Scott Trail MTN 40 Shorts

As the name suggests baggy shorts are loose-fitting. They still cut to fit the body, as want to avoid snagging on the saddle when you ride. These shorts are designed to be as close fitting as possible while being unrestrictive, so you can move freely on the bike. The front tends to be cut lower at the front and higher at the back to for the best on-the-bike-fit. Stretch waist bands are an essential and many shorts have a stretch panel in the rear for more comfort.

Using modern stretch fabrics, MTB shorts are closer fitting than they used to be. This means that you can pedal comfortably and move freely without your shorts flapping about as you ride. Reinforced or double layered fabric in seat area prevents wear for longer lasting performance.

Like lycra cycling shorts many baggy mountain bike shorts include a chamois. This padded insert improves comfort when you are sitting in the saddle and is especially useful on long cross-country and trail rides. With baggy shorts the chamois is in a padded liner.

This is usually a removable liner short that can be swapped between different pairs of baggies. Look for a breathable chamois with antibacterial properties to keep your shorts smelling sweetly.

Also known as undershorts, padded liner shorts are available separately. Leg grippers are a feature to look out for. This will stop the undershorts from riding up your leg when pedalling. For the best comfort choose shorts with a good quality chamois pad. Look for undershorts made from highly breathable mesh fabric to prevent overheating. You can also use regular lycra cycling shorts as undershorts. These will have a good chamois but won’t be as breathable as dedicated liner shorts.

When riding wet trails spray from the rear wheel will give you a soggy bottom. This is where waterproof panels come in. A waterproof rear panel will stop the spray from soaking through to your undershorts. Combined with regular fabric on the other panels, this gives you the breathability you need to prevent overheating when it’s not raining.

Full waterproof shorts will give you protection from spray and rain when riding in very wet conditions. Another choice is to go for a soft shell short with a water-repellent DWR coating. These shorts are warm and offer some wind and rain protection while still being breathable.

Baggy shorts for ladies will feature a women’s specific cut for a more comfortable ride. Women’s baggy cycling shorts have the same technical features as men’s shorts and are designed to enhance your ride in the same way. Women’s baggy cycling shorts sometimes have slightly shorter leg lengths although ¾ shorts are also popular with ladies.