Table of Contents
The Women All... Pee?!
Marion has had enough and Laura has had enough, too. Johanna is annoyed and Marie thinks twice before taking a pee break during a bike ride.
When Marion and Laura approached us in October to do a big pee-friendly bib test on The Women All Ride, we did not have to think twice. It is not for nothing that you, dear readers, are so frequently asking which bibs we can recommend. With this article, hopefully, we can provide answers for you. Have fun reading!
Companies that claim to develop cycling apparel for women but do not offer pee-friendly bibs are not developing cycling apparel for women. Period.
The most sensitive area when cycling is the contact surface with the saddle. Through the pedal stroke as well as different sitting positions, there is a lot of movement. In addition, the largest part of our body weight rests there. To minimize the stress on the tissue, many cyclists ride with padded pants especially on longer distances.
Cycling pants are basically a construction that holds the padding (also called chamois) in place. To do this, the pants must fit snugly. In cycling, it has become common to use pants with bibs. These are the so-called bib shorts or bib tights.
And that is what we are talking about today.
In a nutshell - is there the best cycling pants at all?
There are no universal pants that fit every person equally good and work in all situations on the bike. Waterproof and windproof materials are stiffer. So you may find your legs working against them during the ride.
For occasional rides, thermal pants with medium insulation are the best choice. For the intrepid who are regularly riding outside, a second pair of pants with a membrane can be a good addition. Lighter pants are more suitable for spring, fall or warmer climes.
Not to be forgotten: wearing several layers on top of each other offers flexibly adjustable for different conditions. For example, rain pants can be worn as a top layer to add weatherproofness.
How to chose winter cycling pants? The price is hardly an aid in choosing pants. With out test, our evaluation and our results, we hope we can give you an indication of which pants are suitable for whom and for which conditions.
Introduction to the requirements of the pee-friendly winter bib test
In the clothing industry, the main distinction is still between two genders. Only a few brands produce unisex cycling apparel.
This does not represent the diversity between individuals. As diverse and different as we humans are, so are our needs and so are the individual bib pants in terms of construction and cut. The pants which fit one person perfectly can be the wrong choice for another one.
In the industry, manufacturers commonly declare their pants as ladies or women’s bib pants.
To make our assessment comprehensible and to ensure that the pants can also be found on the manufacturer’s pages, we have decided to retain the designation “ladies’ pants” and ” women’s bibs”. Therefore we follow the product names of the manufacturing brands.
Beyond the product name, we keep the descriptions as neutral as possible. Of course, we are open to wording suggestions.
About the testers - 8 women tested Pee-friendly Bib tights
Our 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 do not want to do without outdoor cycling in winter. And of course, there was one more thing: we all squat down to pee and have always had to drop layer after layer of jerseys to pee in the snow. It is not only time consumpting but it is getting pretty cold pretty quickly.
The goal of the test is that everyone who needs to squat down to pee will find a pant recommendation for themselves that matches 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) is an ultra cycling athlete who lives in Munich. While she rocks the ultra-gravel events in Germany and Europe in summer, she loves to ride her road bike 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)
We tried to find a test team which represents a wide range of sizes: from size XXS to XXL.
Johanna (she/her) is not only one of the co-founders of the The Women All Ride collective, but you might also know her from her podcast “Die Wundersame Fahrradwelt”. When she is not interviewing exciting people from the bike world, you can find Johanna on her road bike and gravel bike.
Johanna tested 7mesh (M), Gore (M), Rapha (L), Universal Colours (M), Velocio Zero (L)
Marie (she/her) lives in Leipzig with her daughter. She feels at home on her road bike and her gravel bike. She is also a co-founder of The Women All Ride. When she is not riding her bikes, she is making plans for new bike projects and organizing the Mühlenbrevet.
Marie tested Bioracer (L), Gore (L), Iris (L), Velocio (L)
Did you know that there are over 100 different brands of cycling clothing on the European market? Some of them produce clothing exclusively for men.
Gerlinde (she/her) has been on a bike all her life. Whether it is a bicycle tour to Turkey with her then 8-year-old Johanna, or with her husband across the Alps, she is unstoppable.
She does not 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 a passionate road cyclist and is currently eagerly awaiting her new gravel bike. Anne loves to push her limits and explore new destinations and routes 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 is not riding the orbits in “Team Dream”, she uses the summer days to hit the mountain passes in Italy and France. It is 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 bib tights.
Test criteria - this is how we tested the winter cycling pants
What makes a good pee-friendly winterbib?
We have already explained why straps that require us to take off our clothes to take a pee break are a criterion for exclusion.
Pee-friendly bibs, however, do not make bib tights good winter pants.
