Loosely based on Rudi Altig, cycling legend of the 1960s, one could say about the choice of colour for cycling shorts: It doesn't matter what colour the shorts are - the main thing is that they are black! The fact that the shorts in this test are actually all black, apart from coloured accents or applications, is certainly not due to a lack of ideas on the part of the manufacturers. Black is simply practical: black trousers are resistant to stains of all kinds, are generally opaque and can be easily combined with other colours. One positive aspect of the jerseys is that no manufacturer seems to consider floral patterns to be the contemporary answer to the fashion wishes of female road cyclists; plain jerseys or those with flat and block stripe patterns and bold colours predominate.
You can find the test results of these road cycling shorts and jerseys for women as a PDF download below:
- ASSOS SS.laalaLai Jersey Evo7 and T.laalaLaiShorts S7
- CASTELLI Aero Race W Jersey and Velocissima
- CRAFT Glow Bike Jersey W and Glow Bike Bib Shorts W
- GORE BIKE WEAR Xenon 2.0 Lady Jersey and Xenon 2.0 Lady
- LIV Race Day SS Jersey and Race Day Shorts
- MAVIC Cosmic Pro Jersey and Ksyrium Elite Short
- SANTINI Ora Jersey Short Sleeve and Rea 2.0 Shorts
- VAUDE Women's Pro Tricot and Women's Pro Pants
What must be ...
The requirements for good cycling clothing are more consistent than fashion trends: the cut of the shorts and jersey must anticipate the bent-over position on the road bike. The front of the jersey should therefore be short enough so that the fabric does not create additional waves in front of the chest and the back should be long enough to cover the kidneys and buttocks. The waistband should fit snugly so that the jersey does not ride up when cycling. The back pockets must be large enough, easy to reach and cut in such a way that the jersey does not protrude from the back when the pockets are full; an additional small zip pocket is practical for safely stowing your smartphone or keys. The collar and cuffs should neither constrict nor flutter. The standard for cycling jerseys - and in this test - are full-length zips that can ideally be opened and closed with one hand. Small fabric pockets at the ends of the zips - also known as zip garages - prevent the slider from scratching the neck or the fastener from rubbing the trouser fabric. If mesh inserts under the armpits and on the back prevent heat build-up and discreet, well-placed reflective stripes and piping increase visibility, a good jersey can ultimately become your favourite jersey.
... must be
The question of whether to wear bib or waistband trousers is much discussed among women, but there is no clear answer as to whether they are "better" or "worse". One argument in favour of bib shorts is that they fit tighter and don't slip; women - like most men - feel more "dressed" in bib shorts. And where there is no waistband, none can cut in or slip and roll in at the hips or in a fold in the stomach. On the other hand, many women don't like it when the straps run directly over the breasts and constantly slip or rub uncomfortably. Many also shy away from the effort and the uncomfortable feeling of having to undress almost completely in the toilet. Attempts have been made to eliminate these disadvantages of bib shorts. Some manufacturers tailor a mono strap to the trousers that runs centrally between the breasts; and they create the option of separating the straps from the trousers using a hook or zip fastener. Both can be a solution for women who are still unfamiliar with bib shorts, but it remains a very individual matter - so be sure to try them on before you buy! This also applies if you do decide to go for trousers. They do exist, the ones that fit like a second skin without slipping and pinching at the hips or thighs. And then a very happy relationship can develop between trousers and woman.
Even more individual than the question of bib or waistband shorts, however, is the decision when it comes to seat pads. Sportier, more experienced cyclists tend to feel more comfortable on evenly thin, smooth pads, while newcomers in particular tend to prefer thicker, firmer seat cushions; there are now even pads that are equipped with elements of varying firmness under the sit bones and in the pubic area. What women definitely don't like is a spongy nappy feeling because the pad is too thick or the trouser fabric is too elastic to hold it in place. The same applies here: try them on and try them out!
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