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We tested models from Outdoor Research, Wild Rye Zoic, Yeti, Patagonia, and more to find the best women's mountain bike shorts
We've put 14 of the top-rated women's mountain bike shorts through our extensive head-to-head testing to determine the best for your body and riding style.
Let's face it: finding a great-fitting pair of women's mountain bike shorts can be challenging. With so many models available and our bodies all being uniquely shaped, it's tough to know what will work best for you. Since 2017, we've trail-tested over 40 different pairs of women's mountain bike shorts. In our latest review, we've put 12 of the most popular and highly-rated shorts through head-to-head testing. Our six test metrics will guide you in finding the shorts that best suit your riding style, body type, and budget.
If you're looking for road cycling shorts or bibs, we've also tested those in our women's bike shorts review.
Editor's Note: We updated our women's mountain bike shorts review on November 9, 2024, to include new and updated models.
Stretch fabric and waistband fit a variety of body types, available in three lengths, wide leg opening for knee pads, sizes 00 - 16
Size charts are accurate, 15" inseam and leg opening works well with knee pads, zip close hand pockets are 10" deep, DWR fabric, comfortable with and without chamois
Well placed zip close pockets, unobtrusive waist adjust, 13.5" inseam and 21" leg opening works well with knee pads, good cut for larger thighs, breathable fabric, comfortable with and without chamois when pedaling
Lightweight, breathable fabric, unobtrusive waist adjust tabs, well-placed pockets, length and leg opening works with knee pads
Good waist adjustment, fabric is lightweight and stretchy, decent breathability, thigh pockets are in a good location
Comfortable fit, size chart measurements are accurate, durable UPF 30+ fabric, good length and leg opening for knee pads
13.25" inseam covers knee pads, lightweight fabric, fabric resists snags and easily wipes clean, zip close pockets with pulls, back pocket is out of the way
Right hand pocket is well placed, UPF 50+ fabric, durable stretch fabric
Mesh pocket lining can bunch up, warm in hot weather, 11" inseam may not work with all knee pads
Runs small, sizing tops out at an XL, minimal airflow for trail riding, fabric can snag and pill on bushes
Waist measurement is larger than size chart, little stretch across hips, fabric can snag on bushes
Fabric is clingy when sweaty, most wearers will need to size up (check measurements in size chart), fit can be hard for curvy bodies
Narrow leg opening may not work with bulky knee pads, velcro waist tabs are a bit bulky, stitching is hit-and-miss
Fabric lacks breathability, thigh pocket location uncomfortable for pedaling, bulky waistband, stitching is hit and miss
Crotch is uncomfortably tight with a chamois, no hip measurement on size charts
Size chart measurements are off in the waist and hips, no waist adjust (just belt loops), fabric is stiff and warm, 11.5" inseam may not work with knee pads, hard fit for curvy bodies
Seams come undone quickly, wear areas, trim fit through thighs
Did not come with included chamois, thigh pockets are stacked on top of each other, 9.5" inseam does not work with pads, odd fit in the rise and crotch with narrow hips and thighs
Fabric clingy when sweaty, only one pocket
Seams came unstitched, fabric rides up while pedaling, inseam is too short for knee pads, no thigh pockets, 3" fly makes pulling up over hips difficult
Bottom Line
These shorts are comfortable and are designed to fit a range of body types
Great shorts park riding with DWR fabric, space for knee pads, and deep hand pockets, but they run small, and only have marginal breathability for trail riding
A breathable short that works well with pads, has great pockets, and can accommodate larger thighs
These breathable shorts are a great choice for hot days, fit well with pads, and have well-placed pockets, but double-check the size charts because they run small
With well-placed pockets, lightweight breathable fabric, and a fair amount of waist adjustment, these shorts fit a variety of body types and are a good value
The heavyweight fabric makes these durable shorts best for cool and cold weather riding
Nice length for pads and lightweight fabric, but the fit is too tight for large quads
Great stretchy, durable fabric and an easy-to-access zip pocket, but these shorts are warm and lack waist adjusters
These shorts have great zipper pulls, move well with the body, and have DWR and a UPF 50 rating, but the stitching came undone quickly in multiple areas, raising quality concerns
These shorts have lots of pockets, but their cut is not for all body shapes, and the included chamois was missing
These lightweight shorts only have one pocket and no waist adjustments, and they get clingy when sweaty
These shorts include a chamois, but the seams came undone at the hem, the inseam is too short for pads, and the fabric rides up while pedaling
The Shredly All-Time 11" short features a zipper and snap closure paired with a wide stretch waistband. The result of this combination is both comfortable and minimizes waist gap. The 21.5-inch leg opening is generously cut and accommodates bulky knee pads. The 11-inch inseam has a wider cut thigh, allowing the short to cover the top of knee pads without any pad gap or riding up as you pedal. For those who ride without pads, the top of the leg opening glides smoothly over the lower thigh above the knee. The All-Time 11" is offered in sizes 00-16, making it some of the more inclusive sizing in our review. Shredly's size charts include both waist and hip measurements, which we found to be accurate. We highly recommend measuring yourself before ordering to ensure the best fit. If you're between sizes and ride sans chamois or with a thin chamois and have thinner thighs, you can likely size down as the hips and thighs are not baggy. Our testers can pull on the shorts without undoing the zippers or snaps but would not want them tighter in the upper thighs.
