Should You Size Up in Bike Shorts?

Bike shorts, also known as cycling shorts, are an essential piece of equipment for cyclists. Their primary purpose is to provide comfort during long rides and reduce friction between the body and the bicycle seat. But, as with any type of clothing, getting the right size is crucial. This brings us to a common question many cyclists have: should you size up in bike shorts?

Why the Right Size Matters in Bike Shorts

Getting the correct size of bike shorts is of utmost importance due to several reasons:

Comfort

Shorts that are too tight can restrict movement and cause discomfort. On the other hand, those too loose might bunch up and lead to chafing.

Performance

Properly fitting bike shorts can enhance your cycling performance by reducing air resistance.

Protection

Bike shorts come with a padded area known as a ‘chamois’. If the shorts are too big or too small, this padding might not be in the right place, reducing its effectiveness.

The Sizing Dilemma

It’s not uncommon to find yourself between two sizes when it comes to bike shorts. One might feel a bit too tight, while the other is slightly loose. In such situations, the temptation might be to go for the bigger size, but this isn’t always the best solution.

Bike shorts are designed to fit snugly. They are made from stretchy materials like Lycra that are meant to hug the body. This is to reduce air drag and prevent the fabric from bunching up and causing discomfort or chafing. If you size up, you may not reap these benefits.

That said, wearing bike shorts that feel too tight isn’t a good idea either. Overly tight shorts can restrict movement and blood circulation. They can also cause the chamois to press too hard against the body, leading to discomfort.

Image from Adobe

The Solution: Try Before You Buy

When it comes to bike shorts, the ‘try before you buy’ rule is golden. Sizes can vary between brands, and the only way to ensure a perfect fit is to try them on. Here are some tips:

Bike Shorts Should Feel Tight…But Not Too Tight

Your bike shorts should feel tighter than your regular shorts due to the stretchy fabric. But they shouldn’t feel so tight that they’re uncomfortable or restricting your movement.

Check the Waist

The waistband should be snug but not digging into your skin. It should stay in place as you move.

Check the Legs

The leg grippers should be tight enough to prevent the shorts from riding up but not so tight that they’re causing discomfort or leaving marks.

Check the Chamois

The chamois should fit well against your body. If it’s not sitting correctly, you may need to try a different size or brand.

Conclusion

When it comes to bike shorts, the key is to find the balance between a snug fit and comfort. Sizing up isn’t usually recommended as it could compromise the functionality and benefits of the shorts. Try on different sizes and brands to find the perfect pair for you.

FAQs

Should I size up in bike shorts if I’m between sizes?

Bike shorts are designed to fit snugly, so if you’re between sizes, it’s usually better to go for the smaller size, provided it doesn’t restrict movement or cause discomfort.

Is it bad to wear bike shorts that are too big?

Wearing bike shorts that are too big can lead to issues like bunching of fabric, which can cause discomfort and chafing. The padding or ‘chamois’ might also not sit in the correct position.

Can I wear my bike shorts for running?

While you can wear them, bike shorts are specifically designed for cycling. They have padding that might not be comfortable or necessary for running.

How tight should the waistband of bike shorts be?

The waistband of your bike shorts should be snug enough to stay in place as you move, but not so tight that it’s digging into your skin.

How often should I replace my bike shorts?

This depends on how often you use them and how well you care for them. Generally, you should consider replacing your bike shorts when the elastic starts to lose its stretch, or the padding becomes thin or uncomfortable.