Cycling shorts - a complete guide to choosing

Cycling Shorts – Are They Necessary and How to Choose?

Have you heard that instead of cycling shorts, cyclists used to use... a beef steak? According to cycling legends, the steak served as padding to reduce discomfort in sensitive areas during long rides due to road bumps and friction with the saddle. Those times are long gone, and now cycling shorts or pants are one of the most important elements for a comfortable ride. So, let's discuss whether you need cycling shorts (also known as bib shorts), and get to know their main advantages and features that will help you choose the best shorts for you.

Comfort for Long Distances

If you ride a bike regularly, you have probably experienced the familiar discomfort of the first time sitting on a bike after winter: it takes time to get used to the position, and the saddle might feel harder than you remember. Cycling shorts with special padding help to avoid such feelings by cushioning and protecting sensitive areas.

Over long distances, constant friction and sweat can cause irritation, leading to sores from chafing. The pads in the shorts do not retain sweat and water, thus reducing friction. To allow moisture to evaporate quickly, the inserts are made from special materials with integrated multi-density antimicrobial fibers that protect the skin from infections.

Cycling shorts are usually made from lightweight and well-fitting Lycra material to keep the padding in place while you move. Of course, Lycra is also chosen for its aerodynamic properties. However, for those who do not feel comfortable wearing tight clothing, manufacturers offer alternatives – padded cycling underwear that you can wear under everyday clothes or looser-fitting garments. Loose-fitting shorts made from moisture-wicking materials are often chosen by mountain bikers.

How to Properly Wear Cycling Shorts?

It has to be acknowledged that many people still feel uncomfortable talking about what is worn under cycling shorts. The truth is, this piece of clothing is designed to be worn directly on the skin. This is because an additional layer of cotton or other material underwear creates extra friction and retains moisture. There's no need to worry about hygiene – you'll still wash the shorts after each ride, and the antibacterial fibers ensure that microorganisms do not multiply in the fabric. So, if you are preparing for a longer bike ride, we recommend getting used to wearing cycling shorts directly on the skin.

If you still feel friction while wearing the shorts properly, you can take additional measures. For example, apply chamois cream to the padding – a product made from shea butter or other ingredients that prevent bacteria from multiplying. This cream acts as a lubricant, reducing the chance of chafing.

Finally, remember to wash the shorts as soon as possible after the ride, as sweat over time can alter the structure of the padding, contributing to its hardening. Like other sportswear, wash the shorts in a washing machine (sports or hand wash mode) or by hand with a mild detergent. We recommend washing sportswear in special laundry bags to preserve the fabric.

Cycling Shorts for Women and Men

Men's and women's cycling shorts look very similar on the outside, but women's shorts have different padding shapes. Women's clothing is designed with the pelvic bone structure in mind to protect sensitive areas under the greatest pressure.

Depending on the manufacturer, model, size, and your body structure, the shorts fit differently on various parts of the body, affecting your comfort. You might not find the most comfortable option immediately, so when changing shorts, we recommend trying various styles with padding in different places. When you receive new shorts, test them on a shorter ride before embarking on a long journey. Only this way can you be sure that you have chosen a model that best fits your body's anatomy and needs.

Both women's and men's shorts can be found with or without bibs. Bib shorts are designed for intense training and long rides, as the bibs ensure that the shorts stay in place. For comfortable rides, shorts with pockets sewn on the sides or back are also available.

Comfort for the Little Ones – Children's Cycling Shorts

Shorts will ensure more comfortable rides for children as well. Just like when choosing sports clothes for yourself, make sure that children's clothing is made from moisture-wicking material and that the shorts have padding to reduce friction. Children's skin is more sensitive, so proper clothing can determine how willingly the child will go on a bike ride next time. For the smallest cyclists, Specialized Youth RBX Comp children's shorts are suitable, but XS or XXS sizes of adult models may also fit.

Choose Not Only the Style but Also the Manufacturer

Cycling enthusiasts unanimously say that not just any shorts are suitable for a comfortable ride. Many have their favorite manufacturer or specific model that they do not change. When considering which cycling clothing to buy, check out professional reviews online, and when looking for suitable shorts, choose products from trusted manufacturers.

At VELONOVA, you will find products from global brands – Assos of Switzerland, Bioracer, and GripGrab. Their prices range from several dozen to a few hundred euros, so you will find the best model for you regardless of your budget.

Look for shorts in our online store or physical store at J. Baltrušaičio g. 1, Vilnius.