Tri Shorts

[Wahine]

I figured I'd stick this question in here because while it's apparel, it's a tri specific question.

If people wear tri shorts for an IM distance, are tri shorts acceptable riding shorts without the tri? I guess what I'm saying is I know why road shorts don't work due to the extra padding taking longer to dry. But if tri shorts are comfy enough for distance riding in a longer tri, do people opt to wear them in situations other than tri's?

Yes, I wear my tri shorts for longer rides. It is more comfortable to ride with bike shorts, but once you get used to it, it's OK. To be honest, the reason I do it other than race day is to get used to it. If I wasn't going to race in tri shorts, I wouldn't bother riding in them.

The other factor that is different about tri shorts besides the chamois is the cut at the back. They are cut shorter so you are more likely to have exposed skin while riding. Something to keep in mind if you burn like I do.