Inhaltsverzeichnis
The Women ALL... PEE?!
Marion has had enough. Laura has had enough, too. Johanna is annoyed and Marie thinks twice before taking a pee break along the way.
When Marion and Laura approached us in October to do a big Peefriendly bibtest on The Women All Ride, we didn’t have to think twice. It’s not for nothing that you, dear readers, ask us so often which bibs we can recommend. We hope to be able to give you answers with this article. Have fun reading!
Companies that claim to develop cycling apparel for women but don’t offer pee-friendly bibs aren’t developing cycling apparel for women. Period.
The most sensitive area when cycling, is the contact area around the saddle.
Due to the different seating positions, there is a lot of movement in there. In addition, the largest part of our body weight is stored there.
To minimize the stress on the tissue, many ride on longer distances with padded pants.
The pants are basically a construction to keep the padding (also called pad or chamois) in place. To do this, the pants must fit tightly.
In cycling, it has become established to use bib shorts. These are the so-called bib shorts, or bib tights.
And that’s what we’re talking about today.
In a nutshell - is there even - THE - best Bib?
There is not the wonderful, the universal pants that fit all situations equally well.
The waterproof and windproof materials are stiffer. So it can be that you work against it with your legs during the ride.
For occasional trips outside, thermal pants with medium insulation is the best choice.
For the intrepid with a regular urge to get outside, a second pair of pants with a membrane can be a good addition.
Lighter pants are more for spring, fall or warmer climes.
Not to be forgotten: the good old onion technique of wearing several layers on top of each other.
To improve weatherproofing, rain pants can also be worn as the top layer.
The price is hardly an aid in choosing pants.
We hope to give you the clue which pants might be suitable for whom.
Preliminary remark on the requirements for the Bibtest
The clothing industry still primarily distinguishes between two genders.
There are few brands that produce unisex.
As diverse as we humans are, as diverse are our needs, and as diverse are the individual bib pants in construction and cut.
It is common in the industry for brands to declare their pants as women’s or woman’s bibs.
In order to make our evaluation comprehensible and so that the pants can also be found on the manufacturer’s pages, we have decided to keep the designation “women’s pants” and “women’s bib”.
Here we orient ourselves at the product designations of the manufacturing Brands.
Beyond the product name, we keep the descriptions as neutral as possible and are open to formulation feedback.
Who tests the Bibs? The 8 women behind the Peefriendly Bib Test
The test was conducted from the point of view of 8 cis-women with different needs, characteristics and measurements.
We are tall, short, slim, strong, ambitious, comfortable, young, old, pregnant and we have one thing in common: we don’t want to do without outdoor cycling in winter.
Oh well, there was one more thing: we all squat down to pee and have always had to drop layer after layer of leotards to be able to pee relaxed and safely in the snow.
The goal of the test is for everyone who needs to sit down to pee to find a pant recommendation for themselves that fits their features and preferences.
Laura (she/her) lives in Ingolstadt. She loves to explore her favorite terrain around the Bavarian Forest & Altmühltal on her gravel bike.
Always with her: cheese sandwiches and snacks. Snacks. Snacks.
Laura tested 7Mesh (S), Bioracer No Pad (XS), Endura (S), Gore (XS), Rapha (XS), Universal Colours (S), Specialized RBX (S)
Marion (she/her) lives in Munich and is an ultracycling athlete. While she rocks the ultra-gravel events in Germany and Europe in summer, she loves to ride road bikes in the foothills of the Alps in winter and is not deterred by freezing temperatures and snowstorms.
Marion tested 7Mesh, Iris, Universal Colours (S), Velocio Thermal (S), Specialized RBX und Race Series (S)
Our test team is as wide as possible in sizes: from size XXS to XXL.
Johanna (she/her) is not only the co-founder of The Women All Ride collective, but you might also know her from her podcast “Die Wundersame Fahrradwelt”. When she’s not interviewing exciting people from the bike world, you can find Johanna on her road bike and gravel bike.
Johanna tested 7mesh (L), Gore (M), Rapha (L), Universal Colours (M), Velocio Zero (L)
Marie (she/her) lives with her daughter in Leipzig and feels at home on the road bike and the gravel bike. She is co-founder of The Women All Ride. When she is not on the bike, she makes plans for new bike projects and organizes the Mühlenbrevet.
Marie tested Bioracer (L), Gore (L), Iris (L), Velocio (L)
Did you know that there are over 100 brands selling cycling clothing on the European market? Some of them produce only men’s specific clothing.
Gerlinde (she/her) has been on a bike all her life. Whether it’s a bicycle tour to Turkey with her then 8-year-old Johanna, or with her husband across the Alps, she is unstoppable.
She doesn’t have a car, but recently got an e-bike.
Her big dream is a trip around the world on a bike – she keeps herself fit for that.
Gerlinde tested Iris (XXL)
Anne (she/her) is passionate about road biking and is currently eagerly awaiting her new gravel bike. Anne likes to push her limits and explore new destinations and distances thoughtfully.
Anne tested DHB (18), Velocio Zero (XXL), Specialized SL Pro (XXL)
Most companies have a women’s range, which is usually much smaller and falls into the “pink it and shrink it” category. Often cycling shorts without straps are offered in this segment.
Caro (she/her) lives in Leipzig and loves to ride her road and gravel bike. When she’s not riding the orbits in “Team Dream”, she uses the summer days to make passes in Italy and France unsafe. It’s not for nothing that we affectionately call Caro Mrs. Karacho.
