Find Your Fit
Comfort starts with the right fit.
Cycling gear should feel supportive, comfortable and secure — not restrictive, saggy or like you’re constantly adjusting it.
We design Birds on Bikes for real women’s bodies, and we know choosing cycling gear online can sometimes feel a little daunting.
This guide will help you find the size and fit that feels right for you.
Start with your measurements
For the best fit, grab a soft measuring tape and measure over underwear or lightweight clothing.
Keep the tape comfortably snug against your body, but don’t pull it tight.
Waist
Measure around your natural waist — usually the narrowest part of your torso.
Hip
Measure around the fullest part of your hips and bottom.
TIP: Your hip measurement is particularly important when choosing padded cycling pants.
Inseam
Measure from the top of your inner thigh down to where you'd like your shorts or tights to end.
For cycling shorts, this is typically just above the knee or mid-thigh.
Size Guide
Use your body measurements rather than the size you normally buy in everyday clothing.
Women’s clothing sizes vary enormously between brands, so your measurements will give you a much better starting point.
How should padded cycling pants fit?
Your padded cycling pants should feel firm and supportive when you first put them on.
Unlike everyday shorts or leggings, cycling knicks are designed to sit close against your body so the chamois stays securely in place while you ride.
A close fit helps reduce movement, rubbing and bunching and allows the chamois to do its job properly.
You want:
- Smooth fabric through the hips and bottom
- A chamois that sits firmly against your body
- No sagging through the crotch
- No loose fabric around the thighs
- A waistband that feels supportive without being painfully tight
Between sizes?
If you're between two sizes in our padded cycling pants, we generally recommend choosing the smaller size for a supportive cycling fit.
If you prefer a less compressive feel, or you're unsure, get in touch and we'll happily help.
Choose Your Leg Length
One of the lovely things about Birds on Bikes padded cycling pants is that you can choose the coverage that feels right for you.
Fit notes for Birds on Bikes cycling pants
Our padded cycling pants are designed with:
- A high, supportive waist
- A smooth fit through the hips
- A chamois designed to stay in place
- No seam running along the inside leg
- Stretch fabric that moves with your body
- Inclusive sizing from 6 to 24
Because the fabric stretches, your body measurements may fit across more than one size.
Use your measurements as a starting point, then consider whether you prefer a firmer or more relaxed feel.
Fit notes for cycling tops and jerseys
Cycling tops can be worn close to the body or with a little more room, depending on the style and your preference.
For a more fitted cycling look, choose the size closest to your body measurements.
For a relaxed fit, or if you prefer more room around the bust or waist, choose the next size up.
Some of our Rescued Design Finds run smaller than the Birds on Bikes range. Check the product description carefully and consider sizing up where recommended.
Ready to find your pair?
Use our fit guide to find the perfect length and size for your next ride.
