Sometimes it can be a little tricky to find cycling clothing that is comfortable and doesn’t restrict movement while riding, but also helps to express individuality.

Therefore we’ve made a list of the best cycling clothing brands to suit all types of cycling as well as a range of budgets and tastes.

If you were looking just for urban cycling wear then please redirect yourself to our best urban cycling clothing brands piece.

Best Cycling Clothing Brands

Stylish Cycling Apparel Brands

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1. Ornot

Founded in 2013, this San Francisco-based company offers a wide range of cycling attire that ranges from lycra to comfy shorts.

Focusing on sustainability, which may make them a little pricier, their main aim is to offer good technical clothing that won’t break the bank but is also climate conscious.

Within the range you can expect to find a lot of cycling clothes with really useful features: their cycling shorts with the side pockets being one of their best sellers.

Overall they offer a really great range of on and off the bike clothing made from good technical materials in a range of colours.

2. Velocio

Velocio prioritizes enhancing the cycling experience with their apparel. While mainly catering to road cycling and touring, they offer urban cycling options in their Commute range.

Despite its size, the collection features remarkable pieces like the stylish and lightweight Velocio Recon Snap Jacket, which also boasts warmth from its fleece lining. Covering essentials, Velocio provides jackets, tops, t-shirts, trousers, shorts, and accessories for both genders.

3. Rapha

Rapha is synonymous with cycling fashion, known for exclusivity and quality. Although polarizing due to high prices, their road-focused gear offers genuine value.

The Rapha City Collection stands out for stylish and functional attire suitable for both cycling and work settings.

4. Le Col

This well known and well adored, premium British brand offers cycling kit more focused towards road cycling with performance in mind. Interestingly, the products have been developed and tested by ex professional road cyclist, Yanto Barker.

Therefore you can be sure that it’s good enough for the hours pros spend in the saddle. You’ll expect to pay more for these Italian made high-end products which consist of their popular long bibs and shorts, but you’ll certainly receive some of the comfiest kit around in return.

Le Col also offers custom kit for anyone wanting to kit out their club or team. All in all, it’s great kit more focused on road riding and racing.

5. Chrome Industries

Chrome Industries reigns as the urban cycling gear leaders, prioritizing durability and style. Since 1995, they’ve focused on crafting practical gear for both cycling and daily use.

Their robust backpacks, messenger bags, bike shorts, and cycling shoes embody resilience and aesthetics, with stiff-soled shoes being a standout feature. Chrome’s lasting quality and devotion to urban cycling set them apart in commuter fashion.

6. Sigr

Sigr, hailing from Sweden, embodies Scandinavian cycling style. Their Commuter range epitomizes elegant practicality with a focus on quality. While the urban clothing collection is compact, it covers essentials for summer and winter commutes: trousers, chinos, shorts, polo, and cycling jackets in both men’s and women’s styles.

Sigr achieves a balance between minimalist design and cycling functionality, integrating features like breathability, stretch, and reflective details on trousers and shorts.

7. Ministry of Supply

Ministry of Supply, founded in 2012, offers scientifically supported, top-quality clothing. Specializing in high-performance business attire, they provide a broad selection of smart shirts, trousers, and blazers designed to be lightweight, stretchy, and comfortable.

This functionality translates well to cycling, making their products suitable for commutes. However, the elegant gear comes at a premium price point.

8. Mission Workshop

For top-tier urban cycling wear with modern style and high-performance technology, Mission Workshop excels.

Their commuter gear combines fashion and function seamlessly, disguising its cycling purpose. Products like The Hayes shirt and The Division Chino stand out. While undoubtedly premium and costly (e.g., £205/$225 for The Division Chinos), Mission Workshop offers unparalleled quality for those willing to invest in the best.

9. Endura

Scotland’s 1993-founded Endura is a fixture in commuter cycling, offering expansive, comfortable gear. Among the world’s most established cycling brands, it provides an extensive array of products for male and female riders.

10. Vaela

Women’s brand Vaela is based in the UK and holds sustainability as one of its core principles, therefore the small range (mainly consisting of their highly reviewed jeans) of items they produce have been carefully thought out and produced in a sustainable way with sustainable materials.

Within their range, they have the 001 jeans, 001 bike bag, and 001 cotton jacket which have all been designed to not look like cycling clothing while still allowing for the movement needed to ride in comfort.

Their clothing is expensive but it’s great quality and has a great range of sizes to ensure every woman is catered for.

11. Castelli

Italian cycling brand Castelli is well known for it’s high quality road cycling kit. Most people who ride road will at some point have owned an item of clothing from them: they really are very popular among cyclists for their high quality and high performing pieces.

Their Gabba (now called perfecto) water resistant outer-layer jacket being one of their most iconic and well loved pieces, but they also cater to more relaxed cycling clothing more commonly worn when gravel riding or mountain biking.

It’s also not uncommon to see Castelli team up with the likes of GORE to combine their style with GORE’s technical brilliance. Overall it’s a great brand offering iconic pieces for road cyclists.

12. MAAP

Founded in Melbourne in 2014, MAAP is one of the go to brands for style conscious cyclists wanting quality pieces and happy to spend a little extra to get them.

They have a brilliant range of on and off the bike clothing in a range of colours and styles to suit every kind of riders needs, be a lycra loving roadie or someone who wants a comfy pair of trousers to wear while cruising around on their fixie.

They are particularly popular for their comfy chamois and classy colours to suit all kinds of styles of riding. A solid option for most riders.

13. POC

Swedish brand POC may be best known for their helmets and goggles, but they also have a wide range of cycling specific clothing on offer too. As with many brands, they also offer both straight up cycling wear (from road to mountain bike style clothing) as well as more relaxed attire that would easily pass off as just normal casual wear but is still comfy for cycling in.

Their cycling kit is particularly popular among mountain bikers, with their high quality baggy shorts, perfect for trail riding and baggy tops made from breathable materials. Their helmets are also great if you are in the market for a new lid too!

14. Pas Normal Studios

This super stylish Danish brand is relatively new as it was founded back in 2014 but it’s everything you’d expect from the Danes: style and sophistication rolled into one.

The kit itself definitely has a luxury feel, there’s no doubt about it, but is for sure on the pricier side of the market.

Their wide selection of clothing ranges from road cycling, gravel, everyday wear and to off the bike training clothing. Their colour options are definitely worth noting too, the popular brown as well as white bib shorts being an item the more daring reach for.

15. Café Du Cycliste

French brand, Café du Cycliste, was founded in 2009, drawing inspiration from the outdoors and the passion for adventure being their main driving force, his fun cycling clothing brand is “dedicated to those who want to explore more” and their range for sure caters to that notion.

They have pretty much everything, from quirky gravel orientated items to more urban style trousers you’d happily wear out to lunch. They even stock shoes and accessories like bottles. It’s also not uncommon to find collaborations on their website which always offer creative designs and colours. A real must for anyone wanting choice and quality.

16. Osloh Bicycle Jeans

In North America, Osloh reigns as the leading cycling jeans brand, offering exceptionally durable and robust products. Specializing solely in cycling jeans, their designs are tested and proven tough.

With reinforced seams and multiple pockets (e.g., 7 on the Traffic Jean), Osloh caters to both men and women. Beyond jeans, Osloh provides handy cycling accessories like the innovative Tex-Lock, as well as lights, mirrors, and bike bells.

17. Madison

British based brand Madison are well known for their robust cycling jackets which are often popular among mountain bikers and off road lovers. As well as their outerwear, Madison is also a great brand for anyone wanting comfy and affordable clothing that is best suited towards mountain bike.

They also have some versatile pieces which can be a real staple for pretty much every cyclist, such as pull over waterproof cycling trousers. Not to mention they also offer more urban style cycling shorts, which are perfect for more relaxed leisure riding. A solid choice for mountain bikers and leisure riders.

18. Black Sheep

Originating from the Gold Coast, this quirky Australian cycling brand stocks a brilliant range of clothing to suit a whole plethora of needs. Their fun and vibrant prints really stand out and are a fun change from a lot of what’s on the market at current. Therefore, if you are into big bold floral prints and vivacious colours, you most definitely need to check out the clothing they have on offer.

They also stock more block colours for the more understated rider, so it’s safe to say they have something for everyone. Black Sheep are also involved in their own initiatives to help give back to the cycling community, which is always great to see.

19. DUER

DUER, although not solely a cycling brand, excels in producing fantastic activewear for commuters. Their focus lies in crafting trousers and shorts, touted as the “world’s most comfortable pants,” a claim well-supported by their quality.

While prioritizing style, DUER’s urban pants offer stretch and breathability, making them superb for cycling. Despite a broader scope, they’ve successfully developed top-tier urban cycling pants for both genders.

20. Proviz

Proviz excels in offering high-visibility and reflective outerwear for urban cyclists. Their gear, especially jackets and gilets, transforms into beacons of light when illuminated, ensuring visibility on the road.

Additionally, they provide reflective waterproof trousers, making sure cyclists are seen and safe while riding.

