NICEWIN Fast-Dry Knee-Length MTB Men’s Bicycle Shorts

While cruiser bikes often have large, comprehensive, padded seats, road and mountain bikes have smaller, harder ones known as saddles. Sitting on the latter for a short time might not feel uncomfortable, but anyone who rides on mountain and road bikes will tell you that padded bike shorts or padded bike pants are mandatory. This sportswear cushions the bones used for sitting and protects the genitals and bottom from the pressure of the body on the saddle.

The pad, also called a chamois, creates a thick cushion between the saddle and your body while helping wick away sweat. The padding is usually made of gel and foam and may have a soft fabric cover with anti-microbial properties. The thickness varies, and the ones made for longer rides will be heavier and heavier.

You can buy bicycle short liners that include the padding, and these are worn under biking pants and shorts that don’t have padding; you wouldn’t want to wear padding in both because it’d be too bulky and awkward.

Bike shorts also come in different styles for road cycling and mountain biking. Road biking shorts should fit snugly and may or may not have elasticized bands on the bottoms to hold them in place. Mountain bike shorts are looser and often have pockets; they usually have padding, which also helps protect you from all the bouncing around and vibrations.

Thinner padding can be fine for a short ride, but if it is too much, you will feel sore after riding. On the other hand, if it is too thick, it will be uncomfortable, and you may feel like you are wearing a diaper.

Look for bike shorts with more panels, as they conform to the body better than other styles. Another good feature is flat-seam stitching so the shorts won’t rub against your body. Also, remember that bike shorts come in different lengths. Some are mid-thigh or even shorter, and others come to just above the knee. The shorter ones are good for hot weather but show more leg.

• You can also wear padded bike shorts and liners to spin class.
• Many bike shorts and liners are unisex.
• The elastic waistband on the bike shorts should feel snug but not too tight or uncomfortable.
• Bike shorts that come with built-in shoulder straps are called “bibs.”
• These shorts often run small, so check the sizing chart and read the product reviews.
• Wash your bike shorts in cold water and air dry them to prevent shrinkage.