Choosing the right cycling shorts: our advice

Cycling shorts are essentially a second skin made of Lycra. This material has the advantage of being elastic and sticking to the skin, which prevents friction and irritation. It also improves aerodynamics. Another advantage is optimal freedom of movement. For all terrains, you can opt for mountain bike shorts, which are slightly wider but also have a reinforced construction suitable for difficult terrain. Short cycling shorts are obviously preferable for summer. When temperatures drop, long cycling shorts are a must.|>
But if the shorts are so tight-fitting, it's because this also gives them vascular and muscular properties. By compressing the thighs, the shorts promote muscle drainage during exercise. Even after exercise, you can keep your shorts on for a while. This helps prevent muscle soreness and fatigue. For example, the X-Bionic shorts in the Effektor range are designed entirely for performance with the Partial Kompression system, which improves blood flow while allowing optimal evaporation of perspiration. Note that the thickness of the Lycra fabric determines the compression force. A lightweight summer cycling shorts may have less compression than a normal pair. Finally, in terms of comfort, on rough roads, cycling shorts will support the muscles and reduce vibrations transmitted to the cyclist's body.Many brands offer cycling shorts with a high level of technical features. Etxeondo, Assos, Mavic, Castelli and Santini cycling shorts offer a wide range of options, so you're sure to find the perfect pair.The chamois insert The purpose of the chamois insert is to filter out any unevenness in the ground and reduce friction caused by pedalling. It is positioned over the ischial tuberosity and perineum. For your comfort, it should therefore cover this area perfectly, without protruding. This piece must be skin-friendly (antibacterial treatment). It must also wick away perspiration during exercise.

Made of foam or gel, they can offer different thicknesses. A comfortable insert should provide good cushioning for several hours. It can be sewn onto the cycling shorts or integrated into them. The latter solution avoids seams, which can cause irritation or even burns on pressure points.

If you are an occasional cyclist or cover long distances when hiking, we recommend a thick, comfortable gel insert. If you are looking for performance and are a regular cyclist, choose elasticated cycling shorts that wick away perspiration effectively.

Choosing women's cycling shorts

Cycling shorts are not unisex. Women's cycling shorts are usually strapless and the insert is obviously designed to fit the female anatomy. For example, it should not have a central seam.

Moisture wicking

Cycling shorts must ensure good sweat wicking. There are various solutions available. For example, X-Bionic uses cutting-edge 3D-BionicSphere technology, which allows sweat to evaporate during exercise while retaining heat when at rest. More traditionally, a mesh or openwork fabric on the stomach or back allows for good ventilation.

Care and hygiene: washing cycling shorts

Lycra does not tolerate high temperatures or tumble drying: hand washing is recommended. Cycling shorts should obviously be washed after every ride. When drying, avoid folding the insert as this could cause it to lose its shape or even crack. You can use a detergent specifically designed for cycling shorts, such as Assos Active Wear Cleanser. With a neutral pH, it is designed for hand washing, promotes breathability and neutralises odours.

Cycling shorts and inserts are treated against bacteria, but this protection wears off over time. A cycling shorts cream will not only reduce friction but also prevent bacterial infections.

The value for money of cycling shorts

Expect to pay less than £30 for a pair of entry-level shorts and up to £300 for a pair of high-end long shorts. There is no hard and fast rule for finding the right cycling shorts for you: you may find that you can't stand a high-tech model, while a more modest one fits you like a glove.

Bear in mind that cycling shorts don't last forever, even the most expensive ones. Exposure to the elements and friction will eventually wear them out (tears, loose seams, sagging inserts, etc.). However, mid-range cycling shorts offer a good lifespan and perfectly adequate performance.Lifespan It is difficult to give a precise lifespan for cycling shorts. Less than one season for cycling shorts used in competition, two to three years with moderate use. Furthermore, it is not necessarily the seams that will give way first, but more likely the insert. This will eventually sag or even crack over time, compromising comfort. Our tips for choosing cycling shorts in a few points: Choose shorts with minimal seams. These can cause irritation and chafing.

Make sure that the silicone anti-ride bands at the bottom of the thighs do not squeeze them to the point of cutting off blood circulation.

Straps or no straps: it's up to you, but they are recommended. They keep the shorts in place very effectively without squeezing the waist, allowing air to circulate for ventilation.

Cycling shorts must be perfectly suited to your body shape. Given the special cut of the shorts, they should be tried on in a cycling position, leaning forward. Ideally, on a bike saddle! If the shorts ride up to your thighs, they are too big. If the straps dig into your skin or the shorts are too tight around your thighs, they are too small. The insert should be positioned over the sit bones and perineum. Finally, consider practical and safety aspects. Pockets on the back of the cycling shorts allow you to carry energy bars or a CO2 cartridge. Reflective strips will make you more visible in traffic at night.