What To Look For
When you're purchasing bicycle pants, it's best to do so in person so you can try them on. Buy form-fitting pants made of breathable fabrics. For winter cycling, pants made of Capilene fabric are best. For everyday cycling, Lycra or Spandex are good fabric choices. Cycling pants should have a chamois insert which reduces crotch friction and provides additional seat cushioning. If you choose a pant that has a looser leg at the bottom, get a leg band so that the loose pant doesn't get stuck in the gears. For women, Novara Mia Gel Bike Shorts or the Shebeest Pedal Pushers pants are considered the best by Fitness Magazine. For men, Smartwool Ewetopia Knickers were picked as Gear of the Day in 2010 by Bicycling Magazine.
Common Pitfalls
If you choose to buy a fabric that isn't breathable, moisture can collect and cause the fabric to rub uncomfortably against your skin. Additionally, if you choose a pant without a chamois, the seams can rub against your skin between your legs, rubbing the skin raw. If you choose a pant that is too loose or baggy, it can get stuck in the gears or pedals. Using a leg band or tucking your pants into socks can help with this.
Where To Buy
The best place to buy cycling pants where you can try them on is a sports shop, like Sports Authority, Dick's Sporting Goods, or a bicycle specialty shop. If you know which pants you want and your size, you can buy the pants online at Shebeest.com or REI.com.
Cost
Cycling pants can cost between $50 and $165 depending on brand, style and fabric.
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