Bib Shorts for Women and Men

Bib shorts—known as cycling shorts with shoulder straps in German—are tight-fitting cycling shorts with integrated shoulder straps instead of a waistband. The straps reliably keep the shorts in position without a tight elastic band around the stomach and prevent them from slipping while riding. Combined with an ergonomic seat pad, bib shorts are the comfort standard for ambitious road, gravel, and triathlon cyclists.

“Bib” comes from English and means bib. Bib shorts are therefore cycling bib shorts: short cycling shorts that are held up by straps over the shoulders instead of a waistband. In German, they are also known as suspender shorts. The straps keep the shorts and chamois securely in position without pressing against the stomach.

Classic cycling shorts are held in place by an elastic waistband, while bib shorts feature shoulder straps. This eliminates any pressure on the stomach – a clear advantage on longer rides, in a low riding position, and when breathing under exertion. Bib shorts are therefore considered the most comfortable and performance-oriented solution for sporty cycling.

The size is primarily determined by hip circumference and height – both of which you can find in our Size Chart directly on the product page. Bib shorts should fit snugly without digging in: only then will the chamois sit correctly and creasing will be avoided. If in doubt, choose the smaller size, as the material settles slightly when worn.

No – bib shorts are generally worn without underwear. The integrated chamois is designed specifically for direct contact with the skin, wicks moisture away and helps prevent chafing and hot spots. Wearing underwear under bib shorts would create seams that can cause pressure points and skin irritation.

With modern bib shorts, it's easier than you think: take off or roll up the jersey, slip the straps over your shoulders and pull the shorts down – done. However, there are also some women's models that feature additional practical comfort solutions such as elastic straps.

Our women's thermal bib shorts offer a pee-friendly solution: thanks to thoughtfully designed straps, the shorts can be pulled down in one motion without having to completely remove the jersey or straps – the crucial comfort advantage on longer rides. Discover here. 

Bib shorts should be washed after every ride – preferably inside out on a delicate cycle at 30 °C, without fabric softener and without a dryer. Fabric softener attacks the elastane fibers and the chamois, while high temperatures and heat destroy elasticity. Air drying preserves fit, function and lifespan the longest.

Depending on care and training volume, a high-quality bib short lasts around 15,000 to 25,000 kilometers. At the latest when the seat pad is visibly worn thin, the fabric becomes transparent, or the straps lose their tension, it is time for a new model – otherwise, worn-out pads quickly lead to pressure points.

Yes – bib shorts are particularly recommended for women because the absence of a waistband offers more comfort. Women's bib shorts have anatomically shaped seat pads, a feminine-specific cut, and often special strap systems that make them easier to put on and take off. You can find our selection in the collections for men and women.