Having not ridden a bike for just over 11 years, and, therefore being a 'born again' cyclist I nver realised the pain and agony that I would suffer.
I have never been in to lycra. The skin tight look is very unflattering on me and there is no way that I can pull it off. I always thought that 'proper' cyclist clothing was just for show and served no real purpose. How wrong was I. My first ride out consisted of a 10 mile warm up. I went out in a normal pair of shorts and...............
After the first 2 miles I was getting a numb rear. After 5 miles the chaffing set in, and after 7 miles I was in absolute agony. I could not sit down properly for 3 days and I was walking funny for 2.
After this fiasco I went in to a local shop and decided to get some lycra shorts. I was told by the very helpful assistant that there were 'undershorts' available hence I could wear the proper kit and pull on a 'normal' pair of shorts over the top.
The shorts recommended were the Helly Hansen made out of the new Lifa material. This is effectively polypropylene - a material which is very figure hugging and absorbent. It attracts all moisture and locks it away from the skin, hence keeping you dry and preventing you getting cold. The shorts have what can only be described a nappy inside. This additional padding is between the buttocks and groin to provide additional comfort. To prevent chaffing the shorts are seamless.
I tried the shorts on. The padding around the rear, hips and groin felt terrible. "These were meant to be more comfortable!". I was sceptical. I went for a walk around the shop. It was what could only be described as waddling like a duck - much to the amusement of the shop assistant and my other half.
At £20 these shorts are at the cheaper end of the market. I parted with my cash and left the shop.
The first ride out in them and I was amazed. The material does keep the moisture away. I felt dry all ride. It wasn't till I got back that I realised how much moisture they had kept away! There was no chaffing at all (you've got to love seamless items) and although I did have a numbness in the rear - it was no where near as bad the first ride. The numbness is due to the bike being new - and me not being used to the seat. I have been told that it will get better and better as I get used to the bike.
These shorts are fantastic. Once a normal pair of shorts is pulled over them then it is difficult to tell that underneath lies lycra. The padding can be seen - but you do have to look really hard to see this. They do take a bit of getting used to to walk (without it looking like you are related to Jemima Puddle-duck) in them but they are only used on the bike right?
They do exactly what it says on the tin with regards to keeping you dry with no chaffing.
At £20 I thought they were expensive - but compared to other shorts these are at the cheaper end of the spectrum. In addition to this you get a top brand that specialises in outdoor wear. It was £20 well spent and I would recommend these to anyone.
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Price
£20
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