Mumma-to-be rejoice, maternity cycling shorts are here to bring you comfort and style. Cycling shorts have been an athleisure must-have in the last few years, with influencers and celebs alike wearing them in variety of colours. They've become an essential basic for anyone's wardrobe, and now maternity pairs are available too.
Combining the breathability of shorter shorts and the flexibility of maternity leggings, maternity cycling shorts are ideal for an easy-going look. They're the stylish pick that you can combine with other gym clothes for a workout or just pop to the shops in. They're simple to throw on (even with bump in the way) with a jumper or oversized T-shirt, plus they'll make you feel bang on trend. Even better? You can even wear them under skirts and dresses during the Summer to beat annoying chub rub.
It's rare that a fashion trend is wearable for every type of pregnant body and beyond comfortable, but maternity cycling shorts have all those bases covered. They're just the kind of clothing item that you don't have to think too hard about when styling.
Editor's Choice
• Best maternity cycling shorts overall: Be Mammy Womans Short Maternity Leggings Tights - Buy now
• Best maternity cycling shorts multipack: George Maternity Cycling Shorts 2 Pack - Buy now
• Best maternity cycling shorts for exercise: Mamalicious Tia Jeanne Maternity Shorts - Buy now
• Best plus size maternity cycling shorts: BUMP IT UP MATERNITY Cycling Shorts - Buy now
Whether cycling shorts were a go-to for you pre-pregnancy or you want in on the trend now, we've put together a full list of our favourite maternity cycling shorts, perfect for you and bump, down below. We've considered colour and size range, prices, materials, and style in all our choices, so you can make a choice that works for you.
Best maternity cycling shorts of 2023
Best maternity cycling shorts overall:
Designed with a comfortable high and elasticated waist, these super soft Be Mammy cycling shorts fit over bump beautifully, without loosing that classic look you want. We love that they're mainly made from natural cotton which make them breathable too. Pair with an oversized T-shirt and your favourite trainers for a fun and casual look.
One reviewer said: "I purchased 3XL but could have gone for the 2XL. I'm a size 16. I'm 31 weeks and these will definitely last all the way until the end. Just need to get some non-maternity ones for after the baby is born as never going back to no shorts under a dress.
Oh my goodness these are so comfy!! I wear them both under a dress and with a floaty top on. They are super soft, go over the bump comfortably and wash super well. It helps with holding my bump, no knicker flash when the wind blows and prevents the chub rub all in one!! Best buy so far! I've also got them in white and they're just as good but more see through as you could imagine."
Pros
- Great size range
- Soft and stretchy
- High waisted fit
Cons
- Some colours aren't as opaque as others
| Size Range: | S-4XL |
| Material: | 95% Cotton, 5% Elastane |
| Colours: | 10 to pick from |
Best maternity cycling shorts multipack
direct.asda.com
The George Maternity Cycling Shorts are made from soft jersey fabric, plus they were designed with a bump panel and side ruching. These design details make this great value multipack perfect for keeping you and bump comfortable. They're incredibly flattering and come at a fabulous price so, what's not to love here?
One reviewer said: "As a larger lady these are ideal for under my dresses to stop the rub. Will get me through the hotter last few months of pregnancy!"
Pros
- Value multipack
- Tumble dryer friendly
- Two colours in one pack
Cons
- Tighter fitting than others
| Size Range: | XS-XXL |
| Material: | 95% Cotton, 5% Elastane |
| Colours: | Grey and Black in pack |
3.
Natal Active MATERNITY CYCLING SHORTS
Best maternity cycling shorts for flexibility
One word - pockets! Yes, the Natal Active maternity cycling shorts have pockets on both sides, plus they're made from non-slip fabric. We love that they can be worn throughout pregnancy and postpartum too, all while giving support to your back, bump, and hips. They claim to be squat-proof too so, you can still get your workouts in.
One reviewer said: "Brilliant shorts for wearing from 26-27 weeks pregnant, they don’t fall down, and sit comfortably above bump."
Pros
- Can be worn high or low waisted
- Soft, wicking fabric
- Pockets on both sides
Cons
- One reviewer said it wasn't the best for low sitting bumps
| Size Range: | UK Women's 6-18 |
| Material: | 73% Polyester, 23% Elastane |
| Colour: | Charcoal Grey or Jet Black |
Best longer maternity cycling shorts
www.newlook.com
Machine washable and thigh length, these sleek New Look black jersey maternity cycling shorts are ideal for taller mummas-to-be as they're slightly longer than the average cycling short design. They're so soft against the skin and breathable, so if you're facing the warmer months while pregnant, these will feel fantastic. Pair with a sporty sweater for an off-duty model look.
One reviewer said: "I had them in my previous pregnancy and now I bought new ones for the current one. They are fab maternity cycling shorts. Perfect for warmer days."
