Pinkbike Poll: The Great Chamois Debate - What Do You Wear While Mountain Biking?

Nov 25, 2020 at 11:04
by Daniel Sapp  
Jordan Sarrou your 2020 world champion.

Cham-yes? or Cham-no? About half of the people I ride with wear a chamois, and the other half tend to avoid them. While some people have adapted and evolved to the point of rarely or never wearing one, others won't go on a spin around the neighborhood without some padding between their nether regions and their seat.

Speaking of seats, that part of the equation becomes even more important if you're thinking of leaving the padded undergarments at home. A good saddle can be the difference between a comfortable ride and spending the next few days walking around like a bowlegged cowboy. There's also something to be said about choosing high-quality underwear that's free of uncomfortable seams if you're going to head down the no-chamois route. On the flip side, keep in mind that padded cycling shorts are designed to be worn without underwear underneath - that knowledge isn't as common as you may think.

What is it for you?

Do you wear a chamois while mountain biking?




What's your typical riding apparel?



Author Info:
danielsapp avatar

Member since Jan 18, 2007
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273 Comments
  • 219 5
 How is there not an option for "Padded spandex shorts with baggies overtop"? I don't own a bib, always ride with a chamois, always ride with baggies.
  • 24 0
 +1

I would think this is one of the more common setups. Surprised it’s not listed.
  • 25 0
 #savethenips
  • 5 0
 Same here
  • 1 0
 Yup pretty much, unless they are dirty than it is regular cotton underwear.
  • 3 0
 I don't think they meant bibs. I've bought shells with mesh liner chamois for over a decade.
  • 4 0
 This is what I do but bib with baggies was the closest choice and essentially amounted to the same thing so I picked that.
  • 17 0
 Bibs ftw, so comfortable and discrete pockets with baggies over
  • 1 0
 exactly!
  • 5 0
 Or..why no option for

"Your mums g-string"

Enough said
  • 4 0
 I was the same until I tried bibs, way more comfortable for me and having the stash pockets is great for the short rides when I don’t take my hip bag,a little bit of a pain in the ass to take a piss but I won’t go back to padded shorts,no waist band was a game changer for me
  • 15 0
 There is literally a choice that reads “ Padded shorts with baggies over them”. Your outrage is unwarranted.
  • 1 0
 um, there is that option, just not spandex.
  • 1 0
 Changed my answer to the correct one
  • 6 0
 I was disheartened when there wasn't a Buttless Chaps option....
  • 3 0
 @Loggerman: my separated shoulder spits bibs off one side.
  • 6 0
 @curendero:

All chaps are ass-less.

Just like saying "atm machine"
  • 1 0
 @VtVolk: it originally didn’t say that. It said bibs. They have since changed it.
  • 1 0
 @curendero: ALL chaps are buttless, my friend. Look at it closely.
  • 1 0
 @enis: Ah you beat me to it by a good margin.

#ACAA All Chaps Are Assless

Oi Oi
  • 1 0
 @skiwenric: Yes but that bathroom convenience issue is annoying.
  • 1 0
 @SuperHighBeam: #2 fer shure. for #1 most of the brands have figured out a very convenient opening, prob not a good look for pure roadie bibs though. With baggies over not an eyesore if willie happens to peep out.
  • 2 0
 @skiwenric: Hm, was not aware that of that upgrade to bibs. I may have to reconsider, as they are definitely much more comfortable. Now if I could just get past my mental block of "needing" to wear underwear with a chamois (or bib). I just can't seem to view my chamois as underwear.
  • 59 3
 Err, you forgot the likely most common: padded spandex shorts with baggies over. I think people picked the bib one simply because you didn't have this. Do a lot of people really ride bib-style???
  • 54 2
 Once you ride bibs it’s hard to go back imo. A lot of people who ride road and xc prefer them as well. It’s more entrained into those cycling cultures. Often there is more support and a better fit. That said not all chamois, shorts, and bibs are created equal.
  • 12 0
 @twhart20: What you said AND now bibs have pockets, we can ride in jerseys or t-shirts and still hold gear. Specialized SWAT bibs rock though I hear some came with a half chamois, don't buy those. Mine have full chamois and they are great.
  • 5 0
 Bibs are amazing, you can always stash a snack bar at the back if going for a slightly longer ride.
  • 8 0
 @twhart20: They're super comfy, but harder to pee. Shorts for me.
  • 10 1
 +1 for bibs. I used to be a diesel tech and think all this shit was ridiculous. Now I have a closet full of bibs. You might not know what you're missing.
  • 6 1
 Bought my first pair of bibs after 20+ years of riding.
Horrible decision, returned and bought regular padded shorts. But then again some folks love them.
  • 2 1
 Is that the "most common"? Not so sure. Yes, a lot of people do ride with a bib + baggy shorts.
  • 3 3
 @twhart20: What makes bibs so worthy? i personally cant get over the cost of a bib. At least the ones i have seen are 200 plus. I can buy a pair of good shorts and padded spandex for that much with money left over for a beer or 5.
  • 5 1
 @twhart20: Until you need to pee......nobody told me about that part....
  • 4 0
 @riklassen: Bibs are super comfortable because they don't have a waist band. Unfortunately they also suck because they're really hard to pee while wearing...
  • 5 2
 @riklassen: I don't think you'd regret it. Once you go bib, very few go back. And, it's not true that you can't pee. Just look for one with a lower cut across the front, and you're good.
  • 3 0
 Yes the bib bit helps hold the chamois where it is supposed to be.
  • 3 0
 Xc race bib under the regular shorts and t shirt..... Works like a dream, holds and supports everything sensitive between the legs compared to just shorts chamois, too loosey goosey
  • 4 0
 Bibs are all I own. They only really suck when you have to shit in the woods in the winter. They're awesome the rest of the time.
  • 47 2
 You pee complainers need longer wieners.
  • 4 0
 @twhart20: I’m just here to disagree.

