Cyclists — this one is for you! Going on long bike rides is thrilling, but not knowing whether or not to wear underwear isn't.
Taking off your panties before slipping on your bike shorts can feel like you're back in high school playing truth or dare.
But, we promise it's worth it (if you can get past the somewhat absence of modesty). Why should you put yourself through potential embarrassment? Let's find out!
Should You Wear Undies with Bike Shorts?
Going commando while straddling a saddle can seem a bit strange. Trust us, we get it! However, serious cyclists do this on the regular since it helps stop chafing and other irritation.
Moisture-wicking properties are included inside bike shorts which negate the need for underwear.
In fact, if you think about it, wearing undies will render the properties (that you paid for when you bought cycling shorts, remember) nothing but useless.
The Pros of Wearing Undies with Bike Shorts
Protecting Modesty?
Yep, there is a question mark here because it is much better to wear something over your bike shorts if you're that concerned.
To be honest, most bike shorts come with some sort of lining that holds your package in place. With that in mind, wearing underwear beneath your bike short becomes a pretty moot point. Having said this, you do you boo!
The Cons of Wearing Panties with Bike Shorts
Yes, technically, there is only one con of wearing undies with bike shorts. But, after reading, you'll realize it isn't about quantity, it's about quality.
You Will Not Get Any of The Benefits That Bike Shorts Provide
Seriously. We mean it.
Wick That Moisture, Baby
Whether you like it or not, cycling equals sweat. Obviously, regular undies and a casual pair of shorts will absorb the sweat you produce but that isn't the best for your overall health.
Bike shorts (as long as you don't wear panties, mind you) are made to let your skin breathe as you exercise. How do they manage this? Well, it's all thanks to spandex, polyester, lycra and other technical material that make up the majority of these shorts.
You can say goodbye to chafing, rashes and other skin irritation — perfect for enjoying day-long bike rides across the countryside. Sigh isn't that the life!
Compress Those Muscles
Allowing your muscles to be compressed is a great way to prolong your bike rides. What kind of benefits does muscle compression give you?
Less muscle soreness and fatigue are the main advantages here. It lets you perform at your absolute best, whatever the weather.
Allows For All The Motion in The Ocean
Bike shorts are extremely flexible. Your legs will feel as free as a bird while you're pedaling up those hills, thanks to the zero restrictions. No more worrying about your regular shorts getting caught in the chain or other unwanted places.
We know you're probably thinking that this isn't a big deal or anything to get excited about. But you will find that there is a big difference when you try it.
Aerodynamic Who? You!
Now, this one is for the cyclists who love a good race!
Bike shorts will give you quite an advantage compared to those who forgot to don them before the race. Since they're completely skin-tight (and then some), you will be far more aerodynamic.
What does this mean though? Well, you can use less energy to travel the same distance as your competitors. In turn, this allows you to conserve energy and whip the butts of those gunning to beat you.
Times When You Must Wear Undies with Bike Shorts
We don't want to insult your intelligence (we know you guys are smart), but sometimes, it's our job to point out the obvious. So, here we go.
There is not a time when you must wear undies with bike shorts. In fact, we would encourage you to never wear underwear with them. Otherwise, (as we talked about before) you won't reap any of the benefits that you paid for when you bought the bike shorts!
Tips for Wearing Underwear with Bike Shorts
Yep, you guessed it, we don't have any tips for rocking the underwear with bike shorts look. But, don't go away just yet, we're going to give you tips on how to sport the commando bike short look instead!
Bring Some Baggy Shorts Along for the Ride
It is, unfortunately, true, some people judge the serious cyclists when they relax in the pub after a long ride. For this reason, many "bike guys" pack some baggy shorts to slip on over the cycling ones when they do stop for a break.
Bib Shorts Means Jersey Over Straps
When you are cycling, no one should be able to see the straps on your bib shorts. So, to make sure that this is the case, always keep your bike jersey over your shorts, not under.
Take Care of Them
Always read the label! We know this feels like a chore (it kind of is, so, we get it), but using harsh soap and bleach will kill the fabric.
Also, ditch fabric softeners too! These can mess up the material and damage the moisture-wicking properties (everything you paid for, really!).
Fashion with a Capital F
Nowadays, bike shorts aren't just for cycling, people have been styling them up and wearing them as casual wear (even formal wear on occasion).
To get with this trend, try wearing a baggy t-shirt and a fanny pack. Or style it up with a formal shirt and blazer (depending on the color of the bike shorts, of course). Or, throw on some boots and a big ol' rain jacket and you have a LOOK.
If You're Going to Wear Underwear With Bike Shorts
If you really don't feel comfortable wearing bike shorts without underwear, we understand. Going commando is really weird for some people. So if you're going to do it, make sure you get a quality pair.
Not sure what to choose? Read our guide for the best underwear for bicycles.
The Bike Short Covered Bottom Line
Whether you're wearing bike shorts as a fashion accessory or to bike across the highlands, you should never wear panties underneath them. But, as long as you're comfortable, you do you boo-boo.
