With an aim of providing swift wicking properties, I actually found the Evolution fabric thicker than other shorts on test, so teamed well with leg and knee warmers on cooler days.

Sugoi Evolution women’s shorts gave a supportive feel, and although no silicone or specialist material is used around the leg cuff, they held their length well.

>>> Women’s cycling shorts: a buyer’s guide

The RC women’s chamois was pretty low profile and impressed both in terms of cushioning and body conforming flexibility, while staying put when getting in and out of the saddle.

Sitting on the hips, I found the waistline lower than other shorts, which did reduce the usual tummy squeezing sensations that non bibshorts are renowned for, but unless your sporting a rock hard core, this did give a slightly unsightly muffin top at the sides and an illusion of a pot belly when riding.

That said, the up side of the low waistline, combined with their svelte profile, made these ideal for wearing under civvies.