I started watching yalls channel for the bike adventure and tips, but now i tune in and stay for the relationship. Strangley, I learn alot watching your guys chemistry together and how you guys have healthy boundaries w each other. I know its not perfect, but its definitely wholesome
This is interesting, I purchased an Anatomica saddle after 25 years of riding. I ride a lot, 10-12,000 miles per year, an as expected I would get a few sores per year. On my first ride with the Anatomica saddle I rode without padded shorts, just loose fitting shorts with runners underware. I am now celebrating 20,000 miles chamois free with zero soreness. This year for my 70th birthday I toured across the US both ways, 8159 miles with no saddle sores or heat rash. You are spot on with this advise.
Hi all, My combo (good for up to 100km a go) Uniqlo “Airism” briefs, hiking shorts (warm/hot) hiking pants (cool/cold) Brooks B17. Oh, and Bedrock sandals or Converse All Stars. If it rains, my feet get wet! Keep riding!
I have found out the hard way that whatever the clothing make sure the seams are smooth and flat, and are not a point of friction against the skin or pinch. I bought a pair of "cheaper" shorts and they just pulled and pinched on the tender spots. Also, the type of material is a consideration. If you are wearing "street" clothes, then don't wear regular cotton underwear. I learned that the hard way too! Another thing about cycling shorts, those "griper bands" at the cuff will start to pull my skin after a long ride. I usually turn the cuffs up so that the grippers are on the outside. The Lycra slides against my skin better. Thanks for the chat on this subject!
In my early 40's I developed arthritis in my left hip. I was still cycling and carrying my son in his seat mounted on the rear. I used a Brookes saddle and bike shorts but the pain got to much for me to enjoy it. I had my hip replaced and returned to cycling after 12 years. Now ride a Brompton but don't use bike shorts, bum must have got tough with age!!. Keep Safe guys!
Interesting video, thanks! Ca you say something about the kind of underwear you recommend, when you are not wearing the bike shorts? I.e. cotton vs synthetic, slips vs boxer, tight vs loose...etc.? Also a tip: when you wash your bike shorts in the evening, place them in a towel afterwards, roll it up with the towel and then twist hard. The towel stretches less than the bibs, so no damages will occur. The towel wicks up the moisture. And with this technique, I always get my bibs to dry over night.
So when I was 10 and on my bike all the time bum hurt was just not a thing. Now I'm much, much older it is a thing. One of life's profound mysteries. Enjoying your vids!
I have some bike shorts. One is outer shorts with a removable pad and the other is an underwear style non removable pad. I think they are more for casual or occasional riding because if I have been off the bike for winter going 15 miles is painful. However in the last couple years I have switched to recumbent and there is no need for padded shorts. It's always comfortable and my hands don't fall asleep either. I recommend recumbent bikes, or trikes
Good points. I started touring back in the day when bike shorts were wool and the chamois was real chamois. The thickness was the same as the chamois you dry your car with. The joy of climbing into your clammy chamois morning. I'm like you two, I'm don't wear the KIT. I wear knickers in cold and coolish weather and a cargo style short in the heat. I really like the new underwear padded shorts. The short is a very quick drying breathable fabric that lets heat and moisture out. The new padding comes in different thicknesses to meet the type of riding you will be doing and is more breathable and fast drying. Rinse at night and it's dry in the morning. On tour I always carry a little container of baby powder or other dryer agent. Only once and years ago a woman I was riding with got thrown off the paved road and into a ditch. As she bounced along she was able to stop upright, with no fall, BUT her taint was badly bruised. She had to ride for several days wearing two padded shorts.
‘Sup y’all, hope you had a great week! A sign of true commitment is when your partner asks, “Hey, would you look at my diaper rash?” and you do it :) I’ve had so much saddle time that bike shorts aren’t a necessity, just nice to have. Lovin’ my Brooks: I invested in my first one 11 years ago and I still have that bike and that saddle, BUTT the chamois is worn only when there’s a reeeeally long day ahead. Thanks RAD!🤘🏻
Great subject. I started riding about 2 years ago with a rubber Brooks Camdium saddle. On longer rides (30-70 miles) I had serious sores with hiking shorts so I got some loose fitting bike shorts (with pad) and I used Bag Balm as a cream. It took me about 1500 - 2000 miles in the saddle before my butt was used to the saddle and the sores slowly got better and eventually went away. I bought a leather Brooks (C17 swift) and it is very comfortable. No painful brek-in period. I still use bike shorts on long rides but I do a 20 mile commute 3 times a week with flimsy workout shorts and it is very comfortable. My recommendation: get a good quality leather saddle and then put in the miles and work through any discomfort. Your ass WILL get used to riding.
I use bike shorts not for the padding. On long trips the padding hardly affect your butt sores. The main consideration for me is the fact that bike shorts stick tight to your leg and joints and dont move with every pedaling, which avoids the sort of infection that result from the combination of moisture/ sweat and repeatedly moving touch.
I use bike shorts on a race bike with a skinny saddle. Touring bike, hybrid bike...regular quick-dried clothing, and I fitted those bikes with Brooks Flyer saddles.
I use mountain bike shorts, which consist of a seperate, casual fitting short and a padded liner short. Enjoying the option of not always needing the padded liners and also using the casual fitting short when not on the bike.