Maybe I just have a freakishly long torso or something, but I found that the extra upward pressure exerted by bibs on my sensitive bits is decidedly uncomfortable.

Read all the hyped comments, Bought one pair, only wear them if I’m out of all other options. Won’t buy any more.

Also, my non-bob spandex drooping down isn’t, like, an issue. At least not until I’ve got a pair that’s so worn out and needs to be pitched anyway.
  • 3 0
 For longer rides, bibs are definitely the way tog go because they don't dig into your waist in front (plus bibs tend to be of a higher quality than a standard chamois, so the pad is better).
  • 2 0
 @mybaben: Sombrio make a great pair with a convenient fly. I don't use anything else. No I'm not sponsored they do fit small though, usually run M or l had to go to an XL with these, so worth it
  • 9 0
 I only ride bibs with baggies. I don’t like the baggies with liners included either. Bibs never slide down ever.
  • 1 0
 @AndrewKeen: just go out the bottom of the leg. Or is your Knick name Tom Thumb?
  • 1 0
 @atourgates: I think if they are comfortable it doesn't matter. The real issue is the chamois anyway. Cheap chamois seams will rip apart so quickly just from riding. But I have had the exact problem you have had with discomfort, with shorts and bibs. I can't tell you how differently bibs fit and feel from different companies. Taking a minute to measure yourself properly helps. But I tell you when I buy a new pair, I try them on and almost no right away if they are gunna work. If they don't I send them back. I treat bibs just like ordering shoes online...
  • 1 0
 @canuck7870: +1
  • 1 4
 @hllclmbr: you Neanderthals need a larger frontal cortex
  • 8 0
 @riklassen: The real benefit of the bibs is the suspenders prevent bunching (if the fit is right) and make sure the chamois molds to your rear. You want the chamois and bib shorts to work with your anatomy. A good pair of bibs fit like your favorite pair of shoes. Once you find the right fit, chamois, compression, durability, and price, you will end up buying more than one pair. My first pair I bought on competitive cyclist. I put the sort by "highest discount" filter on, and bought the best deal they had in my size. They were pretty good for my first pair! Wore out quick, did the same thing a few more times over the years, and have found a brand I enjoy and doesn't cost me an arm and a leg. Most bibs that cost more money are rated to be more comfortable over a longer amount of time. If you are riding huge stage races, marathons, or any other race where you are spending loads of time in the saddle, nicers bibs (and shorts) should fatigue less. If your rides are closer to an hour long you may not see the benefit as clearly as when you ride for 3 hours during the summer heat.

I want to focus on my hard efforts not my bunching shorts that cause me to squirm in the saddle. I hate spending time squirming and constantly repositioning myself to find comfort. I also am a huge fan of chamois cream if you have never tried it out, regardless of your bibs or shorts preference.

Ultimately if your ride experience isn't hindered by the kit you have then I don't think there is anything to change. The benefit of any kit is to help reduce your perceived rate of exertion so you can kick more ass and make progression easier to achieve out on the trail. (Comfy shorts or good shoes can reduce your P.R.E. just like music does for people in the gym). Food for thought. Just more bike geekery
  • 1 0
 @riklassen: those are made for riding with nothing over them. Check voler stow bibs with pockets. Similar to specialized swat bib but cheaper and actually available.
  • 3 0
 @mybaben: Giros mtb bibs have a pee flap. Best bibs ever.
  • 2 0
 Endura bibs are amazing. Pee flap, plus stash pockets. I just get weird looks after the ride when I change shirts and let the shoulder loops hang out the bottom.
  • 2 0
 @shawnca7: Yes mate! I bought a pair recently, game changer. I'm buying a second pair shortly.
  • 1 0
 @twhart20: once I tried bibs I don’t think I could go back to shorts under my baggies,one of my favorites is the Pearl Izumi liner bib,the Fox liner bib is super comfortable too but lacks stash pockets so I only wear it when I take my hip pack
  • 1 0
 @twhart20: unless you are tall. Bibs without adequate crotch to shoulder length are no fun. Bibs that hang from your shoulders and swing around like a hula hoop, also not fun
  • 1 0
 @twhart20: unless you are tall. Bibs without adequate crotch to shoulder length are no fun. Bibs that hang from your shoulders and swing around like a hula hoop, also not fun
  • 1 0
 @twhart20: I don't get bibs. Every time I've tried them I get bloody nipples, and how do you pee?
  • 1 0
 @skiwenric: Thanks for the info!
  • 1 0
 @Zach-Nielsen: Sweet. Thanks!
  • 1 1
 @lehott:

