Cycling
shorts or bicycling shorts as they are popularly known, are a type of
sportswear widely worn by men. These shorts are made from specially
woven fabrics for more efficiency and comfort of the wearer while
cycling. Short, skin-tight leg wear designed to improve comfort and
efficiency while cycling.
Fabrics Used in Bicycle Shorts
While initially, bicycle shorts were made from black wool and a leather
chamois, these days most of the shorts are made with lycra or spandex.
These shorts have been replaced with synthetic chamois for extra
comfort. Spandex is used in nearly 85% of the cycling shorts
manufactured worldwide. The elastic property of the fabric helps it to
cling to the body of the wearer and helps to reduce wind resistance.
Most cycling spandex is between 6- and 8- ounce material. More the
weight, higher the price of the fabric. An 8-ounce fabric is more
expensive than a similar 6-ounce one.
The shorts are also carefully designed and the hem is lined with
materials that help in keeping the shorts in a fixed position.
Manufacturers make these shorts with more panels or cuts of fabric for a
better fit. These shorts of course cost more than the normal ones.
Chamois, a patch of highly absorbent fabric that is used for padding
the cyclist's bottom. It also absorbs moisture from body and helps to
prevent rashes to the wearer.
Buying Tips
A buyer must keep the following points in mind while purchasing
cycling shirts:
- A buyer should check the number of panels in the shorts. If
the shorts have four panels, then it will be of cheap quality.
Higher number of panels mean high quality.
- A buyer should select shorts that have a light inner
padding, as it ensures better comfort and fit.
- A buyer should select a breathable fabric that allows sweat
to evaporate easily.
- A buyer should select a fabric that is elastic in nature.
- A buyer should buy a fabric that has a snug fit for
minimizing friction and moisture.
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