When it comes to baggy biking shorts, three main features bubble to the top as most desired qualities: comfortable, rugged and good-looking. Louis Garneau takes a pretty good run at hitting all three of these with their Women's Cyclo 2 baggy biking shorts.
These are entry-level shorts (about $55 plus tax/shipping from various locations around the web), ideal to try out if you've not ridden in bike shorts before or are looking to add a pair of baggy shorts to your inventory of cycling wear.
Baggy bike shorts are different from regular form-fitting standard or bib shorts in several aspects. First, they are cut more like the regular shorts you'd likely go walking around in for daily wear, with a loose fit, offering more modesty if that is something you are looking for. Second, the shorts have several pockets (including a thigh pocket with secure Velcro closure) to hold things like your keys, etc., while you ride, which regular shorts lack. Third, while the shorts offer the same built-in pad to offer cushion for your rear on long rides, this chamois pad is incorporated into a sewn-in mesh innershort, which is hidden under the baggy nylon shell.
While people often think of baggy bike shorts as being for mountain biking, in truth, the Louis Garneau Women's Cyclo Shorts 2 are going to be great for all types of riding: long road rides, commuter/utility jaunts and yes, mountain biking, too.
The outer shell is constructed of durable nylon taslan, a light and breatheable material that is yet resistant to snags and piling. The sewn-in mesh fabric innershorts features Garneau's seamless Silvercool3 chamois for cushioning and moisture management, with a top layer of antibacterial Coolmax to help eliminate odor. The pad is well made, thick enough to offer comfortable all day riding but without being bulky.
The shorts fit well with proper sizing, snug without being too tight. The Cyclo 2 features an elastic waist with additional drawstring to provide a secure fit. Reflective accents on the front enhance visibility for low-light conditions, adding an extra layer of safety for riding on the road at night or in the early morning. The shorts are a nice length, offering an 8" inseam that'll go down to mid-thigh, even approaching the upper knee depending on your specific anatomy.
Sizing is listed as consistent with standard Louis Garneau fit, but be aware that some riders have found that these shorts run small. It's certainly worth verifying fit with Louis Garneau customer service before buying if you have any questions.
Our conclusion? This is a solid pair of bike shorts, a pair you'll appreciate for their no-nonsense performance and durable construction. You'll be at home in these on the road, in the woods or just buzzing on the trails around town.
Product specifications
Outer Shell:
- Water repellent finish
- Slightly brushed back with a peach-skin finish for added comfort
- Microtwill Fabric, 100% polyester
- 115 g/m2
Inner Liner:
- Sewn-in mesh innershorts with chamois, grippers and a 5"/12.5 cm inseam: Secure fit
- Inseam 8"/20.5 cm
- Built in SilverCool 3 Chamois
Women's SilverCool 3 Chamois:
- Coolmax top sheet for better moisture management and wicking properties
- Pad constructed from multi-thickness high-density foam
- Chamois conforms ergonomically to the human body
- 2-way stretch provides a good fit and contour while riding
- Antibacterial and moisture wicking
Additional Features
- 2 front pockets
- Thigh pocket with Velcro closure to offer additional secure storage
- Elastic waist with elasticized drawstring for snug and secure fit.
- Front and side reflective accents for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.
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