Wild Rye Review: Shorts, Pants, Chamois, & More

I like passing dudes on the trail, but I don’t want to LOOK like a dude. Which is why I love Wild Rye.

This for-women, by-women clothing company has managed to create mountain bike (and gravel!) clothes that are functional, sporty, and still feel and look feminine. Wild Rye proves that function and form don’t have to be mutually exclusive.

I’ve tested their shorts, pants, jerseys, gloves, and chamois–and have yet to find a product I didn’t like. They are flattering, comfortable, and well-constructed.

This review covers each item and what I like (or don’t) about it. Read on to learn more. Or, if you want to know more about Wild Rye as a company, listen to my podcast interview with founder Cassie Abel.

You may also want to take a peek at my reviews of the best mountain bike shorts and the best bike chamois.

Wild Rye Freel Mountain Bike Short

Say hello to your new favorite pair of mountain bike shorts. Well, they’re my new favorite pair of mountain bike shorts at least. There aren’t many shorts that match the Wild Rye Freel in terms of cut and comfort, and possibly no others that look so cute.

Price: $139

A MTB Short That’s Actually Flattering On A Woman’s Body

Why do I keep buying bike shorts that are designed for a man’s body?! I’ve got hips and a butt and waist.

The Freel short recognizes this. The shorts run true to size, so you don’t have to size up to fit around your hips or muscular thighs. They also use a fit guide that I used to measure myself, and the fit turned out perfectly.

I have a narrow waist and I didn’t have any gap between the waistband and my middle like I do with many shorts. It’s worth noting that the waistband is NOT adjustable, but the material is stretchy enough that I don’t think women with wider waists would have any issues with it digging.

The waistband also has belt loops so I suppose you could wear a belt if you needed to, but that wasn’t as issue for me.

Stretchy Fabric Doesn’t Bunch Or Dig

There’s really nothing worse than having a pair of bike shorts that restricts your movement. Fortunately, that’s not the Freel.

This short is nice and stretchy. So stretchy, in fact, that I was able to do some post-ride yoga in the shorts with ease.

Because the fabric is stretchy it also better accommodates a wide variety of women’s bodies. Because we all have curves and thickness in slightly different places. The stretchy fabric helps accommodate those differences.

Comes In A Wide Variety Of Head-Turning Colors And Designs

Even if the these shorts weren’t as comfortable as they are, I’d probably still want a pair just ’cause they’re so darn cute. The hardest part was picking just one pair because all the colors and designs are amazing.

In fact, just talking about this has convinced me I need to order another pair ASAP.

Water-Resistant Fabric Also Resists Getting Dirty

Perhaps the truest test of a mountain bike short is taking it on a dusty, dirty multi-day bikepacking trip through the desert. Which is exactly what I did with these shorts.

I wore the Wild Rye Freel three days straight (with clean chamois), and it came out at the end of the trip looking pretty darn clean still. This included my son dumping half a can of Coke Zero on the shorts as well.

The short’s fabric is water-resistant, which is why that Coke Zero just rolled on off. This water-resistance also does a good job of repelling dirt and other stains. There were a couple of times that the shorts were looking pretty dirty, and I was able to literally just “brush them off.”

“Enduro” Length Provides Additional Coverage

The Freel short is an “enduro”-length short, i.e. it’s longer than your traditional mountain bike short. This is great for women who really are doing enduro or downhill riding, as the short provides additional protection and won’t create any weird gap between it’s hem and your knee pads.

It’s also great for any woman who simply wants additional coverage. If you’re looking for a longer short, the Freel is a great option, although it’s not as long as the Frankie (listed below).

Plenty Of Pocket Space

If you like stashing stuff in your short pockets, you’ll be happy to know that there is ample pocket space in the Freel short. In addition, to the two front pockets, there’s also a large zip pocket on one of the legs.

I’m not a huge fan of putting my cell phone in my shorts, but the zip pocket is plenty big for a cell phone should you choose too. Or you could fit lots of snacks–more my style.

A Bit Spendy For A MTB Short Without A Chamois

At $139, there’s no denying that the Wild Rye Freel is a premium-priced mountain bike short. The similarly-designed Shredy All Time short, for instance, comes in at $108, and that’s already one of the pricier options on the market.

It also does NOT include a chamois, so if you’re a chamois kinda girl, then you’ll need to consider the additional price of that purchase as well.

But, let’s be real. You can’t put a price on a good pair of mountain bike shorts. Chances are if you buy The Freel, you’ll happily whip out your credit card later on for a second or even third pair.

Wild Rye Freda

The Wild Rye Freda is one of a growing number of *short* mountain bike shorts. Perfect for hot summer days and lunchtime rides, the shorter 7″ length won’t screw up your tan lines and they provide plenty of airflow.

