After a bike helmet, a pair of padded bike shorts is the next essential item for cyclists. For starters, they prevent friction, pain, and numbness in the sit bones and nether regions. The best cycling shorts also boast moisture-wicking materials and compression to maximize pedal power and endurance.
Choosing the right pair of padded bike shorts for men takes some work. Besides the bib versus standard short conversation, there are differences in padding (known as chamois), breathability, fit, and price point to consider. When comparing options, I look for padded bike shorts made with a blend of quick-drying and stretchy materials. I also prefer chamois pads that have a denser foam in the sit bones, as I tend to ride in a more upright riding position that favors endurance over speed. To help streamline your search, we’ve tested 46 pairs of padded bike shorts for men and women on a series of test rides to find the best options for comfort, fit, performance, quality, and value.
Credit: Amazon
The Sponeed Padded Cycling Shorts stood out on a number of fronts. We loved that they didn’t require any adjustment while riding. This snug fit didn’t sacrifice comfort either: there was no pinching at the waist and the leg grippers stayed put without tugging on leg hair. We found the chamois padding very comfortable without being too bulky, too. The channels between the chamois panels further enhance the ventilation while preventing bunching.
We initially had some concerns about the durability of the thin and stretchy materials, but the shorts have held up well and retained their compressive fit and shape throughout multiple washes. Although the Sponeed shorts are a bit minimalist, with no pockets or reflective details, the performance afforded by the entry-level price is an excellent value.
The Details: Size S to 3XL | Polyester and spandex
Credit: Pearl iZumi
Long-distance riders will appreciate the snug, yet flexible fit and lasting support of the Pearl iZumi Men’s Expedition Bib Shorts. We found the fit to be true to size and incredibly comfortable. The wide shoulder straps, elastic leg grips, and overall compressive fit kept everything in place while riding—so much so that we never had to adjust them on multi-hour rides. The chamois delivered all the support we needed between us and the bike seat without restricting any movement.
The material felt soft to the touch and did a great job keeping us dry, even when working up a sweat on hot days. It’s also thicker than some bib shorts we’ve worn, giving us confidence that these can be worn for three-season use. The addition of two thigh pockets adds convenience for carrying a phone, snacks, or other small essentials, though cyclists may find them unnecessary if using a bike bag or jersey pockets. Between the lasting comfort, supportive fit, and quality materials, we think these bib shorts are a great value for beginners and serious cyclists alike.
The Details: Size S to 3XL | Recycled nylon and elastane | 10.5-inch inseam
Credit: Amazon
From the first wear, we were impressed with the fit of the GoreWear Ultimate Bib Shorts+. Everywhere felt supported and not once did the legs ride up. The seams are sewn flat to avoid chafing and the multi-layered seat padding was firm enough to reduce pressure on the sit bones, yet soft enough to have unrestricted movement in the legs. This proved to be the case on a 60-mile ride, as well as while riding a stationary bike.
Though we found the elastic bib straps a bit tight on our first ride, we hardly notice they’re there now. All areas of the shorts felt breathable and flexible on our rides. Of note, the padding is designed with three layers to promote air flow, plus it uses hydrophobic materials to reduce sweat absorption.
The Details: Size XS to XL | Polyamide and elastane
Credit: Pearl iZumi
Comfortable bike shorts aren’t just about padding—keeping moisture at bay is another major factor to consider. The Pearl iZumi Men’s Attack Bib Shorts are made from a nylon and spandex blend that is breathable and supportive. The transfer mesh in the bib upper and straps did a great job at wicking away sweat. After racking up miles on multi-hour rides, hanging and airing out the shorts was enough to dry them out in under an hour.
We were fans of the Levitate chamois, which offered just the right amount of padding for the sit bones. The laser-cut leg openings are equipped with silicone grippers that keep the shorts firmly in place on our rides. We also appreciate that the shorts are available in multiple color options—both for style and enhancing visibility on the road.
The Details: Size XS to XXL | Recycled nylon and elastane | 10.5-inch inseam
Other Men’s Padded Bike Shorts We Liked
Among the many bike shorts we tested, there were a couple of pairs that stood out to us, but didn’t quite make the list. If you’re still weighing your options, here’s a quick look at two additional pairs of padded bike shorts.
Velocio Men’s Concept Bib Short: While we were fans of the secure fit and construction quality, the price tag was more than double some other pairs with comparable performance.
