Undergarments???

[short cut sally]

Hi Ariel,
Congrats on your new bike, keep us informed on how you like it. That bike is on my wish list for when I upgrade. As far as clothing, you will really find that clothing does make a difference. The comfort and breathabilty of the material is wonderful. I do not wear underpants under my bike shorts. I was told that there would be too much bunching and cause irritation. There is so much padding that once you put the shorts on, you almost feel like you have a diaper on until you get used to it. At least I did. Now it is just second nature and I don't realize sometimes that I am even wearing them. After your clothing, if you can swing it, I would recommend the shoe/peddle clip system. It is unbelievable how your performance can improve on your bike with having your feet in one position instead of being all over on a platform peddle. It takes a little getting used to but I would recommend that system to anyone. My Dh just purchased his first bike in like 30 some years (he figured if he couldn't beat me, might as well join me), and the first thing on his list are gloves and shoes/peddles. I hope you enjoy your bike and good luck and welcome to the board. shelly

[Nanci]

I know, I know...I tried to go without, but I just am not comfortable. But I wear nice seamless technical underwear that cause no problems. You couldn't do it with every day undies. I'm not telling Ariel to wear undies!

Nanci

[Bike Goddess]

Contrary to popular opinion, I wear Aniamo Cool Max Padded Briefs which I purchased from R.E.I. I've worn this brand for 2 years now so I can say with some reassurance that they do work if you want a liner.

I have found that my most comfortable shorts have the gel chamois in them. I have other shorts, but after about 40 miles they aren't as comfie.

One piece of advice- always use Chamois Butter or equivalent when you wear these liners. I have a large tube for home and then smaller packets I take with me on rides just in case. AND, make sure the shorts fit you. Too loose will be very uncomfortable. Try on different brands- I now use Performance Elite Gel shorts and am quite happy with them.

My two bits worth on the shorts!

Regarding the new bike- Just get on and start riding!!! I have Look type platforms which I rode with running shoes for a month before I ventured into the clipless realm. At some point, I would recommend that you switch over, but not until you feel totally comfortable on your bike! Good luck and let us know how it goes. Your DH is probably ecstatic that you are taking the leap! We all love having riding partners!

[AutumnBreez]

Sometimes it is good to step out of your comfort zone. Open your mind.......
You can overcome this, for the love of cycling. I am sure you can get beyond this. Not asking you to do it outside of cycling of course, that is just gross
You will find it much quicker, less expensive, and most importantly... COMFY!
After your ride, take your shower, then you can put your undies back on.
Taking time and money to look all over internet for special undies that may/may not work for you, does mean you are not out there on your bike having the time of your life, being carefree, because your inside searching for that special unneccesary article of clothing. Step out of the zone.......
You can do it !!! (Just do it! -NIKE)
Once you hurdle this little fear...you will be ready to conquer other fears. Like going clipless. All for going out of the zone just a bit....

[doc]

No undies!!! You will get used to it very quickly and be very very glad you did. Undies = chafing and bunching. Besides, no-one else (almost) is wearing undies so it wouldn't be weird. Look for 'vpl' . You won't find it on anyone! Comfort is the key. You can also look on other threads here about mensturation and what to do about that while cycling in case that is what you're worried about. Short answer there is diva cup, bike shorts, and nothing else. Enjoy yourself.

[singletrackmind]

NO UNDERCLOSETS!!!!

No chaffing, no ouchy seams (Nanci, at least you've found seamless), no goofy undie lines, just no!
It'll placate the wild woman in you.
My chest is a little on the larger side and my choice is Moving Comfort, it's so individual. Title 9 does have great descriptions but I started out buying local, so I could try stuff on. I went to a running center 'cause I figured if a bra could hold the girls in while jogging it'd be fine with biking. Still, I did have some trouble finding the bra sizes, not just sm, med and lg.
And get on, ride, have fun. You might be a little wobbly at first but with practice you'll be riding a straight line in no time. Know your hand signals and the rules of the road and enjoy yourself. Welcome to bike riding, glad you could join us!

[Saxa82]

Ariel,

First of all, you are from my hometown- LaGrange, NY!! I don't live there anymore- now live near Monticello, NY. Where did you get your bike?? Hard to get small WSD around there....

As to undies- if you are going on longer rides ditch them because they will just chafe in the butt area or bunch up in the senstive areas. Always wear a sports bra or a singlet with a built in bra within. Most of the ladies here echo the same.

Enjoy!!!