How to Choose the Right Cycling Shorts: A Beginner’s Guide

 

So, you’ve finally decided to level up your cycling game. Maybe you've signed up for a group ride. Maybe your daily commute is turning into a mini Tour de France. Or maybe you're just tired of finishing a ride feeling like you've been sitting on sandpaper. Welcome—because if you’re asking, “Do I really need cycling shorts?” the answer is yes, and you’re about to find out why.

This is your go-to guide for choosing the right cycling shorts—what to look for, what to avoid, and how to avoid turning your first long ride into a suffering contest with your saddle.

Why Not Just Wear Regular Shorts?

This is probably the most common beginner question.

At first glance, cycling shorts might look unnecessary or even a little... intense. But they’re not about fashion—they're about function. Cycling shorts are designed to solve three very specific problems:

  1. Friction – When you pedal, your thighs are constantly moving. Regular shorts cause rubbing and chafing.

  2. Pressure – The saddle puts weight on sensitive areas. Cycling shorts have padding (called a chamois) to reduce that.

  3. Fit – Loose fabric bunches, moves, and rubs in all the wrong places. Cycling shorts stay put.

Ask any rider who’s done a 2-hour ride in jeans, and they’ll tell you—it’s not worth the pain.

What Is a Chamois and Why Should You Care?

The chamois (pronounced "shammy") is the padded section sewn into the shorts. Originally made from real chamois leather, today's versions are high-tech foam layers designed to:

  • Cushion your sit bones

  • Absorb vibrations from the road

  • Prevent pressure and skin irritation

  • Wick away moisture to reduce bacteria growth

Pro tip:
Never wear underwear with cycling shorts. The chamois is designed to be worn directly against your skin. Adding a layer of cotton underneath will just trap sweat and cause chafing.

Bib Shorts vs Waist Shorts: What's the Difference?

You’ll come across two main types of cycling shorts:

  • Waist Shorts – Like regular athletic shorts with an elastic waistband.

  • Bib Shorts – These come with shoulder straps and no waistband.

So, which should you choose?

  • Bib shorts are more comfortable for longer rides. They don’t dig into your stomach, they stay in place better, and they eliminate the annoying need to pull them up every 10 minutes.

  • Waist shorts are easier to get on and off (especially for bathroom breaks), and they’re often preferred for short rides, spinning, or beginners.

If you’re just starting out and doing rides under an hour, waist shorts are fine. But once you go longer—you’ll probably switch to bibs and never look back.

Men’s vs Women’s Shorts: Does It Matter?

Absolutely. Men’s and women’s cycling shorts aren’t just different in color—they’re shaped for different anatomy.

  • Men’s chamois is narrower in the back and often has a central channel to reduce pressure.

  • Women’s chamois is wider, with more padding at the sit bones, and sometimes has softer edges in the front.

The fit around the waist and hips also differs. Ladies: if you’ve tried men’s shorts and they just feel “off,” it’s not you—it’s the cut. Try women-specific designs, and you’ll likely notice a huge improvement.

What to Look for When Buying Cycling Shorts

Not all shorts are created equal. Here’s what makes the difference between “pretty good” and “can’t-live-without-them”:

1. Padding Quality

A good chamois should be:

  • High-density foam (not too thick or bulky)

  • Antibacterial and breathable

  • Multi-layered or contoured for better fit

Avoid cheap, sponge-like padding. It compresses quickly and offers no real support.

2. Fabric

You want moisture-wicking, stretchy material that feels soft against the skin. Nylon-spandex blends are common. Look for shorts with flatlock seams to prevent rubbing.

3. Fit

Cycling shorts are meant to be tight—snug, but not restrictive. If they’re too loose, they’ll shift and cause friction. Too tight, and you’ll cut off circulation.

4. Leg Grippers

These are silicone bands at the end of the legs that stop the shorts from riding up. They should feel secure but not pinch.

5. Panels and Construction

Higher-end shorts use multiple fabric panels for a better anatomical fit. Cheaper versions may use just 2 or 3 panels and feel like you're wearing a diaper.

Should You Spend $50 or $200?

Here’s the deal: price often (not always) reflects comfort and durability.

  • $50–80 range: Good for beginners. Decent padding, okay fit.