I use them almost all of the time. The trick is to get up out of the saddle(especially on the faster downhill sections) to dry them. And maybe wash them every day if you can.
The padded "underwear" are cycling liners. I just got my first pair to use under regular cargo shorts for local gravel riding before I invest in a pair of gravel-specific riding shorts. I think the liners make a lot of sense.
First, I love you guys. I've been debating this very topic and I think I'm going to break down and get a pair to see how they impact my ride. You don't know, what you don't know. Thanks guys!
Awesome topic! I used to use padded shorts when I toured on my gravel bike. I now ride a Sutra and a Brooks saddle and my bum is happy as can be with no added padding required. I also find padded shorts a bit gross following a long ride.
This was such good information and I hugely relate to. For me, I have a Specialized seat for the female form with a gel seat cover. I like to look half decent when I am off the bike with adventure shorts that are good for all terrain but look okay if you have to go into the grocery store for example. I take clean spare pairs of cotton pants for wearing underneath the shorts, and change regularly, keeping above all everything regularly nice a clean basically with medicinal help when required. Great to have a female perspective of this little bit embarrassing but important part of bicycle touring. The cycling shorts would not work for me, too bulky and difficult to launder and dry on a long tour.
I’m all about the casual look of liners under shorts. Mtb shorts are great because there’s typically no seam where you sit. From experience, cheap liners cause more saddle sores and tend to hurt after just an hour. I suggest spending the $40-$50 for quality performance. REI has decent sales on liners so keep an eye out!
I wear thicker basketball shorts on my day rides on either of my bikes. I've done a few 50+ mile rides & so far no issues with that. Though it help my bike has a Brooks C17, which works well for me for the most part(rivets could be a bit more flush).
I used to rotate between 2 pairs of bike shorts when I toured (or even commuted). I didn't like the idea of having to constantly wash them or needing them just to ride. After finding the proper saddle (Brooks B17), I have never used bike shorts again. My saddle is broken in and I've biked hundreds of kilometers without bike shorts. I usually wear a light pair of hiking shorts or cutoff khakis/jeans and they work really well.
I wore bike shorts for some time but they were always too tight on the balls and decided instead to switch to a softer and more ergonomic saddle. Thank you for the video.
@@radbikeadventure I tried bib shorts once and quickly realized a major flaw for touring...no easy way to use the bathroom with those on. You basically have to strip everything just to use the toilet! Felt ridiculous so I went back to regular cycling shorts.
Gave my padded bike shorts to a goodwill store while on a tour, and haven't look back. Had the same problem as Darren.. I Use a Brooks B67, exfico briefs, and quick-dry Nike shorts, much happier and cooler.
Look at triathlon shorts. They are lighter and more breathable and dry out more quickly. The downside is they have less padding. I sometimes ride with just compression shorts.
I have used bike shorts ever since my husband got me riding bikes - about 12 years. But a couple of weeks ago I went on my very first overnight bike camping trip. I realized that my bike shorts were really stopping air flow and were causing issues. I brought a change of shorts so I wasn't wearing them two days in a row, but even so there were problems. Since then I've just been wearing regular running shorts and they've been working great - lots of air flow and I haven't been sore. Admittedly I haven't ridden anything longer than 2 1/2 hours.
bought myself a Kona Sutra and im trying to put in 20-40km every day before work until the snow hits. Got my first bike tour planned for March and slowly molding my Brooks saddle to my behind
Great topic....I know many people who get away without chamois shorts...for sure if you ride enough the butt will toughen up...some days can be more painful than others though right....😐😩.....if I use creams I’ll buy nappy rash ones....super cheap! 🙂👊🏻🤘🏻✌🏻
If you really want some padding without excessive bulk, then try triathlon shorts. They have minimal padding because they’re meant to be worn for swim bike and run.
My view on padded shorts is summarized by "one saddle sore was one too many". I definitiely wear them now! :) Instead of chamois cream I use an old farmers' product from Vermont: Bag Balm. It is a mix of petroleum jelly and lanolin.
All about what feels best. I have 5 different padded cycling “under shorts”, some have too thick a pad, some too hot, some are ok, but after all my quest to pad my butt and a few summer months of riding 5 times a week, my go to underwear on the bike are……..regular synthetic blend underwear found for 3 pairs at like $15.00. As a mountain biker I wear baggies as a top short. Whatever figure it out, if riding hurts, you wont do it.
I like bikes shorts without padding or liners. Bike Nasbar long pants are my favorite in cool weather. I keep looking for white male shorts, for dessert riding, but no one seems to make them, unlined.🎉
I ride Brooks on all my bikes since the '60's. I never wear a chammy. Chammy's cause friction and I dislike doping then up with creams. Water based cream evaporates quickly, not ideal. Vasoline works well, but just don't need it with lycra shorts and no chammy. Thanks!
I'm currently following the 1938 bicycle route of Dorothy Hosmer, that she wrote about in National Geographic, on a 1938 Raleigh bicycle (I really miss my 21 speed). I decided not to use bike shorts because she didn't, but it has been fine since I broke in my saddle (it doesn't have the original). But to be honest, I never wore bike shorts much. However, when I started doing motorcycle tour in SE Asia, bicycle shorts became life for me! Why are these not common in motorcycle gear? It doesn't matter how broken in your but or motorcycle seat is, the vibrations from the road really make your butt sore, and bike shorts make a huge difference!