Mine’s plenty big, and my prefrontal cortex is too. You can tell my my well endowed sense of humor.
  • 1 0
 Padded Spandex Shorts = Padded Shorts. Whoever put together the poll options should have may that more clear. Hence the Padded Shorts and Baggies option IS Padded Spandex Shorts with Baggies Over.
  • 1 0
 @chuckolicious Padded Spandex Shorts = Padded Shorts. Whoever put together the poll options should have may that more clear. Hence the Padded Shorts and Baggies option IS Padded Spandex Shorts with Baggies Over.
  • 1 0
 @Chuckolicious Padded Spandex Shorts = Padded Shorts. Whoever put together the poll options should have may that more clear. Hence the Padded Shorts and Baggies option IS Padded Spandex Shorts with Baggies Over.
  • 1 0
 @SuperHighBeam: So nice, you typed it thrice? :-D Interestingly, I actually ride padded spandex shorts with pads: POC. Hip and tailbone.
  • 1 0
 @Chuckolicious: Two of the three posts I put up didn't register your user name, which I wanted to make sure you were pinged, otherwise I'd have only posted one. The poll only concerned what you wear over your derriere, hence knee pads were not mentioned. That is certainly a unique arrangement though to wear padded (non-baggy) shorts with knee pads. Now if you have padded baggy shorts that don't have a padded (compression) liner, that is a whole different animal altogether that the poll did not account for.
  • 1 0
 @SuperHighBeam: Ahh, no. The POC just have hip and tailbone. Chamix lycra, so baggies over. But otherwise I just wear standard spandex chamix under baggies.
  • 1 0
 @Chuckolicious: Ok that is definitely a unique combo. So you have padded POC baggie shorts (with hip and tailbone pads built-in) that you wear over Chamix lycra (which the poll would have called Padded Shorts). For the purposes of the poll that would qualify as Baggies over Padded Shorts, you just happen to have a second layer of padding built into your baggies. I now see the confusion.
  • 1 0
 @SuperHighBeam: Actually, I have chamois kneepads and padded shoulder straps.
  • 1 0
 @Chuckolicious: LOL. Now you're just messing with me.
  • 1 0
 @SuperHighBeam: ;-)

www.pocsports.com/us/products/hip-vpd-2.0-shorts/20342.html

Saved me from a nice hip contusion at least twice.
  • 1 0
 @Chuckolicious: Ok wow. I didn't know there was a product like this out there. That's pretty ingenious. Thank you for enlightening me. Are they a pain to wash or is it not a problem to just through them into the machine? I assume the pads are sewn in.
  • 1 0
 @SuperHighBeam: Oddly, the hip pads are sewed in, but the tailbone pads are not. They claim the material is machine safe, so I've been washing them for a couple years even with the tailbone pads in. Hang dry, of course. I can pedal all day and not feel them, so I can't really see any reason why not to wear them.
  • 3 0
 @JustinVP: Bloody nipples? What the f*ck are you nipples made of ? How do you pee, why is that a question. The fabric is stretchable you push it downward and get your dick out.
  • 2 0
 @opignonlibre: Some people are highly susceptible to chaffing. The tight fitting nature of bibs could lead to chaffing of the nipples for some. Also, some bibs are higher cut than others making the stretch maneuver you speak of nearly impossible to do.
  • 1 0
 @SuperHighBeam: Yeah, and way worse for us tall guys, they get stretched reaaaaally tight. Guitar strings against the nips, and pulled too tight to pull down.
  • 1 0
 @JustinVP: Yep. I concur, at 6'2" I can relate to that stretch. If you 5'8"-5'10" it's probably not that bad.
  • 1 0
 I’m 6’4 - gotta take the time to get all your measurements. Specialized makes bibs that are specifically “tall.” Like buying a sport jacket - regular and long for us gangly folks
  • 1 1
 @JustinVP @SuperHighBeam at 5'10" they tend to be tight when brand new. The key is to put incline your upper body down like when you are wearing a motorcycle suit. Once the bib has had a few washes and hours of ridinhg it should have stretched enough to be able to pull it down comfortably. There are many brands, you don't have to choose the worse either.
  • 1 0
 @opignonlibre: That may be true, but it's still more inconvenient than just wearing conventional padded shorts so long as you can tolerate the elastic band around your waist.
  • 1 0
 @twhart20: Good to know. I wasn't aware that "tall size" was a thing. Now where's the brand that makes a tall size that isn't specifically associated with a bicycle brand? I like my wearable gear to be from a brand that doesn't make bicycles.
  • 1 0
 @SuperHighBeam: You shouldn't worry about the brand - buy what works. Specialized work in conjunction with exercise research labs for their Body Geometry equipment. You wear your shorts and jersey over the SWAT bibs and no-one will ever know. Pearl Izumi make a bibs with pockets, and their chamois is pretty nice too, but their pockets seem more of an afterthought with a panel stitched on, whereas the SWAT rear pockets are 'engineered'.
  • 1 0
 @iamamodel: Yes brand image is a superficial construct, and is arguably irrelevant. Still I like to buy products that make me feel good about my purchase. I went through my phase of using lots of Specialized gear, now I've moved onto a slightly different image I guess and Specialized just doesn't jive with that for whatever reason. I'm not saying Specialized makes poor quality products, they don't. Specialized just doesn't make products that appeal to me anymore. Pearl Izumi has never been appealing for whatever reason.
  • 44 9
 Now that we have nice compression shorts and proper width saddles the diaper just isn't necessary anymore. If you think you need a chamois for a ride under two hours maybe you should check your saddle fit. Turns out I have wide sit bones and once I figured that out and that literally every saddle I've ever had was way too narrow. Got a correct width SQLab saddle and problem solved.
  • 9 2
 So true, I hate the feel of a big wet diaper. Good wicking underwear and a good saddle are all I use now. For me Spank makes the perfect fitting saddle but its a pretty common narrow shape.
  • 1 0
 no more saddle sores either!
  • 1 0
 how do they measure your sit bone? always wondered if my saddle actually fits
  • 10 0
 @Nikewatch: find a Specialized store and sit on the Ass-o-meter!
  • 8 0
 @Nikewatch: you can do it yourself by sitting your ass on a piece of cardboard and measuring the distance between the indentations, tho SQlab is probably more scientific than that
  • 3 0
 @kleinblake: The SQ lab is not more scientific than that.
Met up with the SQlab rep for a fitting, it's just a spiky plastic sheet with a sheet of paper over it.
Also did measurements at the Specialized dealer.
Sitting on a piece cardboard at home yielded the most accurate easy to read results.
  • 2 0
 Totally agree - 2-3 hours is fine with gear that fits. If I'm lucky enough to ride days in a row I'll perhaps put bibs on for the second day, but for the most part a chamois isn't required for shorter rides.
  • 5 2
 @tacosareawesome: Good wicking chamois won't have that wet diaper feeling, but a lot of cheaper ones will.
  • 10 0
 Take it from someone who's learned the hard way: CHAMOIS ARE A CRUCIAL PROTECTIVE LAYER!!!