Zoic Men’s Ether Cycling Short and Liner: We appreciated the durable materials and extended length for handling off-road cycling, but we weren’t impressed with the quality of the chamois.
Our Testing Process
The T+L team has evaluated 46 different pairs of padded bike shorts for men and women since 2022. We wore each pair on a variety of test rides, ranging from intensive 60-mile treks to more leisurely commutes, as well as working out on stationary bikes. Prior to taking them for a test spin, we examined the materials and construction, paying close attention to the stitching, padding, leg bands, and overall quality. Then, we hopped on a bike to put each pair to the test.
We took stock of how the padding performed throughout our rides, how supportive and compressive the shorts were, and the fabric’s breathability and moisture-wicking capabilities. We repeated this for at least two one-hour rides and washed them according to the care instructions. After washing, we donned the bike shorts again to see whether the comfort, padding, or fit had altered in any way. After this initial round of testing, we assessed each pair’s fit, comfort, performance, quality, and value. We’ll continue cycling in them in the coming months and gathering insights to update this list.
Travel + Leisure
Tips for Buying Men’s Padded Bike Shorts
Look for supportive, yet breathable materials
Bike shorts should feel like a second skin to get optimal performance and support. The compression is not just about aerodynamics—it also aids in circulation to reduce muscle fatigue and keep you pedaling harder and longer. To provide a balance of compressive support and breathability, many cycling shorts use a blend of nylon and spandex (sometimes called elastane or Lycra). Keep an eye out for multi-layer and moisture-wicking chamois, too, as breathable padding can impact comfort on longer and more active rides. For bib shorts, look for pairs with cut outs and ventilated areas in the straps.
Get the right amount of padding
Whether you’re a casual or active cyclist, padding can make a huge difference between a joy ride and one you’d rather forget. Bike shorts padding is typically referred to as chamois. It’s sewn into the crotch and seat of the shorts to prevent chafing in sensitive areas and alleviate pressure points while seated on a bike. As you pedal and move around, the chamois should remain in place—a sign that the shorts are sized correctly.
The amount of padding depends in part on personal preference, but when you don your bike shorts, the chamois should align with your sit bones for optimal comfort and support in the saddle. In my experience, the plushness of the padding isn’t a definitive indicator of comfort. It’s also important that padding feels soft against the skin and effectively wicks away moisture.
Consider bibs or standard shorts
I owned multiple pairs of standard bike shorts before trying my first bib model. Part of my initial reluctance was the aesthetics, as well as thinking I wasn’t a “serious” enough cyclist to wear them. There are reasons to wear either style of bike shorts, but I’d recommend putting style and any perceptions of your own cycling experience aside in the decision making.
The main reason I love bib shorts is that they don’t depend on a waistband to keep the shorts in place. Instead, the shoulder straps and leg grippers help maintain a snug fit without the need for an elastic waistband, which also eases pressure in the abdomen. As noted above, keeping the chamois in place will reduce friction and help ensure lasting comfort throughout your ride. For multi-hour rides, the reliability and functionality of a bib short is worth it.
An advantage of standard shorts is that they’re easier to get on and off—a consideration to keep in mind when making pit stops. And while most bib straps are fairly breathable, standard shorts mean less material on your upper body, helping to keep you cool on hotter rides.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What do male cyclists wear under their bib shorts?
Bib shorts and padded bike shorts aren’t usually meant to be worn with anything underneath. Putting on underwear, for example, means more seams and a greater risk of chafing and discomfort. All the bike shorts on this list are designed to be worn against the skin for optimal comfort, moisture control, and performance.
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Should you size up or down in bike shorts?
Bike shorts should essentially fit like a second skin. In other words, they should be snug, but not too restrictive, especially along the waist. If your waist or hip measurements fall between sizes, you’ll likely want to size up. But it’s important to make sure that there isn’t any bunching or riding up with a larger size, as this can affect circulation and cause irritation.
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Do you wear shorts over padded bike shorts?
More layers can lead to chafing and impede the moisture-wicking capabilities of padded bike shorts. If you do opt to wear a pair of shorts over your padded bike shorts, choose a lightweight, quick-drying material that has minimal seams.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
Kevin Brouillard is a contributing writer for T+L, specializing in outdoor gear and apparel. Kevin is an avid cyclist and has even biked from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, to Da Nang, Vietnam, so he understands the importance of a quality pair of padded bike shorts. He used his first-hand cycling experience as well as T+L testing insights to curate this list of the best padded bike shorts.
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