat to escape during the ride.
- Stretch fabrics: Ensure the shorts fit snugly without restricting movement, supporting comfort and aerodynamics.
- Padding density (60–120 kg/m³): Higher density padding offers extra comfort and support on long rides, especially for endurance cycling.
- Moisture wicking construction: Reduces friction and helps prevent irritation by keeping the skin cool and dry.
These features work together to deliver comfort, durability, and reliable performance across different riding conditions.
Small design details can make a big difference to overall comfort and ride quality.
- Flat seams to reduce friction and prevent irritation
- Silicone leg grippers to keep shorts in place while riding
- Elastic waistbands or bib straps for secure support
- Breathable panels to improve airflow on warm rides
- Padding shaped to match riding position and saddle contact
Choosing cycling shorts with the right features helps reduce discomfort and improve focus on the bike.
Matching your cycling shorts or cycling leggings to how you ride helps ensure the best experience.
- City and casual riding: Lightweight, unpadded cycling shorts or leggings offer comfort for shorter distances and everyday use.
- Road cycling: Padded cycling shorts or bib shorts with an aerodynamic fit provide extra comfort and support on long rides.
- Mountain biking: Durable MTB shorts with a looser cut are better suited to trail riding and changing terrain.
- Training and endurance rides: Bib shorts with high density padding help maintain comfort and stability over extended time in the saddle.
- Cool weather cycling: Cycling leggings provide added warmth and coverage without compromising movement.
Choosing the right pair for your riding style helps improve comfort, performance, and enjoyment on every ride.
-
What’s the difference between bib shorts and regular cycling shorts?
- Bib shorts use shoulder straps instead of a waistband, which helps keep the shorts in place and reduces pressure around the waist. This design improves comfort on long rides by preventing movement and bunching. Regular cycling shorts are easier to put on and are often preferred for shorter or more casual rides.
-
Can I use cycling shorts for long distance rides?
- Yes, cycling shorts are specifically designed to support long distance riding. Padded cycling shorts reduce pressure on the saddle, minimise friction, and help prevent discomfort during extended time on the bike. Choosing the right padding density is especially important for endurance rides.
-
Do cycling shorts help prevent chafing and saddle sores?
- Cycling shorts help reduce chafing by using smooth, breathable fabrics and flat seams that limit friction against the skin. The padded insert also cushions contact with the saddle, which helps lower the risk of soreness on longer rides. Wearing them without underwear further improves comfort and performance.
