Between Sizes Maternity Bike Shorts: Your Hips Are 99cm!

You're looking at the Emama Maternity Bike Shorts with Pockets and you're exactly between sizes. We get it – this is a common pregnant moment! Let's break down how to pick the right size for comfort and fit.

My hips are 99cm exactly. Size 10 goes up to 99 and size 12 starts at 100. Which do I choose?!

Sizing Answer

For hips at exactly 99cm, a thigh measurement of 57cm, and being 28 weeks pregnant, Size 10 is recommended. This provides a fitted feel without squeezing, accounts for continued hip growth, and ensures a good leg fit on your taller frame.

How It Fits

These Emama Maternity Bike Shorts are designed for comfort and function throughout your pregnancy. They feature a "Supaflex" fabric with 20-30% built-in stretch, meaning they can adapt as your body changes.

The key is that the belly panel stretches independently from the shorts' main body. This ensures that even as your bump grows significantly, the shorts themselves maintain their intended fit around your hips and thighs. The fabric's stretch is designed to accommodate gradual expansion.

Size Recommendations

When you're right on the cusp, consider these factors:

• Your Hip Measurement: The Size 10 goes up to 99cm, and Size 12 starts at 100cm. If 99cm is your exact measurement, you're at the upper limit for Size 10.
• Your Thigh Measurement: This is crucial for bike shorts. A measurement of 57cm falls within the Size 10 range (54-58cm). The Size 12 range for thighs is 60-64cm. Choosing Size 12 when your thighs are 57cm would likely result in excess fabric and potential bunching or sagging.
• Stage of Pregnancy: At 28 weeks, there's still room for your hips to grow. While 99cm is the maximum for Size 10, the fabric's stretch will likely accommodate an additional 1-3cm by full term.
• Desired Fit: Do you prefer a snug feel or something more relaxed? Size 10 offers a fitted-but-not-squeezing experience. Size 12 would be more relaxed.

Common Fit Issues

• Leg Fit: For bike shorts, the fit around the thigh is paramount. Too much looseness can cause the shorts to ride up, leading to discomfort and chafing. With a 57cm thigh measurement, Size 10 is the better choice to avoid this.
• Length on Tall Frames: Being 178cm tall, the 6-inch (15cm) inseam of these shorts is ideal. They will hit mid-thigh, balancing your longer legs without appearing too short or disproportionate. Shorter inseams (e.g., 3-inch) can sometimes look less balanced on taller individuals.
• Belly Panel Coverage: The belly panel is designed to rise high, offering support and coverage. This is particularly beneficial for taller torsos, ensuring the panel extends sufficiently.

Between Sizes: Size Up or Down?

When you're at exactly 99cm for your hips:

• Lean towards Size 10 if:

  • You prefer a snug, supportive fit.
  • Your thigh measurement (57cm) fits well within the Size 10 range.
  • You are in your second trimester and anticipate moderate hip expansion.
  • You don't want excess fabric around the legs.

• Consider Size 12 if:

  • You strongly prefer a looser, more relaxed fit.
  • You are further along in pregnancy (third trimester) and expect significant hip widening beyond the Size 10 capacity.
  • Your thighs were at the very top end of the Size 12 range (which they are not, at 57cm).

Based on your specific measurements and stage of pregnancy, Size 10 is the calculated choice. The stretch fabric and independent belly panel offer adaptability, while the leg fit ensures comfort and prevents common issues like riding up.

Your Tall Frame and Bike Shorts

Last thing - I'm quite tall at 178cm. Will bike shorts look weird on my long legs?

Great question! It's all about proportion. The Emama Maternity Bike Shorts feature a 6-inch (15cm) inseam. On a 178cm frame:

• Placement: They will comfortably cover your upper thigh, typically ending about 8-10cm above the knee.
• Silhouette: This mid-thigh length creates a balanced look on longer legs, avoiding the "too short" appearance that can sometimes happen with very short inseams. It prevents the awkward visual of a large expanse of bare leg between the hem and the knee.
• Practicality: The pockets sit at a functional spot on your thigh. The length also helps prevent chafing as your thighs expand and come into contact.
• Belly Panel: For taller individuals, it's important that the belly panel offers adequate coverage. This design extends high enough to accommodate longer torsos comfortably.

So, no, they won't look "weird." The 6-inch inseam is a flattering choice for taller frames when opting for bike short length.

Last updated: December 2025 • Based on real customer conversations