There is an almost standard image of the professional biker wearing lycra tight cycling shorts and a matching jersey or t-shirt; such apparel items are often vividly colored, bearing the names of the brand they belong to as well the competition number of the biker. Many cycling shorts have special reinforcements for the contact area between the body and the saddle, given the fact it is very important to make sure that you feel comfortable during any ride, be it short or long. The protective pad added to the cycling shorts usually prevents chafing by the stretchy shape and the structure of the fabric.

The best cycling shorts must have an ergonomic cut, and this peculiarity can be achieved by the use of several pads in the design; one thing a biker needs to look for is the kind of seam the cycling shorts have. Though for the inexperienced eye the single or double-needle seam doesn’t mean very much, experts claim that more comfort is achieved with a better sewing quality, as the risk of chafing is drastically reduced. Most cycling shorts have all kinds of pockets particularly at the back where sweating is more reduced. For the areas more exposed to perspiration, the breathable fabric features include a form of antibacterial treatment that prevents microbial growth in the moisture-exposed area.

What else do cycling shorts have superior to other sportswear? First and foremost, the material they are made of ensures leg muscle support while also allowing free air circulation; the saddle contact area most often includes a gel pad that absorbs or dissipates shock by forming a barrier between the hard surface and the rider’s body. Quality materials used in the manufacturing of cycling shorts are usually synthetic with improved features for a good moisture dispersion. Try the cycling shorts on before buying them to make sure that the elastic used in the waist area ensures a satisfactory comfort level.

Cycling shorts created for mountain biking are a bit different in terms of durability and materials; there is usually a combination of cotton and spandex used which definitely ensures great casual comfort. Such apparel items need to have some extra protections given the rough terrain conditions where the biker wears them: shock absorbing pads and a special liner panel prevent the discomfort caused by bumps and allow full motion ability. Some models have pockets both in the front and the rear part, but it’s your choice if you’d like any at all.

Non-riders have a tendency to laugh at the shiny, often gaudy cycling clothes worn by even casual bicyclists, but if they rode even a few miles, they would understand that cycling shorts are second only to a helmet in crucial importance to the rider. Cycling shorts may not be made for fashion, but they provide a critical element of comfort to any kind of bicycling effort.

The first cycling shorts were nearly more work than worth. Made of wool, with a leather chamois stitched for padding in the crotch of each pair, they were hot and they were nearly impossible to launder. The wool took forever to dry, and the leather became so stiff it often hurt more than it helped. Today’s cycling shorts are as far from these old models as our laptops are from main frames. They weigh next to nothing, they dry in no time, and their padding stays soft and supple, just as it’s supposed to be. With or without straps (the so-called “bib” style), a pair of cycling shorts is essential for any bike rider.

Really, the only thing today’s cycling shorts have in common with their ancestors is their style. With the exception of some of the models made for mountain biking, cycling shorts are still long enough to cover most of the rider’s thigh and basic black is still the predominant color. However, any ride through a town with a sizable population of road riders will also reveal what passes for fashion sense among bicyclists: the basic black cycling short is now frequently festooned with so many advertisements for events and products and companies in the most garish colors on the spectrum that the black is all but unseen! For some reason, road riders seem to thrive on clashing colors and excessive advertising. And the more devoted a cyclist you observe, the more logos and screaming slogans you are likely to observe!

Still, there is a real reason to wear cycling shorts, no matter what they look like: their padding. It, especially if combined with a good bicycle seat, will vastly increase your comfort level as a rider. It, rather than a particularly delicate area of your anatomy, will absorb a lot of the shock of bike riding. Cycling shorts are made as they are for good reason. They absorb shock, let perspiration evaporate, and keep you aerodynamic on your bike. Being aerodynamic matters to speed, of course, but also to safety. Loose fitting clothing can get stuck in a bicycle’s moving parts as well as making your form more resistant to any wind you encounter.

• Avenir Cycling Shorts 8 panel construction provides anatomic fit
• Chamois insert
• Leg gripper elastic improves leg fitting
• Coolmax Hi Tech Fabric.

Raleigh Cycling shorts -Ladies

• Technically designed for serious cyclists
• A high performance garment
• Anatomically designed for comfort and performance
• Synthetic anti bacterial padded insert
• Leg grippers

Product Description
A perfect blend of high density fibres to ensure that your muscles are kept insulated, supported and ready for action – A high performance, breathable fabric – 8 panel professional construction – Flat stitched seams to avoid chafing – Anatomic shaping – L

Cycle Cycling Shorts 8 Panel Black – MENS Large

• 62% Polyester
• 33% Cotton
• 5% Spandex
• DuPont Coolmax Pad – Coolmax moves moisture away from your body, makes fabric dry more quickly keeping you cool and comfortable.
• Leg Grippers

Product Description
The dhb cycling under short is a must have for any cyclist, made from a highly breathable soft stretchy polyester with a Coolmax pad to provide additional protection and comfort whilst riding. They have an elasticated waistband for a great fit and the lower legs come with rubber grippers to stop them riding up.

dhb Padded Cycling Under Shorts