Bike Shorts Buying Guide

Bike shorts  are important for making your ride more comfortable, especially if you are racing or riding for extended periods of time. There are a few different styles to choose from, each of which has their advantages. Below are some of the things you should know about cycling shorts , whether you are a man or a woman.

Padding

• Everyone has a style they like more than another. Try out a few pairs and see which you like best.
• Some long rides might be better with less padding, such as a thin chamois, which tends to shift less and wick better than other type of padding.
• For short rides, a gel padding might do the trick, offering a more comfortable fit, but with less protection.

Material

• Most bike shorts are made of a breathable, wicking material that will help draw moisture away from the body.
• They may be a combination of polyester, spandex or other synthetic materials.
• Avoid materials like cotton that absorb moisture.
• Look for leg grippers, which help the shorts stay down on your thighs rather than riding up. They are usually made of a sticky rubber material.

Shape

• You'll notice that bike shorts are cut low-rise; shorter in the front, and high in the back to suit a bent position.
• Look at the number of panels the shorts. The more, the better, assuming that more panels is synonymous with a better fit and more precise contouring.
• Everyone has a different body shape, thus some styles, no matter how contoured, still won't provide a great fit. Try on as many pairs as you need to until you find the one that fits best.

Other Features

• Choose an elastic waistband over a drawstring.
• It should be wide enough so that it feels comfortable and snug, without constricting.
• Since you don't wear underwear under bike shorts, they usually come with a liner. The right liner is very much a personal decision. However, chamois is a popular padding fabric used in the lining of bike shorts due to its shock-absorbing and moisture wicking properties.

Men's vs. Women's

• Remember that bike shorts are not unisex. Men's and women's shorts are designed differently to suit each body type.
• A few things that you might want to know about women's bike shorts is that they are cut higher in the waist and wider through the hips.
• Women's shorts are also cut a bit higher than men's.
• For female triathletes, look for triathlete suits .

Basic Bike Short Styles

Standard  Your standard shorts are no fail for riding in warm months. They can also be layered under tights in winter for more support if needed.	Bib Shorts  The advantage to this style is that the straps help keep the crotch from sagging. Best for spring, summer and fall months.	Bib Tights  Again, bibs keep tights in place so that the crotch won't sag. The long-leg version is simply better for winter.	Casual Bike Shorts  Lightweight, airy and comfy. However, don't count on these for racing or long rides, since they'll provide little padding and may tend to bunch up.	Full Length  Full length are ideal for winter. Also look for the happy medium between shorts and tights: knickers . They offer just enough coverage to protect the knees.

Quick Picks

Louis Garneau AirGel	Descente Classic Aero-X	Assos Fl. Equipe Bib

Popular Bike Shorts For Guys

Epic Cycling Short	High Voltage Cycling Shorts	Campus Cycling Shorts	Track Cycling Shorts

Popular Bike Shorts For Girls

Diva Cycling Short	Tempo Cycling Short	Hollaback Shorts

Popular Brands

• Biemme 
• Canari 
• Cannondale 
• Pearl Izumi 
• Sugoi 
• Zoot 

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