SQUIRREL_13943436
Hailed as the ultra racers' go-to, the Albion Women’s ABR1 Pocket bib shorts combine cavernous storage with easy-pee functionality without compromising on fit and comfort - a rare combo that's proven easier said than done in my extensive testing experience.
These shorts feature a slightly more traditional design, opting for a wide band of elasticated leg gripper backed by silicone dots, rather than a raw leg hem. But thanks to the clever cut these are just as comfortable.
That choice might be even more important when you consider just how loaded you can make the two deep, mesh-faced cargo pockets on the thighs, which can securely stow a phone as well as bulkier items, before returning to their original shape.
This is definitely a boon for ultra racers who need snacks, extra layers and other essentials close to hand for efficient riding, but no doubt handy for the everyday rider too, especially on longer day rides.
When you’re not using the pockets, they lie flat against the thigh, and are cut so well that you don’t even notice they are there.
There’s a third cargo pocket located across the lower back. This is large enough to stow a wind or rain jacket.
Most cargo bib shorts have tiny rear pockets incorporated into the bib straps and I’ve never really known what they could be used for. That's not the case here – there’s no doubt that Albion’s single huge pocket could come in handy.
Albion has commissioned industry leaders Elastic Interface to provide the chamois, which features a higher density core in a saddle shape, flanked by much thinner material and topped with a recycled fabric covering.
The use of recycled materials extends further into the shorts, with recycled nylon used across the main material and mesh, as well as using OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certified and bluesign approved fabrics.
The ABR1 shorts use elasticated bib straps for the easy pee design, which are attached right on the sides at the front aspect, and then cross over at the upper back. While this is usually my preferred easy-pee design (rather than a clasp), in this case it was a bit more tricky, likely due to the stitching for the back cargo pocket.
How I tested
Each pair of bib shorts was tested over multiple rides and laundry cycles in late spring and early summer, both on and off-road. The key factors tested were comfort and functionality (not to forget style); the most crucial aspects of this cycling wardrobe staple. The selection of bib shorts features standard and cargo bib options, reflecting the market demand for both options.
While the shorts do still have the easy-pee function (putting them miles ahead of those who don’t, in my opinion), I think this could be refined to make these a real five star option.
Albion hasn’t caved to the 2026 coloured bib trend, instead knuckling down on making the best bib functionality in simple black or dark grey colourways. Boring, some might say, but at least you know it’ll go with any jersey – not so easy to say for coloured bib shorts!
The ABR1 shorts are priced at the upper-mid range, and while you can get some of the functionality for much less, such as the Van Rysel Women's Road Cycling Bib Shorts Endurance, for the whole package £185 seems like reasonable value for money.
With Albion offering a 60-day money back guarantee, is there any reason not to give them a go?
Bottom line
These function-led shorts combine all-day comfort with category-leading storage, making them a worthy recommendation for riders looking for high quality and reliable cycling shorts.
SQUIRREL_13943436
Product specs
- Sizes XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Black or dark grey colourways
- Recycled material construction
- Two cargo thigh pockets and one large back pocket
- Elastic interface chamois
- 60-day guarantee