The question of which criteria are still important to us leads directly to the next question, namely: For whom should the bib tights be?
While one person never rides a bike below 5°C, the other needs windproof and waterproof cycling pants that will keep them dry and warm through any snowstorm.
As different as our bodies are – big, small, slim, strong, wide pelvis, narrow pelvis…. as different are our demands!
The cyclist with thin legs has rather little of the compression pants developed with athletes. And the 1.80m tall woman probably prefers other models of pants than the 1.60m tall woman.
Therefore, we have 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 bib tights is suitable for tall people or not. 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 is hard to tell based on the leg length of the pants. We will give hints 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 will actually keep the spray on the outside of the pants in case of light moisture, but is not waterproof.
In really wet conditions, only a few of the models will get you back from the ride dry. Softshell increases waterproofing, but it is also a fairly rigid material.
For rainy rides, therefore, short or long rain pants are a good choice to wear over bib pants.
Each of us has a different sense of cold, so we have tried to classify the pants.
Our experience has shown that when riding a road bike on flat and open terrain, where the wind can attack, we get cold faster. When riding on an wavy profile and fighting with the mud in the forest, the body will produce more body heat so 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 not really repair it, you can not reprocess it into a blanket, or use it as a cleaning rag. In the case of a crash, 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. Therefore, this part needs to be redesigned to be pee-friendly. The different designs have their advantages and disadvantages.
Zip long
A long zipper makes the back part divisible. The zipper runs over the entire back. This has the advantage that the lower back is protected from cooling. The pants offer a classic fit. Since the zipper does not stretch, the elasticity must come through the straps.
For the pee break, you have to reach the zipper very far up. This can be difficult especially with cold hands and depending on how many layers of clothing are worn on the torso. At the same time, a lot of traction must be applied, which can be a problem with long torsos.
Zip short
The short zipper is used for pants that have a high waistband. This would be too tight to simply pull down. Thus, tight and supportive design around the abdomen can be designed, while the kidney area remains protected. When the zipper is open, you get a wider opening and can pull the pants down very easily.
Nevertheless, you have to grab the zipper to open it. However, a ribbon on the zipper makes this easier. The solution works regardless of body size.
Zip across
This design solution includes a zipper that runs once around the hips. When you use 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 may be one zipper that goes once around the pelvis or two that meet in the middle of the back. The zipper is not lined, so it can get cold in this area or the fabric can get caught when opening and closing the zipper. With cold hands, it can be fiddly to grab the zipper.
Clip Back
With this solution, a thinner band runs down the back, which can be connected to the lower part of the pants using a hook or magnet. This allows the lower back to be higher and keeps the pants in place. Because of the elasticity of the straps, the closure can snap upwards, especially on long torsos, or the strap can hang uncomfortably on the neck when peeing. A heavier closure prevents the first, but it can be uncomfortable wearing backpacks.
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 it is all about the pad (also called chamois), it is actually the construction around it that matters. You can buy the best high-tech pad with pants, but if it’s baggy and not fitting properly, it will not 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.
It is difficult to say which pad is actually good, because here indeed anatomical differences influence a lot, but the chamois should not be too overloaded and too thick. The pad must retain its shape and properties over a longer distance. You can not see this beforehand, here the motto is “trial and error”.
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 pants manufacturers that produce their own pads, including Bioracer, for example. Most companies buy their pads from suppliers. Elastic Interface, Green Lime and TMF cover a large part 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 website 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 indicate whether the padding is good or not. The more pads the manufacturers purchases, the cheaper the pads get, and so you may find a high quality pad in a budget pair of pants. Smaller manufacturers usually do not have these scale prices and thus have to pay higher prices or use less expensive pads. The latter do not necessarily have to be worse. It depends here on the preferences and needs of the cyclist.
The manufacturers specify the density for the pads. This describes the thickness in mm and the compression per kg/m³. The more kg/m³ a foam can withstand, the longer it stays in shape and the harder it is. This is interesting for longer distances. The pad size is also specified.
A pad is by no means a requirement to ride a bike! Some people do very well or even better without one. Especially on shorter distances it is not that important. The harder and longer the route, 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 less intense.
Let’s go: Peefriendly winter bibs tested at The Women All Ride.
Ready. Set. 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 that they fit you well?
Does it fit my riding style and surface? Do the pants support me on my rides? Have there been any problems? Who are the pants suitable for?
We will continue to ride with our favorite pants and report back on their durability and long-term testing at the end of the winter.
We rode all of the winter bib tights for at least 10 hours. This included a longer ride of more than 3 hours. The weather conditions varied, of course we took this into account for the evaluation.