The post Best Cycling Clothing Brands: Top 20 Ranked in 2024 appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

Wearing the right legwear is the most important clothing consideration for cycling.

Get it wrong and you can end up sweating may more than you need to, destroying inappropriate trousers/shorts and – worst case – chafing. Nobody wants that.

In the summer months, such decisions are even more important. That’s why I’ve spent the past 10 years unearthing the best casual cycling shorts in the world.

And this year, we have a new contender: Ornot’s Lightweight Mission Short.

Ornot’s Urban Cycling Shorts

When I started Discerning Cyclist back in 2012, there were a few brands producing products that attempted to bridge the gap between style and function. And, in truth, the results were mixed. It was usually pretty clear than products were still “cycling clothes”, even if they tried to look a bit more every day.

But with the growth of activewear, athleisure, workleisure – or whatever new tag is now around – the quality of stylish clothes with built-in functionality has matured wonderfully.

To me, Ornot’s Lightweight Mission Short is the most epitome of the Discerning Cyclist mantra: these are stylish shorts. Point. No-one looking at them would ever assume that these are “cycling” shorts or boast the incredible functional that they do. And I love that.

So why do I love Ornot’s shorts so much?

Well, visually, they present a flattering slim fit design that cut a few inches above the knee (8.5” inseam).

But what you might not spot at first glance is that these shorts are stretchy. Really stretchy. You can squat in them with virtually no resistance.

Thanks to their blend of 85% Nylon and 15% Elastane, they’re not just lightweight, but also very durable.

Casual Bike Shorts with Gusset

Indeed, durability is a key feature of these Ornot shorts – and it’s something that you can overlook in cycling legwear.

The crotch is the area that gets most exposed (pun absolutely intended) in cycling shorts. This is due to the constant contact with the bike saddle, which can quickly wear away the material and seams.

To counteract this, Ornot have added a built-in gusseted crotch (i.e. a separate piece of material around the crotch area so that the seams don’t wear away).

Pockets

As well as breathability, flexibility and durability, another key element of any cycling pant is… pockets. I know, how exciting.

But again, Ornot have nailed this important criteria. The shorts have four pockets, two front hand pockets and two rear pockets. The right rear pocket is also zipped. The thing I like about these pockets is that they feel are deep, but compact enough so your things aren’t bouncing around. There’s plenty of space for a phone or wallet and there’s no feeling that they’ll fall out of your pocket.

Ornot Lightweight Mission Shorts Review: Summary

This might sound like hyperbole, but I think these are the perfect urban cycling shorts. They look great and they feel great – on and off the bike.

At $118, they’re far from cheap. But that’s the only criticism I have of them. Really.

If you can afford them, Ornot’s Lightweight Mission Short won’t let you down.

I opted for the “Stone Blue” colour (pictured), but they’re also available in “Slate” (dark grey).

The post Ornot Lightweight Mission Short Review: Perfect Bike Shorts? appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

Cycling in the summer. That’s what life’s about.

But in order to ensure a comfortable commute or leisurely ride, getting the right legwear is key.

That’s why I spent a week creating a guide on the best urban bike shorts for men and women.

I always say trousers/shorts are the most important item of clothing for bike commuters. You can get away with a standard shirt or jacket, but your pants need to have some flexibility, the ability to let your legs breath and a good fit.

And that brings us on to the Rapha Randonnee Shorts, which I’ve been testing out for the past few months.

Rapha Randonnee Shorts

Rapha need little introduction. Love them or hate them, they know a thing about functional style and their city collection for commuters is one of my absolute favourites and I’ve reviewed lots of their gear previously.

It’s quite a statement, therefore, that I consider the Randonneee Shorts one of – if not the – best pieces of urban cycling apparel that Rapha have ever created. But why?

Stylish Commuter Shorts

Well, for starters these are stylish shorts for summer. Plain and simple. You’d have no idea that these are “cycling shorts” until you wore them and realised how comfortable and flexible they are.

The Randonnee shorts have a slim-fit style and are made from a blend of 94% Nylon and 6% Spandex, which is how Rapha have managed to create such as lightweight and stretchy short.

They also have a high-cut back, which is great for prevent rear exposure when riding and I actually found this cut to be more comfortable than shorts with a straight back cut.

3 Zipped Pockets

One particularly noteworthy feature of these shorts is the pockets and that’s because the two hand pockets are zipped, as well as the right rear pocket.

They’re not massive pockets and if the zips weren’t there, there would be a danger of your valuables falling out, but they are comfortably big enough to fit even the largest of smart phones in them.

The rear left pocket is also buttoned and this is where you’ll see Rapha’s iconic hi-vis pink flash for the tab that secures the button.

If you do like the pink Rapha detailing, there’s also another piece you can display – but only if you want to as there’s some detailing on the inside leg. So if you roll the shorts cuff up twice, you’ll see more hi-vis pink detailing and I find it a really nice touch. The shorts cut off just above my knee, but with a couple of rolls, they look a bit more flattering in my opinion.

Rapha Randonnee Shorts Review Summary

These are my favourite urban cycling shorts right now. At £90, they’re certainly not cheap, but I would also say they’re not extorniate given undoubted quality that they offer.

The Randonnee shorts are extremely comfortable, look fantastic and are perfect for life on and off the bike in the warmer months. You won’t look out of place even at the most formal of summer occasions in these shorts.

Rapha offer these shorts in navy blue and black (I have the nave blue pictured), although – at the time of writing at least – the navy option is out of stock.

Read More Rapha Reviews:

• Rapha Reflective Travel Backpack Review
• Rapha Technical Trousers Review
• Rapha Commuter Reflective T-Shirt Review
• Rapha Commuter Lightweight Jacket Review
• Rapha Explore Hooded Gore-Tex Pullover

The post Rapha Randonnee Shorts – Review [Most Stylish Commuter Shorts?] appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

Let’s face it: Lycra isn’t for everyone. If you’re a commuter, you probably don’t want to be rocking up to the office in spandex, either. 

If you cringe at the thought of tight-fitting shorts and high vis everything, you’re not alone. While your safety and visibility should always be your top priority, this doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style. Whether you’re cycling to work or biking around town, you can look just as good on the bike as you do off it. 

Not sure where to start looking? Fear not! We’ve compiled this handy guide packed full of stylish and functional cycling gear, so you can always look your best on your commute. 

Skip Ahead:

• Best Casual Cycling Jackets: Men | Women
• Best Casual Cycling Shirts: Men | Women
• Best Casual Cycling Trousers: Men | Women
• Best Casual Cycling Shorts: Men | Women
• Best Casual Cycling Clothing Brands [Top 3]

Do I Have to Wear “Cycling Clothes”?

In short, no. If your journey is quick and you’re not racing or training, you don’t need to be dressed head-to-toe in cycling gear. 

This is especially true for bike commuters who only have short journeys. Indeed, most people who can enjoy a shorter than average commute (the average bike commute being 44 minutes daily) have little need for specialised cycling clothing.

So unless your commute is an epic voyage, there are only a few priorities you’ll need to consider. These are staying either dry or warm, being comfortable, and keeping clean. In an urban area, you also need to make sure you’re visible. 

Although this will require you to wear some high vis, extra additions like gloves, cycling glasses, clipless shoes, and chamois cream are not usually necessary. 

What Should I Wear for Casual Cycling

Stylish shirts, t-shirts, jackets, trousers, and shoes are all feasible for casual cycling, so long as you’re not doing long distances. 

(Think your standard pub outfit, with a few minor tweaks!)

However, it needs to be functional. This will mean wearing reflective detailing, extra padding or stretch, and preferably opting for something wind and water-resistant. The weather is rarely dependable, so be prepared for anything. 

Best Casual Cycling Jackets

Remember: casual shouldn’t mean impractical. The last thing any commuter wants is to arrive at work drenched from a dismal downpour, so the right jacket is essential. 

You need to consider several criteria, so before we get started, let’s run you through the most important things you need to look out for. 

What Should I Be Looking For?

• Breathable: Sweaty? No thanks. Choose something lightweight and vented to avoid this.
• Water Resistant: This is a no brainer. Choose a jacket that repels rain effectively.
• Reflective: You need to be safe and visible, so be reflective enough for others to take notice. 
• Packable: If you’ve got a lot of things to carry, you need something compact. Consider choosing a stylish, packable jacket.

Best Men’s Casual Cycling Jackets

Proviz Men’s Reflect 360 Cycling Jacket

Looking for stylish reflective jackets? This one looks great in urban settings, and it’s even fitted with multiple air vents to regulate body temperature.

These can also be closed in colder temperatures and used as pockets, so it’s suitable for all weathers. It comes in light grey, and it’s the first in the world to use a 100% reflective outer material. 

When this jacket picks up external light in the dark, it offers excellent visibility. You’re guaranteed to look stylish, feel comfortable, and still be safe on your way to and from work. 

