Buzz
I keep telling myself I'm not a serious cyclist as I pick up a cheap, basic exercise bike. I'm not that into spinning, I tell myself as I upgrade to a sturdier bike a year later (the last one couldn’t handle my constant riding). I don’t look like one of those overly dressed cyclists, I think, as I strap on my cycling shoes. Then I hop on the bike and ride for an hour in my regular, unpadded shorts. Because, apparently, I’m an idiot.
Look, sometimes I’m ahead of the curve with brilliant hacks, like washing my workout clothes in the shower or reviving the classic sweatband. But sometimes it takes me ages to follow the advice that every single cyclist swears by for beginners. This piece of advice: Just buy the padded shorts already.
The Reason Cyclists Choose Padded Shorts
While padding isn't the main purpose, it's definitely a nice addition. A cycling chamois (pronounced 'shammy') is a cushion that rests against your skin to avoid chafing. These used to be made from thin leather, sourced from sheep or deer skin, and riders would apply cream to soften them. Eventually, cycling brands figured out how to create a synthetic version that wicks away moisture and adds extra padding.
Cycling shorts with a chamois create a barrier of moisture-wicking, friction-free fabric between your body and the saddle. This allows you to shift positions on the seat without the padding moving out of place, since it’s attached to your body rather than the saddle. In comparison, padded saddles often create pressure points because your sit bones sink into the cushion, whereas chamois shorts typically don’t cause that problem.
I bought my first pair of cycling shorts on a whim, thinking, 'Let's see if they live up to the hype.' I never had much trouble with saddle soreness, but I must admit, long rides are way more comfortable with the chamois than they were with unpadded leggings or regular bike shorts.
How to pick your first pair of cycling shorts
When purchasing cycling shorts, you'll find them categorized as either 'men’s' or 'women’s' styles. Women’s versions typically have wider padding at the back, while men’s models usually feature longer padding with a groove down the center to reduce pressure on the perineum, which can lead to numbness.
Next, you’ll want to consider what type of shorts the chamois is sewn into. There are the usual Spandex-style bike shorts, “liners” that are lightweight or mesh designed to be worn under regular shorts, and “bibs” that feature straps over the shoulders to hold everything in place while riding. Serious road cyclists tend to prefer bibs, while mountain bikers lean towards liners. If you’re unsure, regular bike shorts are a reliable and versatile option.
Cycling shorts you might want to explore include:
Basic shorts: women’s (NOOYME), men’s (BALEAF)
Budget-friendly liners: women’s (Terry Mixie), men’s (Przewalski)
Fancy bibs: women’s, men’s (both Pearl Izumi Pro Bib)
Wearing a cycling chamois: A few key things to know
A crucial tip: Never wear these with underwear. Even if you typically wear underwear while working out, going commando is essential here. This is to avoid the discomfort of underwear seams and wedgies, which is one of the main reasons cycling shorts are so effective.
The next point builds on the previous one: Always wash your chamois after each use. If you’re in a rush and can’t do a full laundry load before your next ride, a quick rinse in the shower will suffice to keep it fresh. (Cycling shorts tend to dry quickly.) Cyclists suggest removing the chamois immediately after your ride, rather than lingering in it longer than necessary. If you're not heading home right away, it's a good idea to bring along a spare pair of shorts.
If you still experience chafing while wearing chamois shorts, that's where chamois cream comes in. It’s no longer just for softening leather; it now acts as a lubricant and soothing ointment, kind of like a blend of BodyGlide and diaper cream.
Speaking of diapers: Yes, it may feel a bit like wearing one. If you've ever had the experience of wearing a huge maxi pad, it’s quite similar. But once you’re on the bike, the awkwardness fades, and you'll just feel comfortable.
