Bicycle Short

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.