Want to wear them after riding for errands? They work for that too.

Stretchy, But Tailored Fit

A lot of mountain bike shorts are baggy. Not so with the Wild Rye Freda. The fit on these is slim and tailored, but the fabric is stretchy enough that those of us thick-thighed ladies need not despair.

Because I knew the legs on these are a little narrower, I ended up ordering up a size to get a roomier fit. (Size 8 rather than my usual size 6). I’d say there are true to size, so just consider the fit you’re going for when you order.

Now back to the stretchy fabric. These shorts are some of the least restrictive shorts I’ve worn. Whatever sort of wild riding you want to do on the bike, the Freda won’t be getting in your way.

While the fabric is stretchy, it’s also thick. Similar to the Freel, these shorts are very durable. I don’t hesitate at all to plop down on the ground in these.

The thicker fabric may not be my top pick on 100+ degree days, but the shorter cut keeps these reasonably cool. I think this is where ordering up a size worked well for me too, because I got a little airflow thru the legs.

Cute Colors & Prints…Plus Black

Like everything from Wild Rye, the colors and prints are pretty and fun. They do change each season, which is great because it gives you an excuse to buy more! If you’re not into prints, don’t stress–they come in black too.

Perfect For Mountain Biking AND The Rest Of Life

One of the biggest issues I have with mountain bike clothing is that you spend a fortune on it…and then spend a fortune on a regular wardrobe. Unlike the Freel, which I can’t imagine wearing for anything other than biking, the Freda looks at home on the hiking trail or even running summer errands. The tailored look makes them look like, well, shorts!

At $129 (yikes), the pricetag may give you pause but the versatility should make it slightly less painful. Also, as I previously mentioned, these are really well made, so I’d expect them to last YEARS just like my Freel shorts have.

Traditional Waistband

If you look a good old zipper, snap, and belt loop waistband, you’re in luck, because that’s what the Freda has. As for me, I’ve gotten pretty spoiled by the elastic waistband on my Shredly and Curious Creatures bottoms, and struggle to want to wear anything else these days.

That said, the waistband on the Freda is reasonably stretchy, and I don’t find it uncomfortable. There’s also no gap between the shorts and my waist, which as a big hip, narrow waist gal, I get with a lot of traditional waistbands.

Pockets

The Freda has two front hand pockets as well as a zippered pocket on the left thigh. It’s big enough to fit my cell phone, although I didn’t find it super comfy to pedal with it in there. Instead, I found that I used it to stash some cash and my car key.

Wild Rye Frankie Bike Short

Looking for a mountain bike short with serious coverage and room to move? The Wild Rye Frankie is a true gravity-oriented short that doesn’t skimp on length or comfort. With a 14.75″ inseam, these shorts are built for ladies who want maximum coverage for downhill days at the bike park or rowdy enduro rides.

Price: $139

A Downhill Short That Actually Covers Your Thighs

There aren’t many women’s mountain bike shorts on the market with an inseam this long. At 14.75″, the Frankie even outmeasures the Shredly Limitless 14″ short. If you’ve ever experienced the annoying gap between your shorts and knee pads, these will solve that problem for good.

The extra length makes these shorts perfect for gravity-oriented riding where having that additional coverage isn’t just about style, it’s also about protection. I’ve taken my fair share of spills over the years, and having that extra fabric between my skin and the dirt is much appreciated. More coverage also means more protection when sitting on the ground, getting slapped by foliage, and from the sun.

Same Bombproof Fabric as the Freel

Wild Rye didn’t reinvent the wheel with the Frankie. They used the same fantastic fabric as theFreel short, which is a very good thing. The material is water-resistant, which means light rain and splashes from puddles will just roll right off.

Just like the Freel, these shorts are incredibly easy to keep clean, and I wore them multiple times without washing while on a recent trip to the desert. A bit of a brush off works wonders.

A couple of months of wash cycles in, the shorts still look new. That’s what you would expect, but I’m afraid the same can’t be said for all the shorts I’ve been testing lately.

Size Down for the Perfect Fit

One important thing to note about the Frankie is that it fits significantly larger than other Wild Rye bottoms. While I’m a consistent size 8 in the Freel shorts, I had to size all the way down to a 4 in the Frankie to get the right fit.

The good news is that even if you’re between sizes, the velcro waist adjusters work incredibly well. When I initially tried the size 8 (my usual Wild Rye size), I was swimming in the legs and hips, but I could still cinch the waist down nicely with the adjusters.

But for the best overall fit, I’d recommend sizing down.

Built for Moving (and Storing Stuff)

The Frankie features a roomier cut through the hips and thighs, making these shorts perfect for women with more muscular builds. There’s plenty of room to move without feeling restricted, and the wider legs accommodate knee pads without any uncomfortable bunching or pinching.

