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Cycling Shorts
Cycling shorts are one of the most important pieces of clothing for every cyclist. They provide comfort during long rides, reduce friction and support the muscles. The right cycling shorts can make the difference between a pleasant ride and painful saddle discomfort.
Anatomy of Cycling Shorts
The Chamois (Padding)
The heart of every cycling short is the chamois, also called padding. Originally made from real chamois leather, modern pads are made from high-tech foam materials with different density zones.
Functions of the Chamois:
- Pressure distribution on the sit bones
- Vibration absorption during riding
- Moisture management through breathable materials
- Reduction of friction and chafing
- Antibacterial treatment to prevent skin irritation
Materials and Fabrics
Modern cycling shorts are made from highly elastic, breathable materials:
Leg Cuffs and Grippers
The leg cuffs of modern cycling shorts are equipped with silicone grippers that prevent them from riding up during cycling. These are available in various designs:
- Single silicone strip - Classic variant, proven and reliable
- Double silicone strip - Even better hold, ideal for intensive rides
- Silicone dots - Less pressure on the skin, more comfortable on longer rides
- Elastic cuff without silicone - For sensitive skin, less hold
Types of Cycling Shorts
Bib Shorts
Cycling shorts with integrated suspenders are the first choice for professional cyclists and ambitious amateurs.
Advantages of Bib Shorts:
- No pressure at the waistband, better circulation
- Chamois stays optimally positioned
- No slipping shorts during riding
- Even pressure distribution across the shoulders
- Professional appearance and aerodynamic fit
Disadvantages:
- Awkward for bathroom breaks
- Higher price than classic cycling shorts
- Not equally suitable for every body type
Classic Cycling Shorts (Waist Shorts)
Cycling shorts with elastic waistband are a good alternative, especially for recreational riders and beginners.
Ideal for:
- Occasional riders and beginners
- People with pressure sensitivity on the shoulders
- Rides with frequent breaks
- Combinations with jerseys without back pocket
Long Cycling Shorts (Bib Tights)
For colder temperatures, long cycling shorts with suspenders are essential. They provide protection from wind, cold and moisture.
Material variants:
- Thermo fleece - For temperatures between 5-15°C
- Softshell - Wind and water resistant, 0-10°C
- Winter fleece with membrane - For extreme cold below 0°C
Knee-Length Cycling Shorts (Knickers)
A compromise for spring and autumn are knee-length cycling shorts that extend below the knee.
Application:
- Transition temperatures 10-18°C
- Can be combined with knee or leg warmers
- Alternative to long pants in variable weather
Finding the Right Fit
Size Selection
Fit is crucial for cycling shorts. Shorts that are too loose cause friction, shorts that are too tight cause circulation problems.
Fitting Checklist:
- Chamois lies flat, no wrinkles
- Leg cuffs sit firmly without cutting in
- Shorts fit skin-tight without being constricting
- Suspenders (on bib shorts) don't press on shoulders
- Waistband (on classic shorts) sits comfortably on the stomach
- No cutting seams in riding position
- Sufficient freedom of movement when pedaling
Important: Never wear cycling shorts with underwear! The chamois is designed for direct skin contact. Underwear causes chafing and negates the padding effect.
Gender-Specific Differences
Men's and women's cycling shorts differ significantly in the anatomy of the chamois and the cut.
Padding Density and Purpose
The thickness and density of the chamois should match the intended use:
Racing Cycling Shorts
Padding thickness: 8-12 mm
Properties: Thin, light, aerodynamic
Ideal for: Races, fast training sessions, riders with good saddle adaptation
Endurance Cycling Shorts
Padding thickness: 12-15 mm
Properties: Medium padding, balanced comfort-performance ratio
Ideal for: Long training rides, marathons, gran fondos
Long-Distance Cycling Shorts
Padding thickness: 15-20 mm
Properties: Maximum padding, comfort above all
Ideal for: Bike tours, bikepacking, multi-day rides, beginners
More padding is not automatically better! Padding that is too thick can impair sensitivity and lead to chafing due to excessive material accumulation. Choose the padding thickness according to your intended use and experience.
Care and Maintenance
Washing Instructions
Cycling shorts require special care to maintain their functionality:
Proper Care Step-by-Step:
- Wash immediately after riding - Bacteria and sweat attack the material
- Hand wash or gentle cycle - Maximum 30°C, no fabric softener
- Use special detergent - For functional clothing without re-greasing additives
- Do not spin - Protects elastane fibers and chamois
- Air dry - Never in the dryer, no direct sunlight
- Never iron - Heat destroys elastic fibers and coated materials
Tip: Professionals wash their cycling shorts immediately by hand after every ride, even before showering. This prevents sweat and bacteria from drying in and significantly extends the lifespan.
Lifespan and Replacement
A high-quality cycling short lasts 2-3 seasons or 150-200 rides with good care.
Signs for replacement:
- Visible wear on the chamois (thin, hardened)
- Decreasing elasticity of the fabric
- Stretched leg cuffs
- Defective grippers or seams
- Discoloration from sweat that can no longer be removed
- Unpleasant odor despite washing (bacteria in the padding)
Common Problems and Solutions
Chafing and Saddle Sores
Chafing occurs due to friction between skin and saddle or shorts.
