Padded cycling shorts perform a wide range of functions, from preventing saddle sores to making long rides more comfortable. However, many cyclists are confused about whether or not to wear underwear with padded bike shorts. The short answer is no – in fact, wearing underwear could make the pad less effective. The pad is designed to sit next to the skin, and underwear with seams can cause irritation.
The best solution is to invest in a pair of padded biking briefs, also called liner shorts. These are made to be worn under any pair of pants or shorts, and they have a thin chamois padding sewn into them. They’re usually made of a breathable, quick-drying material like that used in other technical cycling gear. Many brands offer a choice of women’s and men’s styles, from high-waisted briefs to skin-hugging boxers with nine-inch inseams.
For those who aren’t quite ready to spend the money on a full set of padded briefs, there are cycling skirts that can be worn over any pants or shorts. These are great for women who want to stay stylish when they stop to grab a coffee or take a bathroom break during a long ride.
If you are looking for an even lighter option, there are seamless hipster briefs that can be worn under any kind of pants or shorts. They’re a bit more expensive than padded briefs, but they can make the difference between riding comfortably and suffering from painful chafing on your bike ride.