😅 Try out a nice bike short like the cargo shirt from mesh 7 or from cafe du cyclist the Helene. Both are great short and I never had an issue discribed by you two. I have done a few tours where I was the whole day on my bike and even a bike packing tour..
@@radbikeadventure Watching your new Zealand videos got me into bikepacking and iv now been on many adventures here in the UK . Seriously your very inspirational. 🙏🏼🇬🇧
I’ve never gotten saddle sores without shorts, but I have gotten a skin tag in an area down there. Don’t know if that’s bike related or age related. I’m in hot and humid southern Texas, so the fewer the layers the better IMHO.
this is very good to know but regardless for any distant riding i will be whering long padded pants do to the risk of leg wounds if i fall from my bike but thank you for this great imfromation
I went all-in with gear when I started riding. Specialized everything! Bike, socks, riding jacket, BIB. I'm old fat and ugly so the bib thing alone was weird so I started wearing regular cargo shorts over the bib. Stock seat on a Specialized Roll 2.0. Not comfortable. Shorts alone. Nope. Lose the seat. Got one of those Fenix 'wing' seats. Could never get it properly adjusted and didn't seem to work with bib or without. Traded in both for a "Cup" seat. Am now riding 20-25 every day with my incredible Step One undies and just regular cargo shorts! Seems to work best! But JIC I'm thinking bike short undies for old fat ugly guys maybe? Another great video. Hoping to see you back to this form soon! Get healthy! Stay safe!
Riding a recumbent trike, bike shorts are no longer needed. But I still wear a pair so that I have the tight seal on my thigh so that a wasp cannot fly up inside my shorts. Sitting on the bent with a regular pair of shorts they turn into air scoops, trust me, it is not fun. I went through several pairs of specialized Bent shorts but never really found a pair I liked. Then someone recommended Elevenpine. Great shorts. I'm a fat old man, spandex is not my friend, the elevenpines are more like a regular short, I wear them all summer long. They sell an underwear with the padding if you want or need. But for me, just the regular shorts work fine. I have no problem recommending them to people
Padded bike shorts 🩳 actually didn’t help me with comfort. When I switched back to regular athletic shorts 🩳 I was fine! I’m bringing lots of chaffing/saddle sore butters and creams and such on my first tour and hoping for the best! Lol!
You two are both rather small as well, so there's something that should be mentioned. If you've got legs that are like damn tree trunks having a tight fitting garment provides another bonus. Less about the padding but they can be a barrier AGAINST grinding the inside of your legs against one another/your clothing or against the saddle. If you have somewhat hairy legs and you're a big person(Thick legs or overweight), they really can help alleviate some of the chaffing/ingrown hairs. You can also get non padded lycra shorts that would be perfect for this as well but if you're going that route, most will end up with the padded shorts.
With me , If I'm riding my Go Fast Carbon Road bike it's full on Lycra with chamois and on my Be All Do All Chromoly bike and my Mountain bike is a Mtn Bike shorts/knickers and a chamois liner underwear and nylon t-shirt
I used to wear padded shorts. But since I moved to a Brooks saddle (and I guess any leather saddle would be the same) I don't need them - I just ride in any old shorts now.
I gotta say now that I am used to riding in bike shorts other things feel restrictive. Yesterday I wore regular pants and it was uncomfortable as heck.
I have a question that I'm dealing with. What about bike shoes for flat pedals? Should I shop for a certain brand for bike touring? -I wear a wool type underwear and use chamois butter.
Soggy bottom can equals trench foot for your bum. Yep, over shorts or pants are a thing for me. I do wear bike shorts, or tights in winter (WY-MT) with padding-chamois for long day rides. I personally invest in better saddles, even for commuter/utility bikes that alleviate the need for bike shorts all the time. So I am very much in line with you folks. So a conditional yay.
yey. but like you said in the end. dont do like i did first layer was cottun boxers then bike bibs leathal combo. cutton never dryes and it frictioned the hell out of my butt :D but we live and we learn :D
Oof yea that wouldn’t feel good at all! But I also made that mistake first time wearing bike shorts. Not fun! Glad you sorted it out tho. Always tell people don’t be afraid to learn by trial and error, you’ll especially remember what doesn’t work!
interesting! I have a Brooks w/ cutout, and am trying to wean myself odd needing padded nics. So far not bad - but, what do you wear under your shorts? I've been wearing padded ones for decades, mainly due to getting rid of those annoying seems. Having normal underwear on seems like a chafing invitation. What do y'all normally wear underneath? ta!
I gave up bike shorts many years ago. Since then I've toured extensively in the US and in Asia. I don't have much use for them. I think that, for the most part, they are unnecessary, especially if you use a Brooks.
To clarify, if you're removing the bike shorts, what are you wearing in lieu thereof? I don't think you'd be going "commando"; you'd wear some kind of spandex underwear instead, right? I started biking with cotton underwear, but experienced painful chafing, so I started using the bike shorts. They're okay, but ideally, I'd like to wear something resembling normal clothes.
