If you’re a cyclist, the quest for the perfect Bike Shorts is a familiar one. Finding that ideal balance of comfort, performance, and fit is crucial for enjoying your rides, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out. Like many riders, I’ve experimented with various brands and styles, developing strong preferences along the way. While I used to be a devoted bib-shorts-only cyclist, my experience with Terry Breakaway Bike Shorts has broadened my horizons and earned them a prominent place in my cycling wardrobe.
My journey with these shorts began unexpectedly. Rushing to a ride after work, I realized I’d left my beloved bib shorts at home. As a road cyclist and bib shorts enthusiast, the thought of wearing regular bike shorts filled me with dread. My previous experience with non-bib shorts had been less than stellar – an ill-fitting, sausage-casing disaster that led to immediate discomfort and banished those shorts to the darkest corner of my closet. That first foray into bike shorts as a newbie cyclist taught me a harsh lesson about fit, sizing, and the crucial (and at the time, unknown to me) rule of ditching underwear with cycling shorts. The chafing and unflattering fit were enough to swear me off bike shorts for good.
However, faced with my bib-less predicament, a friend came to the rescue, offering her pair of Terry Breakaway Bike Shorts. Skepticism warred with necessity. With no time to retrieve my own gear, I reluctantly agreed. To my surprise, slipping into the Terry Breakaway Bike Shorts was a revelation. The comfort and fit were so impressive that I soon purchased my own pair, and they’ve become a staple, especially for indoor cycling sessions and casual neighborhood rides.
Image: Cyclist reviewing Terry Breakaway bike shorts, highlighting their comfortable fit and design.
The popularity of the Terry Breakaway Bike Short has led to the introduction of different versions, including the Breakaway LTD Bike Short and the Breakaway Hi-Rise Short. But what makes these bike shorts stand out? Simply put, they offer a comfortable, reliable option at a reasonable price. Let’s delve into the pros and cons, a detailed review, and where you can find Terry Breakaway Bike Shorts to help you decide if they are the right choice for your cycling needs.
Terry Breakaway Bike Shorts: Quick Review
Pros:
- Variety of styles: Original, Hi-Rise, and LTD versions to suit different preferences for rise and aesthetics.
- Exceptional comfort and soft feel against the skin.
- True-to-size fit, eliminating guesswork and returns.
- Secure leg cuffs that stay in place without digging or causing discomfort.
- Seamlessly integrated chamois designed to prevent chafing and enhance comfort.
- Comfortable waistband that stays put and avoids rolling down, a common issue with bike shorts.
- Competitive pricing for high-quality cycling apparel.
- Terry Bicycles’ satisfaction guarantee, providing peace of mind with your purchase.
- Recognized as a Bicycling Magazine editor’s choice, attesting to their quality and performance.
- Ethically manufactured in the USA at a green energy-certified facility, appealing to conscious consumers.
- LTD Bike Short version includes flattering high-visibility stripes in bright pink or yellow for added safety and style.
Cons:
- Limited color options in the original Breakaway (black and grey) and Hi-Rise (black only) may disappoint riders seeking more vibrant colors.
- Thinner material compared to some other bike shorts, which might not appeal to those preferring a more substantial, compressive feel. However, durability remains excellent, as my own pair has lasted for years.
- Chamois may be too thin for very long rides, potentially leading to discomfort on extended cycling adventures.
Price: $99 (Original) / $110 (Hi Rise) / $110 (LTD Hi Vis)
Find them at TerryBicycles.com
Terry Bicycles: A Legacy of Women’s Cycling Gear
Terry Bicycles stands out as a pioneering company in women’s cycling. Founded in 1985 by Georgena Terry, the brand’s mission is deeply rooted in making cycling more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable for women. Georgena Terry, a petite 5’2”, revolutionized the industry by creating bikes specifically designed to fit women, addressing the limitations of ill-fitting men’s bikes. As the original women’s cycling gear company, Terry has decades of experience in crafting quality apparel for female cyclists, making their expertise undeniable.
Breakaway Bike Shorts: Bridging the Gap to Bib Short Comfort
Many women cyclists favor bib shorts for their superior comfort. Bibs eliminate waistband roll-down, offer a smooth, flattering silhouette under jerseys, and distribute pressure more evenly, minimizing pressure points. The Terry Breakaway Bike Short comes remarkably close to replicating the comfort of bib shorts, largely due to its wide, comfortable waistband that resists rolling and avoids uncomfortable constriction. The Breakaway High-Rise Bike Short takes this a step further with an even wider waistband, further reducing the chance of roll-down.
The image below illustrates the waistband difference between the High-Rise (left) and the LTD version with the original waistband (right).
Despite being shorter in stature (5’2″), I find the Breakaway High-Rise Bike Short slightly tall on me, causing a minor roll-down at the very top. However, this is a minor issue easily outweighed by the superior support and comfort offered by the high-rise design compared to the original rise. While the fabric is thinner, this characteristic likely contributes to the shorts’ non-constrictive feel, a key aspect of their comfort.
These are not compression bike shorts. They offer a comfortable, unrestricted fit, which might not be ideal for cyclists who prefer a more compressive, “held-in” sensation.