Proviz Men's Reflect 360 Cycling Jacket Proviz - Silver/Reflective, Medium, Silver (Argenté/Gris Réfléchissant), Medium

• The Award-Winning REFLECT360 Cycling Jacket is the world's first to be designed using a 100% reflective outer-shell and was featured at the highly prestigious Cycle Revolution Exhibition at the London...
• The jacket incorporates multiple vents allowing the user to regulate body temperature. By opening the front zipper vents a 'through-flow' is achieved. The air enters the front vents, cools the body...
• During the winter, the vents can be closed and are designed to also be used as extra pockets if required. These features enable the jacket to be used all year round. Added is an inside chest pocket...

Check Price

Rapha Men’s Lightweight Commuter Jacket

If you’re searching for packable jackets, look no further than Rapha. This jacket comes in eight different colours, and for commuters looking for durability and practicality, it’s a dream. 

This jacket comes with a built-in pocket so that you can pack it up with ease. It’s waterproof, so you’ll be protected from the elements, and it even has a storm hood for some added protection. As it’s lightweight, this will fit nice and snug beneath your helmet, too.

It’s also made with breathable fabric and a meshed shoulder panel that’ll stop you from overheating.

Rapha Men's Lightweight Commuter Jacket

A stunningly stylish jacket that is water and wind resistant, has a foldaway hood and can be packed down into it's built-in pocket so you can throw it in a bag.

Check Price

Best Women’s Casual Cycling Jackets

Mountain Warehouse Pakka Women’s Jacket

It goes without saying: waterproof jackets are a must. This one combines all of our desired features, and it doesn’t compromise on style. 

It’s available in twelve sizes and seven colours, plus it comes with a pack-away hood and a pack away bag.

It’s also made from 100% nylon, so its waterproof and breathable material will keep you cool whilst preventing rain from getting in. It has also been tested to withstand up to 1,500mm of rain in 24 hours, making it suitable for light to moderate showers. 

Proviz Men's Reflect 360 Cycling Jacket Proviz - Silver/Reflective, Medium, Silver (Argenté/Gris Réfléchissant), Medium

• The Award-Winning REFLECT360 Cycling Jacket is the world's first to be designed using a 100% reflective outer-shell and was featured at the highly prestigious Cycle Revolution Exhibition at the London...
• The jacket incorporates multiple vents allowing the user to regulate body temperature. By opening the front zipper vents a 'through-flow' is achieved. The air enters the front vents, cools the body...
• During the winter, the vents can be closed and are designed to also be used as extra pockets if required. These features enable the jacket to be used all year round. Added is an inside chest pocket...

Check Price

Best Casual Cycling Shirts

Whether you’re after a polo shirt, a t- shirt or a smart shirt, there’s plenty of options to choose from (no Lycra involved!)

What Should I Be Looking For?

Breathability: This will prevent you from getting sticky and sweaty on your commute.

Stretchable: So you can move freely whilst riding.

Longer Back: Most cycling shirts are longer so your back is always covered. 

Moisture-wicking: These fabrics naturally move moisture away from the body to prevent you from getting clammy. 

Best Men’s Casual Cycling Shirts

Bluffworks Piton Polo Shirt

Polo shirts are a popular choice for urban cyclists. Bluffworks shirts are made from 100% polyester (so they’re great for moisture-wicking), plus they’re wrinkle-resistant and machine washable. 

They have a high level of breathability, and they’re available in a range of colours and designs. This makes them a great choice for commuters looking for a more casual fit that’s still built for the job. 

Bluffworks Piton Polo Shirt

A polo shirt designed for travellers means it contains all the things you want for cycling: durability, stretch, breathability and wrinkle-resitance.

Buy Here (On Sale)

Twillory Performance Shirts

There’s also a wide range of smart shirts for commuters looking for a more formal fit. These shirts come with a four-way stretch and an extremely breathable fabric. To top it off, they’re wrinkle-free and moisture-wicking, too. 

They also come in a wide range of colours so you’ll be hard-pressed to find something that doesn’t look good in the workplace. You’ll get great functionality and a sharp fit – so sharp, in fact, it doesn’t even look like athleisure wear. 

Best Women’s Casual Cycling Shirts

After some timeless T-shirts for casual Friday? Look no further.

Rapha Women’s Merino T-Shirt

Rapha rarely disappoints, and as expected, these t-shirts are in a league of their own. 

This crew neck comes in dark navy or black, and it’s made from a combination of merino wool with nylon – this can act as insulation in the winter or keep you cool in the summer. Either way, it’s versatile and durable, making it great for commuters. 

It also comes with a reflective tab, and it’s shrink resistant too. 

Rapha Women's Merino T-Shirt

A chic t-shirt boasting Rapha's iconic pink armbands. The merino-nylon blend makes for a comfortable, breathable and naturally anti-bacterial tee that feels great against the skin.

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Ministry of Supply Composite Women’s Merino Tank

Fancy a tank to keep you cool? These are stylish and smart, and they’re available in a range of colours.

They also come in a choice of fits ranging from regular to large, so you can go for a trimmer fit or a looser one, depending on your needs. This makes them a versatile, stylish addition to your workplace wardrobe, as they can be dressed up (or down) with ease. 

They’re moisture-wicking and odour resistant, too – the commuters dream.

Ministry of Supply Composite Women's Merino Tank

A smart ladies' tank top that boasts secret functionality so that not only does it look great, but it feels great when out on your bike. Really breathable.

Check Price

Best Casual Cycling Trousers 

Yes, you read that right. No Lycra or padding involved here. Just sharp, up-to-the-minute jeans and chinos for the everyday urban commuter.

What Should I Be Looking For?

Water Resistance: Because no one wants soggy legs.

Breathable Fabric: You’ll need a loose fabric, like cotton blended with polyester, so that you can stay cool and fresh on your journey.

Extra Stretch: So you can move freely and comfortably. 

Deep Pockets: So you have somewhere to keep your phone and keys on your commute. 

Best Men’s Casual Cycling Trousers

Bluffworks Ascender Chino

Looking for some cycle-friendly chinos to bomb around the urban jungle in? These tick every box.

You’ll get a whopping ten (!) pockets, including internal zip pockets, multi-tool utility pockets, and built-in phone pockets. They’re also made of 100% polyester, so you’ll benefit from a breathable fit that’s moisture-wicking, crease-resistant, odour-resistant and stretchy, too. 

While these chinos weren’t specifically designed with cycling in mind, they’re blessed with all the great features a commuter could possibly dream of. 

Bluffworks Ascender Chino

Lightweight, stretchy and breathable chinos that are also crease-resistant.

Oh, and 10 pockets.

Buy Here

Resolute Bay’s CORDURA NX5 Cycling Jeans

Sometimes, jeans can be restrictive and unforgiving. If you’re looking for something comfier that’s built with the commuter in mind, check these out. 

Resolute Bay’s cycling jeans are water-resistant, stretchy, and strong. They’re made with CORDURA denim, which is over four times more durable than 100% cotton denim. 

You also get reflective detail on the back, six pockets, and a repairable gusseted crotch to minimise wear and tear. 

Resolute Bay CORDURA NX5 Cycling Jeans

Great-looking jeans that are packed full of functionality for cycling.

The NX5 Jeans are extremely durable, water-repellent, stretchy and even boast discreet reflective detailing for night rides.

Buy Here

Best Women’s Casual Cycling Trousers

DUER Performance Denim Slim Jeans

You’ll never worry about a lack of stretch with these jeans. Their blend of cotton, polyester and Lycra spandex provides plenty of wiggle room and breathability, too.

They also come with five pockets and a gusseted crotch with reinforced seams, so you’ll be getting something durable and long-lasting. You can also choose from a range of cuts (high rise or mid-rise), fits, and colours. You’ll almost feel spoiled for choice. 

Stretchy Style!

DUER Performance Women's Jeans - $129

An everyday-looking pair of jeans that boast lots of stretch to make rides more comfortable.

Colours: Navy, Black

Buy Here

Betabrand Yoga Denim Jeans

These days, Betabrand no longer make lines exclusively for cycling. Although these were made with Yoga in mind, their features make them a perfect choice for commuters.

Thanks to a fine blend of cotton, polyester, rayon and elastane, these jeans have an incredible amount of stretch in them (as you’d expect for something you can do Yoga in!). You can also get them in different fits, cuts, colours and sizes, so all body types are catered for here. 

Plus, they look incredibly smart. These aren’t your typical ‘casual’ looking jeans, making them a great addition to your workplace wardrobe. 

Betabrand Yoga Denim Jeans

Jeans built for Yoga also make good on the bike thanks to their abundant stretch.

Available in lots of different colours, fits and cuts for women of all sizes.

Buy Here

Best Casual Cycling Shorts 

These may not be the first choice for the typical commuter, but we’re going to show you some great urban shorts to consider if you want to spruce up your wardrobe. 

What Should I Be Looking For?

Flexible Material: If you’ve read this far, you’ll know why! 

Gusseted Crotch: To minimise wear and tear.

Secure Pockets: Because who doesn’t love pockets?

Moisture Wicking Properties: So you can avoid getting clammy. 

Best Men’s Casual Cycling Shorts

Chrome Industries Union Short 2.0

Made from 94% nylon and 6% spandex, these shorts have a lot of give in them. They have a four-way stretch design and come with a full-length gusset for extra protection.

