Non-bib Shorts Vs. Cycling Bib Shorts: Which should you choose?

May 24, 2024

When you pick cycling gear, the shorts you ride in matter — often more than people expect. Whether you choose “bib shorts” (with shoulder straps) or “regular cycling shorts” (waistband only) can make a big difference to comfort, performance, and riding experience. Below we explore the pros and cons of each, and help you decide what fits your riding style best.

Why Bib Shorts Often Win — Especially for Long or Performance Rides

• Secure Fit & Stable Padding

Because bib shorts use straps, the chamois pad remains firmly against your body even as you change position. This means less shifting, fewer saddle sores, and far less chafing — especially on long rides or varied terrain.

• No Waistband Pressure — More Comfort & Better Movement

Waistbands on regular shorts can dig in, restrict breathing, or become uncomfortable on long rides. With bib shorts, there’s no waistband — the straps take over that job — so you get more freedom to breathe, shift posture, and ride longer without discomfort.

Also, bib shorts often rise higher on the waist/torso, giving better coverage and avoiding “plumber’s‑crack” exposures when you reach forward.

• Consistency Over Long Rides & Better for Endurance, Racing or Daily Training

For long-distance rides, endurance training, or competitive cycling, bib shorts tend to outperform waist shorts. The security, support, and stable padding matter more when you're spending hours in the saddle. Many serious riders eventually “graduate” to bib shorts for this reason.

Cycling Shorts — Simplicity, Convenience & Coolness

Bib shorts are not perfect for everyone. Regular cycling shorts remain a viable option under certain conditions — especially casual riding, hot weather, or when convenience matters.

• Easier to Put On / Take Off — Better for Quick Stops & Bathroom Breaks

Cycling shorts are quicker and simpler to don or remove. That can be a big plus on casual rides, or when you need to make frequent pit stops — something bib shorts (with straps) complicate a bit.

• Often Cooler & More Comfortable in Hot Weather

Because they don’t cover as much of the torso, cycling shorts can feel cooler and more breathable in high temperatures. Bib shorts can trap more heat, which might be uncomfortable during summer rides.

• Cost, Accessibility and Simplicity

Regular cycling shorts tend to be cheaper — a reasonable starting point for beginners or casual riders.
And if you only ride short distances or commute occasionally, the comfort/performance benefits of bib shorts may not justify the extra cost or complexity.

So… Which Should You Choose? It Depends on What You Ride For

You ride…	Best Option
Long distances / endurance / training / racing / mountain or road cycling with varied terrain	Bib Shorts — for secure fit, stable padding, comfort over hours
Short rides / casual outings / commuting / hot weather / frequent stops / convenience-minded	Cycling Shorts — simpler, cooler, easier to handle
You prioritize comfort, performance, and minimizing saddle-related issues	Bib Shorts
You care about cost, ease of use, flexibility	Cycling Shorts

For many cyclists, having both makes sense: use bib shorts when you ride long and hard; use regular shorts for casual spins or when time and weather call for comfort and simplicity.