Reddit mentions: The best cycling shorts for men

I'm not a tire expert, and haven't ridden the tires in question, so take this with a grain of salt. But a wider tire, inflated to the same pressure, will have a greater volume of air than a narrower tire, and should feel firmer and support more weight. So I wouldn't look solely at max psi, but compare it with the width of the tire. The Komforts I linked are 700x40c, around 40mm or ~1.5" wide, whereas the Hookworms are 29x2.5", around 63.5mm wide. I would expect the Hookworms to give you a more solid ride between the two, but either one would be an improvement over the stock 29x2.0" Bontrager tires at 50psi. As for the knobs on the Komforts, the overall profile of the tire is still fairly round and solid, so they wouldn't impact rolling resistance as much. There may be a little squirm in the knobs that could increase rolling resistance slightly, but I would expect the tires to be made of a pretty firm rubber so that shouldn't impact you too much (the product description doesn't mention the TPI rating, but since they're intended for durability it's likely towards the thicker and harder end of the spectrum). From what others have said, and from looking at the specs, I would lean towards the Hookworms. Make sure you measure your front and rear tire clearance though, 2.0" to 2.5" is a fairly big jump. If those won't fit, I've heard good things about the Schwable Big One and Big Apple tires as well. Both come in 29x2.35", which I'm fairly certain would fit. The Big One is lighter and likely a little faster, while the Big Apple would be much more durable.

I definitely think some padded cycling shorts will help you out with the soreness. There are some budget options out there, like these, these, or these, though if you're going to be riding a lot, it would be worth investing in a quality pair of shorts. Bib shorts typically run more expensive than regular shorts, but they also tend to stay in place better and ensure the padding is where you need it. It could also be worthwhile to swing by a bike shop and try out some different saddles. The width and shape of the saddle should fit your individual anatomy, and a poor match will leave you sore or numb for sure. This can also be an investment, as a comfortable saddle can be moved to another bike should you pick up a hybrid or road bike at some point. Gloves would help with palm soreness (Nashbar has a big sale on their gloves right now), but if you're having wrist issues I would experiment with different grips, or with handlebar height and rotation. You've got the right idea with standing up and moving around to alleviate pressure and soreness, but that will only work for so long, as you've encountered. Bar ends would also give you additional hand and wrist positions to work with.

Yeah I wouldn't really bother with swapping the fork, I just wanted to point out the effect it may have on road riding. I'm not sure what would be causing the handling issues with the bike. Maybe work on some slow speed balance drills around the neighborhood? Unless your fork is backwards or something, it shouldn't be that unstable.

I know pretty much everyone in here is saying that they don't, but I guarantee you that some people do. I've had people made snide comments to me on group rides before when I wasn't all kitted out.

Those people are assholes though, so don't worry about their opinion.

I would also agree though that bike gear isn't just a tribal display. It really is very functional. A jersey that you can unzip halfway in the front to allow airflow is just better even than a moisture wicking shirt for keeping you cool. Padded shorts can keep you comfortable in the saddle for longer than gym shorts by a huge margin. And if you care about your speed, the tight fit of bike clothes give you maximum aero and allow you to go faster with the same amount of work.

So yeah, I agree, wear what you want. Jerks will judge you. Don't worry about jerks. But I'd suggest trying gear out and seeing how you feel riding in it. It does make a difference. You don't need to spend a mint either. Grab starter-level stuff on Amazon. Like this and this. You can even get jerseys at places like Goodwill sometimes, though they usually smell like someone else's sweat.

Just be careful and dont get a beach cruiser!!!!! id recommend a hybrid bike like a trek 7.1 and put a rack on it for panniers so you can carry your stuff. Also if you are over weight i highly recommend a brooks saddle i have a b17 and its wonderful on my ass. Also bike shorts 4.3 miles aint long, but it will make your life much easier. A cheap walmart bike will break often and be expensive to repair. Refer over to r/bicycling to learn more if you are strapped for cash id go with this bike its a good all rounder and bikesdirect is a good company, or a trek and the seat brooks b17 bike rack panniers shorts
Once again do not buy a bike from walmart it will make you hate bicycling. Oh also rules and sheldon brown a repository of all things cycling
Best of luck to you, safe riding and Dont buy this!!