Like most things, the All Time 11" isn't flawless. The 4-way stretch fabric stretches more vertically than horizontally and lacks breathability. As the mercury rises, the shorts feel a bit warm and tend to trap moisture in the thighs and crotch when riding sans chamois. The pockets are generously sized, and the right thigh (6 inches by 5.5 inches) and upper left thigh (8 inches by 5.5 inches) pockets zip close to keep valuables secure, but the mesh lining can bunch up. Furthermore, the left thigh pocket sits on the top of the thigh, and bulky items like a cell phone are best kept in the right thigh pocket. Despite these shortcomings, the All-Time performs well across all our metrics and offers a great fit that accommodates a variety of body types and sizes. But for those hot days when you need better airflow, the breathable and lightweight Patagonia Dirt Roamer is a more suitable choice.
Looking for a longer or shorter inseam? The All-Time also comes in a 5-inch and a 14-inch inseam.
The All-Time 11" wide elastic waistband and stretch fabric are comfortable for pedaling, don't ride up, and the inseam is long enough to cover the top of our kneepads while pedaling.
The Zoic Navaeh's lightweight and durable VersaLight 4-way stretch fabric moves with the body and breathes well in warmer weather. Not only does this fabric breathe well, but it is also durable. Our shorts got tangled up in a prickly pear cactus and were covered in needles, but there were no holes, rips, or runs in the fabric after they were removed. The Naveah runs true to size and has a slimmer cut, but not so much as to be overly clingy or tight. The 19-inch leg opening is wide enough to accommodate low-profile pads, and the 11-inch inseam covers the tops of knee pads without riding up. The hand pockets are rather narrow, but the thigh pockets are large enough to hold a phone comfortably and open to the back. Pedaling with items in the thigh pockets is comfortable. For those who like to snap their chamois into their shorts, chamois snap tabs are built into the waistband.
Zoic's size chart lists a medium as fitting 43-44 inches through the hips, but we measured it at 39 inches, which is a bit snug. Some reviewers mention sizing up for a better fit, which is a personal preference. The stitching on this pair of shorts is a little hit-and-miss, with long, loose threads in the pockets and inside the shorts, and the hook and loop waist adjust tabs are a little bulky. Still, the Naveah has well-thought-out features like zip-close pockets, good pocket placement, and durable, comfortable fabric. These shorts are also a good value and can frequently be found online for less than their list price, making them hard to beat. If the stitching gives you cause for concern about construction quality, check out the Shredly All-Time 11", which is one of our top performers in this metric with a comfortable waistband.
The Navaeh has a breathable fabric with well-placed thigh pockets, but the leg opening cut may not fit all knee pads. Overall, the shorts perform well and are a good value.
Yeti Cycles Norrie combines a breathable fabric with a 13.5-inch inseam and a 21-inch leg opening, making it a great choice for those who ride with knee pads. Yeti uses small webbed pulls on the outside of the waistband, which provide three inches of waist adjustment. These pulls are unobtrusive and easy to use to eliminate gaps at the small of your back. The cut at mid-thigh (measured eight inches below the crotch) is wider than any other short in our review, at 23 inches, allowing more space for larger quads. This extra space also allows for additional space for a chamois to be worn comfortably under the shell without any binding or pulling. Four small perforations are found below the hand pockets and add a bit of airflow into the leg. Even on 85°+ days, these shorts breathe well. On the low hip, you'll find well-placed zip-close pockets that measure 13.25 inches by 6 inches and open towards the back of the thigh, which is very easy to access and comfortable for pedaling with a cell phone inside.
The 2-way stretch material that the Norrie utilizes is less stretchy than other shorts with a four-way stretch. The material holds up well but snagged on a thorny bush, causing a small run in the fabric. Depending on your measurements, you might experience some pulling across the widest part of the hips when squatting. The waist measures 1.5 inches larger than the range listed on the size charts — 34.5 inches at the smallest. But the hip measurements are spot on. Unfortunately, the Norrie does not have an extended size range and only comes in sizes XS-XL. Downsides aside, the Norrie is super comfy in various temperatures, works great with and without chamois, with and without pads, and features large pockets, making them a great choice no matter how you hit the trails. If you prefer a durable pair with abrasion-resistant 4-way stretch fabric, take a look at the Troy Lee Designs Mischief.
The cut of the Norrie works well with pads, and with a chamois as well as they do without. They're comfortable, breathable, and a great pick for riding, especially if you have larger quads.