Caro tested Bioracer (XS), DHB (8), Endura (XS)
We have found 27 brands on the market that offer really pee-friendly bibs.
Test criteria - this is how we tested the winter bibs
What makes a good pee-friendly winterbib?
We’ve already explained why straps that require us to take off our clothes to take a pee break are a criterion for exclusion.
Pee-friendly straps, however, do not make a bib tight a good winter pant.
The question of which criteria are still important to us leads directly to the next question, namely: For whom should the bib be?
While one does not get below 5 ° C on the bike, the other needs an absolutely windproof and waterproof cycling pants, which accompanies them dry and warm through any snowstorm.
As different as our bodies are – big, small, slim, strong, wide pelvis, narrow pelvis…. so different are our demands!
From the compression pants developed with female athletes, the wearer with thin legs has rather little.
The 1.80m tall woman probably prefers other brands of pants than the 1.60m tall woman.
We have therefore chosen not to rate the test pants “good” or “bad”, but to give recommendations based on our body types.
It is not easy to say whether a bib tight is suitable for tall people.
Our proportions are all different.
From long legs to short torsos, from short legs to long torsos, or all in any mean?
The construction of the pants and the materials used will determine if the pants will fit. However, it’s hard to tell based on the leg length of the pants. We’ll give hints here about back length, leg length, and strap length so you can use the photos and specs to guide you.
Most pants are DWR impregnated. This keeps the spray at light moisture on the outside of the pants, but is not water resistance.
In really wet conditions, only a few models will get you back from the ride dry.
Softshell increases waterproofing, but it’s also a fairly rigid material.
For real rain rides, rain pants in short or long over the bib are therefore a good addition.
Each has a different cold sensation, which is why we have tried to classify the pants.
Our experience has shown that road cycling on flat and open ground, where the wind can attack, let us cool down faster.
For a wavy profile and fighting the mud in the forest, the body produces more heat and the thermal performance of the pants is not so crucial.
See and be seen? Definitely both!
Reflective elements play a crucial role in winter. Some manufacturers are sparing here, others give us calves that are visible from afar. The motto is in the dark season, the more the better. Two manufacturers have additional pants with bright yellow or orange.
The strategies of manufacturers to increase sustainability are manifold, but let’s be honest, nothing is as sustainable as not consuming. We have to take a look at our own nose and rethink our consumption. That is why it is important to buy a product with a timeless design and different uses, and then only when we really need it!
Worn out cycling clothes are garbage. You can’t really repair it, you can’t reprocess it into a blanket, or use it as a cleaning rag. In the case of falls, it is worth looking at a possible sewing service of the brands.
You can find the sustainability strategies of the manufacturers in our table. Some of the pants will enter the long-term test and we will report how the pants do. Because nothing is as sustainable as a garment that lasts a long time.
For the implementation of pee-friendliness, brands need to find solutions to allow the pants to be slipped over the buttocks.
In classic bibs, the back is closed. This part needs to be redesigned. The different designs have their advantages and disadvantages.
Zip long
In the Zip Long, the back section is made divisible by a long zipper.
The zipper goes over the complete back. The advantage is the protection of the lower back from cooling down. The pants offer a classic fit.
Since the zipper can not stretch, the elasticity must come through the straps.
If there is a break, it must be reached far up. With cold hands and depending on how many layers are worn on the torso, this can be difficult. At the same time, a lot of traction needs to be applied, which can be a problem for long torsos.
Zip short
The Zip Short is used when the waistband is high. This would be too tight to simply pull down. This allows for tight fitting and supportive constructions to be designed around the abdomen while not exposing the kidney area. With the zipper open, you get a larger opening and can very easily pull the pants down.
Nevertheless, the zipper must be gripped. However, a ribbon on the zipper makes this easier. The solution works regardless of body size.
Zip across
This design solution includes a zipper which goes once around the pelvis. When using it, you separate the upper and lower part of the pants. The back is covered as in a classic bib. Depending on the model, it can be one zipper which goes once around the pelvis, or two which meet at the back. The zipper is not backed, so here it can pull, or textile caught when pulling. With cold hands it can be fiddly to grab the zipper.
Clip Back
In this solution, a thinner strap runs across the back, which can be connected to the lower part of the pants with the help of a hook or magnet. This allows the lower back to be made higher and keeps the pants in place. Due to the rubber in the straps, the closure can snap upwards, especially with long torsos, or the strap can hang uncomfortably in the neck when peeing. A heavier closure prevents the former, but this backpack straps can interfere.
Pull Down
With the pull down solution, the design focuses on the essentials. The pants have an open back and are simply pulled over the bottom. A softer material on the lower back and elastic straps help here. Depending on the design, the lower area here can be very low, which is unfavorable in wet and cold conditions.
Although everything revolves around the pad (also called Chamois) is actually the construction around the crucial. You can buy the best high-tech pad with a pair of pants, but if it’s baggy and doesn’t fit properly, it won’t do you any good.
The pad is connected to the pants with the seams and is therefore the biggest potential friction point of the pants. There are different ways it is sewn here. Triple zigzag seam and false coverstitch (an overlock stitch) are the common seams for the pads. Few manufacturers use a blind seam and thus have no visible seams.
Which pad is a really good one is hard to say, because really anatomical differences have a big influence here, but the chamois should not be too overloaded and too thick. Over a longer distance, the pad must retain its shape and properties. This can not be seen beforehand and trial and error is the motto here.
