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Underwear and Cycling Shorts Don't Mix

Chamois is Designed to Be Worn Against Skin

  • Cycling shorts contain a padded insert called a chamois, engineered to provide cushioning, reduce pressure points, and absorb vibrations from the road or trail.
  • The chamois is made from technical, anti-microbial fabrics and foams that work best when directly in contact with your skin—underwear disrupts this function.
Prevents Chafing and Saddle Sores

 

  • Underwear has seams, waistbands, and materials not meant for repetitive motion.
  • When layered under cycling shorts, underwear can shift, bunch up, and cause skin irritation or painful saddle sores due to constant friction while pedaling.
  • You can also use Chamois Butt'r to assist with this.
Maximizes Moisture Wicking and Breathability

  • Cycling shorts use moisture-wicking materials to draw sweat away from the skin, keeping you dry.
  • Underwear traps moisture and heat, creating a warm, damp environment—perfect for bacterial growth and skin infections.
Promotes Better Fit and Freedom of Movement

  • Cycling shorts are form-fitting and made to move with your body. They stretch, compress, and contour to reduce drag and muscle fatigue.
  • Underwear restricts this movement, can cause bunching in the crotch area, and reduces the ergonomic benefits of the shorts.
Maintains Hygiene on Long Rides

  • High-quality cycling shorts are treated with anti-bacterial finishes to prevent odor and infection.
  • Cotton or synthetic underwear retains bacteria and sweat, making it harder to stay clean—especially during multi-hour rides or tours.
Reduces Laundry and Gear Wear

  • You only need to wash one garment, reducing wear on both your cycling shorts and potential underwear.
  • Fewer layers also mean less material to dry, fold, and manage after each ride.
Respected Best Practice Among Cyclists

  • From professionals to experienced recreational riders, “no underwear” is a widely accepted standard.
  • Many bike shops and training programs will tell beginners this tip right away.
 Improved Confidence and Focus

  • Once you get used to it, riding without underwear actually feels better—no shifting, no wedgies, no discomfort.
  • You’ll spend less time adjusting and more time focusing on your ride.

MHBC is supported by your membership dollars. Join or donate to MHBC today to enable us to continue to educate the Greater Memphis Area about Bicycle Safety and Awareness.

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