  • $100–150: Excellent quality. These will last longer and feel better on longer rides.

  • $200+: Usually race-level gear. Worth it if you're doing century rides, racing, or just want the best of the best.

Start in the middle tier if you can. You’ll feel the difference, and your skin and legs will thank you.

Other Beginner Questions (Rapid-Fire Style)

Can I wear cycling shorts under regular shorts?
Yes. Many mountain bikers do just that—wearing padded liners under baggies.

Can I use spinning or gym shorts instead?
If they’re padded and built for cycling, maybe. Otherwise, no—they won’t offer enough support.

How long do cycling shorts last?
With regular use and washing, expect 1–2 years before the padding starts to flatten.

How should I wash them?
Cold wash, no fabric softener, air dry. Don’t put them in the dryer—it breaks down the elastic.

Final Thoughts: Treat Your Butt Right

Cycling shorts are like saddles: one of the most personal, most impactful gear choices you can make. Get the right pair, and you’ll ride longer, recover faster, and stop dreading the first 10 minutes of every ride.

So don’t settle for just anything. Try a few, learn what works for your body, and invest in comfort—it pays off every mile.

Happy riding, and may your rides be smooth and your chamois well-padded.

Komentarai

Rašyti komentarą

Populiarūs šio tinklaraščio įrašai

How Much Does Good Cycling Apparel Really Cost — and Why?

Let’s be honest: cycling isn’t exactly the cheapest hobby. Once you’ve bought the bike, helmet, shoes, and maybe a few gadgets, it’s tempting to think, “Do I really need €150 bib shorts or a €90 jersey?” You’re not alone. Many new (and even experienced) cyclists hesitate when they see the price tags on quality apparel. But here’s the thing — good cycling gear isn't expensive for no reason , and understanding why it costs what it does can actually help you spend smarter, not just more. Let’s break it down: what does good cycling apparel really cost, what goes into that price, and is it actually worth it? What’s the Average Cost of “Good” Cycling Apparel? Let’s define “good” as gear that is: Comfortable for multi-hour rides Durable after frequent washing Made with performance materials (not basic polyester) Designed with cycling-specific fit and function Here’s a rough breakdown for mid- to high-quality cycling apparel: Item Mid-Range (€) High-End (€) Bib Shorts...
Skaityti daugiau

How to Wash and Care for Your Cycling Apparel (Without Ruining It)

 So you’ve finally invested in proper cycling gear—those bib shorts that cost more than your jeans, that jersey with pockets that actually make sense, and a wind vest you swore you'd never need (until you did). But now comes the part no one talks about: keeping your cycling clothes alive. Because here’s the truth— cycling apparel is fragile , not because it’s badly made, but because it’s high-performance gear. These fabrics stretch, breathe, wick sweat, fight bacteria, and sometimes cost €100+ per piece. They’re not meant to be tossed in the wash with your towels and hope for the best. Ready to make your gear last longer, smell fresher, and feel better every ride? Let’s dive into the complete guide on how to wash and care for your cycling apparel without wrecking it . Why You Can’t Treat Cycling Gear Like Regular Laundry First, let’s get this out of the way: technical cycling apparel is not the same as gym clothes . Cycling fabrics are often: Ultra-lightweight and thin ...
Skaityti daugiau

Top 5 Mistakes Cyclists Make When Buying Gear (And How to Avoid Them)

  Let’s be honest—cycling gear can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re just getting started. One minute you’re buying a helmet, the next you’re being told you need bib shorts, base layers, $200 sunglasses, and tires that cost more than your first bike. Sound familiar? If you're reading this, chances are you've either made some questionable gear choices or you're trying not to. Good move. In this guide, we’ll cover the top 5 most common mistakes cyclists make when buying gear —and exactly how you can avoid them. Mistake #1: Choosing Gear Based on Looks Alone We get it. That sleek black-and-neon jersey with the cool logo? Super tempting. But before you drop $120 on a piece of gear just because it looks fast , ask: Is it actually right for how you ride? Why it happens: New riders (and, let’s be honest, experienced ones too) often get swept up in trends. Aero helmets, super-race-fit jerseys, white shoes... they look great in Instagram reels but may not fit your ac...
Skaityti daugiau