Unlike a lot of bikes, equipment, and clothing, there’s a big difference between men’s and women’s cycling shorts, due to the evident difference in our erm… intimate area.To minimize chafing and for a more comfortable ride, look for shorts with a women’s specific chamois tailored to the anatomy in question.
The difference between women's and men's cycling short
The Padding or Chamois Used in the Crotch Area
The padding or chamois used in the crotch area differs greatly between men’s and women’s shorts.
Chamois is also known as the padding in the shorts is applied in the crotch area. When we sit on the saddle of our bikes, the contact points are different because, well, there is different stuff down there. The chamois is designed to cushion women’s sit bones (which are slightly wider than men’s), and support through the perineal area without bulkiness. While men’s chamois pads tend to have an inlet down the middle.
The Cut From the Hips to the Waist
The cut from the hips to the waist is another big difference. The small of a woman’s back tapers to a narrower waist. As such, women’s shorts have smaller waistbands and a more tapered fit just above the hips. In general, women are also longer waisted than men. So, most companies cut the front inseam longer in women’s shorts.
Leg Length
Another big difference between men’s and women’s cycling shorts is the difference in leg length. In general, women prefer a shorter leg length than the traditional men’s shorts which is long enough to cover the quadriceps muscles (the long muscle in the thighs).
Size
Women’s bike shorts are not just about smaller sizes and more attractive colors. These shorts are actually made anatomically correct for our lady bits!If your shorts are too big, they will move around and chafe you while cycling.
Can women wear men’s cycling shorts?
I wouldn’t wear men’s shorts. They might feel fine in the dressing room, and even for the first 10 minutes of riding. Anything after that is a recipe for serious chafing and discomfort (my god, the chafing).Understanding these basic differences can help you in selecting shorts that fit and feel right on you. And, women, don’t be afraid to cross gender lines. Men’s shorts, for example, maybe more comfortable than women’s shorts if you’re a larger lady with a straight up and down build.