What is a Cycling Bib?

Cycling bib shorts are specifically designed cycling shorts that feature shoulder suspenders to help hold up the shorts during intense physical activity. Many cyclists prefer a cycling bib over regular shorts for the support and comfort, though others do not like the extra material and restrictions. The design of a cycling bib is very similar to that of cycling shorts, but the bib features the suspenders that may or may not be made from the same material as the rest of the shorts.

Some cycling bib varieties feature suspenders that are made of a mesh material to ensure the cyclist stays cool and dry during intense physical activity. These versions of the cycling bib generally cost more than other types of bibs, and bibs in general cost more than regular shorts. The suspender mesh is sewn into the Lycra® shorts to create one unit; the suspenders help keep the shorts from shifting or bunching during physical activity, thereby avoiding the possibility of hot spots and blisters developing. The width of the suspenders will have a significant impact on how comfortable the shorts feel in general, and usually wider suspenders are more comfortable.

Like regular cycling shorts, cycling bib shorts are made from Lycra® material for a tight, comfortable, aerodynamic fit. Higher end bib shorts will feature several panels of Lycra® sewn together to create the shorts rather than just one or two panels; generally speaking, the more panels the shorts feature, the tighter and more comfortable the shorts will fit. The seams of the shorts must be made carefully to avoid creating hot spots that can lead to chafing. The leg cuffs of the shorts often feature some sort of rubbery or sticky material that keeps the legs in place during movement.

Perhaps the most important part of any cycling bib shorts or regular cycling shorts is the chamois pad. This pad is positioned in the seat and crotch of the shorts to provide comfort and protection from the saddle of the bicycle. Some bicycle saddles tend to be fairly hard and uncomfortable, and mountain bikers will notice that the saddle can sometimes impact one's body while on rough terrain. The chamois pad — which is not always made from true chamois, but instead some other antibacterial synthetic material — provides a layer of protection and comfort throughout the ride and helps prevent hot spots, saddle sores, and other types of discomfort.