Fit can be difficult, especially for curvier bodies
Fabric is clingy when sweaty
Runs small
The Patagonia Dirt Roamer is constructed of a very lightweight material that breathes incredibly well and provides generous airflow, making them a great choice for summer rides in hot places. They feature welded seams and a low-profile waistband with OppoSet tabs for adjustment, which work quite well. The back of the waist is cut slightly higher to help eliminate the gap at the small of your back and can help prevent the shorts from riding up. They have a generous cut in the seat, which provides ample space for a chamois but may be baggy without one. The 12.5-inch inseam with a 21.5-inch leg opening has an asymmetrical cut and drapes nicely over knee pads with no gap. Without pads, the fabric is smooth and comfortably glides over the top of the knee while pedaling. Additionally, two zip-close pockets are found on the lower thigh and are out of the way when you pedal. The pocket features a newly redesigned (spring 2024) pocket with a wider opening that allows you to access chamois thigh pockets.
Dialing in the fit of the Dirt Roamer short can be challenging. The Dirt Roamer runs small, and we recommend using Patagonia's size chart to achieve a better fit. When referencing it for testing, the chart placed us at two sizes larger than our normal pant size. These shorts come in sizes 0-22; however, most people need to size up two sizes, making the sizing less inclusive. The lightweight 4-way stretch fabric can bunch up into the crease between the hip and thigh when walking. If you ride sans chamois, the fabric will trap moisture in high-sweat areas and become clingy. And yet, the breathability the Dirt Roamer offers is hard to match, making hot weather riding more enjoyable. If you ride with a chamois, you may also find the Yeti Cycles Norrie a comfortable choice.
The Dirt Roamer fabric is very lightweight and airy and great for hot weather rides. The seat is fairly roomy and the fit will change depending on if you wear a chamois (lower left) or sans chamois (lower right).
Sizes are smaller than other brands (and top out at XL)
Minimal airflow for trail riding
Fabric can snag on bushes
The POC Essential MTB short offers full coverage, good airflow, and a DWR finish to meet the needs of trail and park riders alike. The Essential short features a stretch nylon construction with a 15-inch inseam and 20-inch leg opening, cut longer in the front than the back, making it a great choice for bulky knee pads — even burly downhill ones. Two zip-close hand pockets are lined with an ultra-silky fabric that feels fantastic and are generously sized at 10 inches by 5 inches, allowing you to store your pass securely. A bonus to the pocket size is that it is deep enough to allow you to scan your pass through your shorts as you go through the turnstile. Hook and loop closures on the waistband are a tad bulky but provide up to six inches of adjustment, making it easier for pear-shaped bodies to dial in the fit. Moreover, riders with larger thighs will appreciate the generous cut on the legs, which does not bind. The Essential also plays well with a chamois and has enough extra space to comfortably fit one without restricting movement.
Compared to other brands, POC's sizing for the Essential is smaller, but their size charts are accurate and feature both hip and waist measurements. Unfortunately, though, their sizing does not go beyond XL, which is quite a bit smaller than an XL in other brands. The DWR stretch nylon repels dirt and water, but it can snag, especially on thorny bushes or when tangling up in the washer with velcro closures on gloves. But even after getting caught in a thorny catclaw, the fabric did not tear; it just snagged. Also, the DWR stretch nylon fabric is not the most breathable and has minimal airflow for trail riding in temperatures above 75°F. Still, they are quite comfortable, durable, and protective for park riding. If you prefer a more breathable short, the Yeti Cycles Norrie is a great choice. The breathable fabric and wide leg openings make it a better match for riding in hot weather.
The length and fabric of the Essential is great for park riding, but is a tad warm for trail riding in warmer temps.
Credit: Byron Adams
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Finding the right pair of mountain bike shorts for your riding style is important and can add comfort to your ride.
Credit: Byron Adams
How We Test Mountain Bike Shorts for Women
Our testers have spent countless hours on the trails learning about the fit, function, and comfort of each pair of shorts in our best mountain bike shorts for women's review. Our testing cycle begins by researching and purchasing the best, most popular, and most promising shorts on the market and subjecting them to intensive side-by-side testing and scrutiny. We analyze the design and cut of each pair of shorts in relation to their overall comfort and fit; while taking into consideration differences in body shape and personal preferences, such as chamois or no chamois and pads or no pads. We measure the waist, hips, inseam, and leg opening of each pair of shorts, comparing them to their manufacturer specifications and to one other. Each pair of shorts then goes through extensive field testing where we determine pedal friendliness on singletrack trails, on downhill runs, and over technical terrain.
Our six ratings metrics for our women's mountain bike shorts review include:
Comfort and Fit (25% of overall score)
Pedal Friendliness (25% of score)
Protection (15% of score)
Breathability (15% of score)
Features (10% of score)
Construction Quality (10% of score)
For more on our testing, see our full How We Test article.
Our testing occurred during the summer months in Colorado and Arizona, where temperatures varied from 60 degrees and wet to over 90 degrees with lots of sunshine and heat.
Each pair of shorts is carefully measured.
We tested each short with and without knee pads and with and without chamois, as each are personal preference.
We assessed the fit and hit the trail to identify the strengths and weaknesses of each pair.
Why Trust GearLab
Our lead tester is Tara Reddinger-Adams. Tara spends the winter months exploring the the desert southwest and California coast on foot and on her mountain bike. When the temperatures rise, she escapes to cooler locales to ride, paddle, and hike. Tara is a bike enthusiast who spent many years working professionally in the mountain biking community. She has 11 years of experience working in a bike shop, six years of experience coaching and guiding mountain biking, and a few years racing cross-country and enduro. Tara spends a lot of time working on her bike and discussing components and gear in detail, giving her excellent insight into what makes a great pair of shorts for different kinds of pedalers.
