Women’s bib shorts, with or without straps: which is the right choice for you?

Cycling bib shorts with straps are a classic choice, and highly rated by cyclists who ride long distances or ride regularly. Their design features elastic straps that hold the shorts in place with no need for a tight waistband, avoiding discomfort in the stomach.

Main advantages:

• More support and stability: The straps make sure that the bib shorts are always in the correct position, and prevent them from slipping or the waistband from being too tight.
• Comfort over long distances: The absence of a waistband reduces pressure on the stomach, which is essential for long rides or for cyclists with sensitive abdominal muscles.
• Improved breathability at the waist: the absence of a waistband improves air circulation in the abdominal region.

Ideal for:

• Long trips or intense training sessions.
• Cyclists looking for a secure fit without any discomfort at the waist.
• Women with a sensitive abdomen or who prefer no pressure in that area.

Strapless bib shorts, also known as “normal bib shorts”, are a simpler and lighter garment. They have an elastic waistband which can be adjusted at the waist to keep the garment in place.

Main advantages:

• Lightness and less volume: Dispensing with straps makes it a more minimalist option, which is ideal for warmer climates, or for cyclists seeking greater freedom of movement in the upper body.
• Easy to put on and take off: Perfect for quick trips, for running bikes in, and for cyclists who prefer to wear a jersey or jacket without any constraints.
• Versatility for different disciplines: Just right for gravel, urban biking or short training rides where practicality is crucial.

Ideal for:

• Short trips, training in hot climates, or activities with frequent changes of clothing.
• Women who prefer a more minimalist style or who don’t want the added pressure of straps.
• Cyclists who prioritise lightness and freedom of movement.

1. The length and type of route: For long trips, where long-term comfort is vital, the shoulder straps provide stable support without restricting the abdomen. Strapless bib shorts may be more comfortable on short or intense summer rides.
2. Anatomy and personal preferences: Women with sensitive abdomens, digestive problems or who simply don’t want the pressure of tight waistbands often prefer bib shorts with straps. Others prefer the lightweight feel of strapless bib shorts.
3. Weather conditions: In summer or in hot climates, strapless bib shorts provide more ventilation and less volume. In spring, autumn and winter, bib shorts with straps help retain body heat and prevent the garment from shifting as the cyclist moves.
4. Style and comfort: Straps can add an extra layer, which some cyclists do not like for aesthetic reasons or for freedom of movement, especially in activities involving frequent changes of clothing.

At Inverse, we have developed two lines of bib shorts designed to meet these needs:

• Bib shorts with straps: Like the ARLET women’s cycling bib shorts, with their minimalist design, which are ultralight and extremely comfortable thanks to the reduced seams, including no seam in the adductor area to minimise chafing. They incorporate the Flexygo 2.0 system, which enables trips to the bathroom without removing the jersey, and polypropylene cross straps that distribute the weight evenly. They are made of LYCRA REVOLUTION – a durable lightweight stretch fabric, with a laser-cut finish on the legs and a hypoallergenic silicone grip. They also feature the Elastic Interface Mustang chamois pad, designed for long distances with the utmost comfort and performance, and reflective features for safety. Ideal for road and mountain biking.
• Strapless bib shorts: Like the BIRA model, which are designed to provide the utmost comfort on short and long rides, both on the road and in the mountains. Their high waist and seamless design provide greater comfort, while the matte lycra material offers lightness, elasticity and freedom of movement. The laser-cut finish on the legs and hypoallergenic silicone grip ensure a perfect fit, and the reflective features enhance visibility. They incorporate the triple density VEON INSERT chamois pad, adapted to the female anatomy, which ensures protection and long-lasting comfort.

Both models share a design that has been developed for the female body and high quality materials that provide durability, excellent performance and comfort.

There’s no single correct answer as to whether bib shorts are better with or without straps. It all depends on the type of trip, your anatomy and your personal preferences. What is certain is that at Inverse, you’ll find both types of bib shorts designed using innovative solutions which adapt to you and which will accompany you in all your adventures on your bike, with a fit, quality and comfort that make a real difference.

Want to find out which bib shorts are best for you? Explore the women’s cycling shorts collection at Inverse and try the garment that suits your cycling style best.