You're dirt jumping so you figure "Well I'm not actually riding around seated like on a normal bike, why bother with a chamois?"

And then you slip both pedals in the air and land a*shole first on the tip of your saddle and have weird trauma shits for the rest of the day.

YOU'VE BEEN WARNED, PEOPLE!
  • 2 0
 right? I got a specialized seat and some saxx underoos and have not looked back. I don't ride over 2-3 hours unless I'm at a bike park so no diaper for me
  • 1 0
 SQ Labs saddles are great! Also good are the Fabric Line flat and some (over priced) Specialized. SQ is the best, the other two have hard plastic edges that will bruise your thighs if you ride a lot of rowdy descents.

Chamois: I love riding w/out pad, but get saddle sores from seams in any brand of athletic compression shorts. When I rode less I could get away w/compression shorts just fine.
  • 1 0
 @kleinblake: legend, thank you
  • 23 2
 Commando under Daisy Dukes ftw.
  • 17 0
 You bring back a nasty memory. I was teaching a guy how to do squats and each time he was at the bottom of the squat a ball came out the side for a look. After only two reps I thought his technique was good enough.
  • 6 0
 RENO 911, Officer Dangle...
  • 1 0
 @iamamodel: Heard something similar about a guy who used to play on my high school rugby team years ago, would go commando under the shorts and hence the call "balls out rugby" became a thing for the team hahaha
  • 1 0
 @Artikay13: I hope he was in the back row of the scrum.
  • 1 0
 @iamamodel: no idea it was before my time lmao
  • 18 2
 My main gripe with riding chamois-less is the lack of protection of the dangling bits. It's not just about the backside. If I wear padded lycra with an unpadded seat on the road bike, I could wear unpadded shorts with a padded seat on the enduro bike, but it's the front protection issue that makes me use the chamois under the shorts.
  • 15 1
 Agreed. Anyone else who has accidentally landed with their genitals between the back tire and frame will know the value of a chamois.
  • 1 1
 THIS
  • 3 1
 Yep! Damn near castrated myself once.
  • 2 0
 There are tales of dirt jumpers who've had their nuts sucked into the 1 inch gap between their saddle and rear wheel.
  • 2 0
 @rezrov: I had a friend lose both balls on a bmx when we were younger.
  • 2 0
 Yeah, I mostly use it for this as well. I also always seem to slam on my hips and still have scars from rocks digging in when I've slid out so I started wearing Leatt impact liners (they have hip pads) on days with more consequence and especially park days.
  • 2 0
 @zarban: I wear my Leatt 4.0's on pretty much every ride. Its the easy rides that my mind wanders and I slide out on and the impacts are perfect for that. Of course they also work great on the faster days when things go wrong. I'm just 1 year & 1 week in and 1400 miles and they are splitting at some seams. Hoping for a discount code for a new set since it happened just after the warranty mark.
  • 1 0
 These are words of wisdom. Speaking from experience, I tore my urethra open impacting the back of my saddle on an OTB, and wouldn't wish the pain (or 2+ weeks with a catheter) on anyone, so yes, protecting your dangly bits, taint, and butt are all important. Sometimes I ride Commando, but I know better.
  • 1 0
 @woofer2609: damn man! We were driving back from a bike ride Sunday and I was joking about how I'd get bruised dick riding back in the day because we didn't have droppers. Never imagined it could have been a torn urethra. Hope all is fully functional and the ladies love you.
  • 2 0
 @MattyBoyR6: Thanks Matty, yes, it heeled up fine, and everything works. I have a picture of the bloody shorts I was wearing at the time. It scared me pretty good at the time.
  • 13 0
 Ditched the chamois as mountain bike fit got more upright. Got the weight on the sitbones. No chamois means better breathability, so less saddle sores (and I don’t have to peel out of padded shorts right after a ride). If you’ve been on a chamois for years but you’ve gone to a more modern fit on your MTB, try a nice pair of lucra briefs. If it works, it’s great to ditch the diaper pad.