The 7Mesh TK1 trimmable bib tights are the lightest pants in the test. The pants have a thin brushed fleece material on the inside. This makes them more suitable for between seasons or for wearing underneath other pants. The material widened on some testers after a few kilometers and offers little to no compression. Those who value compression should make sure to choose a tight-fitting size. The hem can be shortened to nearly 6.4 inches if needed.
The legs are nice and long, and were a bit too long even for me at 6’4″ when uncut. The seat pad is one of the best for me. (Marion)
Another special feature: two rear pockets allow you to stow bars or small items on the lower back. The pad has a blind seam and thus no noticeable seams that could disturb. It is thinner and harder than other pads in the test. Since the seam of the pad runs around the thigh due to the saggy construction, it may not fit curvier body types. The hem on the abdomen is quite low and could be higher.
The material is thin. I see these pants more in the spring or fall (Laura).
The TK1 has a reflective pattern on each side of the leg. Reflectors that are directed to the back are missing.
At first glance, the features of the pants is low for the price, but in detail it makes sense again. A swim pad is more elaborate in the processing, as are the back pockets and the shortenable hem.
Johanna will wear this pants for the long-term test.
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 to customize the leg length. The TK1 were the only pants in the test, which 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 layering 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.
The calves of the Tempest Bibtight from Bioracer offer the best visibility in the test. The large-area pixel material provides extremely high visibility in the dark season. The pants are also available with yellow and orange neon material.
These reflective inserts on the calves are really awesome! (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 comes out about one size larger.
The pants have a closed back and a long zipper as a pee solution. The zipper is not waterproof, which allowed moisture to penetrate the pants and pad here.
The zipper must be completely closed again after the pee-break – otherwise it it slowly opens secretly while riding. (Caro)
Due to the long zipper the elasticity to pull down the pants must come from the straps. Especially for tall women, the system does not work well. The Tempest Bibtight has a pleasant high waistband, which is supportive while riding.
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: Me 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.
I liked the padding. However, the zipper on the back is already difficult to put on, it is a bit tricky. The zipper is not very comfortable to wear, it always feels cold in the area despite good stitching and an overlap. (Doro)
These pants will be long-term tested by Carro and Doro.
Conclusion: The Tempest pants are solid pants which offer value for money. They are good basic pants. Our test showed that they are a good choice up to a body height of 175cm, 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 wear padded bib shorts underneath 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 offer it. 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 wearing 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 by herself and will continue to ride them.
Conclusion: These pants are interesting for people who find their favorite pad only in summer pants or want to wear transparent old pants in winter to give them a second life.
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 Moda Thermo Cross Back are the cheapest pants in our test. But DHB has focused on the essentials and so has come out a solid pants for many body types. The material and the pants is, as with the other Bibs, produced by reputable suppliers in Europe.
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, 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 rides and the bib has hardly any reflectors.
Currently DHB offers one model of long and one of short pants that are pee friendly. 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 Caro.
The pants fit nicely. And the legs are long enough. The pants fit well, but without compressing. (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 by any person who squats to pee. For the really cold winter they are 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 pee-friendly winter bib from DHB has also passed the “pregnancy test” and could be worn comfortably by Kollektiv co-founder Jule (Radelmädchen).
That gives another plus point!
The Endura Pro SL EGM bib tights are high quality processed winter pants for really cold and wet conditions. The seams at the front and back of the pelvis are taped. The outer material is made of a robust softshell material whereby a strong shape of the legs is given. The arrangement of layers and individual panels makes these pants very reminiscent of motorcycle pants. The logo on the butt and reflective stripes on the calves increase visibility.
My first impression was: phew, that is a lot of pants. (Caro)
On the calves, the pants have zippers and are double-layered. The inner part of the pants can be put into the shoe and the outer layer can be worn 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 riding, 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 pull-down solution, where two layers of fabric are processed crosswise. Therefore, the middle rear part of the pants sits relatively low. To protect the lower back, a long vest or jacket is recommended. 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 rider 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. The brand is well-established in MTB sports with its 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 pants combine windproof with more flexible materials, making them one of the warmer pants in the test. The straps are wide and fit well. The pants are pee-friendly thanks to a zipper that goes once around the hip. 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 a mini slider, which you can not grab while wearing gloves. A simple solution is to attach a cord to it yourself. But of course, this could already be thought of by the manufacturer.
I miss the membrane on the lower back and calves. (Laura)
The waterproof material at the back could be higher. At the calves a lightweight textile is used, which is not waterproof, although this is one of the areas that get wet first.
I work against the Gore-Tex with my thighs. (Laura)
Initially, the pants fit very tightly, but retracts after a while. With another tester, they slipped down especially in the beginning, which was irritating at first. After a few rides it felt better and they also sat better. However, you have to work significantly against the material, which can be uncomfortable especially on long rides. The pad is well suited for medium-long tours.