Having a short that moves with your body is more comfortable than one that binds. These shorts flex well and move with the body but have issues with the seams coming undone.
Credit: Byron Adams
How to Pick the Best Women's Mountain Bike Shorts for You
Women's mountain bike shorts come in a range of options, ranging from short to long inseams, minimalist designs with no pockets, to models with deep pockets, park pass leashes, and vents. They are designed to add a layer of protection for your skin against abrasions, vegetation, and crashes and can be worn over chamois for those who prefer. So, how do you determine what type of women's mountain bike shorts to purchase? We encourage you to consider the following when making your next purchase decision.
Which Style Fit Suits You Best?
Not all shorts fit the same, and when possible, we encourage you to try on shorts before purchasing them. Some are cut very trim through the hips and thighs, while others are much more roomy. Think about your body type and shape; those with curvier bodies may benefit from a short made with a stretchy fabric and a wider cut in the hips and thighs. Those with narrow hips and smaller thighs may prefer a trimmer fit through the hips and waist to prevent the feeling of the shorts being too billowy.
Some companies provide the measurements of their models in their product descriptions. These numbers and photos can help give you an idea of how the shorts fit that body type and, therefore, how they may fit your body type. We recommend referencing companies' size charts to ensure you order the best size based on your measurements.
These shorts have a generous cut through the thigh and a long inseam.
The Freewheel Ride has a trim fit through the thigh and an inseam that just covers the top of knee pads.
More Shorts? Do you prefer using a non-sport-specific pair of shorts? We've tested lots of shorts for different activities. Read more about our favorite shorts. Or maybe your body type does not work well with women's cuts, and a Men's Mountain Bike Short might fit better for you.
What Is Your Preferred Inseam Length and Leg Opening Size?
Inseam refers to how long a short is, and the leg opening size is, how wide the hem of the short is. Some women's mountain bike shorts have a 7-inch inseam, while others can be over 13 inches. Leg openings can range from 19 inches to over 20.5 inches. When considering inseam and leg opening, it's important to think about whether you will wear knee pads and your femur length. Not all shorts will fit over the bulk of a knee pad, nor will they cover the top of the knee pad, leaving skin exposed between the shorts hem and the top of the knee pad. This we call “pad gap.” If you wear knee pads, it's best to have no pad gap so that the skin above the knee is not exposed. If you don't wear pads, you may prefer a shorter inseam, or you may want the additional skin protection; it's personal preference.
Here you can see how a shorts length and cut affect how it interacts with knee pads. The shorts on the left have shorter inseams and narrower legs and pull above the knee pad while pedaling. The shorts on the right have longer inseams and wider legs and cover the knee pad while pedaling.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
Pad gap occurs when there is exposed skin between the top of the knee pad and the opening of the short. Femur length plays a role in pad gap, and your experiences may vary from those of our testers because of differences between our femur length and yours.
How Important is Breathability to You?
The temperatures you ride in and how you regulate your body temperature are factors that can help you choose a great pair of women's mountain bike shorts. If you're someone who overheats easily, you may prefer lighter-weight, more breathable shorts. If you're someone who “runs cold,” you may prefer a more substantial fabric that holds your body heat better.
Are There Features You Need?
Do you carry items in your pockets while you ride? Or do you need a space to stash your park pass so that it's easily accessible? Maybe you want a highly adjustable waistband so that you can add layers under your shorts in cold weather. Think about how you will use your shorts when looking at features. Some shorts are minimalist and have no or only one pocket, while others have loads of pockets, vents, and more.
Be careful not to ride with items in your pockets that could become hazards in a crash. Be mindful of what you place in your pocket and zip them closed so nothing bounces out while riding. Too much for your pockets? Consider checking out the best mountain bike hip pack or a top hydration pack to take everything you need along for the ride.
Waist adjusters can really increase or decrease the waist size.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
Analysis and Test Results
Finding the right pair of mountain bike shorts can add enjoyment to your ride. Riding in hot desert temps requires a different style of shorts than riding in the rainy Pacific Northwest. Those who ride in hotter temps may prioritize breathability, where airy, lightweight, stretchy shorts help the body stay cool. For riders who enjoy lift-accessed downhill riding, shorts made from durable fabrics that have larger leg openings and longer inseams to accommodate bulky knee pads are a great pick. Regardless of where you ride and your riding style, we are here to help you find the right pair of shorts. We researched and selected the top-rated women's mountain bike shorts and tested them on the trail. Comfort and fit are paramount, but we also evaluate their pedal friendliness, protection, breathability, features, and construction quality.
What's the Best Value?
At GearLab, price is not part of our performance evaluation, but we do appreciate a good value. Our goal is to determine the best products available at a variety of price points. The Patagonia Dirt Roamer's high-quality materials and construction stood out in our testing, but they are also one of the more expensive pairs we tested. We feel they are worth the investment for those who ride frequently and need high-quality shorts that can keep up with them. The Zoic Navaeh has a more budget-friendly price and is a solid option for those looking for a lightweight short with zippered pockets and solid all-around performance.