However, on drop bar bikes, still rocking a pad.
  • 12 0
 I've sewed shamwow rags into all of my underwear.
  • 10 0
 There shouldn't be any 'debate'. You either wear chamois because it is more comfortable for you, or you don't wear chamois (for the same reason). Pretty simple.
  • 5 0
 This is Pinkbike sir!
  • 5 0
 I mean... it's pretty obvious that this is market research, right? How else are MTB companies going to actually know if people prefer padded shorts, bibs, baggies, etc?

Still, it's a bit of fun and helps companies cater to the masses.
  • 7 0
 I do like a chamois, buy I prefer the minimal ones. Too bulky and they are worse than no padding at all. I also usually where shorts with hip pads on anything other than pure-xc rides. I've got the dirt with those pads about as many times as I've hit the dirt on knee pads.
  • 5 1
 A question to the "Padded bib shorts with baggies over them" crowd: Why? They are desiged for long days in the saddle and adding a layer of longer and looser fabric over them only takes away from their advantages. I get it if the riding requires knee pads, but for anything that doesn't it just seems silly.
  • 16 1
 Pockets are nice. And honestly style is a big part as well.
  • 3 0
 7mesh foundation bib designed to go under a baggies short. As a guide shorts with a couple of pockets are important to my daily riding/ routine/ kit management.
  • 1 1
 It’s hot where I ride and I don’t care if anyone can see my dingus, baggy jersey is fine but nothing over the bibs on the bottom, it’s just another layer to keep heat in.
  • 5 0
 Pockets, style, knee pad coverage, and because guess what happens if you crash and tear your spandex shorts with nothing underneath...?
  • 1 0
 My bib shorts are so old you can nearly see through the lycra. Perfect for putting under baggies. Also, yes, knee pads all the time.
  • 1 0
 I've found that the baggies protect my expensive bib shorts from ripping when I wreck. In the end, it might save me just a little bit of money and from having to track down bib shorts that I really like.
  • 4 0
 Tri shorts.

Basically spandex boxer briefs with a a credit card sized chamois (not butt sponge) for a little chafe protection. Dries fast, doesn’t make you waddle. Best of all worlds.

Compression helps with the slams too.
  • 4 0
 *with baggies
  • 1 0
 That's my personal favorite, as well. What brands are you running? I have a pair of Zoot ones from a couple years back, but can't find them any more.
+1 for the non diaper-sized chamois.
  • 9 0
 I ride in Levi’s jeans
  • 3 1
 old jeans cut to knees level, works perfectly well
  • 4 2
 @elyari: or just regular jeans with some stretch. Excellent riding attire.
  • 1 0
 Yes, team t-shirt and jeans over here!
  • 1 0
 Hard. More comfortable than moto/DH longs
  • 4 0
 Never used anything other than seamless boxers, tights in winter, baggy shorts all year round. The thought of dirty wet chamois sound like wearing a nappy to me, somthing to hold water and mud and grind away for a raw bum
  • 4 1
 Taint no debate! I ride prison style. Boxer briefs and baggy shorts. Go in tough, stay tougher and do your time. I don’t know what that means but I thought it sounded good. Chamois feel gross and cream...is beyond disgusting.
  • 7 1
 I prefer to ride in a gorilla costume.
  • 2 0
 @sweetdaddycool
  • 1 0
 @patten09: haha.
  • 6 0
 I went to a baptism once where the priest was dressed in a gorilla costume. It was a blessing in disguise really...
  • 7 0
 Balls to the seat.
  • 6 1
 But I still want to argue about whether I like carrying a chain tool or not
  • 1 0
 Chain tool and spare quick link are essential items. I like to take tools to fix anything that would mean I wouldn't be able to ride. Chain tool, quick link, tube, pump, multitool and a few cable ties. Should fix most trail side problems
  • 1 0
 ehhhhh I carry so much shit that I figure if i snap my chain i might as well hike the ups and ride the downs.
  • 5 0
 is it not normal to not own "cycling" clothes? I ride in street clothes and just wear my fivetens all the time
  • 2 0
 Switched from bibs and cream to synthetic undies this year and never looked back. Fruit of the Loom micro-mesh undies are my favorite (also tried Ex-Officio). The air flow, comfort, lack of saddle sores, cheaper cost, and not being in a damp nasty sponge are huge positives.
  • 2 0
 I expected pinkbike demographics to be more on the hardcore gravity scale.

Rather have the padding on the saddle than in my shorts. Don't need padding up front to hide my bulge when I'm wearing baggy shorts already. Inconvenient to need to change in and out of them for rides. It's pretty much a diaper with how it absorbs/collects piss and fecal matter, and it seems people can't deny it regarding how they hygienically treat it.

Cycling shorts are way heavier, thicker, less breathable, and more expensive than high-quality performance underwear.

As far as long rides go, your ass breaks in as you do them more regularly. Going a week between long rides doesn't stress it frequently enough to break it in...
  • 5 3
 I am pretty gobsmacked at the amount of people who admit they use one. I've never used one on over 30 years of riding. Wouldn't even cross my mind. If you have decent shorts and a saddle that fits you properly you shouldn't need one.
  • 4 1
 Same here. There's all these people saying good bibs are a game changer but for me it seems like a solution to a problem that doesn't exist. Maybe some people are more sensitive down there.
  • 3 0
 @shami: Yeah I was pretty amazed at the volume of users. Maybe we are just built a bit better down there than others lol!
  • 3 0
 @shami: some people need to tape their nipples so they dont bleed when running too lol
  • 2 0
 Pro-tip: roadie bibs are arguably more developed than XC. Get some quality road bibs (high-end DHB is amazing value, but Assos/Rapha/Castelli et al are really, really good if you can afford it) and put your baggies over the top.