Unlike some mountain bike shorts where the pockets are more decorative than functional, the Frankie’s pockets are actually usable while riding. There are two front pockets plus a zippered side pocket that’s perfect for a phone or snacks. The baggier fit means you can actually put things in these pockets without feeling like your movement is restricted.

Wild Rye Freyah Pants

Wild Rye continues their commitment to inclusive sizing with the Frankie, offering sizes from 0-18. The shorts come in three different prints, all with Wild Rye’s signature aesthetic that somehow manages to be both feminine and ready-to-shred.

For women who prefer a more tailored, fitted look, the Frankie might not be your first choice. These are definitely on the baggier end of the spectrum—more freeride than XC in styling. But if you want a short with serious coverage that can handle whatever the mountain throws at you, the Frankie deserves a spot in your riding wardrobe.

Just a few years ago, there were almost no women’s mountain bike pant options available. Today, there are plenty. But even in a crowd, the Wild Rye Freyah stands out.

Like all the pieces from Wild Rye, the Freyah mountain bike pant is designed specifically for women. They are beautiful, fit well, and perform flawlessly on the bike.

Price: $199

Beautiful Design, Flattering Cut

Okay, first things first. My favorite thing about the Wild Rye Freyah pants is that they look good.

No matter how technically fabulous a pair of mountain bike pants are, if I don’t feel great wearing them, I’m not going to wear them. (Fortunately, the Freyah pants are technically fabulous as well, which we’ll get to in a moment).

The bottom of the pant has a colorful cuff which looks cute, but helps with the fit as well. The cuff means that no matter how short (or long) your legs are, the Freyah will probably fit.

You can wear the cuff down for a longer fit or up for a shorter fit, or folded somewhere in between. The cuff secures nicely via velcro.

The fit is slim but not tight. If you’re familiar with moto pants, these are the same style. I find the look quite tailored and pulled together.

There is plenty of room in the knee for pads, and I wore both my POC Joint VPD pads as well as my 7idp Flex knee pads under these pants. The pant is more tailored at the ankle so that they stay out of the way of your chain. Originally, the Freyah did NOT have a zipper at the calf for putting on/taking off knee pads, but now it does which makes it doubly great for bike park or enduro riding.

The waist is cut fairly high so you don’t have to worry about plumber’s crack. Unfortunately, the waist is not adjustable.

They worked well for me, but I have heard from other women that the waist was too large or too small. There are loops for a belt, but it would be nice if there was a built in waist adjustment as well.

The waist closes via double buttons (that stayed buttoned), a snap (that stayed snapped), and a zipper (that stayed zipped).

Stretchy, Durable Fabric

The Wild Rye Freyah pant is made of highly flexible nylon. This means you get a full range of motion and never feel restricted.

In addition to being stretchy, the fabric is highly durable. I’ve had several crashes in these now.

The fabric not only helped protect my skin, it also held up well–no rips or tears. The fabric at the knee is reinforced as well.

Finally, like the Wild Rye shorts, the fabric on the Freyah does a great job of shedding water and dirt. I’ve ridden both wet PNW trails in these this summer as well as dusty Idaho trails, and they worked well on both.

At Whistler, I wanted to wear these pants a couple days in a row, but Day 1 was wet and muddy. When I got back to camp in the evening, I wiped down the pants with a wet wash cloth, and they were *almost* good as new for Day 2.

Huge Zippered Pockets

If you love pocket space, you’ll be hearing angels sing when you try the Freyah pants for the first time. There are HUGE zippered pockets on the outside of both legs.

There’s really no limit to what you can fit in these pockets and, most days, they eliminated my need to carry a hip pack when at the bike park. I was able to carry my oversized phone, my lift pass, a van key, credit card, granola bar, and more.

How They’ve Held Up

I’ve done a bunch of downhill mountain biking this summer and have worn the Wild Rye Freyah pants almost exclusively. That adds up to a bunch of sessions in the washing machine.

Overall, I’m impressed by how well the pants have held up. Despite crashes and muddy conditions, there are no holes, stains, rips, or worn spots. The zippers and seams are in good condition.

The only thing of note is that the black fabric has started to fade. Not a huge deal, but they aren’t quite as crisp looking as when I first got them.

Wide Range Of Sizes

Like all Wild Rye bottoms, the Freyah pants are offered in a wide range of sizes and are sized like regular street pants (size 0, 2, 4, etc). This helps you get a lot better fit than simply offering a S, M, and L.

For reference, I am 130 pounds and am 5’5″. I wore the size 8, which is what I wear in the Wild Rye Freel as well.