@@radbikeadventure Thank you for clarifying. I've never tried this approach, but will consider it. I appreciate your timely response. Thanks. Safe travels!
I have watched a bunch of your videos but have not commented, but overall they have been very helpful! Re shorts in general, maybe this is TMI, but I feel like the pad in the front of the shorts actually rubs my skin down there more than going without. Why did you both decide not to wear them anymore?
Yep, that's exactly what happened to Darin and why she had to stop wearing them. The chafing was REALLY bad for her. I also didn't like feeling like i was riding in a sweaty diaper. Just found we didn't need them as our butts toughened and our saddles broke in. hope this helps
Meh. Probably not. People will tell you one way or another when they KNOW it is a personal choice. I choose to wear the stupid tights and knickers on long group rides because I like the way they look. If I'm not wearing a jersey or its a ride to the grocery store -- I have the badass no-chamois pants that I loooooove.
i use to where bike shorty you lady are right but soon my catrikke i dont need them no more not rideoing a catrike u donti seeee lot of people have catrikes they dont wheree bike shorts eather shorts feel better u ladys be safe charleshunt from ohio in usa saaying hello
I think actually a bigger deal for men. Mens' underwear tends to have thicker hems as they have more to carry. If you wear briefs, that hem is right on a rubbing spot. Cycle shorts shouldn't have seams in rubbing places. I also sometimes use liquid talc. You can get chamois cream which is pricey, but a basic liquid talc works great.
I would say so yes. Everyone needs to take care to not get chaffing in the sensitive areas. Rotate out and wash ur shorts and make sure they are dry while wearing (and chamois butter helps!) ;)
Padded shorts are not necessary just wear tight fitting nylon underwear under baggies. I've rode 100,000 of miles with no problems. I have worn them and I believe they cause major bacterial rashes
After years of using various makes of padded shorts I've found you definitely don't need them ,After having a professional bike fit ,I use a suspension seat post & seamless boxers ,much much more comfortable especially on long all day rides .
of course you do not "need" cycling shorts to cycle. you can ride a bicycle in cut offs and a t short. NFL players COULD play football in a three piece suit and wing tip shoes. i could pound a wood crew in with a hammer instead of using an electric screw driver you get the point. i wear high quality cycling shorts with an athletic supporter and am totally comfortable on my bike. i ride a custom bike perfect fit and ride in the hottest of heat, obviously cycling shorts should be kept meticulously clean, i hand wash my gear in warm water with just a tiny bit of free and clear detergent, then put em on the cloths line. i have never had a problem with chafing or soreness.
I guess it depends on how padded your butt is 😂😂 and how comfy your seat is , experiment with saddles they vary so much not all butts are the same , I’ve tried expensive seat that get great reviews and had the worsed experience…I also use a suspension post . Game changer for me .. 🤟🤟 big NO to Lycra spandex short 🙈 a question is why are bike short so long not many short ones out there
Nah. But I don't ride over 100 km per day... closer to 60km. And jumping off here n' there. Btw, quite fast editing/cuts, or me being slow...? Not bad, just noticing... 😅
No, a big fat NO shorts. First ,it doesn't make sense to wear a garment when the problem is the saddle. I have a Wittkop saddle good cushion that fits my pin bones, in +20 k never had a saddle sore. Second having that much synthetic surrounding my nether regions is not good. Starts to stink and incubates yeast infections. If I use a bidet I am never dry.
![ILLSLICK X YOUNGOHM - We're The same [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/yUJNkobYR0E/mqdefault.jpg)
Tell us what ye think of Bike Shorts: Yay or Nay??
My ego says nay, but my butt bones say YAY! 😂
I honestly hate any cycling specific clothing, so no bike shorts for me.
Shorts or padded liners everyday. As an older male my prostate needs all the help it can get.
Full Nay, comando or padless lycra underware for everyday & bkepacking
Full Bib shorts for long rides and full send. Anything for casual riding.
I started watching yalls channel for the bike adventure and tips, but now i tune in and stay for the relationship. Strangley, I learn alot watching your guys chemistry together and how you guys have healthy boundaries w each other. I know its not perfect, but its definitely wholesome
This is interesting, I purchased an Anatomica saddle after 25 years of riding. I ride a lot, 10-12,000 miles per year, an as expected I would get a few sores per year. On my first ride with the Anatomica saddle I rode without padded shorts, just loose fitting shorts with runners underware. I am now celebrating 20,000 miles chamois free with zero soreness. This year for my 70th birthday I toured across the US both ways, 8159 miles with no saddle sores or heat rash. You are spot on with this advise.
Hi all,
My combo (good for up to 100km a go)
Uniqlo “Airism” briefs, hiking shorts (warm/hot) hiking pants (cool/cold) Brooks B17. Oh, and Bedrock sandals or Converse All Stars. If it rains, my feet get wet!
Keep riding!
I have found out the hard way that whatever the clothing make sure the seams are smooth and flat, and are not a point of friction against the skin or pinch. I bought a pair of "cheaper" shorts and they just pulled and pinched on the tender spots. Also, the type of material is a consideration. If you are wearing "street" clothes, then don't wear regular cotton underwear. I learned that the hard way too! Another thing about cycling shorts, those "griper bands" at the cuff will start to pull my skin after a long ride. I usually turn the cuffs up so that the grippers are on the outside. The Lycra slides against my skin better. Thanks for the chat on this subject!