Roughly speaking, pads for men are longer and have a privacy screen and a nest for testicles and penis built in the front. The perineal area is extra supported in some models. Women’s pads are wider and shorter. The area around the pubic bone is extra padded and the privacy screen is often missing. In addition to gender-specific pads, there are unisex pads which usually have an even foam insert.
There are only a few cycling shorts manufacturers that produce their own pads, including Bioracer, for example. Most companies buy their pads from suppliers. Elastic Interface, Green Lime and TMF cover much of the market, and these pads can be found in a variety of pants and brands. Some manufacturers make a secret of their pad. But there are also proprietary developments, which can only be found in certain brands. If you know the name of the chamois, you can go to the pad manufacturer’s site and read about the features and see how the pad is constructed, or look for the pad in a different pair of pants.
The manufacturers categorize the pads as follows:
up to 3h = short distances
3 – 6h = medium distances
over 6h = long distances
The price of a pair of pants does not determine whether the pad is good or bad. The more the manufacturers buy the cheaper they get the pads and so you may find a high end pad in a low budget pant. Smaller manufacturers usually don’t have these scale prices and therefore have to pay higher prices or use cheaper pads. The latter do not have to be worse. Here it depends on the preference and needs of the cycling person.
The manufacturers specify the density with the pads. Under it, the thickness in mm and the compression per kg/m³ are described. The more kg/m³ a foam can withstand, the longer it stays in shape and harder it is. This is interesting for longer distances. The pad size is also specified.
A pad is by no means a requirement! Some people do very well without one. Especially on shorter distance it is not so important. The harder and longer the ride the more often a pad is preferred.
In winter, the pad is not as crucial as in summer. We sweat less and the rides are shorter and not as intense.
Let’s go: Peefriendly winter bibs testED at The Women All Ride.
On your marks. Ready. Go!
Since we got most of the pants provided, our testers could just go for it.
The question is, how long do you have to ride a pair of pants before you realize they fit you well?
Does it fit my riding style and surface? Do the pants support me on my rides? Were there any problems? Who are these pants suitable for?
We’ll continue to ride with our favorite pants and report back at the end of the winter on their durability and long-term testing.
Each winter bib was driven by us for a minimum of 10 hours. This included a longer trip of more than 3 hours. The weather conditions were different, we take that into account in the test.
The 7Mesh is the lightest pant in the test. The pants have a thin brushed fleece material. Thus, they are more suitable for the transitional period or under other pants. The material widened for some testers after a few miles and offers little to no compression. People who find compression important should make sure they choose a size that fits tight. The shortenable hem can be trimmed nearly 6.4 inches if needed.
The legs are nice and long and were a bit too long even for me with my 1.80m height when uncut. The seat pad is one of the best for me. (Marion)
Another special feature: two back pockets allow you to store bars or small items on the lower back. The pad has a blind seam and so no noticeable seams, which could irritate. It is thinner and harder than other pads in the test. Since the seam for the pad runs around the thigh due to the saggy construction, this may not fit curvy body types. The hem on the stomach is quite low and could be higher.
The material is thin. I see these pants more in spring or fall.(Laura).
The TK1 has a reflective pattern on each side of the leg. Reflectors directed to the rear are missing.
The equipment of the pants is low for the price at first glance, in detail it then makes sense again. A floating pad is more elaborate in the processing, as are the back pockets and the shortenable hem.
These pants go into the long-term test with Johanna
I combine them with rain pants when it’s very wet. (Johanna)
Summary: The pants are very suitable for the transition, the sporty ride in the forest or in alpine terrain. The cut fits straight, athletic figures. The Pull2P solution works well and the trimmable hem allows for customization to leg length. As the only pants in the test, the TK1 has two back pockets.
The Canadian company 7mesh is quite unknown on the European market. It stands for high-quality clothing for all weather conditions and a large part for the off-road sector. In the winter pants, the brand relies on the onion principle. Thus, there are several overpants for the only long bib in the range.
The selection for men is larger than for women.
Different ethnicities and age groups can be seen in the photos. The body types in the photos are not diverse.
Prices are in the higher range.
Sizes range from XS-XL for women.
These reflective inserts on the calves are really the hammer! (Caro)The pants have thin foot straps, which prevents the legs from sliding up. However, if you have tight shoes, they can slide up when you put them on. The material is a thicker fleece fabric with a smooth exterior. When putting on, especially at the beginning, the pants must be pulled into position like tights. The material widens after some time and then falls about one size larger. The pants have a closed back and a long zipper as a pinkel solution. The zipper is not waterproof, which allowed moisture to penetrate the pants with pad here.
The zipper must be completely closed again after peeing – otherwise it opens slowly when driving again secretly. (Caro)Due to the long zipper must come when peeing the stretch over the straps. Especially for tall women, the system does not work well. The Tempest Bibtight has a pleasant high waistband, which is supportive while driving. The pad seems to be suitable for medium and small seat bone distances. However, the pants must fit tightly to get no problems here.
After 5 km with these pants, it was clear: I and the pad, we will not be friends. I then passed the pants to my friend Doro.(Marie)The padding has divisions which adapt to the shape of the saddle and the pelvis.
The cushion I found good. However, the zipper on the back is already difficult to put on, it is something friemel. The zipper is a bit uncomfortable when wearing, it always feels cold in the area despite good stitching and an overlap. (Doro)These pants go into long-term testing with Carro and Doro. Conclusion: The Tempest pants are solid pants with a good price / performance ratio, which is a good basic pants. It is up to a height of 175cm is interesting, but in our experience should be bought one size smaller.
The version without pad is identical to the Tempest Vapor, only that here no pad is sewn.