Pros
- Stretchy over bump waist
- Super soft
- Longer-length
Cons
- Only one colour available
| Size Range: | UK Women's 8-16 |
| Material: | Cotton Blend |
| Colours: | Black |
Best maternity cycling shorts for exercise
tuclothing.sainsburys.co.uk
We love that these cool and casual cycling shorts are made from sustainable, recycled materials. The Mamalicious Tia Jeanne maternity cycling shorts were designed with exercise in mind, so whether you're going to the gym or for a walk, these will support your bump as it grows. The colour is fab for Spring/Summer.
Pros
- Machine washable at 30°C
- Sustainably made
- Grows with your bump
Cons
- Limited size range and no reviews
| Size Range: | S/M-L/XL |
| Material: | 73% Recycled Nylon, 20% Polyamide, 7% Elastane |
| Colours: | Laurel Wreath |
Best plus size maternity cycling shorts
www.yoursclothing.co.uk
With a lovely lace trim on the legs, the BUMP IT UP maternity cycling shorts will fit your bump and curves in all the right places without compromising comfort. The jersey fabric is breathable and stretchy, plus you can't go wrong with a handy multipack. These would be a great pick to go under your favourite dress.
Pros
- Two-pack
- Elasticated waist comfort panel
- Machine washable
Cons
- No reviews yet
| Size Range: | UK Women's 16-32 |
| Material: | 95% Cotton, 5% Elastane |
| Colours: | Black |
Best seamless maternity cycling shorts
www.lindex.com
Another comfy options to go under other garments, the Lindex MOM seamless biker briefs are sustainable and breathable. They're designed with an extra wide waist to grow with your bump and they have the perfect amount of stretch. These are a must-have for lounging around on a lazy Sunday.
Pros
- A wider waist
- Great size range
- Soft feel
Cons
- No reviews
| Size Range: | UK Women's 8-28 |
| Material: | Recycled Polyamide Blend |
| Colours: | Beige or Black |
Best maternity cycling shorts for style
www.nike.com
Made for any type of workout or exercise, the Nike One maternity biker shorts feel like a second skin, even as your pregnancy gets to the third trimester. They're another sustainable choice, but what sets them apart is how they stay dry even through the sweatiest of HIIT sessions. The vibrant colour choices are gorgeous too.
One reviewer said: "When these shorts first arrived I was unsure if they were gonna fit but I underestimated the stretch ! I am 5ft and 135 pounds, ordered a size XS. I have been struggling with pelvic pain in my pregnancy and these shorts have so much support in the band for my stomach I’m shocked, makes exercising a lot more enjoyable. I haven’t been feeling myself throughout my pregnancy but the design is so cute because you can wear the band high or low rise! Wearing these shorts made my day. With the comfortable fabric, I never want to take them off !! I wish I had received these shorts way sooner in my pregnancy and I can definitely see myself using them postpartum also, they’re perfect"
Pros
- Adapts to your bump throughout pregnancy
- Fun colour options
- Smooth feeling and fit
Cons
- One reviewer said they may be a little small
| Size Range: | XS-XXL (UK Women's 4-26) |
| Material: | Recycled Polyester |
| Colours: | Adobe/Coral Chalk, Rosewood/Active Fuchsia, & Black/White |
What to consider when buying maternity cycling shorts
Size - Fit is always important, but especially with maternity clothes. A quality maternity garment should be designed to match your original size but also accommodate to bump. You can always measure yourself to double check your size.
Colour - If you're wearing your cycling shorts under a dress or skirt, you may want to pick out a more neutral colour, but if you're wearing them on their own, select whatever colour that takes your fancy.
Style - How do you want to wear your maternity cycling shorts? They're a really versatile piece of clothing, so have a think about what you can pair your shorts with to get the look you want to achieve,
Budget - As with all of your maternity buys, stick to a set budget. You'll thank yourself for that later. There are some fabulous budget buys above, so you don't have to compromise quality for a lower price tag.
Is it okay to wear cycling shorts while pregnant?
In short, yes. Tighter fitting clothes can seem a little intimidating if you're pregnant, but maternity cycling shorts were designed to keep you supported and comfortable. Just make sure they're the right size for you and not majorly restrictive around your bump and there shouldn't be any issues with wearing them. They're such a wardrobe staple these days, so give them a go and we're sure you won't regret it.
How can you style maternity cycling shorts?
This will be down to your personal sense of style and lifestyle, but cycling shorts are so versatile, you can do a lot with them style-wise. Here are just a few ways you can wear your favourite maternity cycling shorts:
• Paired with an oversized T-shirt and trainers.
• With a cosy sweater or jumper during Winter.
• Worn as a workout set with a sports bra and/or crop top.
• Styled with top and hoodie for casual vibe.
• Underneath a skirt or dress to prevent any chafing.
• With a cute top and cross-body bag for a festival look.
Eve Miller is a Commercial Content Writer for Mother&Baby, working for Bauer Media for over two years. She is passionate about beauty, creative writing, and women’s healthcare.