No-one will ever know, but you will be happy for hours on end.
  • 1 0
 I personally prefer quality bibs under baggies,I used to wear chamois shorts but once I tried a good bib I won’t go back,no waist band is so nice,also once I got a proper size SqLab saddle it all but eliminated most discomfort so for short rides I’ll just wear a 9” UnderArmor boxer brief,chamois or no chamois is super personal but I’d recommend an SqLab 611 saddle to everyone,our mountain bikes and gravel bikes all have them now
  • 4 0
 Got an SQLab saddle and no longer needed any padding. Lack of padding keeps things cooler. 10/10 would recommend.
  • 1 0
 Love my SqLab 611,I don’t think I’d ever ride another saddle,all bikes in the future will immediately get one,it was really a game changer for my wife and on my gravel bike
  • 1 0
 @Loggerman @ratedgg For a real slice of heaven, an SQLab saddle (got the 611 and 612), AND their One10 shorts are the best combo in my 30+ years in the saddle.

Decided to take a chance on them, and now I'm never going back.

They're definitely the anti-diaper shorts. Minimalist, and super air cooled too.

SQLab makes up for the lack of thickness in typical German engineering fashion.
  • 3 0
 Tbf, padded undershorts are amazing. How I managed without them for over 10 years I'll never know. Good quality ones don't feel like a nappy so it is worth investing.
  • 1 0
 Invested in Wish ones and it was all good to not pay a logo.
  • 1 0
 Crap padded shorts are crap. Good padded shorts are the best single investment you can make, and preferably bibs. And they don't have to be supper expensive, brands like Altura, Lusso and Funkier offer some solid kit at less than silly prices. Just make sure they breath, fit and aren't made of sponge like a Sports Direct Own Brand and you will have life and comfort revolutionized. Admittedly your saddle may be shite, or a poor fit, and getting a measure on your sit bones will help, but after 5hrs pedaling, the pad is a life saver.
  • 5 0
 why are y'all still using chamois? This is 2020 get a proper seat!
  • 1 0
 Padded shorts feel like wearing a diaper to me haha. Definitely helps but eventually it just felt too weird. My ass has just gotten used to riding and I usually ride minimum 5 days a week. Maybe for a super long xc ride it would be necessary but my butt has adjusted. Maybe PB riders aren't regularly showering haha?
  • 1 0
 Obviously skinny jean shorts and a t shirt. For real, have had near death experiences with loose clothing getting caught on the saddle or the V brake or whatever when launching myself into the air! I almost quit skateboarding when everyone started wearing “baggies”.
  • 1 0
 Can't relate. I wear the same thing that i wore when i was ten years old , although it's a little tight .
Seriously , shorts , t shirt , converse high tops .
I'm 75 and it's still wear the same thing if hot enough , other wise it's a long sleeve t shirt . ????
  • 1 0
 Ive got some Endura padded boxers that I wear under baggies. Switching from normal underwear to bike specific underwear was a game changer for me. It wicks and dries quickly and doesn't chafe at all. So much more comfortable. The padding is minimal on the boxers, I dont even notice it.
  • 1 0
 No chamois no problems. Normally ride ~2 hrs at a time, but have done 8 hour rides with just Uniqlo Airism boxer briefs and baggy shorts. But I also prefer loose fitting cotton tank tops in super hot weather, so what do I know.
  • 1 1
 I was thinking about this the other day, a seat that has like a few degrees of tilt that has a sort of spring pivot contraption where the seat rails mount with fairly firm tension so when you’re on steep climbs the seat is tilted forward but on flatter ground the seat could tilt back if you kind of lean back on the seat. For instance when you’re cruising on a fire road at good pace but want to sit down but stay upright. At least for me it would make things a lot more comfortable.
  • 5 1
 Should have an option for Danger Holm style shorts with padded britches
  • 1 0
 I'm just glad they had no options for: Full Commando, Speedo's or G-string as Pinkbike may have gotten some checkmarks...lol

