Why You Won’t Regret Buying Padded Cycling Shorts
“I’m not a real cyclist,” I tell myself as I buy a cheap, basic exercise bike. “I’m not much of a spinner,” I tell myself as I replace this bike a year later (it’s worn out from constant use). “I don’t dress like some stupid cyclist,” I tell myself as I strap on my cycling shoes . And so I hop on the bike and start riding for an hour in regular, unpadded shorts. Because I’m an idiot.
Look, sometimes I’m at the forefront of clever and important life hacks, like rinsing my workout clothes in the shower or putting my headbands back in place . And sometimes it takes me forever to follow the advice every cyclist tells newbies. And that advice is: just buy some padded shorts already.
Why do cyclists wear padded shorts?
Padding isn’t the main feature, of course, but it’s a nice bonus. Cycling chamois (pronounced “shammy”) is a cushion that conforms to the skin, preventing chafing. Originally, it was thin sheepskin or deer hide, softened with cream. Over time, cycling apparel manufacturers figured out how to make a synthetic version that wicks away moisture and provides additional cushioning.
When you wear cycling shorts with a pad, a layer of moisture-wicking, friction-free material forms between your genital area and the seat. You can change your position on the saddle while riding, and the pad will stay in place because it’s attached to you , not the saddle. Padded saddles tend to aggravate pressure points because your sit bones sink into the pad; cycling shorts with a pad typically don’t have this problem.
I bought my first pair of cycling shorts on a whim, like, “Let’s see how good they really are .” I’ve never had any major issues with saddle pain, but I must admit that these shorts are much more comfortable on long rides than regular leggings or unlined cycling shorts.
These shorts prevent chafing, and the soft padding really makes the ride more comfortable. If the thought of a 60- or 90-minute long bike ride daunts you, buy some shorts now. And no, a padded seat isn’t the same. Padded bike seats can exacerbate pressure, while the padding on these shorts moves with you and stays in place. Try it, and you’ll see what I mean.
How to buy your first pair of cycling shorts
When shopping for cycling shorts, you’ll see them marketed as either “men’s” or “women’s” styles. Women’s shorts typically have a wider lining at the back, while men’s shorts have a longer lining with a groove in the middle to prevent pressure on the crotch (which can cause numbness).
The next important consideration is the type of shorts that have a padded insert. You can find regular cycling shorts made of spandex; “padded” shorts made of sheer or mesh fabric, designed to be worn under regular shorts; and “cycling shorts” with bib-like straps that hold the shorts in place while riding. Serious road cyclists typically wear cycling shorts. Mountain bikers often prefer padded shorts. If you’re unsure what to choose, regular cycling shorts are a good all-around option.
Cycling shorts worth considering:
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Basic shorts: women’s (NOOYME – I have exactly the same ones), men’s (BALEAF).
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Inexpensive panty liners: women’s (Terry Mixie), men’s (Przewalski)
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If you like expensive cycling shorts, here are the options: women’s and men’s (both Pearl Izumi Pro Bib models).
How to properly install a cycling chamois insert
First of all, you can’t wear them with underwear. Even if you don’t usually go without underwear during training, it’s a must here. Avoiding seams and discomfort from underwear is half the reason you wear cycling shorts.
The second point follows from the first: wash it every time you wear it. A thorough rinse in the shower is a sufficient way to keep the diaper fresh if you don’t have time to wash all your clothes before your next ride. (Cycling shorts tend to dry quickly.) Cyclists recommend removing the diaper immediately after a ride rather than wearing it longer than necessary. Bring a change of shorts if you don’t plan to head home immediately.
If you still experience chafing while wearing diaper shorts, that’s what diaper cream is for. It’s not meant to soften the skin; it’s more of a lubricant and ointment, sort of like a combination of BodyGlide and diaper rash cream.
And speaking of diapers: yes, it will feel like you’re wearing them. If you’ve ever worn a giant sanitary pad, it’s very similar. But the awkwardness disappears as soon as you get on the bike; then you just feel comfortable .