Causes:
- Wrong short size (too loose or too tight)
- Worn or unsuitable chamois
- Rides that are too long without sufficient adaptation
- Wrong saddle position on the bike
- Unsuitable saddle
Solutions:
- Use chamois cream before riding
- Adjust saddle position (professional bike fitting)
- Switch to shorts with better suited padding
- Gradually increase riding duration
- Hygienic washing routine after every ride
For more information on saddle discomfort and how to avoid it, see our detailed article on saddle discomfort.
Slipping Cycling Shorts
If the shorts ride up during cycling, there are several possible causes:
Problem: Shorts too large
Solution: Choose one size smaller, cycling shorts should fit skin-tight
Problem: Worn grippers
Solution: Buy new cycling shorts or have grippers replaced
Problem: Too much leg hair
Solution: Many cyclists shave their legs for better gripper hold
Buying Guide
Budget Categories
Tip: Invest in high-quality cycling shorts! The comfort on long rides is absolutely worth the extra cost. A 150-€ pair that lasts 3 years is cheaper in the long run than three 50-€ pairs that each only last one season.
Renowned Manufacturers
Premium Brands:
- Assos - Swiss quality, pioneer in cycling shorts
- Castelli - Italian design, high functionality
- Rapha - British premium brand with lifestyle focus
- Le Col - Modern cuts, good price-performance ratio
Mid-Range with Good Price-Performance Ratio:
- Gore Wear - German quality, versatile products
- Endura - Scottish brand, robust and durable
- Craft - Scandinavian functionality
- DHB/Wiggle - House brands with solid reputation
Budget-Friendly:
- Decathlon (B'Twin/Van Rysel) - Good entry-level model
- Amazon Basics Cycling - Surprisingly good quality
- Chinese Direct Brands - Aliexpress, Banggood (quality varies)
Seasonal Differences
Summer Cycling Shorts
Properties:
- Light, quick-drying materials
- Maximum breathability
- Thinner padding for better ventilation
- Mesh inserts on suspenders and hips
- Reflective elements for safety
Temperature range: 18-35°C
Winter Cycling Shorts
Properties:
- Thermo fleece inside
- Wind and water resistant outer layer
- Thicker, insulating padding
- Longer cut (bib tights to ankle)
- Reflective elements (shorter days)
Temperature range: -10 to +10°C
Checklist: Cycling Shorts for All Seasons
- Summer: Light bib shorts (2-3 pairs for changing)
- Spring/Autumn transition: Knee-length shorts or 3/4 pants
- Winter: Long bib tights with thermo lining
- Extreme winter: Lined tights with wind protection membrane
- Rain: Waterproof overpants or rain pants
Combinations with Other Clothing
Cycling shorts are never worn in isolation, but always combined with other pieces of clothing.
Classic Combination:
- Jersey (short or long sleeve)
- Cycling shoes with clipless pedals
- Helmet for safety
- Gloves for comfort and grip
In cooler weather additionally:
- Leg warmers (removable leg protection)
- Knee warmers for transition temperatures
- Arm warmers under the jersey
- Wind vest over the jersey
For a complete overview of proper cycling clothing, see our main article on Clothing in Cycling.
Trends and Innovations
Compression Cycling Shorts
Modern cycling shorts increasingly use graduated compression technology, which offers the following advantages:
- Improved circulation during riding
- Reduced muscle vibrations
- Faster recovery after intensive sessions
- Lower injury risk through muscle stabilization
Smart Textiles
The future of cycling shorts lies in intelligent fabrics:
Current Developments:
- Temperature-regulating fibers - Automatically adapt to body temperature
- Integrated sensors - Measure heart rate, body temperature, muscle activity
- Antibacterial nano-coatings - Self-cleaning surfaces
- Graphene-reinforced fabrics - Extremely light and robust
Sustainable Materials
Environmentally conscious manufacturers are increasingly focusing on sustainable production methods:
- Recycled polyester fibers from PET bottles
- Organic cotton for suspenders and cuffs
- Plant-tanned leather padding (in retro models)
- Cradle-to-Cradle certified materials
- Local production in Europe instead of Far East
Myths and Misconceptions
"The Thicker the Padding, the More Comfortable"
False! Padding that is too thick can even be counterproductive. Material accumulates between saddle and sit bones, leading to instability and chafing. The optimal padding thickness depends on riding style, experience and sit bone spacing.
"Cycling Shorts Must Be Broken In"
Partially correct. High-quality cycling shorts fit perfectly from the first wear. However, the skin must get used to the stress. The body needs several rides to get used to longer rides - not the shorts.
"Pros Only Wear Expensive Shorts"
Partly, partly. Pros receive sponsored equipment that is often in the premium segment. However, fit is crucial, not price. A perfectly fitting 80-€ pair is better than a poorly fitting 300-€ pair.
Related Topics
- Clothing in Cycling - Main Overview
- Jerseys - The Right Upper Body Clothing
- Cycling Shoes - Optimal Power Transfer
- Helmets - Safety in Cycling
- Avoiding and Treating Saddle Discomfort
Last Update: November 12, 2025