Riding a variety of terrain and in varying temperatures allows us to better determine how a short performs.
Credit: Byron Adams
Consider Your Location and Style of Riding
Where you ride and how you ride influences the type of shorts that will be best for you. Do you ride in high humidity, wet conditions, dry and hot, or in cooler temps? Do you ride laps on shorter local trails, go on all-day adventures, ride shuttle laps, or spend time at the bike park? What are your preferences for inseam? Do you wear knee pads and want to avoid pad gaps? Do you like to ride with a chamois or liner, or do you prefer a more shell-like pair of shorts? We test every pair with all of these preferences in mind to highlight the ones that are best for you.
Comfort and Fit
Wearing an uncomfortable pair of shorts on a ride can distract your attention from the trail. Making performance mountain bike apparel that works for different body types and riding styles is a challenging undertaking. Shorts can be too big in the waist and too narrow in the hips. A waistband might gap in the back or slide down as you pedal. Fabrics can perform better than others and sit better against the skin without becoming clingy or riding up as you pedal. We want shorts that fit and are comfortable, and in this very important consideration, we're assessing bike shorts that give women the ability to find a custom and comfortable fit.
Buying women's clothing can be a challenge, and mountain bike shorts are no different. We took our body measurements and compared them to those on the manufacturer's size charts and then ordered the size that best matched our measurements. After receiving our test shorts, we used our fabric tape measure to measure the waist, hips, upper and lower thigh, leg opening, rise, and inseam and compared those measurements to the size chart, noting any discrepancies between our test shorts and the manufacturers listed measurements.
We measured the waist, hips, upper thigh, mid-thigh, leg opening, inseam, and rise of each pair of shorts with a tailor's tape and took note of all measurements.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
We found the manufacturers' listed measurements and our test short measurements to be different in many cases. Some shorts are two inches smaller than the listed size in the waist or hips, and conversely, some waist measurements are more than three inches larger than listed. These discrepancies can make it difficult to find the right size when ordering online. The Cycorld Padded and Endura Strack Lite BK Lite have the most accurate measurements when comparing our test shorts to the manufacturer's measurements. We also found the listed measurements of the Troy Lee Designs Mischief Shell for the waist, hips, and outseam to be spot on when we measured our test shorts.
Note the sizing differences in these shorts. Many of the size large shorts are cut smaller than the medium Endura SingleTrack Lite shorts. This makes finding the proper size even more difficult.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
The highly rated Patagonia Dirt Roamer online measurements are spot on when compared to our test pair. We can't stress enough the importance of taking your measurements and referencing the manufacturer's size charts when buying online, as many shorts require a completely different size than your standard pant size. The Wild Rye Ramsey waistband does not have any adjustments and measures four inches larger in the waist when compared to the manufacturer-listed measurement, and the hips of our test pair were two inches smaller than listed. Similarly, the Outdoor Research Freewheel Ride is listed as having a 30-inch waist, and our test pair measures 33 inches, but the hips were within a half-inch of the listed measurement.
Our tape measures 33" exactly for the Freewheel Ride waistband on women's size eight.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
After measuring the shorts, we tried on each pair and took notes of areas where they felt tight or loose, where they gap, bind, bunch up, and how wearing a chamois affects the fit of the shorts. We also moved off the bike in our shorts, walking, squatting, bending over, etc., to see if any areas gap or are tight. We then considered what body types each short fit best. Knowing that we're all shaped differently, we tried to determine what body types the shorts fit best based on the short's measurements.
What is a Chamois and Do I Need One?
Most women's mountain bike shorts do not have a sewn-in padded liner, aka. chamois (pronounced "shammy"). Chamois come in different densities and can purchased separately, and some mountain bike short companies offer versions of their shorts with or without a chamois. Personal preference is a huge factor in the choice of chamois — some people appreciate the extra layer of padding between their seat and the saddle, while others find them uncomfortable and bulky.
The POC Essential and Shredly All-Time 11" earn the highest scores in our fit and comfort metric. The waist measurement on our Shredly All-Time 11" shorts measures 34 inches, which is 1.5 inches larger than listed on Shredly's size chart. The All-Time features a unique waistband that pairs a zipper and double snap closure with a wide stretchy waist in the back, achieving a very comfortable, no-gap fit. The shorts are a touch tight in the upper thighs on our tester, who has large quads, but they are not uncomfortable. The fabric is flexible, moves with the body, and is cut to fit a range of body types. Shredly offers some of the more inclusive sizing in our test, with the Essential offered in sizes 00 through 16. If you're in between sizes, you may consider sizing down if you don't have large quads, as we can comfortably pull on our shorts without undoing the snaps or zip fly.
The All-Time 11" is one of the most comfortable shorts in our review.
The Essential is also comfortable, especially for park riding, where a longer length is preferred due to its added protection.
Every pair will fit each body type differently. Overall, we like the Shredly All-Time (left) and POC Essential (right) the best.