You’ll also get some reflective detailing and five pockets, including a zipped rear pocket for more secure storage space. What’s more, these shorts are wind and water-resistant, making them a great choice for commuters facing all weathers on their journey. 

You’ll also have a choice of three colours: black, light blue, and light grey.

Chrome Industries Union Short 2.0

Stylish urban cycling shorts that offer plenty of stretch, fit well for cycling and have great deep pockets (including a zipped rear pocket). They're also wind and rain resistant and feature several bits of reflective detailing.

Could well be the perfect bike shorts for commuters.

Buy Here

DUER Live Lite Journey Short

The Journey Short is made largely from cotton and comes with five pockets (including a rear zipped one). They’re cut slightly above the knee, so you’ll get a fair bit of a stretch and a comfortable fit. 

As well as being moisture wicking and water-resistant, these shorts also have antibacterial properties thanks to their blend of TENCELL Lyocell material, which derives from eucalyptus. 

These shorts don’t come with a gusseted crotch which may make them unsuitable for heavy use. However, if you’re just cycling to and from work, you’ll get a lot of wear out of these. You can choose from red, navy, brown or light grey, making them a stylish and versatile choice for all commuters.

DUER Live Lite Journey Short

Great-looking urban cycling shorts that are very breathable and offer plenty of stretch. Come in four different colours.

Perfect for the ride and your destination.

Buy Here

Best Women’s Casual Cycling Shorts

Chrome Women’s Seneca Short

That’s right, Chrome has made it onto our list (again!), and this time, with a great option for the ladies. 

They’re made with a blend of cotton, nylon, and spandex, so you’ll get something breathable, stretchy, windproof, and waterproof. The waistline also has a ‘contoured stretch’ meaning it’s slightly raised on the rear for a more secure and forgiving fit. 

You’ll also get six pockets, including a hidden zipped one below the waistband. You can choose from black or light brown colours, and the material is a four-way stretch, so you’ll always be comfortable on the move. 

Chrome Women’s Seneca Short

Great-looking urban cycling shorts made from a Cotton-Nylon-Spandex blend which results in stretchy, breathable and water resistant shorts.

Feel good on the bike, look great off it.

Buy Here

Sigr Strandvägen Cycling Short

These are slightly more formal than Chrome’s Seneca shorts, but they’re truly beautiful and guaranteed to look great at work. 

Their blend of cotton, polyester and spandex makes them a functional and stylish choice. They’re also breathable, fast-drying, and come with reflective detailing. You’ll get four pockets, two on the front and two on the back, and the rear ones are buttoned for extra security. 

You’ll get a choice of three colours (black, white or blue), and despite being based in Sweden, shipping costs are pretty reasonable (and for some people, it’ll be free, depending on how much you spend!).

Sigr Strandvägen Women's Cycling Short

Minimalist Scandinavian style packed with tonnes of functionality for urban cycling, Sigr's Strandvägen look and feel great on and off the bike.

Buy Here

Best Casual Cycling Brands 

If you’ve made it this far, you probably noticed that several urban cycling brands kept popping up throughout this guide. That’s because their products are made with cyclists in mind, and their clothing is second to none.

What Should I Be Looking For?

• Durable Products
• Waterproof Gear
• Stretchy Fabrics
• Discreet Functionality (like reflective detailing, zipped pockets, windproof, etc)
• Machine Washable Clothing
• Stylish but Functional
• Value for Money

1. Rapha (City Collection)

Rapha came up a lot throughout this piece and for a good reason. Their clothing is made with cyclists in mind, and their range is diverse. Items include shorts, jeans, shirts, bags, and more. Although their pricing can be a little steep, you really get what you pay for – pure quality.

Most of their clothing is focused on road cycling. However, the city collection is a little more formal, making great additions to any urban commuters wardrobe. 

2. Chrome Industries

You’ll know this name well by now. Chrome are the urban cycling gear experts, and everything you buy through them will be as stylish as it is functional. 

Their products range from bags to shoes, and all their gear is very ‘smart casual’’, so you’ll never have to worry about being dressed inappropriately for work. Everything is durable and long-lasting, too.

3. Ministry of Supply

“The world’s best clothing, backed by science”. It’s hard to disagree with this when you get into the meat and potatoes of their clothing.

Their gear comes with features like odour resistance, temperature regulation, and everything is sustainable. They’ve been certified climate neutral since 2019, making them a great brand choice for eco-friendly consumers. 

Their range is diverse and smart, and you can get everything from shirts to chinos. You might not have to break the bank to buy from these guys, but they’re pricey, so consider your budget carefully. 

DISCOVER: 13 Best Places to Find Stylish Urban Cycling Clothing

The post Casual Cycling Clothing: Where to Find Stylish Commuter Gear appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

There are the skills that everyone says you’ll need when you go to university: independence, time management, perseverance and the like. However, no one mentioned what I have come to realise is one the most valuable skills: leaving for a 9 o’clock lecture as late as possible. For me, this also means that I have to nail the busy commute across London as efficiently as possible.

Obviously, no one wants to turn up to lectures in head-to-toe Lycra, nor the inconvenience of carrying and changing into different clothes. Equally, four hours of Maths is made even more unpleasant when you arrive sweaty and slightly ‘raw’ down below because you have rushed in wearing normal clothes, a problem only compounded by warmer weather.

It’s simple enough to address “top half concerns” with a breathable or baggy t-shirt but “bottom half concerns” are far more pressing. The search goes on for what trousers or, at this point in the year, shorts facilitate as long a lie in as possible while still cycling to lectures in comfort and style.

READ THE GUIDE: Best Urban Cycling Shorts for Men + Women

Commuter Cycling Shorts for Men (and Women)

Enter one of the latest offerings from British brand Velocity, the Men’s Climber Shorts. Coming in at £84 with a range of colours (burgundy, black and orange) and sizes (28” to 36”) these claim to be ‘Men’s specific, cycling specific shorts – that look just as good on and off your bike’.

Upon first inspection they look like a classic pair of chino summer shorts that are a staple in the wardrobe of basically every male I know. However, having put them on, you begin to notice the differences. Velocity use a blend of fabrics, 98% cotton and 2% elastine; so while they look like a normal pair of stylish shorts, they feel more stretchy. The result? They are a joy to commute in.

There is enough stretch so that they are very comfortable on the commute but not too much stretch that I feel like I’m wearing burgundy lycra.

One of the best cycling features is the reinforced diamond seat. This provides both extra comfort, for which my undercarriage is grateful, and increased durability, for which my resident seamstress is grateful about since she won’t have to patch it up every few months because my saddle has burnt a hole in them like some previous shorts. None of the previous ‘rawness’ in sight. With a nice light construction they keep it all cool down there, a benefit you might not notice until you wear an inferior pair of shorts and suddenly things are very unpleasant.

READ THE GUIDE: Best Cycling Jeans

These shorts also boast big pockets, and when I say big, they are actually big enough to have my phone, wallet and keys in without one of them ramming into my hip every pedal stroke. The back pockets are buttoned for more secure storage. By day the trim of the back pockets appears to be black (though silver is an option) but my fellow commuter informed me that as darkness fell, my derriere began to shine as a result of the previously discrete reflective trimmings.

Velocity have beefed up the belt hooks so that you can carry stuff on them a la trendy fixie riders, though I’m not sure they’d be suitable for some of the beefier D locks around. Much to my fellow commuter’s delight, Velocity have also made the back higher because – let’s face it – nobody wants to see that. Not only has the back been raised for modesty’s sake but the waist has been lowered so that these shorts perfectly avoid the awkward bunching at the hips that other trousers and shorts seem to accumulate during the duration of a commute.

All of these features mean that on the bike, the Climber Shorts work like a charm keeping you cool, comfortable and chafe-free.

Off the bike they look really stylish. No more of these shorts ending just below the butt cheek, these shorts are on the money with the just above the knee length. This was key to these shorts attaining The Mother’s Seal of Approval, arguably the most important test they faced. The fabric also has NanoSphere® treated fabric, for water and stain resistant cycling. Why is this included in the off the bike section I hear you ask? Well because my packed lunch pasta also wiped off easily. They can also go into the wash with any of your other normal clothes. I have the 32” burgundy shorts but they are also available in black and orange with sizes from 28” to 36”.

Velocity Climber Shorts Review: In Summary

All in all, Velocity have provided a great pair of shorts, as extra minutes in bed can be assured while also allowing me to commute in comfort.

On the bike, the stretch, reinforcement and cut make the riding very pleasant and they also look great off the bike with a very stylish cut. And for a piece of equipment which does the job perfectly and with so many features, you could spend £84 in many worse ways.

The post Velocity Climber Shorts – Review [Best Commuter Cycling Shorts for Men + Women?] appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

It’s that time of year again when many of us whip off our waterproof cycling trousers to uncover our pasty legs ready for summer.

In this guide to the best urban cycling shorts for men and women, we’ll review a bunch of really good shorts that are perfect for urban and commuter cyclists.