You can put on a short bib under these pants. Due to the compression of the long overpants also work dilated or no longer opaque pants. Of course, the pee function only makes sense if the underpants also have this. It must be noted that the functions can be combined with each other. So PullDown, Zipp long and short and ClipBack under the long zipper works. A zipper that is sewn across will not work.
I continue to wear my old worn bibs under the no-pad version. (Laura.)
By having the pad inside another pair of pants, any irritation from friction is less because the outer pants can move independently of the pad.
Laura bought these pants herself and will continue to ride them.
Conclusion: These pants are interesting for people who find their favorite pad only in summer pants or transparent old pants still want to wear a winter
Bioracer is known for its team clothing, yet they offer a wide range of clothing for everyday wear. The selection for women and men is very similar. There is a small selection for children.
Among the classic outfitters for team wear, Bioracer is the only company with pee-friendly bibs.
Produced in Europe and tested in Belgium, where the company’s headquarters are located. The pads come from the own house. The quality is long lasting.
The people in the photos are not diverse.
The prices are reasonable.
Sizes for women range from XXS-XL
The processing seems to me but – despite the very low price – high quality. (Caro)The fleece is rather thin and so this model is suitable for spring, autumn or warmer regions. The elastic thermal fleece has little compression, but also adapts to the body, and even during pregnancy!
In my opinion, the pants are good at temperatures of 7-12°C. At temperatures near freezing, I am very quickly cooled down. (Caro)The pants come in two carrier colors (Lotus and Ruby). The pad is suitable for short tours and the bib has hardly any reflectors. Currently DHB has a long and a short pants that are pee friendly in the range. Both are from the Moda series. We hope that the brand will also offer a pee solution in the ambitious series. These pants are going into long term testing with Anne and Carro.
Die Hose passt gut. Und auch die Beine sind lang genug. Die Hose liegt gut an, ohne aber zu komprimieren. (Anne)Conclusion: Price / performance are right here. These pants are best suited for the transitional period on short trips. It can be worn by cut and material as well as every woman. For the really cold winter it is too thin
The DHB brand belongs to WiggleCRC and delivers directly to 95 countries. Thus, it is one of the largest suppliers of cycling clothing worldwide. The brand has a no-modern-slavery policy. 20% of the clothing is bluedesign approved and when merino is used it is from non-mulesed sheep.
The product selection for men is larger than for women. In addition, men often have more colors to choose from. Especially in the affordable range, the patterns for women are more floral.
BIPoC can be seen in the photos. The body types shown could be more diverse.
Prices are in the lower range.
Sizes range from XXS-XXL for women.
By the way, the Peefriendly Winterbib from DHB has also passed the “pregnancy test” and could be worn comfortably by Kollektiv co-founder Jule (Radelmädchen).
That gives another plus point!
My first impression was: phew, is that much pants. (Caro)On the calves, the pants have zippers and are double. The inner part of the pants can be pulled so into the shoe and the outer over the shoe. The pad is sewn hanging. This eliminates seams in the crotch where moisture can penetrate. Unfortunately, both testers slipped with the pants on the saddle, which is why we could not complete a long ride. Through more intensive driving, this slipping can be prevented. The pad is the only gel pad in the test. The pants have a built-in top, which hinders access to the baselayer. On the back, strong straps keep everything in place. The Endura has a PullDown solution, where two layers of fabric are processed crosswise and the middle therefore sits relatively low. The lower back is thus open and should be protected by a long vest or jacket. Gladly with guards since you whirl here otherwise dirt and moisture in the pants. The pants are large and should be ordered one size smaller. It must sit close to the hip. We are still looking for the right driver for these pants and will update as soon as we know more. Conclusion: These pants are for people up to about 1.70m with strong legs looking for intensive training sessions in the winter storm.
Endura is a manufacturer from Scotland, which for almost 30 years contribute their experience. A name has made the brand in the field of Mountain / MTB for functional clothing in adverse conditions. It is often found in classic retail.
Endura offers a repair service.The brand offers a much smaller range for women than for men and a small range for children.
The people in the photos are not diverse.
Prices are in the mid/high range.
Sizes range from XS-XL for women.
The Gore Ability Thermo bib shorts combine windproof with more flexible materials, making them one of the warmer shorts in the test. The straps are wide and fit well. The pants are pee-friendly thanks to a zipper that goes once around the belly. The solution works perfectly. How the zipper behaves in the long term, we will judge in the long-term test. Outstanding are the sewn Hi Vis materials.
I love the Hi Vis material – the pants are, for night rides or poor visibility, well thought out in this regard. (Marie]
The zipper has only a mini puller, with gloves is not to operate. A simple solution is to ranzumachen there himself a cord. But could of course already be thought of from the manufacturer’s side.
I miss the membrane on the lower back and calves. (Laura.)
The waterproof material could go higher at the back. The calves have a light textile processed and are not waterproof, although that is one of the places that get wet first.
I work against the Gore-Tex with my thighs. (Laura.)
The pants fit very tight at first, but retract after a while. In a tester it is especially at the beginning slipped down, which has first irritated, after a few trips it was better and it also sat better. However, you have to work here clearly against the material for long rides. The pad is well suited for medium-length routes.
Since the material is very rigid, I had knee pain after 150 km, where the seams run. In the upper area, unfortunately, there is hardly any support, which is especially uncomfortable with more belly. For shorter distances, however, it is, because of the pinkellösung and the reflection, my favorite. (Marie]
These pants go with Marie in the long-term test.