From Lift To Trail

The most obvious use of the Wild Rye Freyah pants is for downhill mountain biking. The reinforced knee, space for pads, and moto cut are all gravity oriented.

That said, there is no reason these pants won’t work well for trail riding as well. They are stretchy, comfortable to pedal in, and there is room for a chamois underneath.

I’ve also used these pants for winter fat biking with a pair of fleece-lined leggings underneath.

Wild Rye Softshell Freyah Pants

If you’re the kind of girl that doesn’t stop when the weather takes a turn for the worse, then you probably need a pair of the Softshell Freyah pants in your arsenal. They are thick, warm, and ready for anything.

Price: $225

As a person who is pretty much allergic to riding the trainer indoors, and who lives in Idaho, getting outside in the winter is just something that has to happen. When it gets cold, I dress warm. When it snows, I get out the fat bike.

If you’re like me, then investing in high quality winter pieces is a must. And frankly, there aren’t many mountain bike pants designed for winter riding, so the softshell Freyah is a welcome addition to my wardrobe.

Most of what I wrote about the regular Freyah pant remains true for the softshell version as well, so go up and read that section of this article if you didn’t already.

What’s different about the softshell is that it is thicker than the original pant, and it is fleece-lined. This makes it really warm. So warm in fact, that I’ve had trouble testing it this fall because it just hasn’t been cold enough. I know that everybody dresses a little differently for cold, but for me, these were most comfortable in temps under 40 degrees.

I’ve finally gotten in some rides with the softshell Freyah (as well as hunting in sub-freezing temps), and I can safely say that these pants will be getting a lot of use. They are a great option not only for mountain biking or fat biking, but also for hiking, camping, or nordic skiing.

In addition to the thickness, the exterior of the pant fills substantial, almost like a pair of work pants. They have a DWR coating that, while not rain pants, does a good job of shedding moisture. When I was hunting in the pants, I had no concerns with bush-whacking or plopping down on the ground. They looked no worse for the wear afterward, and I have no doubt these babies will hold up for a long time to come.

While there is a lot to say for a pair of bullet-proof pants, I will say they didn’t feel quite as flexible or free as a pair of thermal bib tights. There’s something about a good pair of tights in the winter that I just love BUT if you’re looking for a pant rather than a tight, these are a great choice. And they’re gonna hold up better if you crash in them (which I’m known to do when biking on snow and ice).

Wild Rye Regan Bike Pant

While I love my Wild Rye Freyah pants with their moto-inspired design, they feel more at home at the downhill bike park than on my lunch loop ride. That’s where the Wild Rye Regan pant shines. This relaxed bike pant is roomy enough to pedal uphill comfortably, but also durable enough for slaying the downhills.

Price: $159

The Goldilocks Pant: Just Right for Trail Riding

While I love my Wild Rye Freyah pants,with their moto inspired design, they feel more at home at the downhill bike park than on my lunch loop ride. That’s where the Regan pant shines.

There’s a sweet spot between ultra-technical downhill pants and flimsy leggings, and the Regan pant sits perfectly in that zone. The fabric is lighter and stretchier than the Freyah, making these pants more pedal-friendly for trail rides where you’re actually climbing, not just shuttling or riding lifts.

I’ve found myself reaching for the Regan pants for my after-work rides and weekend adventures that involve a mix of climbing and descending. They breathe well enough that I don’t overheat on climbs, but still provide enough protection and durability for when things get rowdy on the way down.

From Trail to Campfire

One of my favorite things about the Regan pants is their versatility. Unlike some mountain bike specific clothing that screams “I’M TECHNICAL APPAREL,” these pants look *mostly* normal off the bike. They’ve become my go-to pants this spring for camping weekends where I’m mixing riding with hanging around the campfire.

The relaxed fit and stretchy fabric make them comfortable for all-day wear, whether you’re pedaling, hiking, or just lounging. If you’re traveling and trying to pack light, these pants pull double-duty beautifully.

Room for Pads, But Not Super Tailored

The Regan pants are designed with enough room in the knee to accommodate knee pads, which is great for protection but does give them a slightly baggier look than more tailored options. The wider knee and slim fit at the ankle gives them a bit of a parachue pant vibe. If you’re looking for sleek, fitted pants, these might not be your first choice.

What they lack in sleekness, they make up for in functionality. There are zippers at the ankle that make taking knee pads on and off on the trail significantly easier—a feature you’ll appreciate if you’ve ever struggled to wrestle pants over pads mid-ride.

Similar to the Freyah, the Regan features a roll-up cuff at the ankle. While not quite as cute as the Freyah’s cuff (which has that pop of contrasting color), it serves the same purpose—allowing you to adjust the length to fit your height. These pants are cut on the longer side, so they can accommodate a wide range of leg lengths.

