![]() ![]() The “pro” fits are for flat stomachs and skinny quads, while “club” or “touring” fits allow for larger abdomens and legs. Some brands offer two (or more) “fit types” to cover riders who might have the same waist size but sharply different proportions. Increased emphasis on fit has led to an expansive range of product sizes, making it easier than ever to find a pair of cycling shorts that fits your body comfortably. Look for anatomically shaped patterns and channeled areas of foam that help ensure the chamois breathes well and doesn't bunch up while you ride. The best chamois feels supportive without feeling like a diaper between your legs. Too much padding in a chamois can have you waddling around like a duck when you’re not riding. All of this leads to less irritation, sweat and salt buildup, bacteria growth, and reduced saddle sores.Ĭhamois are definitely a case where bigger isn’t always better. They feature a mix of padding and a liner that is low-friction and anti-microbial. Modern chamois are really feats of engineering designed to reduce friction on the most sensitive areas of your body that come into contact with your bike. For those baggy shorts without chamois, people can choose to buy a chamois liner or cycling underwear with some padding. While these shorts are designed for mountain bikers, they’re also great for gravel and roader bikers who don’t want to wear skin-tight spandex shorts. Since mountain bikers often wear pads, particularly on steep, tricky descents, baggy shorts are designed to fit over knee pads without getting caught on them. Baggy shorts tend to be looser than spandex shorts while remaining flexible, allowing them to move easily with the rider’s legs. Many baggy bike shorts don’t come with a chamois, but some have an integrated chamois liner. ![]() Baggy bike shorts are usually worn by mountain bikers and more casual riders. They also put some downward pressure on your shoulders and help hold your stomach in, which might not be comfortable for all riders. The main tradeoff is that it’s harder to go to the bathroom in a bib than it would be in a pair of traditional shorts. That means the shorts don’t have a tight waistband, which makes them more comfortable to some riders. Like suspenders, the shoulder straps on cycling bibs keep them in place. Where they differ, however, are the shoulder straps. They’re also meant to be worn without underwear. Cycling bibs share the same features as cycling shorts, in terms of having integrated chamois, and being made of skin-tight spandex. Still, a low waist or a waist that’s too tight on a pair of cycling shorts can be uncomfortable by exposing your skin to the elements or by cutting into your abdomen while riding. They have a highly elasticized waistband to help ensure they stay up during long rides. With an integrated chamois, they’re not really meant to be worn with underwear underneath. Cycling shorts are generally made out of spandex and are tight to the skin to help reduce drag. Baggies are for those who don’t want to wear a pair of spandex thigh-huggers, like mountain bikers. Road cycling shorts are generally either shorts or bibs and almost all have built-in chamois (we’ll get to those in a second). ![]() What to Consider Styles: Shorts, Bibs, and BaggiesĬycling shorts largely fall into three categories. ![]()
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