With the EDR menstrual shorts, Van Rysel is tackling a segment that is still very underdeveloped in cycling. The concept is simple: waist shorts with no bibs, two cargo pockets, a menstrual chamois rated for rides up to 3 hours, all for €39.99.
At that price, interest is immediate. Especially since true menstrual alternatives designed specifically for cycling are still rare, and often much more expensive. But shorts like these cannot be judged on price alone. They need to absorb properly, stay comfortable, not move around, and above all not create discomfort where they are meant to make riding easier.
Strengths:
- Very affordable price
- Two practical, easy-access side pockets
- Good hold on the thighs despite the lack of silicone gripper
- Effective absorption
Could be better
- Irritation felt along the sides of the pad
- Waistband can feel tight around the stomach
- No bib version
Shorts without bib straps, designed for rides up to 3 hours
These menstrual shorts are short and better suited to warm weather, with a close fit and straightforward construction.
The menstrual chamois is rated to absorb up to 12 ml per use, with 13 mm of foam. Van Rysel intends it for rides up to 3 hours, which already indicates its positioning: it is not an endurance short for spending the whole day in the saddle, but rather an affordable solution for short to medium rides.
The choice of a cargo format is spot on. The two side pockets, one on each thigh, add real everyday practicality. It is the kind of detail that has become widespread on gravel and endurance shorts, and it makes sense whenever you want to keep a phone, a gel or a small accessory within easy reach.
Sizing and fit: a reliable size guide
I tested a size S, following the size guide. And it was the right call. The fit is close to the body, stable, with no bagginess. The waistband is high, it comes up well and does not gape.
You do still feel slight pressure around the stomach, which is fairly logical on shorts without bib straps. It is not uncomfortable in itself, but during your period, when you may feel more bloated or sensitive, this can become less pleasant.
This is also where a bib version would make sense. It would distribute support differently and avoid that feeling of tightness at the waist. On menstrual shorts, that is not a secondary detail.
No silicone grippers at the thighs, and that is not a problem
At the hem, Van Rysel does not use a silicone gripper. You just get an elastic band, without a marked anti-slip area.
In theory, you might worry the shorts would ride up. In practice, they did not. Because the cut is well fitted, support remains good and the shorts do not move. The absence of silicone can even be an advantage: on some shorts, small anti-slip grippers end up causing irritation after several hours, especially when it is hot.
Here, no issue on that front. It is simple, but effective.
Menstrual absorption: job done
On the menstrual side, the shorts deliver as claimed. On rides up to 3 hours, no leaks were observed. Absorption proved sufficient within the scope set by Van Rysel.
This is the most important point of the product, and it is a success. Having dedicated menstrual shorts clearly changes the way you approach rides during your period. You think less about the kit, you ride with more peace of mind, and that is already huge.
Washing did not pose any particular problem. In practice, a rinse or hand-wash before putting them in the machine remains a good habit, especially to clean the absorbent area before a normal cycle.
The real weak point: the pad's side seams
The limitation comes from the chamois itself. The pad is fairly thin, which is not necessarily a flaw. On the contrary, the absence of an overly thick or overly soft insert can suit those who prefer to keep fairly direct contact with the saddle.
But on this model, an extra thickness along the sides of the pad caused irritation where it contacts the saddle. Obviously, this is very personal: saddle shape, position, body shape and individual sensitivity all play a big role. But in this test, this is the point that prevents the shorts from being fully successful.
Without this lateral irritation, overall comfort would have been much more convincing. It is a shame, because the rest of the construction works well for the intended use.
Cargo pockets are a real plus
The two side pockets are roomy and easy to access. For a short ride, they let you travel light without necessarily filling your jersey pockets. For leisure road riding, rolling gravel or a sporty bike commute, they are a real plus.
A modern approach to storage that is now increasingly common, even on road-focused products. At this price point, seeing Van Rysel integrate this cargo format makes a lot of sense.
A price that makes a big difference
Price is one of this short’s big draws. At €39.99, Van Rysel makes menstrual shorts much more accessible. Specialised models available elsewhere, such as Wilma shorts, often go well beyond, sometimes around €150 or more.
That does not erase the product’s limits, but it changes the level of expectation and, above all, the ease of trying it. For riders who want to test this kind of solution without a big outlay, the proposition makes sense.
Just keep its intended use in mind: short to medium rides, up to 3 hours, with a close fit.
My take on the Van Rysel EDR menstrual shorts
These shorts are aimed above all at riders who want a simple, accessible and practical menstrual solution to keep riding without overthinking it. They will suit leisure road rides, fast-rolling gravel, sporty bike commutes or short training sessions.
They will be less suitable if you are looking for long-distance shorts, bib-strap support or a chamois that stays comfortable for several hours. For more demanding rides that require greater comfort, a higher-end model will probably be more appropriate.
Van Rysel’s real achievement is having made this kind of product much more accessible. One caveat is that pad comfort will need to suit your body. At this price, it is well worth a try.
