Hello,

I am new to this forum and am looking for some information on bike shorts.

I have been riding for quite a while, but generally for short trips, now I am really getting into cycling for longer distances. I went on a bike tour/camping trip on gravel roads and ended up with some soreness and chafing. I have been reading up on the saddles and am thinking of buying a Brooks, but I think the shorts must have something to do with my problems.

There seems to be quite a variety of shorts styles, chamois etc and quite a price range. I am not sure how to decide what I need. I have a couple of pairs of inexpensive shorts, they are OK for short rides, but I am wondering if investing in some more pricey ones is worth it or not.

Also wondering about chamois creams, seems like they would be messy and decrease the breathability of the shorts..