Men Padded Cycling Shorts

Men's Padded Cycling Shorts

Cycling shorts are essential for a comfortable ride, especially one that goes on for more than a few kilometres, because they provide shock absorbing padding and reduce chafing. Padded cycling shorts are generally made from stretchy materials, so they move with you as you ride. Quality options last long and do a good job at preventing discomfort from friction. Moreover, they feature a pad or liner inside to provide a bit of cushioning and a soft surface for your skin. The choices vary widely when it comes to the material and design of shorts, so finding the right ones may require a bit of research.

Materials

Most men's padded cycling shorts are made from a combination of Lycra and a synthetic material such as nylon or polyester. Both padded polyester cycling shorts and nylon options feature a breathable composition that allows you to ride comfortably without having to worry about overheating. You can also find loose-fitting shorts with padded liners, which are generally popular with mountain bikers.

Bibs vs. Regular Shorts

There are two main types of cycling shorts to choose from: with or without supporting braces to hold them up. Cycling shorts with inbuilt supporting braces are also known as bib shorts, and they are often more comfortable than regular ones because they don't feature an elasticated waist to hold them up. While offering a higher degree of comfort, bib shorts also tend to be more expensive than regular ones.

Padding

Padding is a key feature to consider. While all cycling shorts have some kind of liner that allows you to wear them without underwear, some feature thicker padding than others. Certain models have a type of lining called a 'chamois', which is made from goat leather to reduce friction and chafing on long rides. These types of padding usually require special care so as not to damage the delicate layers of leather, so it's always a good idea to wash them by hand and avoid any harsh detergents.