Conclusion: For larger riders*innen the legs could be a little short, so it was with our testers Marie and Johanna.
Price performance is great. For 160 euros you get a solid waterproof winter pants.
Gore Wear, with the brand Gore-Tex belongs to the company “W. L. Gore & Associates”. The brand is known for the water and weatherproof clothing. Especially in the outdoor sector, the jackets of the brand are very well known. Gore Wear has a wide range of cycling clothing and offers many products in a high-vis variant. Gore uses PTFE for impregnation and wants to remove all ecologically questionable PTFE compounds from its products by 2023.
The selection for men is larger than for women.
The people in the photos are not diverse.
Prices are in the medium range.
Sizes range from XXS-XL for women.
The Signature Winter Bib was not breathable at 6°C. My legs were sweaty even after a casual ride. (Marion)According to the manufacturer’s description, these pants should be particularly breathable. Unfortunately, we could not confirm this experience: At +6 ° C, our legs were sweaty. Probably +6 ° C but are also simply still much too warm for these pants. Windproof panels on the front keep the wind out. The anatomical cut gives all freedom of movement and ensures a perfect fit. Elastic Interface® 2.5 HD seat padding provides optimal comfort and silicone grippers keep the legs in place.
Iris’s padding is something I can ride for hours. That is also the case here. (Marie)The pinkel solution on these pants is a magnetic closure system with which you get the pants well over the butt.
I especially liked the long legs and the high waistband. (Marion)When re-tightening ma needs evtl. some practice to find the upper part of the magnetic clip. The straps are here but – even with larger wearers – not so much under tension as with the magnet clip competition.
The Iris-Bib after peeing again to get, is a bit like yoga – the upper magnetic clip slips there gladly times further up. (Marie)Also striking is the simple, clean design, without flashy label placements. These pants go into the long-term test at Marion and Marie Verdict: Pants for very cold,rather dry days with exceptionally soft and comfortable material and clean design. The pants could use more reflective details.
Description: In addition to the Signature Winter Bib Tight, for real cold, Iris has made a “light” version for the transition. These bib tights are perfect for early winter training, where warmth is still important, but less extreme temperatures allow the use of lighter and more flexible materials.
The cut is virtually the same as the thicker Iris winter pants: the high waistband, the long legs and the clean design without a lot of labels are what we liked most about these pants as well. The pants are made of a ThermoRoubaix material, which feels remarkably soft and comfortable against the skin. Compared to the thick winter pants, the material of these pants is much thinner and thus adapts even better to the body shape. It is also more breathable. The Elastic Interface® Endurance 2.5 HD seat pad ensures a comfortable fit even on long tours, and silicone grippers at the ankles keep the pants in place. Like Iris’ other bibs, this one features a magnetic closure system as a pee solution, which makes for a comfortable pee break, but takes some practice or articulation to get the clip back together.
The legs feel protected and are not restricted in movement. No rubbing and no clamping on the knee and thighs. (Gerlinde)
Gerlinde got these pants as a gift from her daughter and will continue to drive them
Conclusion: pants for transitional temperatures with exceptionally soft and comfortable material, clean design and special color (dark brown or olive). The pants could use more reflective details.
IRIS was founded by ex-professional cyclist Iris Slappendel. The collections are carefully curated limited editions and offer unique designs without overproduction. The brand is committed to fairness in cycling and is a member of the Cyclist’ Alliance. IRIS uses OEKO-TEX, as well as BLUESIGN certified fabrics.
The selection for women is bigger than for men.
Different ethnicities, ages and body types are seen.
Prices are in the medium range.
Sizes range from XS-XXL for women.
The pants are high-priced, but worth the money. (Johanna)The pants fit well, has compression, two wide straps and go at the belly pleasantly high.
The clip is easy to grab through the clothes. (Laura)Pee-friendly it becomes by a high-quality fidlock magnetic buckle on the back. At the front of the leg is thicker material than at the back sewn. Overall, the pants fit very comfortably. There are reflectors in the back and on the side. As a special feature: There is a white plate on which you can write your name. Here it is clear that the pants were developed together with female athletes, because nothing is funnier than after the team wash in the wrong pants loszudüsen.
With this pad I would also 100plus tours. (Johanna)Potential for improvement: with both pants came out a few threads on the pad. The could be easily removed, but with such a high-quality pants should not happen.
Unfortunately, on one side of the logo lettering is already torn after a few km. (Laura)In the case of the blue pants, the RAPHA print came loose. In such a case, the pants can be exchanged. These pants go into the long-term test with Laura and Johanna. Conclusion: A high-priced pants that does not disappoint and for the person who is willing to spend the money for it is definitely an option. Since the pants are cut in racecut, evtl take one size larger.
Around Rapha you probably can not get around if you ride a road bike nowadays. The brand is partly responsible for the fact that we can no longer be in club jerseys, but chic on the road. For this, the brand has a wide, functional range in the “Rapha look”. The brand has a high level of involvement in the community as with the Festive500 or Women’s100 ride.
The selection for men is slightly larger than for women.
Different ethnicities can be seen in the photos. The body types shown can be more diverse.
Prices are in the higher range.
Sizes range from XXS-XL for women.
The pants fit really well. (Johanna)The zipper has a little ribbon, which makes it easier to grab. The waistband is rather high, which can be interesting for tall people. The pants are held by soft straps. On the calves there is a zipper and over the pants is the logo of the brand generously distributed. In addition to a reflective strip on the calf, these reflect and significantly increase visibility at night. On one pair of pants, the logos on the butt have cracked.
