The Difference Between Women’s and Men’s Bib Shorts

Some sportswear is unisex and chosen by athletes  based on personal preference. However, when it comes to cycling bib shorts, these have been specifically crafted for male and female anatomy to ensure maximum comfort for the differences in body shape of men and women. But how do they differ and what are the key features of this cycling gear that makes all the difference.

Differences in the Fit of Men’s and Women’s Cycling Bibs

Regardless of height and weight, men and women’s anatomy differ in many ways, which is taken into consideration when designing and manufacturing bib shorts. Men for the most part have smaller hips and broader shoulders, which changes the design of the straps and height of the short. Women are often narrower in the waist and back which determines where the shorts sit for maximum comfort. 

Let us break this down further:

• Waistband height: The height of the waistband is crucial for aerodynamics, protection against the elements and also comfort around the stomach. Too high and the shorts will dig in, too low and the straps can be under strain, causing pressure on the shoulders,  or ride down. Men’s bib shorts are often made with a wider waistband compared to women's, however women’s are often slightly higher waisted. These differences are based on the rider's need and stance on the bike. 

• Length of bib shorts: The length of the bib shorts is one of the biggest differences, apart from the chamois. Men’s shorts are often longer than women’s and are made up of less fabric panels than women’s. However, with the advancements in quality fabric and design, there are many similarities in both the men’s and women’s bib shorts from GOREWEAR.

• Strap width: Other brands of bib shorts have straps which are separated at the back, or are thinner, compared to those made by GOREWEAR. With the Distance Bib shorts 2.0, GOREWEAR have made the straps  the same between women’s and mens so as to be in one solid piece, with zero seams to ensure comfort for every rider.

What is a Bib Short Chamois?

The chamois (pronounced ‘shammy) is designed to provide comfort, sanitation and protection when riding. As it is the connecting piece between you and the saddle, it is the core piece of your bib short and designed with several layers and varying levels of firmness to meet different styles of riding. But what are the differences for male and female riders.

The Features of Bib Shorts Chamois

There are various features between women’s and men’s bib shorts that make them suitable for the gender they are designed for. 

Women’s vs Men’s Bib Short Chamois

• Padding Shape & Cut: The shape and cut of women’s chamois tend to be wider, with additional padding throughout to provide protection from the saddle. The chamois in men’s shorts tend to be longer and narrower, with less material in the centre.

• Seat Pad Length: The length of a women’s chamois is often shorter compared to the designs used for men’s bib shorts.

• Sanitation: Breathability is one of the most important features of the fabric used in the chamois . Originally, leather was used but advancements in fabric technology have seen fleece and foam take over and provide the needed breathability and sweat wicking properties that are required. 

Do You Need To Wear Underwear With Bib Shorts?

Due to the design and technology, underwear is not required to be worn under bib shorts as this can prevent the technology from working properly and cause saddle sore. The fabrics are design to reduce the effects that moisture will have on the skin, especially during long rides, so by adding an extra barrier, this prevent the seat pad doing it’s job.

Can Men Wear Women’s Bib Shorts?

It is not advised that men wear women’s bib shorts and visa-versa due to the cut, shape and style of the bib shorts. Riders may find that there is chafing, tightness on the shoulders and seat pads cause discomfort.

However, finding the right bib shorts can be difficult without the right size guide to help make the decision. Fortunately GOREWEAR has a full Guide to Choosing Bib Shorts to help riders understand how these should sit on the body and differ from traditional shorts.

The Importance Of The Right Bib Shorts To Improve Performance

The right bib shorts can aid performance as they are designed to feel like a second skin. Close fitting without restriction, freedom of movement without baginess and breathable with protection from the elements.

Worn with the right base layers and cycling jerseys, bib shorts are ideal for those that are looking for an all-in-one fit when hitting the roads and trails.