Sizing and Fit

Like the Frankie shorts, I found I needed to size down in the Regan pants compared to my usual Wild Rye size. I typically wear a size 8 in the Freel shorts, but found the size 6 to be a better fit in these pants. The fabric has plenty of stretch, so sizing down doesn’t restrict movement at all.

The waistband design on these pants is genius. They feature a traditional button and zipper closure in the front, but the back has a yoga-style waistband that sits higher on your back. This hybrid design means no more plumber’s crack when you’re bent over on the bike—something we can all appreciate.

Actually Useful Pockets

The Regan pants have two zippered side pockets that are actually large enough to be functional. I can fit my phone, some cash, and keys without issues. Because the legs are loose and stretchy, whatever you’re carrying doesn’t interfere with pedaling, unlike some tighter pants where pocket contents can dig into your thighs.

Weather-Ready

Like most Wild Rye bottoms, the Regan pants feature a DWR (durable water repellent) finish. This means light rain, mud splashes, and dust simply brush off rather than soaking in. I’ve ridden these through some light drizzle and muddy sections, and they’ve kept me remarkably clean and dry.

While they’re not waterproof by any means, the quick-drying fabric means even if you do get caught in a shower, you won’t be soggy for long.

The fabric is also very soft and comfortable, and feels a little bit silky.

Limited Color Options (For Now)

Currently, the Regan pants only come in two colors, both on the darker side. This is fine for functionality—dark colors hide dirt and stains better—but I’m hoping Wild Rye expands the color options in the future. Given their track record of beautiful prints and colors on their other items, I’m optimistic we’ll see more variety soon.

The Perfect Year-Round Trail Pant

If you’re looking for a do-it-all mountain bike pant that excels on trail rides but can handle rowdier terrain when needed, the Regan is an excellent choice. They’re lightweight enough for warmer days but substantial enough to pair with a base layer when temperatures drop.

The combination of pedal-friendly design and durability makes these pants a versatile addition to any mountain biker’s wardrobe. For riders who want one pant that can handle it all without the technical vibe of downhill-specific gear, the Wild Rye Regan hits all the right notes.

Wild Rye Billie Stash Bib

Are you tired of uncomfortable waistbands and restrictive cycling shorts? It’s time to give bibs a try!

While the Billie Stash Bib is marketed to mountain bikers and gravel riders, there is absolutely no reason you can’t wear these on the road as well. There is nothing that makes these an “off-road” bib other than perhaps the shorter inseam that allows you to wear them underneath baggies if desired.

Price: $165

Why Try A Bib?

If you aren’t already a bib convert, you might be wondering why you should try a bib at all. I’ll tell you why: ultimate comfort.

There are no waist closures to dig in or rub. And you don’t ever have to worry about exposed back or plumbers crack.

While I pretty much only wear bibs on the road bike, I usually wear baggies on the trail.

But after wearing the Billie on several mountain bike rides, I was second-guessing myself. It’s amazing to let your tummy hang out and take in a deep breath without anything pressing into your stomach.

Additionally, I was maneuvering around the saddle with greater freedom of motion than I get with my baggies. Maybe it’s time to go back to bibs on the trail after all!

If you’ve never tried a pair, I’d definitely recommend it. You might end up sticking to baggies, but you might find that you love bibs even more.

One Of The Better Chamois I’ve Tried

The best thing about the Wild Rye Baddie Bib is the chamois. I’m not always a huge fan of chamois (I often bike without one), but I actually really enjoyed my time testing these.

Wild Rye has somehow managed to create a chamois that feels plush but not diaper-esque. It is contoured to the shape of a saddle with more padding where your sit bones and soft tissue have direct contact, and less padding down the center of the butt, for example.

The stitching around the edge of the chamois is really next level also. You don’t have any of the exposed foam edges you see on a lot of chamois.

The Pactimo chamois on the left has an exposed foam edge, while the Wild Rye chamois is fully enclosed.

Instead, the stitching is really delicate and encloses the entirety of the edge of the chamois. I have really sensitive skin and often have trouble with seams, and had no problem with these shorts (on the chamois or elsewhere).

Sizing And Fit

One of my favorite things about Wild Rye is that they offer all of their clothing in street sizes (0, 2, 4, etc) rather than generic sizes (S, M, L). While this is more expensive for the company, it ensures a superior fit. They also go up to a size 18, which we appreciate.

I wear a size 6 in the Billie bib which is what I wear in normal life as well. If you had a pair of the previous Baddie bib (which ran big and loose), the cut and fit on this is much better and truer to size.

9 Inch Inseam Is Shorter Than Many Bibs

The Baddie bib is unique in that it has a 9-inch inseam. This is slightly shorter than most bibs. The Pearl Izumi Pro, for example, has a 10.5 inch inseam. (It is, however, longer than the previous WIld Rye Baddie bib which had a 7-inch inseam.