The pad is unfortunately not optimal for me: it rubs or presses on the pubic bone. (Marion)We got the pants in two sizes. The size M was a Monday product and the pad was sewn incorrectly. It pressed on the sides of the thigh and was not rideable. UC sent us a new pair of pants and here the fit was very good. In size S, the pad pressed on the pubic bone in the front. This has improved with time. We have fed this feedback back to the company and UC and keeps here consultation with the supplier.
Especially in the Gravel I like the material very much. (Laura)These pants go into the long term test with Laura. Summary: These winter pants are for wearers who value sustainability. Large people will be pleased with the high waistband. The merino content plays out its advantage in strenuous tours around the minus degrees and in the gravel area. The Pinkellösung works with the best. The pants fit really wonderful, and we hope that the slip with the pad was only with our pants
The seat cushion of velocio I also like to ride on longer routes. In general, the velocio system is just very well thought out. (Marie)Good: The Foundation Bib thrilled by its cushion. Wind protection is also given, so that the Bib also keeps sufficiently warm when used on the road at 0°Celsius. The pee function works perfectly on this winter bib. Potential for improvement: We look in vain for reflective details on the winter bib. Only the small logo left and right on the leg have this function. Especially in winter driving, these small, luminous details provide additional safety. Here is definitely air to the top.
On the Bib I miss more conspicuous reflectors. (Marie)These pants go into the long-term test at Marie. Conclusion: With the velocio Foundation you can have a lot of fun on the bike, especially in milder temperatures. The velocio padding offers comfort even on longer distances with these basic pants, the inner lining warms and the outer fabric protects to a certain extent from wind. We can recommend this winter bib, just because of its Fly-FreeSystem. If even more reflective features were integrated, the price-performance ratio would be top…
The Velocio Thermal Bib is a pant for most of the fall / winter season when temperatures are above freezing. The Thermoroubaix Power fabric provides very good compression and breathes exceptionally well, while the fleece lining warms and provides a cozy feel.
For me, the Velocio Thermal Bib is the best choice when it comes to performance. (Marion)
A DWR waterproofing protects against splashing water and an additional wind block layer at the front crotch protects against wind and cold. The waistband is cut extra high and offers good support at the abdomen and back. Due to the high compression ratio, however, even the pinkel solution does not work quite as quickly and comfortably as in the pull-down competition. The seat pad is the latest generation Velocio Signature seat pad with 2-stage anti-vibration + HD support foams for ultimate comfort and support all day. There is a mesh front on the upper body that keeps the wearers in shape and also acts like a baselayer. However, some wearers find the mesh front rather distracting.
These pants go into the long-term test at Marion
Conclusion: Due to the high compression ratio, the Velocio Thermal Bib is a performance-oriented winter pants with which you can have unlimited fun when the temperatures are above freezing.
Once understood that man must first bend forward and squat a bit before the pants can be pulled down, the fly-free system works wonderfully. (Anne)Almost like a very tight pair of tights/leggings that you have to convince that they are fine on your own legs. Once put on, however, the pants feel great. They are tight, but not too tight. The legs are long enough and the cuffs under the feet are first a bit unusual, but do not bother at all and are vllt.auch not a bad idea. With the mesh insert on the torso front and the high cut in the back (more important in winter) you feel well wrapped. Conclusion: A warm winter pants with lots of compression for the performance-oriented winter cyclist. These pants go into the long-term test with Anne and Johanna
Velocio was founded in 2014 by former professional cyclist Kristy Scrymgeour and designer Brad Sheehan, who has continued as CEO of the brand since 2017, to provide cycling apparel to a women’s racing team. The brand’s mission statement is based on three pillars: Better design, greater responsibility and more cycling culture.
The selection for women and men is almost identical.
Different ethnicities can be seen in the photos. The body types shown can be more diverse.
Prices are in the higher range.
Sizes range from XXS-XXXL for women.
After 3000km, the pad broke on me. (Laura)The pad has a roughened upper material, which can be irritating for sensitive people. After 3000km, the pad broke at Laura. The upper material has come loose from the foam core. Laura has therefore separated the pad from the pants and now rides the pants with a short bib underneath. After about 5000km in the pants is driven smooth and you start to slip on the saddle. The Pinkellösung works and the pants can be easily stripped over the buttocks. However, the clasp likes to rush up the back and you have to look for it under your clothes. This can lead to yoga exercises or finally taking off the jacket after all. The pants were purchased by Laura and Marion themselves. Conclusion: These pants keep amazingly warm for their thin fabric, however, in our case the quality was not good and the driven pants were quickly broken. The pants could use more reflective details.
The Race Series Bib tight is the only pants that has passed the “blizzard test” with me. (Marion)In addition, it has a Windstopper insert in the bladder area. The 3D Contour seat pad in the pants, specially developed by Specialized, sits very well despite the rather stiff softshell top layer. These pants go into the long term test with Marion Conclusion: These pants are your perfect companion for extreme winter weather conditions. It gets you dry and warm through any snowstorm and at a very fair price. The only downside is the pee-friendly strap solution, which takes some practice. The pants could use more reflective details.
The Specialized SL-Pro Bib Tight is composed of different fabric panels. On the front of the thighs is a very flexible fabric, which is not roughened or lined inside. In contrast, a soft fleece fabric roughened on the inside extends from the back of the thighs to the lower legs.
The Specialized SL Pro is nice and stretchy without giving a ‘flabby’ impression. It supports the stomach and legs well. (Anne.)
