It’s hard to ride long distances when you’re uncomfortable. Some of the most common issues cyclists have while they’re riding are issues like discomfort, numbness, and pain. Many of these issues can be solved by wearing the right cycling gear. If you’re an avid cyclist, then you should own a pair of bike shorts. Cycling shorts are padded, tight fitting shorts that help increase a rider’s comfort while they are riding on their bike. These shorts are made from quick drying materials that wick moisture away to keep riders dry when they’re out riding. Cycling shorts come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, colors, and styles which means there are differences between mountain bike shorts and road bike shorts, and differences between men’s cycling shorts and women’s cycling shorts.

Mountain bike shorts are are usually looser fitting than road shorts and have many other features like pockets and padding on the hips and thigh areas. These shorts can come with a padded liner but don’t always come with a liner. Mountain bike shorts fit more like cargo shorts and often have pockets for extra storage so you can take your essentials along with you. Some brands, like Troy Lee Designs, come with an adjustable waistband that lets you dial in your exact fit which helps in keeping the shorts in place, and will have zippered pockets that allow riders to store their riding essentials securely. There are several different types of mountain shorts. Riders who enjoy cross-country racing or riding may enjoy the benefits of a tighter fitting cycling short while trail riders will want the benefits of a looser fitting short. Shorts for downhill and enduro riding often come with padding in the hips and thighs just in case a rider misses their line and crashes. This padding provides that sweet protection so you don’t get scraped up too badly.

Road bike shorts fit tightly and always come with a padded chamois to help increase comfort on the bike. When you’re riding longer distances, the last thing you want is to be uncomfortable. Regular cycling shorts will have a stretchy waistband that often comes with a drawstring to keep the shorts tight and will have silicone leg grippers to help keep the shorts from shifting while you’re riding. For riders who want even more comfort on longer rides, bib shorts are the next level above road bike shorts. Bib shorts feature straps that fit over the shoulders that keep the shorts up allowing the shorts to move with the rider when they are out of the saddle. Women’s shorts and men’s shorts have a slight variation in the way the chamois is constructed. These chamois are anatomically designed to fit women better.

Whether you’re out on a club ride or doing a race, you’ll want to have a good pair of cycling shorts. There are shorts for every style of riding, like touring shorts and mountain bike shorts, and most shorts can be used for other disciplines. Here at Jenson USA, we like to ride everywhere, and that means we wear all kinds of cycling shorts. We carry premium brands like Troy Lee Designs, Pearl Izumi, Fox, and POC. If you’re curious what shorts we’re stoked on, then just ask one of our Gear Advisors. You can email, chat, or call them at 888-880-3811.