Despite running small in the hips (41.5 inches on an XL), the POC Essential short's hook and loop waist has six inches of adjustability, and the four-way stretch material moves with the body with no tightness. They are comfortably loose without being billowy, and we feel their cut will fit straighter and curvier body shapes alike. However, they run small, with an XL measuring smaller in the hips than a medium in some other brands, meaning their sizing is limited.
The hook and loop closure provides six inches of waist adjustment.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
The Wild Rye Ramsey has a low-profile waistband with a 9.5-inch stretch panel that stands out for its comfort. However, there is no waist adjustment, and despite fitting very well in the waist, the hips on our test pair measure 38.9 inches versus the 41 inches listed by the manufacturer, and they were snug through the hips.
The Fox Ranger Lined - Women's scored poorly for comfort despite having a very stretchy fabric. While walking and pedaling, the fabric bunches up and clings to itself, and we are tugging the fabric down at trail intersections when we stop.
The Ranger shell is super stretchy and comes with a chamois short.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
Pedal Friendliness
Pedal friendliness is about how shorts perform as you pedal and maneuver on the bike. Having to adjust your shorts throughout your ride can distract you from the trail and be annoying. Having fabric catch on the nose of your saddle can be unexpected and pull you out of your riding position. We are looking for the perfect amount of stretch and a cut that works with us while we ride. This combination allows us to pedal with ease and move freely in and out of the saddle without making adjustments to our shorts.
For this metric, we assess how each pair of shorts performs and fits both with and without knee pads. We also evaluated their performance with and without chamois to determine if either factor affects fit or riding comfort. Shorts that stay in place without riding up, binding, or snagging on the saddle and that comfortably accommodate a chamois receive the highest scores in this category, with the POC Essential, Shredly All-Time 11", and Yeti Cycles Norrie earning the highest marks.
The Shredly All-Time 11" features an 11-inch inseam and a 21.5-inch leg opening, providing ample space for the fabric to drape over knee pads without feeling tight or riding up. When worn without pads, the shorts sit comfortably on the thigh, allowing for free movement without bunching up. The seat and gusseted crotch of the shorts offer enough space and flexibility to fit a chamois comfortably without the crotch of the shorts pressing into the chamois. The POC Essential has a longer, 15-inch inseam and 20-inch leg opening. These shorts do not ride up or bind when wearing pads and drape nicely over the knee while pedaling without pads. The DWR four-way stretch fabric moves with the body, providing unrestricted movement and comfortably accommodating a chamois.
While pedaling, the All-Time 11" stays in place and doesn't bind up against or above knee pads.
Credit: Byron Adams
The Yeti Cycles Norrie's 2-way stretch fabric moves with the body while pedaling and provides unrestricted movement, even on riders with larger quads. The 13.5-inch inseam and 21-inch leg opening work well with and without knee pads. The short's opening and length allow them to fit over knee pads with space to spare, preventing them from riding up while pedaling. The gusseted crotch and stretch 2-way fabric have enough flex to wear a chamois underneath without binding or bunching comfortably.
The Norrie has a wide leg opening that does not get caught on pads as you pedal.
Credit: Byron Adams
The Wild Rye Ramsey has a 12.4-inch inseam and 20.25-inch leg opening that works well for covering the tops of knee pads without a gap. These lightweight shorts are most comfortable while pedaling in cooler temps as our sweat causes the shorts to become clingy, especially in humid conditions.
The Ramsey has an 12 7/17" inseam that works well with pads, stays in place, and does not ride up even as you move around on the bike.
Credit: Byron Adams
The Fox Ranger Lined - Women's has a very stretchy fabric that got caught on the nose of our saddle while descending. Its 11.5-inch inseam proved too short to cover the top of our knee pads and left us with exposed skin between the short's hem and the top of the knee pad, which gradually grew over the course of our rides as the fabric worked its way higher on our thighs as we pedaled. When riding sans chamois, the short's fit is lacking as the fabric has a tendency to bunch up, but with the provided chamois, they fit more comfortably.
The inseam of the Ranger is not long enough to prevent a gap between the hem of the shorts and the top of the kneepad while pedaling.
Credit: Byron Adams
Protection
Mountain bike shorts provide your body with a layer of protection against scrapes, falls, and the sun. For this metric, we look at protection in terms of abrasion resistance and sun exposure. Most fabrics provide some amount of sun protection, but increasingly, the fabrics used in women's mountain bike shorts also have a UPF rating, adding additional protection from the sun's harmful UV rays. We love the sun, but we love our skin more, and hours of sweating in the saddle can wear off even the most diligently applied sunscreen.
Trails can be overgrown with plants that have thorns or spikes, making it challenging to avoid brushing against them. Shorts made from abrasion-resistant materials can help prevent scrapes and cuts. For this metric, we also evaluate each pair of shorts design to see if the inseam length and leg opening work well with knee pads and whether there's any pad gap. This assessment differs from the previous metric on pedal friendliness with knee pads, which focuses on how wearing knee pads affects the fit of the shorts while pedaling. Note that the extent of the pad gap can vary depending on your height and inseam, with taller testers possibly requiring a longer inseam to avoid a gap between the hem of the short and the top of their knee pad while pedaling or standing on the bike.