The straps are wide and do not pinch. However, these pants also have the problem with the lost clip on the back at the pinkel solution. The pants have enough material even for tall people. The belly is cut pleasantly high. Unfortunately, Specialized goes very sparingly with the reflectors. Only a small logo on the ankle is really little for the dark season. According to the manufacturer, the pants is compressive. While we wouldn’t say the pants slouch, we did find (especially when compared to the Velocio pants we tested) that they were supportive, but not particularly compressive. Some female riders will like this middle ground.
These pants go into the long-term test at Anne
Verdict: These pants are a basic pant for cold dry days. It adapts to the body shapes and is also suitable for tall people. However, you should bring the sufficient flexibility in the shoulders. The pants could use more reflective details.
Specialized is actually more known for bikes, but the company also sells clothing and equipment. The selection is similar and wide for women and men. All long bibs have a clip processed as a pee solution. However, this is not actively advertised by Specialized.
Various ethnicities can be seen in the photos. The body types shown may be more diverse.
Prices are in the low and mid range.
Sizes range from XS-XL for women.
In the table you can find all the manufacturer information and our assessments of the individual pants. In addition to offered sizes, MSRP prices, compression and material of the pants, you can also read here how warm the pants kept in our tests.
Table with all details about every Bibs
Marke | Modell | Größe | Fit | Kompression | Träger Front | Träger Back | Pinkellösung | Bundhöhe Front | Bundhöhe Hinten | Made in | Material | Material Name | DWR Imprägnierung | Windschutz | Wasserschutz | Temperatur | Regenfestigkeit | Pad | Naht am Pad | Nachhaltigkeit | Diversität | Reflektoren | Sichtbarkeit | Besonderheiten | Preis UVP (Stand: 12/20) | Testende | |
7mesh | TK1 | XS-XL | Normal | Wenig | Seitlich | Überkreuzt | PullDown | Mittel | Mittel | China | 85% Nylon, 15% Elastan | Ja | ❆ | Elastic Interface | Blindnaht | Pad Obermaterial ÖkoTex Zertifiziert | Die Auswahl für Männer ist größer als für Frauen. | Logo und großes Muster an den Waden |
| Kürzbare Beine um bis zu 6,35 cm | 175€ |
| Johanna (L), Marion (M), Laura (S) | ||||
Bioracer | Tempest Bibtight Women No Pad | XS-XL | Normal | Mittel | Seitlich | Hoher Rücken | Zipper Long | Mittel | Geschlossener Rücken | EU | 86% Nylon,14% Elastan | Tempest | Ja | ❆❆ | Fast identische Auswahl für Frau und Mann | Komplette Waden |
| Leichte Knieeinsätze | 109€ |
| Laura (XS) | ||||||
Bioracer | Tempest Bibtight Women Vapor Pad | XS-XL | Normal | Mittel | Seitlich | Hoher Rücken | Zipper Long | Mittel | Geschlossener Rücken | EU | 86% Nylon,14% Elastan | Tempest | Ja | ❆❆❆❆❆ (protect) |
| Bioracer | Zick Zack | Fast identische Auswahl für Frau und Mann | Komplette Waden |
| Leichte Knieeinsätze | 119€ |
| Caro (XS), Marie (L), Doro (L) | |||
DHB | dhb Moda Womens Thermal Cross Back Bib Tight | XXS-XXL | Normal | Wenig | Seitlich | Überkreuzt | PullDown | Mittel | Mittel | Rumänien | 84% Nylon, 16% Elastane (Main) | Themal von MITI | ❆ | Elastic Interface | Zick Zack | bluesign® fabrics | Die Produktauswahl für Männer ist größer als die für Frauen. Modelauswahl divers | Logo am Gesäß |
| Träger mit Muster in zwei Varianten | 75€ |
| Caro (8), Juliane (14), Anne (18) | ||||
Endura | Women’s Pro SL EGM Bibtight | XS-XL | Wide | Mittel | Integriertes Oberteil | Überkreuzt | PullDown | Max | Tief | China | 53% Polyester 32% Nylon 11% Elastan, 4% Polyurethan | Ja – PFC-Free | Ja | Ja | ❆❆❆❆ |
| Endura | Zick Zack | Reperatur Service | Das Sortiment für Frauen ist deutlich kleiner als für Männer | Streifen auf Wade |
| Reißverschluss am Knöchel, | 200€ |
| Caro (XS), Laura (S), Marion (S) | |
Gore | Ability Thermo Trägerhose+ Damen | XXS-L | Slim | Hoch | Seitlich | Hoher Rücken | Zipper Quer | Niedrig | Geschlossener Rücken | China | 100% Polyester (Main) | GoreTex | Oberschenkel, | Oberschenkel, | ❆❆❆ |
| Elastic Interface | Zick Zack | Pad Obermaterial ÖkoTex Zertifiziert | Das Sortiment für Frauen ist deutlich kleiner als für Männer | Streifen am Unterschenkel |
| Träger verlaufen über die Brüste | 160€ |
| Laura (XS/36), Johanna (M/40), Marie (L/42) | |