In my early 40's I developed arthritis in my left hip. I was still cycling and carrying my son in his seat mounted on the rear. I used a Brookes saddle and bike shorts but the pain got to much for me to enjoy it. I had my hip replaced and returned to cycling after 12 years. Now ride a Brompton but don't use bike shorts, bum must have got tough with age!!. Keep Safe guys!
Another Brompton owner! So exciting to see.
There is a seat developed by a chiropractor it's called infinity seat I highly suggest you give it a try
Bromptons rock. 😍
Interesting video, thanks! Ca you say something about the kind of underwear you recommend, when you are not wearing the bike shorts? I.e. cotton vs synthetic, slips vs boxer, tight vs loose...etc.?
Also a tip: when you wash your bike shorts in the evening, place them in a towel afterwards, roll it up with the towel and then twist hard. The towel stretches less than the bibs, so no damages will occur. The towel wicks up the moisture. And with this technique, I always get my bibs to dry over night.
I love your channel. You are the only ones that approach these questions normally. Very informative.
So when I was 10 and on my bike all the time bum hurt was just not a thing. Now I'm much, much older it is a thing. One of life's profound mysteries. Enjoying your vids!
I have some bike shorts. One is outer shorts with a removable pad and the other is an underwear style non removable pad. I think they are more for casual or occasional riding because if I have been off the bike for winter going 15 miles is painful.
However in the last couple years I have switched to recumbent and there is no need for padded shorts. It's always comfortable and my hands don't fall asleep either. I recommend recumbent bikes, or trikes
Bibs are my favorite!
Good points. I started touring back in the day when bike shorts were wool and the chamois was real chamois. The thickness was the same as the chamois you dry your car with. The joy of climbing into your clammy chamois morning. I'm like you two, I'm don't wear the KIT. I wear knickers in cold and coolish weather and a cargo style short in the heat. I really like the new underwear padded shorts. The short is a very quick drying breathable fabric that lets heat and moisture out. The new padding comes in different thicknesses to meet the type of riding you will be doing and is more breathable and fast drying. Rinse at night and it's dry in the morning. On tour I always carry a little container of baby powder or other dryer agent. Only once and years ago a woman I was riding with got thrown off the paved road and into a ditch. As she bounced along she was able to stop upright, with no fall, BUT her taint was badly bruised. She had to ride for several days wearing two padded shorts.
‘Sup y’all, hope you had a great week! A sign of true commitment is when your partner asks, “Hey, would you look at my diaper rash?” and you do it :) I’ve had so much saddle time that bike shorts aren’t a necessity, just nice to have. Lovin’ my Brooks: I invested in my first one 11 years ago and I still have that bike and that saddle, BUTT the chamois is worn only when there’s a reeeeally long day ahead. Thanks RAD!🤘🏻
Sounds like we're on the same page! And yea...we're definitely a ride or die team lol
Great subject. I started riding about 2 years ago with a rubber Brooks Camdium saddle. On longer rides (30-70 miles) I had serious sores with hiking shorts so I got some loose fitting bike shorts (with pad) and I used Bag Balm as a cream. It took me about 1500 - 2000 miles in the saddle before my butt was used to the saddle and the sores slowly got better and eventually went away. I bought a leather Brooks (C17 swift) and it is very comfortable. No painful brek-in period. I still use bike shorts on long rides but I do a 20 mile commute 3 times a week with flimsy workout shorts and it is very comfortable. My recommendation: get a good quality leather saddle and then put in the miles and work through any discomfort. Your ass WILL get used to riding.
Yes great advice Robert. And thanks for sharing eh!
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. It depends on the ride but I have many pairs and all kinds. I love you guys, I love your videos ❤
I use bike shorts not for the padding. On long trips the padding hardly affect your butt sores. The main consideration for me is the fact that bike shorts stick tight to your leg and joints and dont move with every pedaling, which avoids the sort of infection that result from the combination of moisture/ sweat and repeatedly moving touch.
I use bike shorts on a race bike with a skinny saddle. Touring bike, hybrid bike...regular quick-dried clothing, and I fitted those bikes with Brooks Flyer saddles.
I use mountain bike shorts, which consist of a seperate, casual fitting short and a padded liner short. Enjoying the option of not always needing the padded liners and also using the casual fitting short when not on the bike.
I use them almost all of the time. The trick is to get up out of the saddle(especially on the faster downhill sections) to dry them. And maybe wash them every day if you can.
I still miss the pinky, baggy shorts Darin always wore. I hope they are in a museum somewhere. 😆😂🤭
The padded "underwear" are cycling liners. I just got my first pair to use under regular cargo shorts for local gravel riding before I invest in a pair of gravel-specific riding shorts. I think the liners make a lot of sense.
Indeed! Why did I not remember that lol 😂 Liners, yes!
@@radbikeadventure 🤣
First, I love you guys. I've been debating this very topic and I think I'm going to break down and get a pair to see how they impact my ride. You don't know, what you don't know. Thanks guys!
Awesome topic! I used to use padded shorts when I toured on my gravel bike. I now ride a Sutra and a Brooks saddle and my bum is happy as can be with no added padding required. I also find padded shorts a bit gross following a long ride.
