Bike or cycling shorts are tight fitting--to minimize bunching and chafing--and padded, to minimize discomfort while on the saddle of a bike. They're often carefully contoured to fit the specific curves of the rider's body.
No Underwear
Bike shorts are designed to be worn without underwear underneath; using underwear underneath bike shorts may increase chafing.
Types
Bike shorts come with or without pads; you can also purchase insert pads to be added to bike shorts you currently own. While most riders may feel most comfortable with pads, those in fast-moving sports like downhill mountain biking may prefer to do without their bulk.
Anti-Chafing
While bike shorts are designed to reduce chafing, you may still need to lubricate the pads inside the bike shorts on long rides. Common bike short lubes include Bag Balm and Chamois Buttr.
Hygiene
Because you don't wear underwear beneath bike shorts, treat your bike shorts with the same hygiene considerations in mind as you would a pair of underwear. Put on a clean pair of bike shorts every time you ride.
Fit
Bike shorts are designed to fit while you're riding, that is, while bent over on your bike; you can expect them to stick out a bit when you're standing straight up.
Time Frame
Wear your bike shorts for as limited a time as possible. Put them on just before riding and take them off immediately after. This helps to minimize moisture and bacteria buildup.
About The Author
Marie Mulrooney has written professionally since 2001. Her diverse background includes numerous outdoor pursuits, personal training and linguistics. She studied mathematics at the University of Alaska Anchorage and contributes regularly to such websites as eHow, Garden Guides, LiveSTRONG and Trails.com. Print publication credits include national magazines, poetry awards and long-lived columns about local outdoor adventures.
