How to choose the right cycling shorts ?
THE cycling shorts The cycling jersey is the key element of comfort on the bike. If chosen poorly, it can turn a simple ride into an ordeal, with chafing, pain, and general discomfort. Whether for road, mountain biking, or gravel riding, not all models are created equal. Material, cut, insert, straps… here’s everything you need to know to choose a cycling jersey. cycling shorts perfectly suited to your practice!
Cycling shorts tailored to your discipline: road, gravel…
The type of outing directly influences your choice of cycling shorts. For the road, we're opting for a fitted, lightweight, and aerodynamic model that offers good muscle compression to delay fatigue – like our Essential Matchy bib shorts, Designed to combine performance and comfort. For gravel riding, you need versatile, robust, and practical cycling shorts: the Matchy Cargo bib shorts It stands out with its ultra-accessible side pockets and durable material, perfect for long road rides too. And when the kilometers keep piling up, it's time for absolute endurance: our Altitude Matchy bib shorts It is designed for ultra-distance riding, with a high-end chamois, maximum breathability and impeccable support, even after hours in the saddle!
These technical cycling shorts, affordable and available in several colors, combine style and subtlety. The 2025 version offers a lighter and more durable material, seamless straps, and laser-cut silicone grippers for optimal support.
Cargo bib shorts are designed to offer an optimal balance between functionality, comfort, and durability. Initially introduced in the gravel cycling community, they have become an essential part of a cyclist's wardrobe.
The Altitude bib shorts are our performance-oriented, long-distance model. The Altitude range incorporates our most innovative features for an unforgettable experience. It's also worth noting that the fabric is designed in the Rhône-Alpes region and the garments are manufactured just 3 hours from Annecy, in the Aosta Valley.
The importance of the insert: foam or gel, what's the difference?
The insert, also called chamois leather, is the centerpiece of cycling shorts. It absorbs shocks and reduces pressure on the saddle. Two technologies dominate: high-density foam and gel. The lighter foam offers good cushioning for short to medium rides. Gel, on the other hand, excels on long distances by better distributing pressure points and improving stability on the saddle. The more technical the insert, the more pre-shaped it will be, with zones of varying density to adapt to your body shape and riding position.
Short or long cycling shorts: adapting your cycling gear to the seasons
Driving in the middle of summer or in the middle of winter is not the same story.In warm weather, we opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics that quickly wick away perspiration. When temperatures drop, long cycling tights—also known as bib tights—take over, with an insulating and water-repellent material to protect against the cold and damp. This is the case with our Altitude Matchy tights, Made from an innovative French material. Its merino wool interior offers natural warmth and excellent thermoregulation, while also being odor-resistant, while its windproof and water-repellent exterior protects against wet roads and inclement weather!
Sourced in France, specifically in the Rhône-Alpes region, not far from our offices in Annecy, we developed this product for demanding cyclists seeking performance without compromising on comfort. The NORDIC fabric incorporates a two-layer construction. The interior is lined with merino wool to offer the very best in winter conditions: warmth, thermoregulation, and odor control. The slightly textured exterior provides essential water repellency in winter when roads can be wet and the weather unpredictable.
Choosing the right size and fit: comfort first
A cycling shorts It should fit like a second skin. Too tight, it can restrict blood flow and cause numbness. Too loose, it promotes chafing and irritation. The bib straps should be elastic enough to hold the shorts in place without putting excessive pressure on the shoulders. The chamois, meanwhile, should stay properly positioned, without bunching or slipping while pedaling. But we'll tell you all about it in detail in our article. Cycling shorts and saddle soreness.
Choosing cycling shorts is all about finding the right balance between comfort, support, and breathability. There are many mistakes to avoid when selecting your cycling gear. Depending on your discipline, the duration of your rides, and the weather conditions, every detail counts. Good cycling shorts are so comfortable you'll forget you're wearing them once you're in the saddle, and that's exactly what you should aim for to fully enjoy your next rides!