Iris | Women’s Signature Winter Cycling Bib Tight light | XS-XXL | Normal | Wenig | Seitlich |
| ClipBack | Hoch | Hoch | ThermoRoubaix von MITI | ❆❆ | Elastic Interface | Overlock | Pad Obermaterial ÖkoTex Zertifiziert | Das Sortiment ist für Frauen, | Fahne am Oberschenkel |
| In zwei Farben erhältlich | 150€ |
| Gerlinde (XXL) | ||||||
Iris | Women’s Signature Winter Cycling Bib Tight | XS-XXL | Normal | Mittel | Seitlich |
| ClipBack | Hoch | Hoch | Ja | Vorne | ❆❆❆ |
| Elastic Interface | Overlock | Pad Obermaterial ÖkoTex Zertifiziert | Das Sortiment ist für Frauen, | Fahne am Oberschenkel |
| 190€ |
| Marie (L), Marion (S) | |||||
Rapha | Women’s Pro Team Winter Tights | XXS-XL | Slim | Hoch | Seitlich |
| ClipBack | Hoch | Sehr Hoch | Portugal | 54 % Polyester, 32 % Nylon, 14 % Elastan (Main) | ThermoRoubaix von MITI | Vorne | Vorne | ❆❆❆ |
| Elastic Interface/Cytech | Overlock | Kostenlose Reperatur nach Sturz | Etwas größere Produktauswahl für Männer. Diverse Model-Auswahl | Fahne am Oberschenkel |
| Namensschild | 250€ |
| Johanna (L), Laura (XS) | |
Specialized | RBX Comp | XS-XXL | Normal | Wenig | Seitlich |
| ClipBack | Mittel | Hoch | 84% Nylon, 16% Elastan (Main) | ❆ | Elastic interface | Overlock | Etwas größere Produktauswahl für Männer. Diverse Model-Auswahl | Logo am Knöchel |
| 110€ |
| Marion (S), Laura (S) | ||||||||
Specialized | Race Series | XS-XXL | Normal | Hoch | Seitlich |
| ClipBack | Mittel | Hoch | 44% Polyester, 38% Nylon, 14% Elastan, 4% PU (Soft Shell) | ThermoRoubaix von MITI | Ja | Ja | ❆❆❆❆ |
| Elastic interface | Zick-Zack | Etwas größere Produktauswahl für Männer. Diverse Model-Auswahl | Logo am Knöchel |
| 180€ |
| Marion (S) | ||||
Specialized | SL Pro | XS-XXL | Normal | Mittel | Seitlich |
| ClipBack | Mittel | Hoch | 52% Nylon, 32% Polyester, 16% Elastan (Main) | ❆❆ | Elastic interface | Zick-Zack | Etwas größere Produktauswahl für Männer. Diverse Model-Auswahl | Logo am Knöchel |
| 200€ |
| Anne (XXL) | ||||||||
Universal Colours | Chroma Thermal Merino Plus Women’s Bib Tight | XXS-XXL | Normal | Mittel | Seitlich | Überkreuzt | Zipper Short | Hoch | Sehr Hoch | Lithuania | 42% Nylon, 35% Merino and 23% Elastan (Main) | Ja -C0 (PFC-Free) | ❆❆❆ | Elastic Interface | Zick-Zack | bluesign® fabrics | Identische Produkt- und Farbauswahl für Frau und Mann. | Logoprint an Gesäß, Oberschenkel seitlich, am Schienbein. |
| Reißverschluss am Knöchel | 265€ |
| Marion (M+S), Laura (S), Cecilia (M), Johanna (M) | ||||
Velocio | Foundation | XXS-XXXL | Normal | Hoch | Seitlich | Außen mit Steg | PullDown | Hoch | Hoch | Albania | 83% Recycled Nylon / 17% Recycled Elastane | ❆ | Elastic Interface | Zick-Zack | bluesign® fabrics | Ähnliche Produktauswahl für Frau und Mann. | Logo an Gesäß & Wade |
| Fußschlaufe | 190€ |
| Marie (L) | |||||
Velocio | Thermal | XXS-XXXL | Normal | Hoch | Seitlich+Mesh | Überkreuzt | PullDown | Hoch | Hoch | Italy | 54% Nylon / 32% Polyester / 14% Elastane | ThermoRoubaix Power von MITI | Ja | ❆❆ | Elastic Interface | Zick-Zack | bluesign® fabrics | Ähnliche Produktauswahl für Frau und Mann. | Stoff an der Wade |
| 30 Tage Zufriedenheitsgarantie | 250€ |
| Marion (S) | |||
Velocio | Zero | XXS-XXXL | Normal | Hoch | Seitlich+Mesh | Überkreuzt | PullDown | Hoch | Hoch | Italy | 85% Nylon / 15% Elastane + Membrane (Front) | ThermoRoubaix Power von MITI | Ja | Vorne | Vorne | ❆❆❆ |
| Elastic Interface | Zick-Zack | bluesign® fabrics | Ähnliche Produktauswahl für Frau und Mann. Diverse Model-Auswahl | Stoff an der Wade |
| 30 Tage Zufriedenheitsgarantie | 270€ |
| Johanna (L), Anne (XXL) |
(Protect)Fazit
Our biggest problem was actually determining the right size for our testers.
The size charts of the brands are partly flawed. They are simply missing information or do not match reality.
A hip measurement is too little to determine the complete fit of the pants.
Photos with different bodies helped us to better classify ourselves. Since fabric widens over time, the first fit of the pants is not decisive.
Soft elastic fabrics widen more, membrane fabrics take a little longer, but also retract.
Of course, this is also always a matter of personal taste. Some like it ultratight, others a little wider.
With this article, we hope to provide you with a solid test that will help with your next pants purchase decision.
Curated by: Laura Pöhlmann, Marion Dzwinik, Johanna Jahnke, Marie Beulig
Edit & Layout: Marie Beulig
Header-Foto: Julian Helms