All guys, please do not wear chamois on the outside, or at least do not get off your bike. The biggest problem for me is, I find most chamois fit way too tight and are just too restrictive. However, when riding trails I usually wear my baggie shorts (came with chamois sewn in) that fit and stretch really well, and most importantly, not too restrictive and still supportive in the right place where it counts. Sometimes I just wear good supportive sports underwear that also work well. Without this there is the risk of damage between the family jewels and the bike seat...
  • 2 0
 Looks like they added "Jorts. The shorter the better." just for you. And that Swedish dude.
  • 1 0
 @boozed: Please no! .Even when all boozed up riding a stationary bike, this sounds wrong...lol
.
  • 6 2
 If you go mostly downhill, no chamois, if you go mostly uphill, chamois.
  • 1 0
 Why isn't this an option
  • 5 0
 Leopard skin underpants.
  • 2 0
 Did you ever race Mountain Mayhem. Team Leopard Skin Thong are a site to behold/try to forget....!
  • 3 0
 Chamois on the hardtail, no chamois on the full suspension. A good chamois adds like .5" of rear wheel travel.
  • 2 0
 I stopped using chamois ever since I started using ISM saddles, which are far more comfortable and less numbing than conventional saddles.
  • 1 0
 ISM saddle?
  • 1 0
 @DylanH93: Yup. On my mountain bike and fat bike, I use their PM 2.0 model.
  • 2 0
 I used to ride chamois all of the time - 30yrs ago. Now ... whatever. Most of my rides are ~10km and I don't have chaffing problems so don't bother.
  • 1 0
 Long baggies over mtb. underwear. Not as thick as chamois, just right and reasonably priced. I apologize if this comment has been made but I'm not reading all that up there.
  • 4 0
 I bought a WTB Volt and haven't needed a pad.
  • 1 0
 Same here. Curiously though... I bought the cheapest option Volt as it was the only one left in stock. A friend of mine who also has the Volt but the more expensive version was amazed at how much more comfortable mine was.
  • 1 0
 @DidNotSendIt: same width? I own two Volts, and share the same opinion that the cheaper one is more comfy. But the Comp I have is a medium and the Pro is a narrow, and I suspect my sit bone width to be medium.
  • 2 0
 I’ll only wear a bib for the storage aspect, once you build up ur taint and find a comfy seat the chamois does f*ckall besides turning ur grundle into a jungle
  • 2 0
 still dont get the whole tshirt and flannel thing. jerseys don't soak up sweat and have nice little pockets to store your snacks. TOO COOL FOR THAT BRO
  • 1 0
 I own both tshirts and jerseys and for some reason prefer to wear a tshirt for riding. I know cotton is rotten and all that conventional outdoor wisdom but unless it's raining out I just prefer the feel of a cotton shirt.
  • 1 0
 @shami: cotton? If at least you said you were wearing merino I could vaguely understand and I do too. But just thinking about the soaky and smelly cotton shirt at the end of the ride...
  • 1 0
 @opignonlibre: I don't really seem to have that problem but I live in a pretty temperate climate so maybe I just don't get that sweaty. I usually go for a thin t-shirt if it's warmer out and it never seems any worse than synthetics in that regard. I can relate though, cotton feels gross if it gets wet. If it doesn't work for you by all means stick with synthetics and wool, you do you bro.
  • 1 0
 Thinking about trying a chamois? Wash it every. single. time
Hygiene is super important. Some roadie teams even have a separate washing machine for each rider on the stage races
  • 1 0
 I wouldnt mind trying them, I have never met anyone that uses them other than a roadie. The wet weather and mud we have pretty much all end up wet and mud regardless of waterproofs, even buffed away stitching in several of my shorts
  • 1 0
 I'll be honest I was today years old when I finally googled "chamois" for the first time and learned what it is. Been riding since like grade 8, so 12+ years Big Grin
  • 3 0
 So now you're tomorrow years old and grade 20+?
  • 4 0
 @husstler: No I'm still today years old. Tomorrow I might be tomorrow years old but it'll be today by then too. I'm not grade 8 anymore, currently grade 10.9 high tensile alloy steel; quenched and tempered
  • 2 0
 A nice product would be bib style(w/back pockets) but without the chamois. Chamios just smell too bad.
  • 1 0
 Use butt cream or nappy cream and they don't stink. Sudocrem is the best and it cost the least and you don't need as much.
  • 2 0
 I tend not to sniff my bibs or anyone else's. Also, I have a washing machine.

Nukeproof almost has you; they do bibs with storage, but with a chamois. You could always get out the sewing kit and remove the chamois...
  • 1 0
 @boozed: ya man, just the material for bib shorts are thick...thinkn make some like performance underwear w# pockets...maybe removable chamois?
Cant help but smell mine...hangn around during a beer etc. Of course i change soon but cant always
  • 5 1
 Jeans
  • 2 0
 I always wear lycra with Troy Lee, Fox, Endura...... shorts on top. Never just lycra ESPECIALLY in Jamaica
  • 2 1
 "When you're in Jamaica have a nice day"?
  • 2 0
 Bibs with shammy. But bibs have pockets for an extra collapsible water bottle and gels.
  • 1 0
 I wear padded shorts under baggies for pretty much everything except park days. For park riding I just wear some wicking boxer briefs under baggies.
  • 3 0
 Surely you mean 'the jorter the better'?
  • 2 1
 Full spandex, no sleeves.
Chest protector & Bell Super2.
Clipless 100%!!
Riding my Trance Advanced -1
Moded: 160mm Pike RCT3 & DPX2
  • 1 0
 You ride spandex on a big travel bike with a full face at a bike park?

Wow, you sure got powerful self confidence.

