The Best Road Bike Shorts

Gore Orzon Shorts

Receiving a perfect five-star score from BikeRadar.com, Gore Bike Wear's Orzon shorts gain praise for their attention to detail. The Lycra/Spandex shorts feature eight-panel construction to provide a solid fit and the chamois pad provides seat cushioning and wicks away moisture. In addition, reflective material on the back of the legs makes the rider visible to motorists. The front of the waistband is elastic-free to avoid pinching in the riding position. Citing the above, BikeRadar's reviewers called the Orzon "among the comfiest race shorts we've ever worn," adding that they are "crammed with the sort of detail that's utterly ride-enhancing."

Smartwool Rambition Shorts

Smartwool differentiates their cycling shorts by breaking from the Lycra/Spandex tradition with the Rambition short, which is 45 percent Smartwool, 39 percent Nylon, and 16 percent elastic stretch double-knit. The Rambition utilizes an Italian chamois pad covered with Smartwool, which the website says will keep the rider dry, odor-free, and comfortable on long rides. Featured as Bicycling.com's Gear of the Day, Bicycling's reviewer noted the Rambition's good fit and odor-fighting properties, adding that the Italian chamois pad was "one that happens to be exceptionally comfortable."

Castelli Freebib Short

A one-of-a-kind design gives Castelli's Freebib short their name. The front upper torso section of the bib is nearly free of fabric, consisting almost entirely of the two shoulder straps. This minimalistic approach keeps riders cool and allows more freedom of movement. Paul Verkuylen of Cyclingnews.com reviewed the Freebib Short, noting that "the lack of material around the stomach made the Freebib especially comfortable" and that it "arguably aided our breathing" on strenuous portions of his ride."