Shorts with a long inseam cover the tops of knee pads so that there is no exposed skin between the hem of the shorts and the knee pad.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
Many women's mountain bike shorts performed well in this metric thanks to longer inseams, wider leg openings, and durable fabrics. The Troy Lee Designs Mischief Shell stands out for its 13.5-inch inseam and 20-inch leg opening that works with low-profile and bulky downhill knee pads. The Bluesign certified 4-Way stretch woven fabric has a UPF 30+ rating for preventing sun exposure and is very thick, durable, and abrasion-resistant. The thick fabric prevents thorns from reaching the skin and traps them in the fabric's dense fibers.
These shorts have a very durable, (albeit warm), material, and a long inseam to fully cover pads.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
Outdoor Research's Freewheel Ride is also made from bluesign-certified fabric but has a UPF 50 rating. The fabric has 12% stretch, and the 11.6-inch inseam with a 19.4-inch leg opening covers the tops of knee pads. However, the fabric has begun to show signs of wear, and the seams are coming undone, which we discuss in our Quality Construction section.
The Freewheel Ride is made of a Bluesign certified fabric with a UPF rating of 50+.
Credit: Byron Adams
The lightweight Wild Rye Ramsey also has a UPF 50 rating, making it a great pick to protect your skin from the sun. The 12.4-inch inseam and 20.25-inch leg opening work well with knee pads, even those with more bulk.
The Ramsey lays nicely over the top of knee pads.
Credit: Byron Adams
The 4-way stretch material in Shredly's All-Time 11" protects the skin without being overly stiff and warm. It is durable and does not snag or tear, but it can catch and pull on thorns and needles. The 21 1/2-inch leg opening and 11-inch inseam pair well to cover knee pads with no gap or exposed skin while pedaling. For those with a longer femur, the All-Time also comes in a 14-inch length.
Here we have four different shorts that whose leg openings all interact differently with our knee pads.
The inseam of a short will determine how much of your thighs and/or knees are exposed to the sun and to vegetation that grows along trails.
The length and material of each pair are important considerations when determining how much protection the shorts offer.
For those wanting an even more durable fabric, the POC Essential features a thicker fabric and has a 15-inch inseam and wider leg opening that easily accommodates pads and provides additional low thigh protection for those who ride without pads. The Essential features an asymmetrical leg opening that is cut longer in the front than the back to better fit over knee pads and prevent pad gaps. While wearing the POC shorts, we had an unfortunate run-in with a catclaw bush. Thankfully, the thorns got caught in the short's durable fabric before they reached our skin. However, the fabric did suffer some small snags from the thorns.
An unfortunate run-in with Catclaw resulted in the fabric snagging. The thorns caught in the fabric instead of our skin, which is a win.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
The Fox Ranger Lined - Women's is made of a nylon and spandex fabric and has a nicely sized 20-inch leg opening, but the 11.5-inch inseam does not cover the top of knee pads, and the stretchy material creeps up as you pedal leaving skin exposed.
In this position, the top of the short is just at the top of the knee pad, but there is a gap on the back of the thigh. When pedaling the gap grows on the top of the thigh.
Credit: Byron Adams
Breathability
Breathability is important in both hot and cooler weather. Shorts that don't breathe well can feel uncomfortably warm in hot conditions, while highly breathable shorts might feel too cool for some in colder temperatures, though they can help regulate body temperature for others. Adjusting to cooler weather is relatively easy with additional layers, but there's a limit to how much you can remove when it's hot. In our breathability metric, we assess the airflow through the shorts, their moisture retention, and drying speed. We also examine any venting or perforations for their effectiveness in enhancing airflow or wicking. Shorts with good airflow, effective moisture wicking, and quick drying properties earn the highest scores in this category.
The lightweight, four-way stretch fabric of the Patagonia Dirt Roamer hangs away from the body and provides ample airflow, making it a great choice on hot summer days. Despite having a more substantial fabric, the Yeti Cycles Norrie is quite comfortable and breathable in hot weather. Four small, perforated vents are found below the hand pocket on the top of the thigh and help to move air into the short. The wider cut through the thigh also allows the fabric to not cling to the body and improves airflow.
These small perforated vents help to move air into the lower part of the thigh.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
The Zoic Navaeh is more breathable than average and dries quickly when soaked with sweat from a hard ride.
The Wild Rye Ramsey is constructed from a super lightweight fabric comprised of 90% polyester and 10% elastic. The shorts lack any vents or perforations and the fabric clings to the body when it gets sweaty, causing us to pull them down whenever we would come to a stop. However, they do dry out very quickly.
The Ramsey is made from a super lightweight fabric, but we found it to become clingy when sweaty.