Stylish Cycling Shorts

At Discerning Cyclist, our mantra is, “We don’t want cycling clothes – we want stylish clothes we can cycle in.” That means we love clothes that:

• Look great for urban life
• Feel great in general
• Boast discreet functionality for cycling

Best Casual Cycling Shorts For Men

Jump to the best women’s shorts by clicking here

Best Casual Cycling Shorts For Women

What Are the Best Commuter Bike Shorts?

So, what makes a pair of good cycling shorts for urban rides?

Well, for starters, flexible material is a must to ensure cycling stays comfortable and your bike shorts don’t rip. A gusseted crotch is also a bonus to ensuring your cycling shorts stand the test of time. Loose-fitting cycling shorts are great for longer rides.

Bonus points are also awarded for moisture-wicking properties, strong, stretchy material, a raised back, waterproofness, and good looks. Oh, and pockets. Secure pockets.

So, with that in mind, let’s start by looking for the best men’s bicycle shorts for urban cyclists (ladies, you can skip to the best women’s cycling shorts section by clicking here).

Best Men’s Commuter Cycling Shorts [Top 8]

1. Ornot Lightweight Mission Short

• £100
• $118
• €110

Prices are approximate

Pockets: There are four pockets in total: two deep front pockets, one open rear pocket, and one zipped rear pocket.

Materials:

• 85% Nylon
• 15% Elastane

Inseam: 8.5″

Breathable, stretchy and fast-drying

4 pockets (including a zipped rear pocket)

Elegant design that looks fantastic on/off the bike

Simply stunning casual bike shorts. Lightweight, breathable, fast-drying and flexible. These shorts tick every box.

There’s even a gusseted crotch to maximise protection on the shorts most sensitive area.

These Ornot shorts also have nice deep pockets and are a pleasure to ride in, especially on warmer days.

Pros

• Perfect for leisurely summer rides or even grueling climbs.
• These shorts look as good off the bike as they feel good on the bike.

Cons

• A hefty price tag is the only criticism of these stunning shorts.

Buy Here Read Ornot Review

2. Ministry of Supply Kinetic Short

• £76
• $108
• €87

Prices are approximate

Pockets: Five pockets in total. Two open front pockets. Two open rear pockets. One side zipped pockets.

Materials:

• 100% Primeflex Warp-knit Japanese Polyester

Inseam: 8″

Stretchy, lightweight and breathable/icon_content] 5 pockets (including side zip pocket for phone)

Moisture-wicking and crease-resistant

The short version of Ministry of Supply’s stunningly versatile Kinetic pants, these are probably the best-looking urban cycling shorts on this list.

In terms of style, they are incredibly versatile – they can be pair with a smart dress shirt for evening entertainment, a t-shirt for your ride, or even with a vest for the beach.

The Ministry of Supply Kinetic Shorts are extremely breathable and offer plenty of stretch. They’re also easy on the waistband, and have urethane dots (like rubber) in order to provide a bit of friction if you want to keep a shirt tucked in.

Pros

• Extremely stylish.
• Very lightweight and breathable.
• Offers plenty of stretch to stay comfortable while riding.

Cons

• Ministry of Supply doesn’t manufacture the Kinetic in a range of colors.
• Availability of sizes is limited.

Buy Here

3. Sigr Strandvägen Cycling Short for Men

• £75
• $100
• €87.95

Prices are approximate

Pockets: Two pockets in total. Two open front pockets. Two buttoned rear pockets.

Materials:

• 48% Spandex
• 48% Cotton
• 4% Spandex

Inseam: 12″

Breathable, stretchy and fast-drying

4 pockets (inc. 2 button down rear pockets)

Reflective detailing on rear pockets

These smart-looking urban cycling shorts are perfect both on and off the bike.

Off the bike, they look great and can be dressed up with a smart dress shirt for evening activities or dressed down with a tee or polo for a trip to the beach (“Strandvägen” is actually Swedish for “beach road”).

These bicycle shorts are made from a blend cotton, polyester and spandex, and the result is a stretchy, breathable short that performs superbly while pedalling. There’s even reflective detailing on the rear pockets.

Pros

• Scandinavian style.
• packed with useful cycling functionality.
• Include stretch.
• Breathable properties.
• Reflective features.

Cons

• No zipped pockets.

Buy Here

4. DUER Live Lite Journey Short

• £70
• $84
• €80

Prices are approximate

Pockets: Five pockets in total. Two open front pockets. Two buttoned rear pockets. One zipped side pocket

Materials:

• 62% Cotton
• 30% TENCEL Lyocell
• 6% LYCRA® T400® Polyester
• 2% LYCRA® Spandex

Inseam: 7″ or 9″

Moisture-wicking and anti-bacterial

5 pockets (including a zipped side pocket)

Up to 10x more stretchy than traditional woven fabrics

I’ve covered DUER a few times on Discerning Cyclist, from reviewing their excellent No Sweat Pants to visiting their head office/shop in Vancouver.

Indeed, I’ve also become acquainted with DUER’s Live Lite commuter shorts during the past couple of years and they’re absolutely top notch.

These are slim-fit performance shorts, made from a blend of cotton and breathable materials to keep you feeling fresh on warmer days. They’re also soft against the skin and have moisture-wicking and anti-bacterial properties due to the TENCEL Lyocell material which is derived from eucalyptus.

The fit and stretch means you can easily squat in them without busting seams, so cycling is no problem.

Pros

• Great-looking urban cycling shorts.
• Very breathable.
• Offer plenty of stretch.
• Come in a variety of colors.

Cons

• No gusseted crotch in these shorts.
• Might start wearing out at some point.

Buy Here

5. Bluffworks Ascender Shorts

• £57
• $78
• €65

Prices are approximate

Pockets: There are nine pockets in total: five front pockets, two hand pockets, one internal zipped pocket in the left pocket, a phone pouch pocket in the right pocket, a small multi-tool utility pocket in the right pocket, one zipped side pocket, and three rear pockets: a regular pocket on the right, a zipped pocket on the left, and a built-in phone pocket below the waistband on the right.

Materials:

• 100% Polyester

Inseam: 9″ or 10″

Odour and wrinkle-resistant

9 pockets, including 3 anti-theft zippered pockets

Breathable and quick-drying

If you’re looking for comfortable, breathable and crease-resistant gear for travelling and commuting, Bluffworks are well worth checking out. They even make office-friendly suits you can cycle in.

Bluffworks Ascender Shorts are the optime of what their products are all about: they’re lightweight, breathable and practical as hell. I mean, they have nine (9!) pockets. How is that even possible?

These shorts with a 9” in-seam have a simple but elegant style and come in a relative loose regular fit. They’re also extremely lightweight, moisture-wicking, quick-drying and anti-microbial.

Pros

• Lightweight shorts that are crease-resistant.
• Extremely breathable.
• Nine built-in pockets, including three zipped pockets.

Cons

• There’s no DWR coating to ward off a shower when riding.

Buy Here

6. Club Ride Apparel Men’s 12” Fuze Short

• £85
• $100
• €96

Prices are approximate

Pockets: Four pockets in total. Two open front pockets. Two zipped side pockets.

Materials:

• 95% Polyester
• 5% Spandex

Inseam: 12″

Gusseted crotch to prevent cycling wear and tear

Four pockets (inc. two zipped side pockets)

Removable two-hour padded chamois short

While padded bike shorts are in no-short supply for Lycra-clad cyclists, it’s a significantly bigger challenge to find stylish commuter “baggy” cycling shorts with padding.

But Club Ride have stepped up in a big way to fill this void thanks to their Fuze Short.

And it’s not just any old gel padding inside these 12” shorts, you’re getting a premium two-hour chamois lining which you can switch out whenever you want.

And the cycling functionality doesn’t end there…

These shorts also boast a gusseted crotch, two-way stretch, are water resistant, have Velcro adjustments and even boast reflective detailing for good measure.

Pros

• Breathable, loose-fitting cycling shorts.
• Padded chamois liner.
• Perfect for all types of riding, from mountain biking to commuting.

Cons

• Baggy fit won’t suit some social situations.
• Lack of traditional back pockets might put some people off.

Buy Here

7. Rapha Men’s Technical Shorts

• £110
• $140
• €129

Prices are approximate

Pockets: Two hand pockets and two back pockets. Concealed essentials pocket on side leg. Breathable pocket bags.

Materials: 

• 88% Nylon
• 12% Elastane

Designed with durability, comfort, and visibility in mind

Breathable and quick-drying fabric

Flatlock and bonded seams for added comfort without chafing

The Rapha Men’s Technical Shorts are designed for both on and off the bike activities. They are made from a durable, breathable, and quick-drying fabric to support everyday wear, featuring a cut that allows freedom of movement.

The shorts include a low-profile flatlock and bonded seams for comfort, high visibility and reflective trims for low light conditions, two hand pockets, two back pockets, and a concealed essentials pocket on the side leg. They are secured with a center front snap button and made of 88% Nylon and 12% Elastane. For care, washing at 30°C and avoiding tumble drying are recommended.

