Biking Shorts - So Many Choices

[michelleforeman]

I am looking for a pair of shorts that will minimize my crotch issues. I got a new seat that I love but I still need a pair of shorts that will help the irration and numbing situation even more. Does more padding cause numbing? I see numerous shorts with different patterns of padding, is this important for me to look at or is it just a sales tactic?

[Zen]

Everyone is different, you'll get 50 different recommendations.
What are you wearing now?

I don't mean ''what are you wearing now'' in a lewd phone call kind of way.

[salsabike]

Zen, thank you for making me laugh AGAIN today.

Honest, Michelle, preferences vary so much that it's hard to recommend. Some people like lots of padding. I find that thick padding makes me much more UNcomfortable. I think everyone goes through trying to sort this out, and the only way seems to be to try several different kinds/thicknesses of padding and see what works for you.

[papaver]

If you don't like too much padding I recommend the shimano shorts and the bioracer shorts.

http://www.shimano-cyclingwear.com/

http://www.bioracer.com/fb111nxhb478kmn1kmn1.aspx

They give great comfort and little padding. :D

[Kalidurga]

Whatever you choose, make sure the shorts fit properly. The chamois should fit snugly and smoothly between your legs (have fun with that, Zen). If there's any extra fabric, it'll shift as you pedal and create irritation.

[indysteel]

To the OP: Out of curiosity, does your new saddle have a cutout? From what I've gathered from reading here and my own experience is that cutouts work often work well for women whose labias are fuller/fleshier than average.

Saddles and shorts work in tandem together so it's often about finding the right combination for your specific anatomy. I prefer a saddle with a cutout and a chamois with less, rather than more, padding in that area. I also like padding that is specifically targeted for the sit bones. For that reason, the Sugois RS shorts are my favorites. It took a bit of trial an error to figure that out, however.

If you can't seem to find a combination that works for you, you might consider whether your bike fit/set up is contributing to your irritation. Is your saddle level? Is it too high? Too far forward or back? You could very well be bearing too much weight in the front of your seat.

[michelleforeman]

Thanks for all the suggestions (and laughs). One more question......What about bibs? I want to know the good/ the bad/ and the ugly. If anyone knows. Thanks again!

[papaver]

Thanks for all the suggestions (and laughs). One more question......What about bibs? I want to know the good/ the bad/ and the ugly. If anyone knows. Thanks again!

bibs are comfortable while riding... as long as you don't have to pee... :D

[HoosierGiant]

Everyone is different, you'll get 50 different recommendations.
What are you wearing now?

I don't mean ''what are you wearing now'' in a lewd phone call kind of way.

Too funny!!!