The shorter length is neither a good thing nor a bad thing, but a personal choice. It is nice if you want to wear the bib underneath baggies, or you just want to preserve more of your summer tan line.

It does mean that you have less coverage in the event of a crash, and less compression for your thighs.

Comfortable Straps

The straps on the Wild Rye Baddie bibs are made of a mesh material. This makes them highly breathable and great for summer riding.

The racer back design also helped keep the straps firmly in place, without the need for a chest buckle. Women with larger boobs will appreciate this.

Not Potty Friendly

Unfortunately, the Baddie bibs are not the best for bathroom breaks. Unlike many of the more inventive drop bib designs on the market, the Baddie doesn’t have any clips or a way to drop the straps without taking off your jersey.

I was hoping given the scoop at the lower back, that the bibs might be stretchy enough to pull down in back and pee without taking the straps off. No dice there either. It seems like this is how it is designed to be used, but maybe because of my longer torso, there just wasn’t enough give.

If you have a fear of bibs due to the pee factor, there are probably better options for you out there. If you have no fear ripping off your jersey and dropping trou on the trail, have at it.

Comfortable Leg Gripper

Are you familiar with the dreaded sausage leg that many spandex bike shorts cause? You don’t have to worry about this with the Baddie.

Wild Rye has borrowed from more expensive bib designs and included a nice wide leg band that doesn’t dig into your thigh. This is far more comfortable than a narrow band that can cut off circulation and irritate your skin.

While the leg band was narrower than many of the high end bibs (perhaps because the inseam length itself is shorter), it didn’t seem to affect the functionality. The legs stayed in place nicely and I didn’t have any issues with them riding up.

Thinner, Less Compressive Fabric

Perhaps because these are marketed for mountain bikers, but the material is thinner and far less compressive than most of my favorite bibs. They do provide a gentle squeeze but don’t expect the support you might find from a short like the Velocio bibs. This might be a good or bad thing depending on your personal preference.

The upside to the thinner fabric is that it’s highly breathable. I’ve been wearing these on some 100+ degree days this summer and found that I got less swampy in them than thicker bibs.

Fairly Affordable

While they aren’t cheap, they are certainly on the lower end of the bib spectrum. Our favorite Velocio Lux bibs, for example, are nearly $300.

If you want the softest, most compressive bibs, with the most durable fabric, you’ll want to spend more. If you just want a good affordable bib with a super comfortable chamois, we’d highly recommend the Billie. It offers good bang for your buck, and you’ll be hard pressed to find a good quality pair of bibs for less.

Leg Pockets

Pockets on shorts are the trendy thing right now, and I’m all about it. I love having an extra place to stash my phone or snacks!

The Billie STASH bib (get it) has pockets on both legs and they are large enough to fit my iphone. I’m such a fan of cycling shorts with pockets, I don’t think I’ll ever wear anything else again.

Bottom-Line: A More Affordable Bib We’d Recommend

The Wild Rye Billie Stash bib offers a comfortable and high-quality chamois that sets it apart from other bib shorts. The plush yet contoured padding provides excellent support for sitbones and soft tissue, and the delicate stitching ensures a comfortable experience without any exposed foam edges.

The mesh straps and racer back design enhance breathability and keep the bib securely in place. However, the lack of a drop feature for bathroom breaks will be a deal-breaker for many.

Though it has a less compressive material compared to higher-end bibs, the Baddie bibs still offer a good balance between affordability and comfort. Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with a comfortable chamois, the Wild Rye Baddie bib is worth considering.

Eleanor Chammy and Alyssa Stash Chammy

The Eleanor Chammy and the Alyssa Stash Chammy are two of my favorite chamois liners. Both have a medium-thickness chamois which makes them ideal if you only have one or two liners and want it to be able to do it all–quick rides on the trainer or epic all day adventures. The leg pockets and beautiful aesthetic are bonuses.

What’s the difference between the two? The length; otherwise the two are identical in terms of design, construction, and the chamois pad itself.

The Eleanor Chammy is shorter (6.5″ inseam) while the Alyssa Stash Chammy is longer (9″ inseam).

Price: $125 (Eleanor) / $145 (Alyssa)

Eleanor Chammy (left) and Alyssa Stash Chammy (right)

Let’s be honest, no matter what I say about the Wild Rye chamois, the real reason you are probably interested in buying one, is how pretty they are! Most chamois liners are black, sheer, and not at all awe-inspiring.

Both the Eleanor and the Alyssa Stash come in pretty colors and prints, and like all things Wild Rye, tends to come in new offerings each new season. In fact, these are so pretty, you can wear them under your baggie shorts or all on their own.