Pros

• Known for their durability.
• Enhanced comfort through flatlock and bonded seams.
• Improved visibility due to reflective trims.

Cons

• The price might be too high for some.

Buy Here

8. Ministry Of Supply Newton Active Shorts

• £38
• $49
• €45

Prices are approximate

Pockets: There are two full hand pockets, and an extra pocket is built into the liner (on the thigh) for a phone or wallet.

Materials: 

• 88% recycled Polyester
• 12% Elastane
• 75% Nylon
• 4% S.Cafe Silver
• 21% Elastane

Inseam: 6.25″-7.25″

Lightweight and breathable fabric

Inclusion of S.Café technology for odor control

Practical design with discreet pockets

The Men’s Newton Active Shorts by Ministry of Supply are engineered for high performance and comfort. Key features include lightweight, breathable fabric that’s moisture-wicking, discreet pockets, and S.Café odor control technology.

Made with an athletic fit and varying inseam lengths, these shorts offer an ideal blend of function and style for active wear. They are crafted from recycled polyester and elastane, with a liner that includes S.Café Silver for odor management.

Pros

• Moisture-wicking and breathable fabric for optimal comfort.
• S.Café technology for effective odor control.
• Smart, discreet pocket design.

Cons

• The price point might be higher than average.
• Fit and sizing may not accommodate all body types perfectly.
• Specific care instructions are required.

Buy Here

Best Women’s Commuter Cycling Shorts [Top 8]

1. Rapha Women’s Randonnee Cycling Shorts

• £100
• $130
• €115

Prices are approximate

Pockets: 4 pockets in total. 2 open front pockets. 1 buttoned rear pockets. 1 zipped rear pockets.

Materials:

• 94% Nylon
• 6% Spandex

Inseam: 11.4″

Breathable, stretchy and fast-drying

4 pockets (including a zipped rear pocket

Crease-resistant and reflective detailing

Unsurprisingly, the women’s Randonnee Shorts feature all of the same great features as the men’s version, that means you’ll find a pair of lightweight shorts with a technical fabric that is breathable, quick-drying and stretchy.

The Randonnee shorts are also longer than Chrome’s Seneca shorts, with an in-seam of around 11.4” (although this varies by size).

These shorts look great and use technical fabric that is stretchy, quick-drying and very breathable – making them great all-round urban cycling shorts for ladies.

The Randonnee shorts feature four pockets, including a zipped rear pocket, as well as a button-down back pocket.

Pros

• Plenty of stretch and plenty of pockets.
• The Randonnee shorts have everything you need for comfortable city cycling.
• Typical of Rapha: it’s beautiful and practical.

Cons

• Only available in black.

Buy Here

2. Ministry of Supply Momentum Ladies Chino Short

• £69
• $95
• €79

Prices are approximate

Pockets: 5 pockets in total. Two front hand pockets. Two rear pockets. Hidden earbuds pocket at waistband.

Materials:

• 58% Hollow-Core Polyester
• 31% Nylon
• 11% Elastane

Inseam: 3-4.5″

Extremely soft and stretchy material

5 pockets (including a hidden earbuds pocket)

Water resistant and durable

The most stylish ladies’ cycling shorts on this list.

Ministry of Supply create performance activewear that looks extremely smart and looks great in more formal settings – while also being capable of paired with other items so they can look good as casual wear too.

The Momentum shorts provide a flattering fit with an extremely soft fabric that feels great against the skin.

What’s more, these shorts are also water-resistant and don’t create easily. They’re also extremely stretchy to make for comfortable rides.

Pros

• The chicest of the chic.
• Ministry of Supply known how to create elegant and minimalist gear that is still packed with practical functionality.
• Simply beautiful commuter shorts for women.

Cons

• Short shorts! And at the time of writing sizing availability isn’t good!

Buy Here

3. Sigr Stranvägen Cycling Chino Short

• £75
• $100
• €87.95

Prices are approximate

Pockets: Four pockets. Two open-front and two back pockets with reflective strips.

Materials: 

• 48% Cotton
• 48% Polyester
• 4% Spandex

Stylish and comfortable fit

Reflective details for increased visibility

Durable, stretchable fabric blend

The Sigr Cycling Chino Shorts for Women, named ‘Strandvägen’, are designed for comfort and style and are suitable for both the beach and biking. These khaki shorts feature a great cut with enough stretch for biking, reflective details for visibility when the back pockets are folded, and a pilling-resistant fabric.

They’re made from a cotton, polyester, and spandex blend, ensuring durability and flexibility. A vegan-friendly back logo label emphasizes the brand’s commitment to ethical materials.

Pros

• Stylish and functional design.
• Suitable for both cycling and casual outings.
• Reflective details for enhanced visibility and safety.
• Durable, stretchable fabric that offers comfort.

Cons

• Might not suit all body types.
• Limited color options.
• Care requirements to maintain the fabric’s quality.

Buy Here

4. Velocio Women’s Gravel Short

• £169
• $169
• €190

Prices are approximate

Pockets: 2 pockets in total. Two zippered side pockets with mesh lining

Materials:

• 79% Polyamide
• 21% Elastane

Inseam: 11″

4-way stretch for maximum flexibility and movement

2 zippered side pockets

Extremely lightweight with a DWR coating

These are described as “close-fitting baggy shorts” which seems somewhat contradictory…

However, what Velocio mean by this is that the Gravel Shorts are more like regular fitting shorts (rather than skintight Lycra) but still boast a figure hugging design.

In terms of functionality, these women’s bike shorts are packed with it.

The Velocio Gravel Shorts feature four-way stretch which is perfect for freedom of movement, while there are also two zippered side pockets with mesh lining that comfortably (and securely) fit a phone.

The fit of these shorts is also interesting and ideal for cycling. The shorts have a low-profile waist with a subtle adjustment strap (basically a built-in belt).

These ladies’ shorts are also extremely lightweight having been made from a high-tech 115gsm polyamide/elastine blend. There’s even a DWR coating to repel light rain.

Pros

• Super stretchy cycling trail shorts that work on and off the bike.
• Perfect for exploring, bike touring or even just a commute into town.
• Very light and very comfortable.

Cons

• Loose, baggy fit doesn’t translate well to some social situations.

Buy Here

5. Club Ride Apparel Women’s 11″ Savvy Short

• £68
• $80
• €77

Prices are approximate

Pockets: 4 pockets in total. Two open front pockets. One open rear pocket. One zippered rear pocket.

Materials:

• 96% Polyester
• 4% Spandex

Inseam: 11″

AGusseted crotch to prevent cycling wear and tear

4 pockets (inc. one zipped side pocket)

4-way stretch, with raised rear and reflective detailing

These shorts really are packed to the brims with functionality: they offer four-way stretch, an aptly named “NoCrackBack” (i.e. a raised rear to prevent exposure), a gusseted crotch, interior drawcords and even reflective detailing.

They are on the longer side with an 11″ inseam, but these are some seriously stylish women’s urban commuter shorts – although they’re technically MTB shorts!

At under $80, too, these Club Ride shorts provide excellent functionality for a very reasonable price.

Pros

• Extremely versatile MTB shorts that also look good in casual settings.
• Packed with features like 4-way stretch, good pockets and reflective detailing.
• Good value shorts for every situation.

Cons

• Two different inseam lengths mean your perfect pair may be out of stock at times.

Buy Here

6. Chrome Industries Anza Short

• £43
• $55
• €50

Prices are approximate

Pockets: There are five pockets in total: two in front, two in the back, and a discreet zipper pocket for a phone in the back. It also includes a 5-bar webbing U-lock holster.

Materials: 

• Quick dry, 4-way stretch fabric.

Inseam: 6′

Water-resistant and stretchable fabric

Unique 5-bar webbing for u-lock storage

Double-layer crotch for enhanced durability

The Women’s Anza Short from Chrome Industries is designed for urban cycling and features durable, water-resistant, 4-way stretch fabric for performance and comfort.

Key features include a 5-bar webbing u-lock holster, full-length seamless double-layer crotch, quick dry capabilities, and reinforced seams. It offers a slimmer fit with a 6″ inseam, making it a practical choice for city commuters.

Pros

• Durable and water-resistant fabric.
• Convenient 5-bar webbing for secure u-lock storage.
• Reinforced double-layer crotch for added durability.

Cons

• A slimmer fit may not meet everyone’s preference for coverage.
• The price point might be considered high by some.

Buy Here

7. DUER Live Free Utility Short

• £62
• $79
• €72

Prices are approximate

Pockets: There are five pockets: two deep front pockets, a coin pocket, and two pockets at the back.

Materials: 

• 62% Cotton
• 30% TENCEL Lyocell
• 6% LYCRA® T400® Polyester
• 2% LYCRA® Spandex

A high-rise fit

Stretch fibers for enhanced movement

Moisture-wicking properties for added comfort

The Women’s Stretch Utility Short from DUER is designed for versatility and comfort, featuring a high-rise fit and crafted from a lightweight, breathable fabric. It includes a zip closure, stretch fibers for ease of movement, and plant-based lyocell for antibacterial and moisture-wicking properties.

