My 3 Favorite Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts
If there’s one piece of mountain bike gear I’m really picky about, it’s women’s mountain bike shorts. They’re also the one thing that brands seem to have the hardest time getting right. I recently tried on 10 different pairs (not kidding!), and not one of them fit the same. Most ran too small, some were awkwardly short (I like a longer knee), and others just didn’t feel right. The sizing and fit discrepancies between brands are wild.
Of course, every rider is different and fit is personal, but after lots of trial and error, I’ve found a handful of women’s mountain bike shorts that check all the boxes: great fit, just the right about of stretch, and the durability to handle long rides and rowdy trails. These four pairs of shorts are the ones I ride in day in and day out.
Got a favorite pair that I didn’t mention – let me know what they are in the comments!
Want to get your women’s mountain bike shorts featured? Get in touch!
1. POC Essential Women’s MTB Shorts
These are hands-down my favorite pair of women’s MTB shorts. I wear them almost exclusively. I like the long length that goes past my knees and they’re designed with a flattering cut that also doesn’t restrict movement when I’m riding. 10/10 recommend.
Favorite features
What could be better
When I wear them
Almost every ride! Except at the bike park.
2. Pearl iZUMi Summit Shorts
At first I didn’t love these shorts— I though the ratchet waistband was weird, but they’ve really grown on me. They’re super lightweight and like the POC shorts, I like the long length that goes past my knees. They’re not as durable, but great for warm days.
Favorite features
What could be better
When I wear them
Hotter days and big cross-country pedals
3. Wild Rye Freel Shorts
Wild Rye has kind of taken the women’s mountain bike apparel industry by storm. Designed by women for women, their mountain bike shorts (and jerseys) are fun, flattering, and practical. I like the Freel because of the long inseam, but there are other styles with shorter lengths.
*Wild Rye is a sponsor of Ladies AllRide, who I coach for
Favorite features
What could be better
When I wear them
Everyday pedaling and riding
Quick tips for choosing a pair of mountain biking shorts
With so many styles, fits, and features out there, finding the perfect pair of women’s mountain bike shorts can feel overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you pick the right pair for your riding style, body type, and preferences:
✅ Prioritize Fit
Women’s MTB shorts are notoriously inconsistent when it comes to sizing. Some run small, others are oddly shaped, and many don’t account for curves. When trying on shorts:
- Try multiple sizes: don’t trust the size chart alone.
- Look for adjustable waistbands like velcro tabs or elastic cinches for a dialed-in fit.
- Consider rise and length: a higher waist can be more comfortable and flattering, and longer inseams help prevent thigh chafing and offer more protection.
🪡 Pay Attention to Fabric & Stretch
Comfort is everything on the trail. Look for shorts made with:
- Lightweight, breathable fabric to keep you cool.
- Four-way stretch for unrestricted movement on climbs and descents.
- Durable material that holds up against crashes, snagging branches, and repeated washes.
👖 Chamois or No Chamois? (I prefer no chamois)
Some MTB shorts come with a removable liner or built-in chamois, while others don’t:
- Built-in chamois can be convenient but may not be high quality.
- Removable liners give you flexibility to wear your favorite padded shorts underneath or skip them entirely for shorter rides.
🛠️ Check the Features
Little details can make a big difference:
- Pockets: Zippered ones are great for keys, snacks, or your phone.
- Ventilation: Laser-cut holes or mesh panels help with airflow on hot days.
- Water resistance: Useful if you ride in variable weather or muddy conditions.
🚴♀️ Match Your Riding Style
Different shorts work better for different types of riding:
- Trail/all-mountain: Look for durability, length (around 10–13”), and flexibility.
- Cross-country: You might prefer lightweight, tighter-fitting shorts.
- Bike park/enduro: Go for longer, looser-fitting shorts with tough materials for protection.
Finding the perfect pair of women’s mountain bike shorts can take some trial and error, but it’s so worth it once you find the ones that actually fit and perform well on the trail. The POC Essentials, Pearl iZUMi Summit, and Wild Rye Freel shorts have all earned a spot in my regular rotation because they strike that ideal balance of comfort, durability, and style. Whether you’re pedaling all day, sessioning a techy descent, or just out for a casual cruise, these shorts won’t let you down. Happy riding!
Have you tried any of these shorts or do you have a favorite pair I didn’t include? What features are most important in a MTB short? Leave a comment!
I love the wild rye freel too. I’m 5’9” with strong quads and butt!!
I appreciate that you describe how the shorts fit different body shapes. I really struggle to find shorts/trousers that fit in hips/thighs (big) and waist (small) and with so much only available online these days, it’s nice to know which brands are most likely to fit.
Glad you found it helpful, Celeste! I have big hips/thighs/butt too and small waist and it’s silly how hard it is to find a pair of shorts that fit well. I love my POC MTB Essential shorts. If you’re on the tall side (I’m 5’8) I highly recommend them! Another great choice are the SHREDLY Curvy shorts, which come in long and short.