I'm into trying out extremely inexpensive Chinese off brand gear available on Amazon. It's been hit or miss, but I've found a few things I really like.

These "Baleaf" shorts are good quality and great for the money: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071CTVPG8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_mpJNzb844WH80

Haven't had as great luck with jerseys, but these 'ARSUXEO' jerseys are OK: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JEBS12E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_rtJNzbEWQ8J7W

These "RUNMANER" / "Coconut" jerseys I like a little less but they come in fun designs: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KMBXR5Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_sCJNzbY46NPYY

PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO THE SIZING INFO.

These are the ones I got, I don't think $30 is too much at all! https://www.amazon.com/Baleaf-Mens-Cycling-Shorts-Padded/dp/B00YQU2B2A

Is that one way or round trip? Maybe not the most necessary if that is a round trip total, but if you are going to doing it every day, it will makes things a little more comfortable.

If you want something a little quicker to get in or out of, you could pick up some MTB shorts which have padding in them.
https://www.amazon.com/EZRUN-Padded-Mountain-Lightweight-Cycling/dp/B07H7ZKM17/ref=sr_1_3?crid=OLFL1I1ALU5Z

Seat is trickier, ideally you'd go to a bike shop and try some out, but my shop doesn't carry many seats. So I did all the research I could for seats that were good for bigger riders and I had narrowed it down to a Brooks or the ISM. At the end of the day, it seemed like the ISM was made better for longer ride comfort.

The seat that came with my bike was a true ass hatchet and was awful only a couple miles in. So I knew it was the wrong one for me.

Your local bike store might have a try before you buy and they can probably help get you fitted. That might be a legit part of your problem is that the seat you have isn't awful, you just need a proper fitting for your bike. At one point, I was having some knee issues from riding and a seat adjustment fixed all that. Also, you can hit up a site like www.bicycleseats.com where you can buy a few options and they will accept returns of the seats you didn't like.

Hope this helps!

I would go to these youtube channel and watch some videos. These are all favorites around here and will get you loads of good info:

Phil Kmetz MTB

Global Mountain Bike Network

Seth's Bike Hacks

Good gear to have would include:

• hydration pack with storage for gear - I use an Osprey Viper 9 but there are many out there
  
  
• Bike multi-tool
  
  
• portable air pump
  
  
• spare tube
  
  
• spare chain link
  
  
• pair of shorts with a quality Chamois pad (grundle pad, thank me later) like Santic Cycling Shorts
  
  Most important, get out and have fun. Welcome to the sport (obsession).

Amazon is a great spot to find cheap cycling gear, especially if you go with the "made in China" route. You can use a men's chamois to start with; something like this one in US size 3X would likely fit OK!

https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07BBMX2F7/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_U_x_ryqSCbHCCP43J

Light-weight windbreakers are good for riding, you can totally start with something from the thrift shop. A cycling-specific one will be longer in the back (to cover your buttcrack) but I got started with an oversized one I got from the local Goodwill.

Maybe you could go for something like this as your outer layer, then layer warmer tops (especially thermals) underneath:

https://www.amazon.com.au/Santic-Cycling-Jersey-Bicycle-Windproof/dp/B01C5GLXZW/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=cycling%2Bjacket&qid=1555105397&s=gateway&sr=8-1&th=1&psc=1

Amazon has some good basics to see if you are interested. They’re not going to be as nice or warm or comfortable as some higher end stuff but it’s a start. I’d say get nice shorts for comfort then a cheap cycling jersey top. I have two of the ones linked below and like them.

Runmaner Coconut Men's Cycling Jersey Short Sleeve Road Bike Biking Shirt Bicycle Clothes - Breathable and Quick-Dry (Black, 2XL) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KMBXQUW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_nktSAb6NGMGVZ

SANTIC Cycling Men's Shorts Biking Bicycle Bike Pants Half Pants 4D COOLMAX Padded Blue L https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013RB09B8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_cltSAbSM74WMK

Both pieces, Cycle Shorts Jersey Bike Shirt Outdoor Sportwear Cycling Short Sleeve Sets Asian XXL US XL https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SD1SWJO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_AltSAb1CMTZ82

I've owned a pair for a better part of a year, but eventually, the clip button thing fell out and vanished into the abyss, which I fixed and the pocket threads were unraveling. They are super lightweight, but like was said, I'm not a fan if I have anything big in the pockets.

