Bib Shorts vs Padded Shorts: What Every Cyclist Needs to Know

Padded Shorts: A Half-Measure

Padded cycling shorts are shorts with a padding liner. The padding isn't integrated with the shorts, so you'll expect a lot of friction (which leads to irritation!) during your ride. Beginners typically gravitate to padded cycling shorts for their simplicity, but you'll eventually transition to cycling bib shorts as your cycling wisdom grows.

Advantages:

• Ease of Wear: No straps, so you can slip them on and off like regular shorts.
• More Affordable: Typically cost less than bib shorts, making them an entry-level option.

Drawbacks:

• Waistband Pressure: The elastic waistband can dig in, especially on longer rides, leading to discomfort.
• Less Secure Fit: No integration between padding liner and shorts, so expect irritation issues.
• Prone to Butt cracks: Because of your sitting position on the saddle, padded shorts may cause you to flash your buttcrack to the public. That's just not a civilized thing to do!

Bib Shorts: The Gold Standard

Bib shorts take things to the next level by keeping the padding, and adding shoulder straps to keep the shorts in place. The shoulder straps allow the shorts to move with your body and reduce friction (so no irritation!). Designed for longer rides and maximum comfort, cycling bibs are a favorite among cyclists of all levels.

Advantages:

• No Waistband: The absence of a waistband eliminates pressure on your stomach, making bib shorts far more comfortable for extended rides.
• Stay-Put Fit: The straps keep the shorts in place and the padding is integrated into the shorts.
• Enhanced Comfort: Bib shorts were developed in the cycling professional scene, so expect to put in multiple hours on the saddle with less friction and discomfort than with bike shorts.

Drawbacks:

• More Complex to Wear: Getting in and out of bib shorts can be a bit more involved.
• Higher Cost: Bib shorts tend to be pricier, but the added comfort often justifies the investment.

Which One Should You Choose?

The decision between padded shorts and bib shorts ultimately comes down to how you ride and what you value most in your cycling gear.

• For Beginners: Padded shorts may do the trick in the short-term as you're acclimating to riding a bike again.
• For Longer Rides or Maximum Comfort: Bib shorts are worth the investment if you're planning on riding longer distances or want to avoid discomfort altogether.

Why Civilized Bibs Recommends Bib Shorts

At Civilized Bibs, we believe that comfort isn't just a luxury—it's essential. That's why we're all about bib shorts.

With our bibs, you'll experience:

• A Fit That Stays Put: Say goodbye to shifting shorts and uncomfortable waistbands.
• Premium Padding: Designed for real riders who want to feel good during and after every ride.
• A Better Overall Experience: We take the cycling bib shorts and improve upon it: side zippered pockets to hold your essentials, a fly zipper for bathroom breaks, and a more modest look (cause who wants to wear spandex in public?).

Final Thoughts