Bicycle Travel > Gear Talk
Choosing the cycling pants for the first time
dv817:
Hi,
I am about to purchased a Specialized Sirrus Elite, and I will need to select a pair of high quality cycling shorts for the first time, and I would appreciate any suggestions you can offer regarding those with effective padding to eliminate discomfort. I will be riding 3 to 5 times a week, for several hours primarily for exercise. I have seen very high customer reviews for Pearl iZUMi Men's Quest 6 Panel Cycling Short for $60.00, and for Pearl Izumi Attack 8 Panel Cycling Short for $80.00. I am able to pay more if the cycle shorts can help me avoid discomfort so I can enjoy the ride. Can you offer any suggestions?
John Nelson:
If you are riding none now, and go out for an 80-mile ride tomorrow, then you're going to have discomfort no matter what saddle or shorts you have. There is no way to "eliminate discomfort" in this case.
My best advice is to build up gradually. This is necessary not only for building your leg strength, but also for building endurance in your butt, back, neck, triceps, etc. If you do this, then almost any quality bike shorts, including the two you mentioned, will do fine.
BTW, it's not that hard to find expensive bike short on pretty deep discount sales.
DaveB:
John is absolutely right. It's the same as if you were to tell us you plan to start running and are going to start with 10 mile days and want a pair of shoes that will assure no aches and pains. Can't be done.
As he recommended, start with a few miles a day and work up gradually. Good cycling shorts are very beneficial but they aren't magic. Also, if you are going to ride several times a week you will need more than one pair as they should be washed after every significant ride. BTW you DO NOT wear underwear under them or you completely defeat their purpose.
There are many brands of good quality cycling shorts. Pearl is a good one but there are others and the fit is somewhat subjective so there is no guarantee they are the best for you.
johnsondasw:
I use PI shortsbut have found I have to spend $100 to get ones that are comfortable and last for a long time. Also, I always use chamois butter. It makes a difference.
John Nelson:
--- Quote from: DaveB on March 05, 2013, 07:49:52 am ---if you are going to ride several times a week you will need more than one pair as they should be washed after every significant ride.
--- End quote ---
Actually, one pair can be made to work. Wash them out in your after-ride shower, hang them up and they'll be dry in time for tomorrow's ride.
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