I've worn them for roughly 25-30 rides and are very satisfied with them, especially considering the price.

I switch between those and some older Fox Shorts with the drawstring legs and flaps over the pockets. eBay is good for getting some decent shorts that were $80 for $25-30.

Edit for exact model: https://www.amazon.com/ARSUXEO-Cycling-Shorts-Mountain-Weight/dp/B074FSGBLG/ref=pd_day0_hl_468_9?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B074FSGBLG&pd_rd_r=a31b4230-6c40-11e9-9ffd-03efec45caec&pd_rd_w=mMHnd&pd_rd_wg=tt9fd&pf_rd_p=ad07871c-e646-4161-82c7-5ed0d4c85b07&pf_rd_r=YENNQ4FCPQQ5WW3FFGTA&refRID=YENNQ4FCPQQ5WW3FFGTA

I am looking for advice on a good pair of shorts or liners on a budget. I'm new to long-distance cycling (but not cycling in general), and am training for a century. Trips over 30 miles can get a bit... uncomfortable for me. I already have a great seat (Serfas Hybrid RX). I have searched other similar posts here, and it seems like Pearl Izumi is the general consensus for best brand with lower price options, but I am a bit worried about the leg fit. I have about a 35" waist and 24" thighs, and I read that the Izumis can be a bit tight in the thigh. Is that the case? I was also looking at Zoics, how are they for a fit for a guy with wide hips and thighs? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Hey man, glad to see you here. I was 257 lbs, 6'0" when I started riding. I tend to gain weight over the winter (except this winter, yay dieting). $200 is a very very low threshold to get a decent bike. If you live near a big college area, keep an eye on Craigslist. Otherwise, double your budget and check out the Specialized Sirrus. That was the bike I got when I first started commuting to work. Nothing special about it, but I guarantee it will act better and last longer than a Walmart special. If you act quickly, you might be able to source a 2014 model in a bike shop relatively close. Otherwise, pick up the 2015 base model, you're looking at probably 450-500.

Edit: As a bigger guy, don't worry about the seat, but invest in some padded liners like these and wear them under athletic shorts.

I am not 130 lbs, due to self conscious ideals, bike shorts weren't really on my list of what I wanted, even though I needed such a thing.

if he has some comfy shorts he likes to wear riding. I have a couple pairs of these liners that I find absolutely wonderful.

the shorts that you get them with the zoic ether shorts I have found to be quite satisfactory as well.

I would recommend both.

Cool! After a helmet (I have a Specialized Align, works great) and maybe bike shorts (I've been testing out cheap ones on Amazon, so far I like the Santic ones best https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FF1GML4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 ), I'd get a water bottle and water bottle cage. Next I think would be flat tire stuff: patch kit, tire irons, spare tube, and pump. And equally important, instruction how to change a flat. Maybe the shop does classes, or the community bike advocacy group may. That's probably about it! Oh maybe also sunblock haha. Weird places will burn, like the top of your knees.

I just started doing a 14.5 mile commute in January. I practiced riding there (or almost there) and back once or twice each weekend for 3 weekends just to see how long it took me. After 3 weeks I was champing at the bit to start doing it for real. And that first day was... easy! I was getting used to doing a 29 mile ride so doing just 14.5 and then having a 9 hour break before going back felt pretty chill in comparison.

There are a few things you have to prepare for though. First is make sure you're going to be comfortable on an 1+ hour long ride. Drop bars helped for me, and I got a pair of cheap biking shorts off Amazon which helped too. Second make sure you have enough calories/carbs for a 1+ hour ride. I tend to eat mostly low carb/low gi when I'm not riding, so I had to step up my carb game in the mornings and afternoons in order to keep my performance on the bike up. I've been making sure to get 30-50g of carbs around 30 minutes before I ride.

