Under Shorts
Being comfortable in the saddle makes longer mountain bike journeys far more enjoyable. A good pair of under shorts will wick away sweat and moisture to help keep you dry and comfortable as you ride. They also have shock absorbing padded chamois to take the sting out of riding. Under shorts come with an elasticated waist and leg grippers to keep them from bunching up, but also move with you to reduce chaffing. With their high waistbands and panel construction, under shorts are optimised for riding positions — with flat seams to create a smooth surface next to your skin.
You’ll want a snug fit, with no excess material to chafe. A snug fit will help compress muscles, improving blood flow for performance and recovery benefits. Most shorts are made from synthetic lycra/nylon blends and look out for shorts with thermal liners to trap warm air in cold weather. The chamois pad is a key feature of any cycling short offer cushioning and shock absorption during bumpy rides. The padding can be made from fabrics, gels or foams, with denser pads ideal for longer rides.