Cycling shorts for winter: We give tips for the right model

These must fulfil two main tasks: They must keep your legs warm and dry and offer a high level of comfort when pedalling. If you want to buy new cycling shorts for winter, you should pay attention to important details that are crucial for protection and comfort.

Whether the new winter cycling shorts should be equipped with or without padding is a fundamental decision. Many people prefer to wear their favourite summer shorts under their warm winter bibs because of their favourite padding. The combination of summer and winter trousers also offers a small price advantage, as winter trousers without padding are slightly cheaper than those with. But beware: elsewhere, this under-and-over variant can restrict comfort, as the seams and fabric of both pairs of trousers overlap unfavourably and can cause annoying chafing when pedalling.

Membrane as a barrier against wind & water

Not every pair of winter cycling trousers is automatically equipped with a membrane, although this partially permeable layer, which blocks out wind and water and at the same time transports sweat from the skin to the outside in the form of water vapour, has proven to be the most effective barrier against rapid cooling. Winter trousers without this, sometimes somewhat stiff, protective layer are cheaper and more comfortable to wear, but offer little protection in the event of sudden rain or sleet. However, if you only ride your bike in winter in stable high-pressure weather with sunshine, you can do without the plastic layer in your trousers with the added advantage that sweat is transported away from the skin more quickly and you don't stew in your own juices as quickly.

Winter trousers cost between 35 and 405 euros

The better and higher quality the winter trousers are, the more expensive they are - although the price range can vary greatly from brand to brand. The entry-level model, for example, is very affordable "Long cycling shorts with straps Winter RC 100" by Triban (not pictured), Decathlon's own brand. The sporting goods discounter charges just 35 euros for these functional winter trousers, making them a real bargain. The one shown here Assos Mille GT Winter Tights GTO C2 costs almost twelve times as much at 405 euros and therefore appeals to a more exclusive clientele. At a price of 200 euros, the Endura Pro SL Bibtight II (with padding and membrane) is a typical representative of the upper middle class.

The material

Material density and elasticity are important. Winter cycling trousers have more material per square centimetre, are more densely woven and offer more stretch than classic summer trousers. Thanks to the larger air cushion, they can store more heat and at the same time keep an existing seat pad perfectly in position. If the material is roughened on the inside - experts call this Roubaix material - an additional warming effect is created. How thick and warm your new winter trousers should be depends on the intended use and your personal perception of warmth. If you get cold quickly and only want to go for a cosy winter run every now and then, choose a thick and fluffy model.

15 long cycling shorts for winter put to the test

The straps of the winter cycling trousers

For the straps, models made of uniformly elasticated material have become established and proven themselves. These are made of a fibre mix over their entire length and width, which is equally stretchable in all directions. As a result, they lie flat and rarely show a tendency to roll up. The elasticated models that almost all cycling shorts were equipped with just a few years ago work much less well. These elastics are usually too tight, stretching in the shoulder area and leaving welts. These elasticated braces also tend to roll up, which can also restrict comfort in the long term. In our two examples, the Assos would be praised and the Endura would be criticised.

The Confederation

How high the waistband of the winter trousers should be depends on personal taste. A very high waistband, as on the Endura, warms the sensitive kidney area better than a flat waistband that only reaches the hips. Disadvantage: In mild temperatures, sweat runs faster and too much fabric hinders quick access during a pee break. Assos and Endura both offer a clever solution to this problem with their elasticated fabric and small zip.

The knee section of the winter trousers

To protect the sensitive knees from the cold and wet, it makes sense to use a membrane at this point, although this makes the knee area somewhat stiffer and can cause a chafing sensation. Pre-shaped fabric wedges have proven to be a good countermeasure, taking the tension out of the front of the kneecap and reducing creasing at the back.

The final bundle

Putting on or taking off winter trousers can be sweaty and annoying the more stubbornly the waistband wants to slip over your ankles. Zips at the side or back can help here, provided they are not too thick and do not rub against the shoe or overshoe shaft. Wide, elasticated cuffs made of robust material have proven to be the simplest and cheapest solution.

A large selection of winter bib shorts can be found here:

Winter cycling trousers: short & sweet

Apart from the individual fit and the basic decisions for and against seat padding and equipment with a wind and water-repellent membrane, the following criteria are decisive on the way to finding the right winter trousers.

• The trouser material should be tightly woven and have elasticity
• roughened Roubaix material on the inside provides additional warmth
• wide, elasticated straps fit snugly and increase comfort
• an elasticated opening or zip makes it easier to take a pee break
• there are special bib shorts for women for a problem-free pit stop
• the height of the waistband should correspond to the intended use and the sensation of cold
• with stiff membrane material in the front area, you should pay attention to a pre-shaped and crease-free knee section
• a zip in the waistband makes it easier to put on and take off, but should not be too thick