As a curvy woman, and with cycling kit almost always cut for athletically built or slim riders (between about UK 8-10), I often have to wear a brand’s largest size, which can still be a tight fit. And that's despite being a UK size 14, which is relatively common.
Very few brands produce kit up to a UK 16 or 18, and above that there hasn’t been anything available, until Yorkshire-based Fat Lass (or Lad) At The Back came along.
FLAB produces cycling kit that caters for a more extensive range of riders, with the women’s range sizing up to a UK 24/26, and the men’s to a 52in chest/54in waist.
Fat Lass At The Back Dotty Jersey & Pedal Pushers fit
The Dotty jersey’s fit is on the looser, more relaxed side, but if you want something tighter fitting, simply size down. I found the sizing to be accurate against UK high-street sizes, but there’s also an online size chart if you want to check. I tested the 38in bust size, and there was plenty of room to move without pinching or tightness.
The pedal pushers are a good length, reaching mid-calf, and sit high on the waist with a wide band, which is comfortable across the stomach and lower back, and keeps them in place. It did roll down a little at the front on occasion though.
Fat Lass At The Back Dotty Jersey & Pedal Pushers comfort
The laser-cut hems at the legs and arms are soft and grippy without digging in, and the dropped hem at the back of the jersey is long enough to keep your lower back covered when on the drops, while the full-length YKK zip can be moved to half-mast, and stays in place, offering more ventilation.
The supportive Lycra of the pedal pushers feels nicely firm without being restrictive
The pedal pushers are a good length as the seasons start to transition. Meanwhile, the chamois pad cushions nicely for longer rides. Also, importantly, there weren't any embarrassing ‘see-through’ moments around the bum area…
The supportive Lycra of the pedal pushers feels nicely firm without being restrictive, however the StayFresh fabric of the jersey did feel a little on the flimsy side.
This is comfortable and nice-looking kit for a very reasonable price, and it’s available in sizes that mean people who want to ride, and are bigger than a UK 18, actually have technical clothing available to them.
- Dotty Jersey: £60
- Pedal Pushers: £65
