Opinions differ when it comes to cycling shorts with cargo pockets. Some love them, others never want to go without them again.
1. additional storage space
The longer the tour, the more you reach the capacity limits of the jersey pockets. Just imagine: Smartphone, 3 bars, 7 gels, rain jacket, Battery air pump (test)wallet, keys, arm warmers, action cam and so on. That sounds like a lot to stuff into the jersey, doesn't it? Cargo cycling shorts create further storage options. Also a possibility: Top tube bag (test) or a frame bag.
2. the path for the hand is shorter
The hand has to cover a shorter distance from the handlebars to the thigh than from the handlebars to the jersey pocket. The next portion of carbohydrates is therefore ready for use more quickly. Especially on technical sections, it can be helpful if you don't have to search in your back pockets.
3. pockets more easily accessible than jersey pockets
Do you know it? Short cycling jerseys often require a lot of shoulder mobility to reach the contents of the pockets. The leg pockets of cargo bib shorts are easier to reach. Perfect for gels, bars or even your smartphone. No more excuses for not eating enough carbs and it's easy to take a snapshot.
4. casual look with a T-shirt without sacrificing storage space
Especially when cycling away from tarmac roads and on bikepacking tours, some people prefer to wear a loose T-shirt rather than a cycling jersey. And where does all this stuff end up? Of course: in the pockets of your cycling shorts.
5. let's not give it away in the headline
You can find out point 5 in this video:
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Tip: 2 favourite cargo bibshorts from Sandra
At first I thought: Pockets on cycling shorts? Who needs that? And then I tried it out and wouldn't want anything else. My current favourite cargo bib shorts are:
- GripGrab Women's EXPLR Cargo Bib Shorts: firm padding, unfortunately not pee-friendly
- Everve bib shorts ezero pro cargo: no padding, pee-friendly
Unfortunately, I haven't been able to test the Triple2 Snell Ocean Light Long Distance Cargo Bib Shorts yet. They have an SQlab pad and are sewn to be pee-friendly, so that you don't have to take your clothes off at the top, but can still get the shorts over your bum for a quick bio-break. This pad is one of the best I've ever sat on, along with the one sewn into the GripGrab trousers. But sitting is an individual matter.
Sandra Schuberth
Editor