The fabric composition includes cotton, TENCEL Lyocell, LYCRA® T400® Polyester, and LYCRA® Spandex, making it both durable and comfortable. Additionally, the shorts are designed to flatter the behind with a special rise shape and are machine washable for easy care​.

Pros

• High-rise fit designed for comfort and style.
• Stretch fibers ensuring freedom of movement.
• Moisture-wicking properties that keep you dry and comfortable.

Cons

• The price point may be higher than some expect.
• Limited color options or styles.

Buy Here

8. Endura Hummvee Lite Short

• £75
• $96
• €88

Prices are approximate

Pockets: Two front hip pockets, a zipped thigh cargo pocket, and one small pocket on the rear.

Materials: 

• Spandex 5%
• Nylon 95%

A lightweight, four-way stretch fabric.

A detachable liner with a comfort pad.

Practical storage with multiple pockets

The Women’s Hummvee Lite Short with Liner is a lightweight, comfortable option for cycling, especially in warm weather.

It features a durable four-way stretch fabric with a DWR finish, a Clickfast detachable liner with a women-specific 200 series pad for comfort, multiple pockets for practical storage, and an elasticated waistband for a secure fit.

Designed for both urban cycling and mountain biking, it offers functionality and style for riders​.

Pros

• Lightweight and durable fabric.
• Includes comfortable, women-specific pad within the detachable liner.
• Practical design features such as multiple pockets and an adjustable waistband.

Cons

• Potential for sizing issues or fit discrepancies.
• Cost may be considered high by some buyers.

Buy Here

Where to Find Stylish Cycling Clothes

Not all cycling clothing needs to be tight-fitting. You can enjoy your commute with loose cycling shorts, which are still stylish. Check out our recommendations below:

Best Cycling Clothing Brands: Top 20 Ranked

Best Urban Cycling Clothing Brands in the World 

The post Best Urban Cycling Shorts: Top 16 for Bike Commuters appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

If you want to cycle in style and comfort, then what you wear over your legs is the most important consideration.

While any old t-shirt can be fine to cycle in, the same isn’t necessarily true when it comes to trousers or – for the summer months – shorts.

Read More:

• What’s the Best Type of Bag for Cycling to Work?
• Most Stylish Helmets for Commuting

This is because many trousers feature stiff materials with little give. And that’s before you even consider things like how breathable they are or the overall fit.

Of course, you don’t have to go out and buy “cycling trousers” per se. Many brands now incorporate some extra stretch into their keks these days.

So, in order to quickly determine whether a pair of trousers should be okay to cycle in, I conduct a very fast experiment.

I do… The Squat Test.

The Squat Test

But what is The Squat Test!?

Well, my dear friends. Strap yourselves in…

The Squat Test involves me, wait for it… squatting in a new pair of trousers to see if they have enough give to let me do so without restriction

Okay, maybe a I shouldn’t have built that up so much.

I squat. If it doesn’t feel like I’m about to bust out of my pants by the seams, I dub them cyclable.

Anyway…

Stylish Cycling Shorts for Summer

Right, summer. I live in Spain and I ride my bike to my co-working space pretty much every day. That means I need a pair of shorts that will:

1. Keep me cool
2. Be very comfortable
3. Look cool AF

So, with the sun on the horizon, I thought the best place to start my 2020 Discerning Cyclist Summer Short Testing was with Chrome Industries, who, let’s face it, are right up there when it comes to creating truly awesome stylish urban cycling clothes.

REVIEW: Chrome Natoma 2.0 Cycling Shorts

Available in black and “dusty olive”, the Natoma Short 2.0 has been made in a non-sense way to produce what could well be the best urban cycling shorts around for commuters.

Short shorts seem to have been creeping into fashion over the past couple of years, but I’m relied to say that the Chrome Natoma 2.0 shorts seem to have perfectly mastered the “just above the knee” cut and come in a straight leg fit. For reference, my 30R shorts are 50cm (20”) long, as you can see below.

Chrome Natoma Cycling Features

The most noticeable thing about these shorts when you put them on is just how stretchy they are. Naturally, they passed The Squat Test with flying colours. Indeed, Chrome confidently describe this product as a “water resistant quick dry 4-way short”. The shorts are made from a blend of 94% Nylon and 6% Spandex to produce these very lightweight, stretchy shorts.

The shorts feature your standard four pockets – two front and two back – all of which are sufficiently deep enough for even the largest of modern smartphones

The cycling goodness continues with a reinforced waist and gusset, while there’s a big reflective Chrome logo on the back to give a little of extra visibility if you’re on a late-night summer right after the bingo.

And there’s another very cool cycling feature in the form of a big old strap on the rear left of the waistband on which you can carry a good size D-lock, if you like to master the hipster vibe.

To ensure these shorts are sturdy, Chrome’s also provided a reinforced gusset with a full-length seamless double-layer crotch, as well as double welt rear pockets.

READ: 5 of the Best Urban Cycling Shorts for Commuter this Summer

Best Stylish Cycling Shorts in 2020?

In terms of style and comfort, Chrome has absolutely aced it with the Natoma 2.0 Short. You don’t want to take them off and they can absolutely handled the hottest of summer climes, and are quick drying even if you do build up a sweat.

This is a premium product so the £120 (€140/$100) is fair game. If you want what could be the best urban cycling shorts out there this summer, then the Chrome Natoma 2.0 Short might well be your first stop.

The post Chrome Natoma 2.0 Short – Review: The Best Stylish Cycling Shorts Around? appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

An advert from Förskel Originals popped up on my Facebook newsfeed a while back. It showed a damn good-looking pair of shorts that were apparently designed for swimming, while boasting plenty of stretch for active folk – ideal for cycling.

Multi-functional gear – that looks good – fascinates me as it is, but having moved back to Spain in the past few months, the appeal for a city/cycling/swimming short was immense.

Can you really have shorts that are great for cycling, day-to-day city life as well as for taking a dip in the sea or a pool?

I had to find out.

Initially I ordered the Long Length The Dreamer Mustard in my typical 32” (Medium) size. However, as soon as they arrived it was clear that the shorts were loose whenI tried them, even with the fastenings on the tightest setting.

Ordinarily I may just throw a belt on, but there’s no belt loops on the Förskel shorts, and as you typically wear them without underwear (there’s that mesh stuff for swimming inside) I didn’t really want people peeping down into my nether regions.

So, I sent them back and requested a pair in 30” (Small) but checked my size again with a tape measure to see if I’d lost some weight – alas I remain a sturdy 32” waist. Unfortunately, they had no “Dreamer Mustards” in the smaller size – so I settled for my classic blue style (AKA “Dreamer Ocean”).

Now, you really need to get the sizing right with these shorts as they can be unforgiving if they’re not sufficiently snug on the waist. In my experience, you should drop a size to be sure. And with no belt loops or elasticated waist, the only way to tighten them up on the waist is with a brass fastener on each side which can bring the shorts in by around 3-4cm.

Who Likes Short Shorts?

Sizing aside, there was no doubting that these were some good-looking shorts. And ones that certainly felt like real quality.

There are three lengths of the short available, but I was still shocked by how short my “long length” shorts were. These are the shortest shorts I own and they show a good amount of thigh – even though I’m a very average 5’9 build (hey, 5’9 IS average!). For me, the shorts come up about 20cm above the knee – which I found a strange feeling at first, with my shorts normally cutting off around the knee.

But alas, the day’s they be changing. The return to the 70’s short shorts is on the horizon.

So if you like quite short shorts, I’d recommend the long length. But if you like really short shorts then you can test yourself on the mid-length or even short-length.

Another thing is that these shorts are very close fitting. They don’t leave a lot to the imagination. Again, this is quite new for me, but I kind of liked the lean design of them – although if you’re a little more self-conscious/sober, then they might be too tight/short for your taste.

Stylish Urban Shorts for… EVERYTHING!?

As I headed into the sea for my first swim in the shorts, my friends asked if I wasn’t going to change into swimming shorts – which is a massive nod to the job Förskel have done with the styling of these shorts. They look like true urban shorts. The only really giveaway that they are swimming shorts in the mesh lining inside.

So, do these shorts do the job in the water? Absolutely. As solid a swimming shorts as you will feel. I’d say they take a little longer to dry than most of my other swimming shorts, probably due to the fact that the material is slightly thicker than usual. But none the less, they are dry within a couple of hours of being in the sun.

But swimming is just one aspect of these shorts. The thing I actually love about them is that they are lovely and breathable on hot summer days (which aren’t in short supply in southern Spain). Plus, with the mesh lining, I don’t have to wear underwear without feeling like a wrong’un. Win.

The shorts also feature a zipped back pocket (in colourful pink with my blue shorts), which I could just about squeeze my Samsung Galaxy S7 into. That was a really squeeze though and I don’t think you could fasten it with anything bigger in.

Are These Cycling Shorts?