Compression shorts or a jammer would probably work for a olympic but you really would want to train with them a few times. I know the jammers I used wouldn't be that great for running but yours might be different. If you are going to practice in them, make sure you get them wet before you bike and run.

For a top, you can wear a tri top during the swim portion and not worry about changing or throw on a technical shirt / jersey after the swim. Getting dressed sucks when you are wet so I always swim in my top.

My generic tri shorts are these pearl izumi (doesn't hurt my junk) though my tri club now uses some from desoto (custom printed so I don't know the model).

No matter what you choose though, practice practice practice in them. Good luck in your race and welcome to the crazy world of triathlons.

Generally people wear a tri-suit, or a pair of tri-shorts and a racing top. Here is an example of some tri-shorts. They have a bit of padding for the bike, but not a lot and dry quickly and fit under a wetsuit. You could also look at a tri-suit like this one that has the same stuff as tri-shorts and a top, but it's all one piece.

As far as your bike, you can ride on anything, but you can definitely put bolt on aero bars on your bike. To get the actual aero position however, you will probably have to move around your saddle and maybe get another bike fitting to adjust all the things that need adjusting. You could also just ride without the aero bars, you wouldn't be alone

Anything you normally work out in.

If you feel like you need more padding, wear a cheap padded underwear like this:

https://www.amazon.com/Ohuhu-Padded-Bicycle-Cycling-Underwear/dp/B00O0F3BIO/

I’ve got all sorts of “real” cycling shorts, but you won’t really need something like that. Just find some comfortable shorts for cross training and add padding as desired.

You can find decent ones pretty inexpensive

I have those Canari ones, and 2 pairs of another brand that are really comfortable, but I can't find them on amazon anymore.

Also - these vacuum compression bags are fantastic Really knocks down the volume of clothes - plus keeps them dry! Instead of rolling up like they show, I would lay across them to force most air out, then fold in half and compress more. They really work well.

camelbak cleaning tablets

front fork transportation mount

I guess Raleigh bikes qualify

giro infant bike helmet

compression cycling shorts

CO2 inflator

gonex cross country helmet

pandoom cycling jersey

camelbak MULE

camelbak bottle

baleaf chamois undershorts

camelbak minimal kids hydration pack

camelbak women LUXE backpack

BV small saddle bag

camelbak rain cover

Hollywood bike rack for sedan

saris super bones bike rack

Some of these aren't amazing, and some might expire by the time you get to them, but this is mostly everything mountain biking related. Good luck, all!

Gotta work on that butt callous :)

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What clothes are you wearing when you ride? You dont have to be in full spandex but, it might help to get a liner like this that you can wear under whatever your outer layer is.

Short Liners

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I went through the same thing the first time I got on a mountain bike. Midway through the ride we stopped for a drink, I almost couldnt get back on the bike. It'll pass.

​

Regardless, good job on getting back in the saddle!

If you're really looking to maximize your dollar, I'd probably just get regular cycling shorts and a cycling jersey over a two piece tri suit. Swim in your swimsuit, put the cycling shorts on over that, pull them off and then throw run shorts on for modesty or just run. Something like this and these would be perfectly acceptable to start out on.

Honestly, the cheap Chinese options for shorts...

https://www.amazon.com/ARSUXEO-Outdoor-Sports-Cycling-Breathable/dp/B072555CK2/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?keywords=mountain+bike+shorts&qid=1558154748&s=gateway&sprefix=mountain+bike+&sr=8-8

And liners...
https://www.amazon.com/Ohuhu-Padded-Bicycle-Cycling-Underwear/dp/B00O0F3BIO/ref=mp_s_a_1_9?keywords=mountain+bike+padded+under+shorts&qid=1558154920&s=gateway&sprefix=mountain+bike+padded+&sr=8-9

...fox gloves


...and 5 10 shoes

You’ll be good to go!

I have a pair of these padded shorts, pretty comfortable.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0019K6KPY

Bike Shorts with a Shammy and a tube of Chamious Cream. Properly adjusted seat and just getting used to it again.