Since the material is very stiff, after 150 km my knees ached where the seams run. In the upper area, unfortunately, there is hardly any support, which is especially uncomfortable with a larger belly. For shorter distances, however, it is my favorite, because of the pee solution and the reflective properties. (Marie)
Marie will test this pants in the long-term test.
Conclusion: For larger ridersthe legs could be a little too short, this was the case for our testers Marie and Johanna. The cost-performance ratio is great. For 160 euros you get solid, relatively waterproof winter pants.
Gore Wear, with the brand Gore-Tex belongs to the company “W. L. Gore & Associates”. The brand is known for 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 Iris Signature Winter Bibs are pants with a special feel-good factor for cold winter days. They are water repellent, windproof and their fleece lined interior is exceptionally soft, comfortable and stretchy. Even though the pants are not waterproof, they will keep you warm on the coldest days, even if it gets wet.
The Signature Winter Bibs were 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 are 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 pee-break solution used on these pants is a magnetic closure system wich allows you get the pants easily over the butt.
I especially liked the long legs and the high waistband. (Marion)
It needs some practice to find the upper part of the magnetic clip to re-tighten it after the pee-break. The straps are are not that much under tension as with the magnetic clip competition, even with taller riders.
Closing the Iris-Bibs after peeing is a bit like yoga – the upper magnetic clip slips further up easily. (Marie)
The simple, clear design without conspicuous label placements is also striking.
These pants go into the long-term test with Marion and Marie
Conclusion: A pair of pants for very cold, rather dry days with particularly soft and comfortable material and clear design. The pants could use more reflective details.
In addition to the Signature Winter Bib Tights, 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 pretty much the same as the thicker Iris winter pants: the high waistband, the long legs and the simple design without a bunch of labels are also what we liked best about these pants. They are made of a ThermoRoubaix material that feels especially soft and comfortable on the skin. Compared to the thick winter pants, the material of these pants is much thinner and thus adapts even better to the individual body shape. It is also more breathable. The Elastic Interface® Endurance 2.5 HD seat pad ensures a comfortable fit even on long tours. Silicone grippers at the ankles keep the pants in place. Like Iris’ other bibs, these feature a magnetic closure system that provides a comfortable pee break, but it takes some practice or articulation to close the clip again.
The legs feel protected and their movement is not restricted. No rubbing or clinging to the knee or thigh. (Gerlinde)
Gerlinde got these pants as a gift from her daughter and will continue to ride them.
Conclusion: pants for transitional temperatures with particularly soft and comfortable material, clear 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.
These pants are made of high quality and are one of the warmer Bibs of the test. The design is simple and beautiful, simply Rapha.
The pants are high-priced, but worth the money. (Johanna)
The pants fit well, provide compression, two wide straps and sit comfortably high on the abdomen.
The clip is easy to grab through the clothes. (Laura)
The Pro team winter tights get Pee-friendly by a high-quality fidlock magnetic buckle at the back. At the front of the fabric of the legs is made of a thicker material than at the rear part. Overall, the fit of the pants is very comfortable. Reflectors on the back side as well as on the side provide visibility. As a special feature: There is a white label to note your name, especially for training camps or group laundry this can ensure to get your own pants back. For us this is a clear sign the pants were developed together with female athletes, because nothing is funnier than starting a ride wearing the wrong pants after the team wash.
With this pad I would also do 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.
Laura and Johanna will long-term test the Radha pants.
Conclusion: High-priced pants that do not disappoint and for the person who is willing to spend the money for it, they are definitely an option. Since the pants are cut in racecut, think about buyinf one size larger.
Today, you probably can not do without knowing Rapha if you ride a road bike. The brand is partly responsible for the fact that we can no longer be in club jerseys, but chic on the road. The brand offers a wide, functional range in the typical “Rapha look”. The brand is heavily involved in the community, such as 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 Velocio Foundation bibs are the most affordable winter bibs by Velocio. The lightweight material is brushed inside with fleece material. With the same functionality as the more expensive models, the Foundation Bib focuses in design on the essentials. Thus, these pants come without a mesh panel in the front, even the large-scale reflective details on the calf, which have inspired us in the more expensive models, are not to be found on the Foundation Bib.
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 bibs thrilled by its cushion. Wind protection is also given, so that this pants also keep 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 riding, 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. They adapt to the body shapes and are 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.
Conclusion
Our biggest problem was actually determining the right sizes 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 winter cycling pants purchase decision.
Curated by: Laura Pöhlmann, Marion Dzwinik, Johanna Jahnke, Marie Beulig
Edit & Layout: Marie Beulig
Header-Foto: Julian Helms