And yet you still look like a goober, just saying.
  • 1 0
 No no Not full face. But ya, helps with Strava
  • 3 0
 27.5” wheels, no water bottle and no chamois...ALL WRONG!
  • 2 1
 Someone please make bibs with swat style pockets and no chamois. Love the fit and feel of bibs and the storage but over chamois for most rides.
  • 1 0
 Be interested to know if there's an obvious split based on country or not. I didn't realise anyone used chammies other than xc and road riders.
  • 2 0
 Riding DH in sweatpants is a whole new frontier of comfort.
  • 1 0
 Somehow cannot not wear a cham on the road bike, but never bothered on the mountain bike.
  • 1 0
 Bib is one of those words that if you say it enough stops sounding like a real word.
  • 2 0
 Step one bamboo undies,game changer
  • 1 0
 I ride a decent amount of road/gravel. When I ride MTB I just wear those bibs underneath baggie shorts.
  • 3 1
 Uh where's the choice for jeans..................
  • 1 0
 skinny jeans...thats it
  • 2 0
 Only need padding on XC rides. Enduro or park I'm not really bothering.
  • 2 0
 Underwear and some light Engelbert Strauss pants with 6 pockets.
  • 2 0
 Saxx. Absolute game changer
  • 1 0
 Always have that padded liner. even for downhill! makes the crashes so comfortable
  • 1 0
 bib with baggies, got get that enduro back hump under my jersey even if i'm riding gravel
  • 1 0
 I wear athletic shorts and athletic shorts with dh pants or jeans in the winter. No I do not wear underwear.
  • 1 0
 Bibs with baggies overtop for longer rides and commando with baggies for shorter rides.
  • 1 0
 I put my underwear over my head, then put my shorts on. WTF? Who needs instructions like that?
  • 1 0
 I wear bibs 98% of the time, but Saxx and baggies is a great setup for rides without a ton of seated pedaling.
  • 1 0
 Bib liners with storage, baggy shorts over the top. No more backpack/fannypack for appropriately short rides.
  • 1 0
 I need some Lemy shorts with a pad built in. Thats the way to shred!! Big Grin
  • 1 0
 I wear jorts on 80% of my rides. Let's fight.
  • 1 0
 Assos bibs with Specialized shorts is $.
  • 2 0
 What is chamois? ????
  • 2 0
 Buns of steel.
  • 3 1
 i just sit on my balls
  • 1 0
 This thread really has more than I wanted to know Smile
  • 1 0
 No cock-ring and adult diaper option as usual.
  • 3 2
 I wear a thong. Is that weird?
  • 3 0
 a well worth compromise for weight if you ask me.
  • 1 0
 @mtb-jon: haha. True.
  • 2 0
 SWAT
  • 1 1
 I was a no-chamois rider religiously until I realized what it did to my gooch
  • 1 0
 Padded Utility Support System Yeller
  • 1 0
 Roll of Charmin down the shorts works for me!
  • 2 1
 Where the hell is the Lederhosen option!?
  • 1 0
 This just proves we don't need to have much XC content on here...
  • 1 0
 G form padded shorts under not-too-baggy board shorts.
  • 1 0
 I look like weeble wobble with bib shorts
  • 1 0
 No padded shorts + jorts? Bro wtf
  • 1 0
 Where is the not wearing anything option
  • 1 0
 Use chamois at the beginning of the summer and don't need it by the end.
  • 1 0
 Padded chonies, riding shorts, tee shirt.
  • 2 0
 Dickies got robbed
  • 1 0
 Padded shorts and chamois cream are for people with hemorrhoids.
  • 3 1
 Assos bibs with baggies
  • 1 0
 I knew it, it's a bunch of freaks around here, I'm scared!
  • 1 0
 I use a swimsuit like borats when I go for shorter rides.
  • 1 0
 Does no one wear their sisters jeans any more?
  • 1 0
 Bibs are best. With shorts over them of course.
  • 1 0
 Spandex and riding shorts, never did me wrong.
  • 1 0
 chamois and baggies ??? WtH are you people talking about ?????
  • 2 0
 padded baggies
  • 1 0
 Baggies under with bibs over.
  • 1 0
 I don't even know what a "chamois" even is... #knobbynation
  • 1 0
 chamois or chafe-moi?
  • 2 1
 Chamois Creme--ALWAYS
  • 1 0
 what difference do you feel ?
  • 2 0
 @purplegorillaz: no pulled bum hair. Gets pretty painful after a few days of riding
  • 1 0
 It’s funny-I’m definitely more on the hairy side but have never used chamois cream and never experienced the symptoms. And this includes many consecutive 200-300 mile days on my road bikes.

Then I’ve got friends who won’t do a 20 mile ride without cream.

I’m intrigued to know what causes some folks to have problems while others simply don’t. I do use a high quality chamois on the road and I have dialed in my saddles.
  • 2 0
 Sudocrem is better and cheaper than any bike-specific product. And you only need a teaspoon on each sit bone.
  • 1 0
 @purplegorillaz: No bunchiness, less phantom penis numbness, less pinchy, less stink, more sanitary. All jokes aside, using a made-for-it cream like chamois buttr, or a cosmetic cream like Noxema, both are mildly anti septic and have a little 'warming' chemical, or camphor in them which feels divine.
  • 1 0
 @igxqrrl: being older must be a factor. I never used it when I was younger but now I wouldn't ride without it. It's just so much more pleasurable to have that smooth slippery warm sensation when riding.
  • 1 0
 @iamamodel: Never heard of that, but here in the states we have 'Noxema' which is a cosmetic cream the gals use to remove makeup. It's an excellent chamois cream.
  • 1 0
 I’ve never tried chamois cream but my wife won’t ride without it,maybe I’ll have to try sometime
  • 1 0
 The more hours I ride per week, the less likely I am to use chamois cream for rides under two hours. If I'm not consistently riding 4+ days and 10 hours a week, then I need it for most rides.
  • 2 1
 Commando gang
  • 2 1
 No Vans and 501s, WTF ?
  • 1 0
 Merino is the way to go.







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