This was such good information and I hugely relate to. For me, I have a Specialized seat for the female form with a gel seat cover. I like to look half decent when I am off the bike with adventure shorts that are good for all terrain but look okay if you have to go into the grocery store for example. I take clean spare pairs of cotton pants for wearing underneath the shorts, and change regularly, keeping above all everything regularly nice a clean basically with medicinal help when required. Great to have a female perspective of this little bit embarrassing but important part of bicycle touring. The cycling shorts would not work for me, too bulky and difficult to launder and dry on a long tour.
I’m all about the casual look of liners under shorts. Mtb shorts are great because there’s typically no seam where you sit.
From experience, cheap liners cause more saddle sores and tend to hurt after just an hour. I suggest spending the $40-$50 for quality performance. REI has decent sales on liners so keep an eye out!
I wear thicker basketball shorts on my day rides on either of my bikes. I've done a few 50+ mile rides & so far no issues with that. Though it help my bike has a Brooks C17, which works well for me for the most part(rivets could be a bit more flush).
Agree w the rivers. The premium saddles solve that issue. Well worth it in my mind! And glad you found something that works for you 👍
I used to rotate between 2 pairs of bike shorts when I toured (or even commuted). I didn't like the idea of having to constantly wash them or needing them just to ride. After finding the proper saddle (Brooks B17), I have never used bike shorts again. My saddle is broken in and I've biked hundreds of kilometers without bike shorts. I usually wear a light pair of hiking shorts or cutoff khakis/jeans and they work really well.
I wore bike shorts for some time but they were always too tight on the balls and decided instead to switch to a softer and more ergonomic saddle. Thank you for the video.
I use paded cycling shorts for long term comfort. Cycling shorts are also lighter weight and take up less space.
I use the bike liners with shorts or tri shorts with a light layer of store brand diaper rash cream. No issues!
Hi Gals, use bike bibs with casual shorts over the top. Winter time just more layers :-)
I’ve yet to try bibs but have heard good things.
@@radbikeadventure I tried bib shorts once and quickly realized a major flaw for touring...no easy way to use the bathroom with those on. You basically have to strip everything just to use the toilet! Felt ridiculous so I went back to regular cycling shorts.
Love your channel's advice. So solid and based on experience. Very practical.
Gave my padded bike shorts to a goodwill store while on a tour, and haven't look back. Had the same problem as Darren.. I Use a Brooks B67, exfico briefs, and quick-dry Nike shorts, much happier and cooler.
Look at triathlon shorts. They are lighter and more breathable and dry out more quickly. The downside is they have less padding.
I sometimes ride with just compression shorts.
I have used bike shorts ever since my husband got me riding bikes - about 12 years. But a couple of weeks ago I went on my very first overnight bike camping trip. I realized that my bike shorts were really stopping air flow and were causing issues. I brought a change of shorts so I wasn't wearing them two days in a row, but even so there were problems. Since then I've just been wearing regular running shorts and they've been working great - lots of air flow and I haven't been sore. Admittedly I haven't ridden anything longer than 2 1/2 hours.
That’s what we have found too. Without proper air flow, things can get pretty gnarly. Hence why we usually try to ride sans the padded shorts
bought myself a Kona Sutra and im trying to put in 20-40km every day before work until the snow hits. Got my first bike tour planned for March and slowly molding my Brooks saddle to my behind
Yes. You need if You want to ride longer routs.
Great topic....I know many people who get away without chamois shorts...for sure if you ride enough the butt will toughen up...some days can be more painful than others though right....😐😩.....if I use creams I’ll buy nappy rash ones....super cheap! 🙂👊🏻🤘🏻✌🏻
If you really want some padding without excessive bulk, then try triathlon shorts. They have minimal padding because they’re meant to be worn for swim bike and run.
My view on padded shorts is summarized by "one saddle sore was one too many". I definitiely wear them now! :) Instead of chamois cream I use an old farmers' product from Vermont: Bag Balm. It is a mix of petroleum jelly and lanolin.
All about what feels best. I have 5 different padded cycling “under shorts”, some have too thick a pad, some too hot, some are ok, but after all my quest to pad my butt and a few summer months of riding 5 times a week, my go to underwear on the bike are……..regular synthetic blend underwear found for 3 pairs at like $15.00. As a mountain biker I wear baggies as a top short. Whatever figure it out, if riding hurts, you wont do it.
I put comfort over judgment.
I like bikes shorts without padding or liners. Bike Nasbar long pants are my favorite in cool weather. I keep looking for white male shorts, for dessert riding, but no one seems to make them, unlined.🎉
Timing of this video was perfect thanks a lot! I'm doing a shorter tour this week (~250km) so I needed this information badly!
I ride Brooks on all my bikes since the '60's. I never wear a chammy. Chammy's cause friction and I dislike doping then up with creams. Water based cream evaporates quickly, not ideal. Vasoline works well, but just don't need it with lycra shorts and no chammy. Thanks!