Chamois Cream - https://www.amazon.com/Chamois-Buttr-Original-8oz-tube/dp/B000HZGTUS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469736624&sr=8-1&keywords=chamois+cream+cycling

Bike Shorts - https://www.amazon.com/SANTIC-Cycling-Shorts-Bicycle-COOLMAX/dp/B013RB09B8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1469736650&sr=8-4&keywords=Bike+shorts

that will be a VERY large quality of life improvement.

Speed will come but what i started out doing and do now is i'll do what are refered to as Intervals (Fast riding for a set time) Slow riding for a set time. I do intervals through the week as not a lot of time but on Saturday I do a nice long 30+ mile ride and try to average 12 to 14 mph (started as try to maintain a 10 mph average). Sunday and Wednesday are my rest days, although i've recently started riding on Wednesday nights just for a short jaunt around town.

https://www.amazon.com/SANTIC-Cycling-Shorts-Bicycle-COOLMAX/dp/B00JMAB6MK

like this? Tons of review for the men version, but not as much for women. Are the women version as good?

I bought these ones. I use them very often for a 10-mile commute and they have worked just as well as I need them to. I'm happy with the purchase, especially given the price.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B06XW2QKCP?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

I got a second pair off of Amazon for $33. They're every bit as comfortable as the $75 ZOIC ones I also have from my LBS

Edit: link ARSUXEO Outdoor Sports MTB Cycling Shorts Breathable Blue Size Large https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072555CK2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_uAY5AbM215ET8

Hey buddy! Happy to hear that your getting a hybrid. My first bike was also a hybrid.

Wear whatever you want. You can start with just gym shorts and a t-shirt.

I’d definitely recommend getting a few pairs of padded bicycle underwear (also known as a chamois). You can wear it under your shorts/pants. Check these out

As you ride more, you might decide that you want to get some cycling-specific apparel, but maybe not. Either way, happy riding!

I have a pair of these by Sportneer. They’re a great value at $15, but I still reach for other pairs when going on longer rides.

Sportneer Men's Padded Cycling and Biking Shorts Medium https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XW2QKCP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_gMoqDb5TSWQ92

Try bike shorts, they put a little extra padding where it counts. It wont help your knees much, but it does help the haunches

I wear padded shorts underneath regular basketball shorts. I have a pair of mtb specific shorts as well, but they aren't my first choice when I go for a ride.

Also, if you're like me and have tree trunk thighs, make sure to get the padded shorts with the longest leg length, preferably ones that a cut to the knee. If you have something like a pair of these they tend to ride up and get your boys and one man in a choke hold.... These are the ones I use now

edit: words

I have these and they work pretty well. I bought the ones you listed and they're crap

Find some padded bike underpants - they'll keep your junk under control and protect the rest. Source: 2 years bike commuting 15+ miles a day average

Ohuhu Unisex (Men/Women) Sweat Absorbent Volatility Quick Dry Gel 3D Padded Bicycle Cycling Underwear Shorts Pant, Black(XL) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O0F3BMU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_QOizyb8Z5MMD9

Any? https://www.amazon.com/s?k=cycling+shorts

I'm personally going to get these because they are overwear, not underwear, and have a nice pocket. But the brand is a notorious hit or miss brand: https://www.amazon.com/Baleaf-Cycling-Bicycle-Pockets-Quick-Dry/dp/B07MFZ7VH5/

EDIT Here's a better reviewed option: https://www.amazon.com/SANTIC-Cycling-Shorts-Bicycle-Coolmax/dp/B01FF1GML4/

Here's an underwear option: https://www.amazon.com/Baleaf-Padded-Bicycle-Cycling-Underwear/dp/B00MTE6NEW/

Wear liner shorts under your other athletic shorts. They have the same chamois padding for your taint as the lycra shorts.

http://www.amazon.com/Pearl-Izumi-Liner-Shorts-Medium/dp/B0091ISOBE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1367960587&sr=8-2&keywords=pearl+izumi+liner+shorts

$40. You can certainly afford that.

I have a pair of these Sportneer shorts that I would estimate I've put 2,000 miles on in the last year. They've been fine. I just bought another pair a few weeks ago, in fact.

I think they usually run $30 - $40 USD. Amazon has some sizes as low as $26 http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0091ISOBE/