Navybeetle: I think that talc is connected to an increase in ovarian cancer or something like that...thus the corn starch for the women's version. You might want to do some research for yourself on that topic if you are considering using powders.

As for butter vs powder vs nothing...it's all individual. Find out what works for you. It doesn't matter what works for other people.

Cycling shorts will likely help. If you are not comfortable with tight lycra ones, you can look at mountain biking shorts, which are baggy. They do typically have lycra-type liner and chamois. The reason is to keep the fabric from bunching up as you pedal, like your cottons did and caused you so much trouble. Cycling shorts should be snug--if they are too lose, they bunch up and cause problems.