Kit guide: Why you need padded cycling shorts
Written by Steph
Want to get into cycling but finding it a bit… uncomfortable? Perhaps you’ve been pootling around locally on your bike but keen to try longer distances and wondering how to keep comfy? There’s a number of key things you can do to help (saddle design and positioning is something we’ll cover another time), but another really helpful thing is to get yourself some padded cycling shorts/leggings.
These shorts have a pad (often called a chamois) built into them that provides cushioning and also wicks moisture, which helps stop chafing and alleviate some pressure in your nether regions that you can get from sitting on a saddle.
Mens and women’s shorts have different shaped pads, so it’s worth hunting down the right pair. These are Fat Lad At The Back which are available up to a UK 24-26 (46 inch hip/55 inch hip).
Top tips:
🚲 Don’t wear any underwear underneath them - they’re designed to be worn next to your skin and underwear can cause chafing.
🚲 If you’re going on a long ride, it might be worth using some chamois cream that can really help avoid chafing and sooth irritated skin.
If shorts aren’t your thing, you can also get leggings, as well as fleece lined winter tights for the colder months. And if you don’t want a waist band digging in when you cycle you can also get bib shorts that stretch up and over your shoulders!