I'm currently following the 1938 bicycle route of Dorothy Hosmer, that she wrote about in National Geographic, on a 1938 Raleigh bicycle (I really miss my 21 speed). I decided not to use bike shorts because she didn't, but it has been fine since I broke in my saddle (it doesn't have the original). But to be honest, I never wore bike shorts much. However, when I started doing motorcycle tour in SE Asia, bicycle shorts became life for me! Why are these not common in motorcycle gear? It doesn't matter how broken in your but or motorcycle seat is, the vibrations from the road really make your butt sore, and bike shorts make a huge difference!
😅
Try out a nice bike short like the cargo shirt from mesh 7 or from cafe du cyclist the Helene. Both are great short and I never had an issue discribed by you two. I have done a few tours where I was the whole day on my bike and even a bike packing tour..
You guys are fabulous, great advice, X
Thanks Mark!
@@radbikeadventure Watching your new Zealand videos got me into bikepacking and iv now been on many adventures here in the UK . Seriously your very inspirational. 🙏🏼🇬🇧
I’ve never gotten saddle sores without shorts, but I have gotten a skin tag in an area down there. Don’t know if that’s bike related or age related. I’m in hot and humid southern Texas, so the fewer the layers the better IMHO.
I prefer padded cycling shorts. I never had any issues because I use powder and aquafer ointment.
this is very good to know but regardless for any distant riding i will be whering long padded pants do to the risk of leg wounds if i fall from my bike but thank you for this great imfromation
I went all-in with gear when I started riding. Specialized everything! Bike, socks, riding jacket, BIB.
I'm old fat and ugly so the bib thing alone was weird so I started wearing regular cargo shorts over the bib. Stock seat on a Specialized Roll 2.0. Not comfortable. Shorts alone. Nope. Lose the seat. Got one of those Fenix 'wing' seats. Could never get it properly adjusted and didn't seem to work with bib or without. Traded in both for a "Cup" seat. Am now riding 20-25 every day with my incredible Step One undies and just regular cargo shorts! Seems to work best! But JIC I'm thinking bike short undies for old fat ugly guys maybe?
Another great video. Hoping to see you back to this form soon! Get healthy! Stay safe!
Riding a recumbent trike, bike shorts are no longer needed.
But I still wear a pair so that I have the tight seal on my thigh so that a wasp cannot fly up inside my shorts. Sitting on the bent with a regular pair of shorts they turn into air scoops, trust me, it is not fun.
I went through several pairs of specialized Bent shorts but never really found a pair I liked. Then someone recommended Elevenpine. Great shorts. I'm a fat old man, spandex is not my friend, the elevenpines are more like a regular short, I wear them all summer long. They sell an underwear with the padding if you want or need. But for me, just the regular shorts work fine. I have no problem recommending them to people
Padded bike shorts 🩳 actually didn’t help me with comfort. When I switched back to regular athletic shorts 🩳 I was fine! I’m bringing lots of chaffing/saddle sore butters and creams and such on my first tour and hoping for the best! Lol!
Very useful information 👍
Even with a Brooks saddle, I still prefer cycling shorts.
You two are both rather small as well, so there's something that should be mentioned. If you've got legs that are like damn tree trunks having a tight fitting garment provides another bonus. Less about the padding but they can be a barrier AGAINST grinding the inside of your legs against one another/your clothing or against the saddle. If you have somewhat hairy legs and you're a big person(Thick legs or overweight), they really can help alleviate some of the chaffing/ingrown hairs. You can also get non padded lycra shorts that would be perfect for this as well but if you're going that route, most will end up with the padded shorts.
Could you please provide information on how and from where I can get the gel seat?
sweet vid thanks for posting
Any thoughts about triathlon shorts with just the microfibre chamois?
With me , If I'm riding my Go Fast Carbon Road bike it's full on Lycra with chamois and on my Be All Do All Chromoly bike and my Mountain bike is a Mtn Bike shorts/knickers and a chamois liner underwear and nylon t-shirt
I used to wear padded shorts. But since I moved to a Brooks saddle (and I guess any leather saddle would be the same) I don't need them - I just ride in any old shorts now.
Yaaassss
I gotta say now that I am used to riding in bike shorts other things feel restrictive. Yesterday I wore regular pants and it was uncomfortable as heck.
I wear bike shorts under my regular shorts. It's definitely the most physically and mentally comfortable.
I have a question that I'm dealing with. What about bike shoes for flat pedals? Should I shop for a certain brand for bike touring?
-I wear a wool type underwear and use chamois butter.
Soggy bottom can equals trench foot for your bum. Yep, over shorts or pants are a thing for me. I do wear bike shorts, or tights in winter (WY-MT) with padding-chamois for long day rides. I personally invest in better saddles, even for commuter/utility bikes that alleviate the need for bike shorts all the time. So I am very much in line with you folks. So a conditional yay.
yey. but like you said in the end. dont do like i did first layer was cottun boxers then bike bibs leathal combo. cutton never dryes and it frictioned the hell out of my butt :D but we live and we learn :D
Oof yea that wouldn’t feel good at all! But I also made that mistake first time wearing bike shorts. Not fun! Glad you sorted it out tho. Always tell people don’t be afraid to learn by trial and error, you’ll especially remember what doesn’t work!
interesting! I have a Brooks w/ cutout, and am trying to wean myself odd needing padded nics. So far not bad - but, what do you wear under your shorts? I've been wearing padded ones for decades, mainly due to getting rid of those annoying seems. Having normal underwear on seems like a chafing invitation. What do y'all normally wear underneath? ta!