If you’re wanting to wear these as a chamois liner under shorts, the Eleanor is probably your best bet. It has a 6.5″ inseam so fits under both the Freel and Freda shorts. The Alyssa Stash can also be worn underneath, but will only be covered by the Frankie shorts.

Their versatility is furthered by the fact that the (very comfortable it should be said), chamois pad is of medium thickness. I’ll often grab a really minimal chamois for a quick ride on the trainer, or a thicker chamois for a long weekend ride, but if you don’t have a whole drawer full of liners to choose from, I’d say this is a good one-chamois-does-it-all option. (It is the same pad as the Baddie bib so see above if you want even more detail on it).

When I’ve chatted with other ladies that like the Wild Rye chamois, the one thing that nearly always comes up are the large leg pockets. They are big enough for a phone, and are definitely a selling feature.

The fabric is lightweight which can be nice for hot days and particularly if you’re layering it under your shorts. Ifyou’re wearing these on their own, the fabric is a little thin. They are not super compressive and fit a little loose (pro or con you decide).

For wearing on their own without a pair of shorts over, I much preferred the Alyssa Stash Chammy for the additional coverage. The inseam on these is longer so they feel more like a real pair of bike shorts, but if you’re trying to preserve your tan lines you might like the shorter inseam on the Eleanor.

On both, the waistband is forgiving and comfortable. It is wide and cut high. There is no elastic at the front of the belly and nothing to dig in. I have a girlfriend with a thicker tummy, and she swears by these liners and won’t wear anything else.

The rear of the waistband has elastic and a silicone gripper so you don’t have to worry about ending up with plumber crack. Similarly, the leg bands are elastic-free, have a wide silicone gripper, and do a reasonable (if not great) job of staying in place.

Finally, they’re a bit expensive for something that’s going under a pair of already-expensive shorts. BUT, if you’re going to wear them as the shorts on their own, then the price doesn’t look so bad.

Wild Rye Holly Jersey

The very first day it was cool enough to pull on a long sleeve this fall, I grabbed the Holly jersey and have been obsessed ever since. It is soft, pretty, and works well as a layer.

Pretty much all of my favorite mountain bike jerseys have at least a little merino in them. That’s because merino does a great job of resisting odor and it stays warm when wet or sweaty. It also gives it a cozy feel that you can’t achieve with synthetic materials alone. The Holly jersey has an 11% merino content which isn’t as high as my favorite winter base layers or socks, but for a mountain bike jersey, it works well.

The Holly jersey is soft and loose fitting, and just feels good. It’s designed for use for enduro-oriented riding and accommodates elbow pads, but I used it primarily for trail riding, and appreciated the breathability and airflow.

Speaking of breathability, there are mesh panels down the underarms and sides. This makes it a good choice for wearing on its own on cool summer mornings or warm spring afternoons. The rest of the time, it works well as a layer.

At the start of fall, I found myself bringing it along as a layer to throw on for the descents. It works well for this because it’s lightweight and can fit in a hip pack. Fast forward to late fall, and I’m now wearing the jersey as a base layer under a jacket. Again, it’s thin enough that it is comfortable for layering.

Finally, I wouldn’t consider this a piece only to use for mountain biking. I’ve been using it for trail running (did I mention it’s breathable) and figure I will use it as a base layer for winter sports as well.

I usually list a con for everything I review, but it was pretty hard to come up with one for the Holly jersey. The only thing I can think of is that there are no pockets. So if you need a jersey for storage, you’d want to look elsewhere.

Wild Rye Sloane Tee

The Wild Rye Sloane Tee fits the bill for a lightweight, breathable summer riding top. With a relaxed fit but feminine cut, it offers a welcome alternative to the baggy tech tees that dominate much of the mountain bike apparel market.

Pros:

• Light, airy fabric with excellent breathability
• Relaxed but not baggy fit
• True to size
• Versatile for riding and everyday wear

Cons:

• No pockets
• Shorter sleeves not ideal for elbow pad use
• Fully synthetic fabric lacks the comfort of merino blend options

Price: $69

A Summer-Weight Jersey with Style

When temperatures climb and you’re looking for something lightweight for hot-weather rides, the Sloane Tee delivers. The fabric is incredibly breathable, allowing for excellent airflow during even the most sweat-inducing climbs. I rode with this jersey on a recent hot trip to Phoenix and appreciated how it doesn’t cling when wet, and flutters in the breeze just enough to allow in some air.

Fit and Feel

The Sloane Tee fits true to size, with a silhouette that’s looser than the Sandia jersey but still maintains a feminine shape. I found it to be perfectly sized—roomy enough for unrestricted movement and a little post-lunch belly bulge, but not so baggy that it looks sloppy.

