If you’ve been searching for cute and comfortable women’s bike apparel, you may be familiar with the women’s brand Shredly and their line of MTB shorts. The fit of the Shredly Limitless shorts is designed for women with curves; intrigued by the stretch waist panel, I ordered a pair to try them out.
The Limitless (formerly known as MTB Curvy) was created with a unique stretchy waist panel and a durable polyester material for the trunks. It’s like a Yoga pant top and MTB short hybrid, with an area toward the knees that allows for pads. I also opted to try the Shredly Raglan 3/4 jersey to pair with it.
Features of the Shredly Limitless 11″ – Stretch Waistband High-Rise Short
- Materials: lightweight yet durable, 4-way stretch, quick-dry fabric made from recycled polyester/spandex
- Stretch knit waistband with internal drawcord to eliminate waist gap to provide versatility and comfort
- Plenty of pockets: Two front hand pockets, a zippered hip pocket for secure storage, and a side pocket for easy access to essentials
- List price: $115
Fit and Sizing
The size 8 in the Limitless shorts fit me well. Though the waistband was a bit loose, I utilized the internal drawstring for a more snug fit and it stayed in place when bending/ squatting and pedaling. The legs are somewhat fitted, but thanks to the stretch in the material, it didn’t affect my range of motion. I have worn them with chamois and as well as padded underwear, but prefer the latter. As they were form-fitting, there was a visible line from the chamois that I didn’t like.
I appreciate the numerical sizing as opposed to the small-medium-large format. Even so, it can be tricky to get sizing just right. I am comfortable with the size 8 fit across my hips and thighs, but I’m a size 6 in my waist. This isn’t an issue with fit of the Limitless model, but it was noticeable with the All-Time version.
The Shredly All-Time Short vs the Limitless Short
Shredly currently offers two styles of women’s shorts, each with multiple inseam options. The other style is the All-time short, which features a midrise and zipper snap front. The 11” inseam is long enough to cover knee pads, but just barely, so I ordered as second pair in the 14” length. (I wanted to try the All-time to see if the midrise and different waistband would also be comfortable.)
I ordered a size 8 in these as well; I like the midrise and zipper/ snap front. It looks great from the front. Unfortunately, there was too much of a gap in the back waistband. (The same stretchy material as the limitless band). When I squat, the gap is so large that I worried about the shorts sliding down during a ride.
I returned them and ordered another pair of the Limitless with the longer inseam in the Clay Stars pattern. Shredly has a lot of fun options, but I preferred the subtle pattern, which also pairs with the bright blue top.
On the Trail
Within 15 minutes of starting my first ride wearing this Shredly kit, I took a spill with my bike into some blackberry bushes. The berry stains on the back washed out without pretreatment. There were only a few snags from the thorns on the waistband, but the legs of the shorts held up well!
These are hands down the most comfortable riding shorts I’ve tried so far with the stretch panel waist. The 11” is long enough to cover knee pads, but just barely. This prompted me to order the 14” length as well.
The same goes for the Jersey- super soft and comfy. I also love the bright blue color – it really pops.
I’ve been wearing them for weekly practice in the skills park and on Portland area trails (the Rocky Point system). The Raglan/ Limitless 11” and 14” trio have proven to be valued additions to my MTB wardrobe. As I improve my riding skills and technique, it’s great to have apparel that moves with me and stays in place. The Jersey weight is perfect, breathable, and covers up (most) of my tattoos!
In conclusion
Raglan ¾ Jersey- I like this top — so much that I added a few more colors to my collection. The soft hand is comfortable and looks great while riding.
The Limitless waist is a one-of-a-kind design- yay! I am considering getting a pair of the Limitless pants as well since they feature ankle zippers for easy access to putting on kneepads.
The All-Time Short looks great, but the gap in the waist was too big. I don’t want to size down and feel too snug in the thighs. I am realizing that I can’t get the right fit without an adjustable waist. Shredly used to offer this design with the zipper snap front; I would be first in line if they ever bring it back!
Learn more at Shredly.com or, if you found this content helpful, please consider purchasing them using our affiliate links at online partner REI.com.
Tester Measurements:
- Height: 5’6”
- Bust: 36”
- Waist: 28”
- Hips: 40”