So what kind of seat do you have? Padded? Hard leather?
Check out the Brooks Saddle review!
When I go on a bicycle tour I do 60 to 80 miles each day for months.
I gave up bike shorts many years ago. Since then I've toured extensively in the US and in Asia. I don't have much use for them. I think that, for the most part, they are unnecessary, especially if you use a Brooks.
To clarify, if you're removing the bike shorts, what are you wearing in lieu thereof? I don't think you'd be going "commando"; you'd wear some kind of spandex underwear instead, right? I started biking with cotton underwear, but experienced painful chafing, so I started using the bike shorts. They're okay, but ideally, I'd like to wear something resembling normal clothes.
We had merino wool underwear. Wicks moisture very well.
@@radbikeadventure Thank you for clarifying. I've never tried this approach, but will consider it. I appreciate your timely response. Thanks. Safe travels!
I have watched a bunch of your videos but have not commented, but overall they have been very helpful! Re shorts in general, maybe this is TMI, but I feel like the pad in the front of the shorts actually rubs my skin down there more than going without. Why did you both decide not to wear them anymore?
Yep, that's exactly what happened to Darin and why she had to stop wearing them. The chafing was REALLY bad for her. I also didn't like feeling like i was riding in a sweaty diaper. Just found we didn't need them as our butts toughened and our saddles broke in. hope this helps
bike shorts are out for me anyway as I kneed full leg covering when I ride
why can't they make a seat that's comfortable ?
Nice one...!
Meh. Probably not. People will tell you one way or another when they KNOW it is a personal choice. I choose to wear the stupid tights and knickers on long group rides because I like the way they look. If I'm not wearing a jersey or its a ride to the grocery store -- I have the badass no-chamois pants that I loooooove.
The bike shorts game: Take a shot every time you guys say "butt/but" in the video. 😏
I no longer wear bike shorts. There never were enough reasons for me to continue using for the type of riding I do.
i use to where bike shorty you lady are right but soon my catrikke i dont need them no more not rideoing a catrike u donti seeee lot of people have catrikes they dont wheree bike shorts eather shorts feel better u ladys be safe charleshunt from ohio in usa saaying hello
Merino or wicking fabric boxers and a good saddle...🙌
(The world needs more boxers for fem bodies for cycling and everyday)
When I am on tour I don't worry about other peoples judgment.
Excellent info. Guys vs Girls? Same basic concepts?
I think actually a bigger deal for men. Mens' underwear tends to have thicker hems as they have more to carry. If you wear briefs, that hem is right on a rubbing spot. Cycle shorts shouldn't have seams in rubbing places. I also sometimes use liquid talc. You can get chamois cream which is pricey, but a basic liquid talc works great.
I would say so yes. Everyone needs to take care to not get chaffing in the sensitive areas. Rotate out and wash ur shorts and make sure they are dry while wearing (and chamois butter helps!) ;)
If you're a guy, keep in mind they fit very tight in the front, and there are some things you may want to leave a mystery.
Padded shorts are not necessary just wear tight fitting nylon underwear under baggies. I've rode 100,000 of miles with no problems. I have worn them and I believe they cause major bacterial rashes
After years of using various makes of padded shorts I've found you definitely don't need them ,After having a professional bike fit ,I use a suspension seat post & seamless boxers ,much much more comfortable especially on long all day rides .
of course you do not "need" cycling shorts to cycle. you can ride a bicycle in cut offs and a t short. NFL players COULD play football in a three piece suit and wing tip shoes. i could pound a wood crew in with a hammer instead of using an electric screw driver you get the point. i wear high quality cycling shorts with an athletic supporter and am totally comfortable on my bike. i ride a custom bike perfect fit and ride in the hottest of heat, obviously cycling shorts should be kept meticulously clean, i hand wash my gear in warm water with just a tiny bit of free and clear detergent, then put em on the cloths line. i have never had a problem with chafing or soreness.
also, i guess i am mature enough to really not care what people think of how i look. i don't think anyone really cares.
I guess it depends on how padded your butt is 😂😂 and how comfy your seat is , experiment with saddles they vary so much not all butts are the same , I’ve tried expensive seat that get great reviews and had the worsed experience…I also use a suspension post . Game changer for me .. 🤟🤟 big NO to Lycra spandex short 🙈 a question is why are bike short so long not many short ones out there
Nah. But I don't ride over 100 km per day... closer to 60km. And jumping off here n' there.
Btw, quite fast editing/cuts, or me being slow...? Not bad, just noticing... 😅
Trying to keep the run time down and some awkward moments to edit out! Guess we’re a little rusty after the break!
No, a big fat NO shorts. First ,it doesn't make sense to wear a garment when the problem is the saddle. I have a Wittkop saddle good cushion that fits my pin bones, in +20 k never had a saddle sore.
Second having that much synthetic surrounding my nether regions is not good. Starts to stink and incubates yeast infections. If I use a bidet I am never dry.
Morring ladys i dont need them i ride a catrike
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Do bike shorts absorb fart,s..
Very well. A cushioned landing for excess ass air
got to say it.. both of you have beauitful eyes....