Posts Tagged ‘Shorts’

The Lowdown on Bike Britches

Written on March 27, 2010 at 1:40 pm, by hleggat No Comments

Category Heidi Leggat | Tags: ,,,

After much deliberation I decided to purchase those lovely bike shorts that all the hip bikers wear.  Let me tell you, it was not an easy decision.  I was hoping I could find something a little more stylish, but to my dismay there was NOTHING out there that was more stylish.  For some reason I just can’t seem to find the desire to wear shorts that have permanent “padding” all around the groin area.  Unfortunately, my rear was in such pain that I felt this purchase was a necessity.  I searched high and low trying to find out what makes some shorts/pants cost $150.00 and others only cost $39.99.  Luckily Infinite Cycles was there to help the bike illiterate.  Being the cheap person I am, my immediate reaction is to purchase the $40.00 shorts.  However, my favorite bike shop suggested I try on the shorts before making a decision.  What great advice!  After trying on 3 different pairs of shorts at 3 different price ranges, I found that there is a huge difference in price and fit.  To my dismay, my rear, and all other parts of my lower body, appreciated the mid-price shorts which run about $80.00.  The shorts I got are specifically made for women (Shebeest) which would explain the better fit.    There are differences in padding which also play a part in price, but what I learned is that if the shorts fit, buy them.  I plan on wearing these shorts for LONG 60  mile rides, so I need to be comfortable.  It is worth the money to spend a little more for comfort, especially when there isn’t a lot of style to choose from.  As for bike pants, which would be worn in colder weather, if you don’t have money for the shorts and pants I do have a great money saving tip.  Buy the better shorts, then get some running pants to put over them when it is cold.  Running pants will only cost you about $30-$40, and will keep you plenty warm on those cold days.