The sleeve length is on the shorter side, which creates a more feminine look but isn’t ideal if you wear elbow pads. For trail riding without protection, the sleeve length is perfect, hitting at a flattering point on the arm.

100% Synthetic Fabric

If I’m being picky (and that’s what reviews are for, right?), I do prefer the feel of Wild Rye’s merino blend jerseys like the Sandia and Holly. Those have a softer, more natural feel against the skin and better odor resistance.

The Sloane’s 100% polyester fabric definitely feels, well, synthetic. While it performs its moisture-wicking duties admirably, it doesn’t have quite the same comfort factor as fabrics with even a small percentage of merino wool. That said, the synthetic material does dry extremely quickly and holds its shape well through multiple washings.

My mom in the Sandia jersey (left) and me in the Sloane (right)

Minimalist Design

True to its simple, elegant design philosophy, the Sloane Tee doesn’t feature any pockets. This helps maintain its clean lines, but means you’ll need to bring along a hip pack or backpack for storing your ride essentials.

For shorter rides or if you’re the type to stash everything in your shorts pockets, this is no problem. But if you’re used to jerseys with rear pockets, you’ll need to adjust your storage strategy.

When to Choose the Sloane

The Sloane Tee is perfect for hot summer rides where breathability is your top priority. It’s also an excellent choice for riders who enjoy running or hiking or even going to the gym. I’ve been using it as a top for running as well, and it can serve as an all-around athletic top.

Wild Rye Gem Distance Jersey

The other Wild Rye tops I’ve covered here are loose-fitting and designed for the trail. The Gem Distance Jersey, on the other hand is a slim-fit jersey designed for gravel and road riding (or simply for ladies who like a more tailored look). With the three rear pockets and slim fit you’d expect from a drop-bar top, it’s become one of my go-tos when I’m heading out for a fast-moving training day.

Pros:

• Perforated fabric is highly breathable
• Three rear pockets PLUS a zippered pocket, all big enough for a phone
• Silicone hem gripper in back, nothing digging in front
• Slim, flattering fit that isn’t overly restrictive
• Cute feminine prints and colors

Cons:

• Fabric is thin (verging on semi-transparent)
• Shorter cut pairs best with bibs or high-waist chammies

Price: $159

Built to Breathe

In addition to a full-zip front which you can open for airflow, the fabric on the Gem is loaded with tiny perforations across the front and sides, and the difference is noticeable the second you start climbing. Air moves right through it, and I never felt like I was overheating on warmer rides. The back panel swaps the perforated stuff for a silky material that feels lovely against the skin.

The tradeoff for all that airflow is that the fabric is THIN. Thin enough that it’s a little on the semi-transparent side, so that’s worth knowing before you order if that’s a dealbreaker for you.

Pockets That Actually Hold Your Stuff

If you’re coming from a mountain bike top with zero storage, the Gem is going to feel luxurious. There are three rear pockets, all of them big enough to swallow a phone, and I had no trouble getting things in and out mid-ride.

On top of that, there’s a zippered pocket that’s surprisingly roomy. I honestly didn’t expect my (oversized) phone to fit in the zip pocket, but it did. That’s my pick for anything I don’t want bouncing out, like a car key or a credit card.

Grippers

At the waist, a silicone and elastic gripper runs along the rear hem only, not the front. That keeps the back of the jersey planted so it’s not creeping up when you’re bent over the bars, but there’s nothing pressing into your belly up front.

The sleeves are longer-ish, which I like, but they don’t have any elastic or grippers to hold them in place. I actually like this as I have fairly sensitive skin that can get irritated by grippers, but they did ride up a little over the course of a ride.

Slim Fit and a Shorter Cut

The Gem fits slim. Wild Rye markets it as a next-to-skin, extra-compression cut, and while it IS fitted, I wouldn’t call it heavily compressive or restrictive. It moves with you just fine.

Like a lot of fitted jerseys, the length is cut on the shorter side. It works best with the Billie bibs, but I also wore it happily with the Alyssa Stash and Eleanor chammies, both of which sit high enough at the waist that you don’t get any gap. If you’re wearing baggies or other shorts with a lower waist, this jersey may not make for a great combo.

Not Velocio, But Not Velocio Prices Either

The Gem isn’t quite the same quality as something like a Velocio jersey. The fabric doesn’t feel as premium, and I don’t expect it to be quite as bombproof over years of hard use. But it’s also meaningfully cheaper.

At $159, you’re getting a women’s-specific, thoughtfully designed gravel jersey with great pockets and killer breathability for less than the top-shelf brands charge. For most of us, that’s a smart place to land.

More Stuff You Might Like

• Best Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts
• Best Women’s Chamois Liners
• Best Women’s Mountain Bike Jerseys

About The Reviewer