While bicycle shorts are not for everyone, cycling enthusiasts find them quite beneficial in bringing comfort to their hobby. These shorts, which are available for both men and women, are designed to contour to the body and reduce chafing. The specialized material also serves to improve aerodynamics and reduce wind resistance. Countless models are available which are produced by literally hundreds of companies around the world. Seemingly subtle differences in these cycling shorts can make a big difference in comfort, as everyone has a different body shape. Read on to learn how bicycle shorts can make a difference in your life.
Men vs. Women:
From the legs up to the hips, men and women have a very similar profile. However, it is around waist where the differences lie. Women tend to have a narrower and longer waist when compared to men. A man trying to fit into a pair of women’s shorts may feel quite constricted. Bicycle short companies take care to create a longer inseam for women so that they experience a comfortable fit. In general, women prefer to wear shorts with a shorter leg length, whereas men prefer the shorts to cover their quadriceps. However, these common traits do not define every individual. As such, it may be more comfortable for you to use shorts which are designed for the opposite gender which is perfectly okay.
What are “Panels”?
Panels are a special feature in bike shorts which are designed to orient the user in a cycling position. These shorts start with 4 panels and go all the way up to 8. The more panels a pair of bicycle shorts has, the more curvature it will exhibit. For example, an 8-panel pair of shorts will curve your body forward much more than a 4-panel pair. As a result, shorts with extreme curvature can be relatively uncomfortable to wear while standing upright. After all, these shorts are designed for cycling, not walking. When possible, sit on a bicycle while trying on a new pair of shorts to ensure it feels good while in the cycling position. New cyclists should stick with 4 or 6 panel shorts, while intermediates and advanced riders do well with the 8-panel.
Fabrics:
The fabrics used in bicycle shorts are designed around their ability to stretch, contour and absorb/release moisture. Spandex is a widely used material and has excellent stretching properties. The downside to spandex is that it requires a special finish and/or knitting in order to properly wick moisture and allow your skin to breath. As such, spandex is commonly knitted with other materials like polyester which promotes the characteristics that spandex cannot achieve alone. Advanced materials do cost more but can be well worth it.