Credit: Byron Adams
Features
Features are pockets, zippers (and their pulls), waist adjusters, perforations for added cooling, and things like abrasion-resistant areas that are part of a women's mountain bike shorts design. Pockets can be handy for stowing your phone or energy foods but need to be designed for both function and comfort. We note each pocket's location, determine what can be stored in it, and then see how easy it is to open while we're on the bike. Some pockets require two hands to open (one to hold the fabric and the other to pull the zipper), while others can be opened and closed with one hand. Some can even be opened and closed while pedaling. We also measure the dimensions of each pocket and note whether they have zippers and if the zippers have a coating or pull tab. These small details can make a zipper easier to use while wearing gloves.
Many shorts feature adjustable waists with hook and loop closures or webbing. We test these adjustments by extending and compressing them to evaluate the range and ease of adjustment, including making adjustments while wearing gloves, as the waist can loosen during a ride and may need readjusting.
We also assess the materials used for waist adjustments, noting how they feel against the body and whether they add bulk to the waistband. We also examine the ease and intuitiveness of the waist closure system, whether it involves multiple snaps with Velcro or a simple button. Finally, we consider extra features like chamois liner loops. Shorts that offer secure, easy-to-use pockets that don't interfere with pedaling and have a discreet and user-friendly waist adjustment system score highest in this metric.
The Freehwheel Ride features waist adjusters and a zip pocket on each leg.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
The Zoic Navaeh scores well in this metric thanks to its four pockets and plastic-coated zippers that are easy to grab with gloves on. The thigh pockets are angled so that items in them sit towards the back of the thigh when pedaling. This placement is out of the way and more comfortable than having an item on the top of the thigh while pedaling. The Navaeh uses a hook-and-loop waist adjustment, which adds bulk to the waist but is not noticeable while pedaling.
The Naveah's thigh pockets have an angled opening and items sit towards the back of the thigh, which is less obtrusive when pedaling.
Credit: Byron Adams
Patagonia's Dirt Roamer and Yeti Cycles Norrie also score well in this metric because of their large, well-placed thigh pockets and waist adjust systems. Both pairs employ a small, discreet webbing system for their waist adjust. This system has less bulk and does not rely on elastic to adjust the waist of the shorts. The Norrie has some of the largest pockets in our test. The two hand pockets are 5.25 inches wide by 8.75 inches long and expand slightly at the bottom by 9/16 inches. The thigh pockets are even larger at 13.25 inches by 6 inches and open towards the back of the thigh. They extend from the bottom of the waistband to the mid-thigh, have plenty of space to secure valuables, and are the easiest to access in our lineup. The Norrie also features silicone grippers on the waistband, providing extra no-slip security to keep your shorts from sliding down.
The small webbing system works well for adjusting the waist, is unnoticeable while wearing, and is easy to use with gloves on.
Credit: Byron Adams
The Wild Rye Ramsey lacks any type of waist adjustment and relies on a 9.5-inch elastic stretch panel on the back of the waistband for its fit. These no-frills shorts are minimalist in design and have one pocket on the right thigh that measures 4.38 inches x 7.25 inches with a sloping zipped opening. This pocket is large enough to hold a cell phone, but the trim fit of the thighs can make getting a phone with a case in and out difficult.
The Ramsey has a double snap and zipper closure, one zip pocket on the right leg, and an elastic band on the back of the waistband.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
Quality Construction
Mountain biking can be hard on equipment and apparel. We assess how well each pair of shorts is made by closely examining the inside and outside of each pair of shorts and its seams and stitching, looking for loose threads, untidy ends that can unravel, and missing stitches. After each ride, we reexamined each pair of shorts to check for any areas of wear, paying attention to high-wear areas such as the seat and inner thigh.
Many shorts are well constructed, with tightly sewn seams, minimal or no loose threads, and smooth zippers, and show no signs of wear or failure of seams or zippers after our testing has concluded. In this metric, the Patagonia Dirt Roamer stands out for its welded seams, meaning no stitches exist. Welded seams also feel smoother against the skin, as they don't have the bulk of traditionally sewn seams.
The Dirt Roamer features welded seams, as shown. This eliminates any sewn seams and is very smooth against the skin.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
The Shredly All-Time has even sewn seams and no loose or long threads and is well assembled. The shorts are durable and show no signs of wear. Several other pairs of shorts also proved themselves capably built and well-designed, including the Endura Singletrack, Wild Rye Freel, and the Wild Rye Ramsey. These three pairs of shorts have sturdy seams with even stitching. We did not find any loose ends or dropped stitches on these three pairs of women's mountain bike shorts, and they have all survived our extended testing period without any visible signs of wear.
The seams on two of our test shorts, including the Fox Ranger Lined - Women's and the Outdoor Research Freewheel Ride, are coming unstitched, thus their low marks in this metric. The hem seam of the Ranger is pulling out on both the left and right legs of the shirts and on both the front and back. Similarly, the Freewheel Ride has stitching coming undone at the seam of the hip and low leg above the knee on both the left and right sides.
The stitching on the hem is coming undone in multiple spots on the Ranger.
The Freewheel Ride has seams coming undone on the lower legs and on the hips.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect mountain bike shorts can be challenging, especially when shopping online without the option to try them on. We hope our detailed side-by-side testing and comprehensive analysis of these shorts have made it easier for you to find the pair that best fits your body, suits your riding style, and fits within your budget.