These aren’t “cycling shorts”, per say, but you can definitely cycle about town in the them very comfortable – especially thanks to the amount of stretch in the shorts. What these are, are true urban shorts for active people.

Simply put, the Förskel Originals 4×4 Gentleman Short are one of the best multi-functional shorts I’ve come across – especially when temperatures are soaring. If you’re heading on your jollys and bouncing between the town and the beach – you can’t ask for more from a pair of shorts.

The Förskel Originals are available in six colours for men (blue, yellow, turquoise, cream, salmon pink, and dark green) and come in at €59 (around £53) with free worldwide shipping available on orders over €75.

Ooh – almost forgot – the shorts also come with a cool little waterproof bag, which you can roll up and put your shorts in when they’re wet, or put your valuables in while you’re in the water. Neat touch.

The post Förskel Originals Shorts – Review: Shorts for the City, Swimming + Cycling? appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

I can’t speak for the UK, but today felt like the day summer truly arrived. I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the climate of south Germany, which has been quite frankly, lush. 

One of the key steps to getting ready for summer, especially if you’ll be cycling frequently, is to get a good pair of shorts. In my eyes, they need to be light, a bit stretchy for the ride, provide sufficient bottom coverage and have a good selection of pockets.

The pair that I’ve kicked off the summer with this year have been Café du Cycliste’s Paulette Shorts, and basically they’re perfect.

Being based on the temperate French Riviera, I guess it’s unsurprising that Café du Cycliste know what’s needed in a good pair of cyclist shorts – without compromising on style.

I opted for the ‘deep green’ version of the Paulette shorts, although they do also come in black. Priced at €110 (£80), there’s no kidding that these are a pretty serious investment. But one thing I can assure you of, if you do decide to take the plunge, is that you won’t be disappointed.

One thing I hadn’t noticed on the pictures of the shorts on the CdC website, was a massive reflective slip on the rear of the pants. Upon first recognising this on the shorts, I was initially disappointed as I thought this was detrimental to the short’s otherwise impeccable style – however, what I didn’t realise is that this reflective patch has its own discreet pocket – so it can be hidden away easily and you can just pop it out as you need it (no pun intended). This is the kind of ‘cycling feature’ I’d love to see more of from other brands. Simply put, it is fantastic cycling functionality that in no way compromises style.

A couple of days after getting the shorts, I thought I’d give them a suitable test run by cycling them back over to France (not as a grandiose expedition as it sounds – it’s only about 10km from where I live). I’m not usually one to go on a ‘bike tour’, instead normally only cycling for more practical, transportation reasons, so this was quite an adventure for me – so much so I documented my mini-expedition on the Discerning Cyclist’s Facebook page. Unfortunately, however, my trip was a failure as I didn’t manage to breach the French border. As I cycled down to the River Rhine as planned, I discovered the ferry was no longer running for the day. Disaster! Definitely need to plan these trips better in future. Fortunatley, my disappointment was stifled with a beer and a beautiful Rhine view. My journey was still an enjoyable one though, clocking up about 20km there-and-back, and it gave me a good feel of the shorts.

So why are Café du Cycliste’s shorts so good? Well, as I mentioned in my pre-requisites of ‘good cycling shorts’ earlier, they tick all the boxes of being light, stretchy, bum coverage and plentiful pockets. So that’s a good start. But as well as being very practical, these shorts look really great. The attention to detail is supreme, particularly the red and white check detailing on the fold of the shorts as well in the pockets innards – this touch really gives the shorts a look of class.

Key Features

• 68% Cotton / 29% Polyamide / 3% Elastane
• Breathable & Stretchable/li>
• Lightweight Fabric
• Four Pockets
• Belt Loops
• Higher Cycling Waist
• Removable Reflective Panel
• Straight Fit
• Made in Europe

Café du Cycliste modestly say there are four pockets in the description of the Paulette shorts, but really there are five if you also make use of the ‘reflective strip pocket’. The front two pockets are nice and deep, while the right rear pocket (in front of the reflective pocket) can be fastened with a button flap. The left rear pocket is open but again spacious.

The shorts are also highly-breathable, and should keep your legs feeling a bit fresher in the summer warmth, while the higher-cut waistline is comfortable and lowers and fear of unwanted rear exposure. The straight-cut fit just sealed the deal for me.

If the price doesn’t put you off, I couldn’t recommend these shorts highly enough.

You can buy the Café du Cycliste Paulette Shorts here for €110/£80

The post Café du Cycliste Paulette Cycling Shorts – Review appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

Tom and Jerry, Batman and Robin, Morecambe and Wise, Dwight Yorke and Andy Cole, Marmite and Cheese… you should probably add Hackett and Cooper to that list of partnerships that just, well, work.

Who?

Cooper Bikes make bicycles – cool bicycles – and have done since 2009. They do form a branch of a rather well known company though, one that makes cars. The company that created the Mini. Some heritage.

Hackett, meanwhile, are one of London’s kings of men’s fashion, having opened their first shop in Parson’s Green in 1983. Since then, they’ve made huge strides and made particular inroads in the polo market – establishing themselves as one of the top luxury menswear brands in England.

So where do these two great British brands align?

Well the answer should be pretty obvious as you’re on The Discerning Cyclist website. Cycling in style, of course.

Cooper’s outstanding knowledge of commuter cycling, coupled with Hackett’s vast knowledge of the luxury men’s fashion world, are a match made in heaven for cyclists, so I was exceptionally excited when I received my summery yellow polo shirt and corresponding navy shorts from Hackett Cooper.

With expectations so high, it would be understandable that I may be left disappointed. Was I? Hell. No.

SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE!

I should probably get the elephant in the room quickly removed: the cost.

Essentially, you don’t get quality like this cheap. It hurts, however, it’s an unfortunate truth.

But, and this is a big BUT. A massive but. I like big buts and I cannot lie. Since I’ve been wearing this gear, this stuff has been slashed to pretty much HALF PRICE. So a £80 polo for £40 and £125 shorts for £65. £105 for a top class outfit you can cycle in during the warmer months.

Now I’m not sure how long these will stay available at this price, so if you don’t want to miss out, you have my permission to come back here later to read the rest of the review if you want to buy them first (click here to buy if you are impatient). The rest of the review is basically awesome – so you really don’t have to worry… but please do come back – I get lonely on my own. Erm…

Welcome Back

Okay, if you’re still reading or are back after buying these, I’ll get back to praising these simply superb cycling clothes (I do apologise if I appear to be over the top, but they are by some distance my favourite clothes in the wardrobe at the moment – cycling or not).

And breathe…

So, I should probably tell you something about this stylish pairing. The polo shirt is a fine simple number. Made from 100% cotton and made to a slim fit, it is exceptionally comfortable and feels like a top quality top – as you’d expect for the regular £80 price tag. It is also slightly longer than a normal polo – not overbearingly so – just enough to cover your rear while you ride.

Now the shorts I am in love with. They’re cut to fit just a few inches above your knee and are built to be strong, secure and slightly stretchy. They are even made of 3% lycra (not that you’ll be a MAMIL in these), which provides some breathability alongside the comfort – with the other 97% compromising of cotton.

One of the key features that I really enjoy about these shorts is the double button on the waist. It is such a simple feature that I don’t understand why it is not universal in trousers/shorts. The double button helps keep the shorts securely fitted on and off the bike without any need for a belt and takes the strain off the waistline, providing you’ve ordered the right size. The Hackett Cooper bike shorts also feature reinforced stitching on the cross – perfect for on the bike – as well as a plethora of pockets, including a subtly disguised zip pocket on the back, that also features a loop if you’re a practical sort that would like to use this to attach keys to. The back of the shorts also features a lock loop, however I wouldn’t recommend using this for a lock as the website suggests, as this could do you some really damage if you are unfortunate enough to come off your bike.

In terms of build quality and resistance, I have given this outfit, and particularly the shorts some seriously rugged testing.

On the first day of wearing these shorts, they (and I) ended up in a swimming pool, due to an impromptu enforced dip at a summer shindig. The shorts dried quickly, fortunately, and bore no damage or staining despite being infiltrated with chlorine. Unfortunately, I can also point out that the pockets aren’t waterproof, and so, while the shorts survived, my phone did not.

Admittedly, wearing these shorts in swimming pools isn’t high on your agenda, so I should mention how they fare while riding. And on this they do very well too. They are breathable and comfortable. Snug, but stretchy. Everything I look for in a cycling short.

Even after several weeks of riding, walking , falling into pools, and a full weekend a raucous music festival, these shorts are still going very strong – showing no sign of wear and tear despite a number of washes in their short life.

In style terms, this pairing is fantastic too. On numerous occasions people have commented very favourably on each item, and, much too my Discerning Cyclist satisfaction, these people were astonished to find out that this outfit had been designed with cycling in mind.

Never before has a product I have reviewed met the DC mantra of ‘stylish clothes you can cycle in’ so sincerely.

Overall

Fit: 10/10
Function: 9/10
Style: 9.5/10
Value: 7/10
Quality: 9.5/10

Overall: 45/50

The post Hackett Cooper Bike Shorts & Polo – Review appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.