Effortless On and Off: Convenience for Every Ride
The ease of putting on cycling gear can sometimes be a barrier to getting out for a ride. The Terry Breakaway Bike Short excels in this area. All three versions are incredibly easy to slip on. There’s no struggle or tugging required. The leg cuffs are comfortably snug without being restrictive, and the shorts glide smoothly into place. Crucially, you avoid that unpleasant feeling of being squeezed into an overly tight garment.
These bike shorts are perfect for those quick indoor cycling workouts or spontaneous neighborhood rides when convenience and comfort are paramount.
Chamois Design: Thin and Efficient
The chamois in bike shorts is a critical component, and preferences vary. Some riders prefer thicker padding, while others find it bulky and diaper-like.
Image: Close-up of a bike short chamois, showcasing its design and material for comfort and support.
The Terry Breakaway Short features a thinner chamois, a design choice that I find to be perfectly executed. The placement is ideal, providing support without feeling bulky or intrusive. The chamois is consistent across all three versions.
However, for longer rides, I do experience more sit-bone discomfort with the Terry Breakaway Bike Short compared to shorts with thicker chamois padding. This is why I typically reserve these shorts for shorter rides or casual cycling activities.
It’s also worth noting that the chamois seems to improve after washing. Initially, the chamois in newer pairs might feel slightly less perfectly positioned, but after a wash and wear, they conform just like my older, well-loved pair.
Stay-Put Design: No Roll-Down or Ride-Up
Waistband roll-down and leg ride-up are common frustrations with cycling shorts, often leading cyclists to prefer bib shorts. The Terry Breakaway Bike Short effectively addresses these issues. The waistband stays securely in place without rolling down, avoiding constant adjustments during your ride.
Some manufacturers attempt to solve waistband roll-down by making waistbands excessively tight and constricting, which is equally uncomfortable. The Terry Breakaway waistband strikes a perfect balance – secure yet comfortable.
Similarly, the leg bands on all versions of these shorts stay put without riding up or squeezing too tightly. Overly tight leg bands can restrict circulation and even cause knee pain, a problem completely absent with the comfortable leg bands of the Terry Breakaway Bike Short.
Image: Back view of Terry bike shorts, demonstrating the fit and coverage for cyclists.
Three Terry Breakaway Bike Short Versions: Finding Your Perfect Fit
The expansion of the Breakaway line to include different versions was exciting news. Having tested all three, here are my thoughts:
Terry Breakaway Bike Short (Original)
Image: Side view of the original Terry Breakaway bike shorts, showcasing the classic design and fit.
The original Terry Breakaway Bike Short has been a favorite of mine for years. They offer a flattering, comfortable fit that I consistently reach for. Despite years of wear, they still hold up remarkably well.
I particularly favor the original Breakaway Bike Short for indoor cycling classes and neighborhood rides. The thinner chamois is less ideal for longer distances, but this is mitigated when paired with a more padded saddle like the Terry Butterfly Saddle. Terry likely designs their shorts and saddles in conjunction, explaining the chamois design and compatibility with their saddle line, particularly the more padded Butterfly.
Terry Breakaway LTD Bike Short
Image: Back view of the Terry Breakaway LTD bike shorts, highlighting the high-visibility design for safety.
The primary difference with the LTD version is enhanced visibility. The bright, fun design not only adds a stylish flair but also increases rider visibility on the road, a significant safety advantage. The design is thoughtfully created to be flattering and accentuate the body’s natural curves, combining style and function.
Terry Breakaway High-Rise Bike Short
Image: Front view of Terry Breakaway High-Rise bike shorts, emphasizing the higher waistband for enhanced comfort and coverage.
Initially a devotee of the original Breakaway, the High-Rise version won me over. My preference for high-rise styles extends to cycling apparel, and the Breakaway High-Rise Bike Short provides gentle tummy support, a feature I greatly appreciate. While the original rise doesn’t offer quite the same coverage, the High-Rise version delivers perfectly. Beyond the rise, the two versions are very similar, making personal preference the deciding factor.
Final Verdict: Comfortable, Durable, and Appealing Bike Shorts
All Terry Breakaway Bike Short versions are excellent choices. They are reliable, comfortable, and ideal for cyclists seeking fuss-free gear for quick rides. They are my go-to for indoor cycling and casual neighborhood rides.
While I might choose bib shorts with a thicker chamois for longer, more intense rides, the Terry Breakaway Bike Short meets my needs more often than not. Their comfort and ease of wear make them a frequent choice. The 8.5” inseam is also perfectly balanced – neither too short nor too long.
With a reasonable price point and versatile neutral colors, the Terry Breakaway Bike Short is a solid investment for any cyclist seeking comfortable, reliable bike shorts.
More Resources for Cycling Comfort
If you’re unsure if Terry Breakaway shorts are the right fit, explore our guide to the best women’s bike shorts for more options.
For riders experiencing saddle discomfort, our articles on saddle soreness and bike fit may offer valuable solutions.
About the Reviewer
Stacy Ann Smith is a New England-based cyclist and founder of Sascy Cycling, dedicated to empowering women to embrace their bodies and celebrate their physical capabilities. Beyond cycling, Stacy teaches high school history and enjoys pizza with her family. For more women’s cycling tips and insights, visit Sascy Cycling at www.sascy.com or connect with Stacy on Instagram and Facebook.
