Best Padded Cycling Shorts: How to Choose for Long Rides
The best padded cycling shorts have a well-shaped pad that sits under your sit bones, a breathable fabric that dries quickly, flat seams and a snug fit that does not move when you pedal. For long-distance riding, the shape of the pad and the fit matter far more than sheer thickness. If you would rather ride in ordinary shorts or trousers, padded cycling undershorts give you the same cushioning, hidden underneath.
What makes padded cycling shorts comfortable
Most of the difference between a good pair and a disappointing one comes down to four things. Get these right and the brand on the label matters much less.
The pad
The pad, often called a chamois, is the part you actually sit on. Modern pads are made from foam, gel or a mix of the two, usually in layers of different density. A good pad is thickest under the sit bones, thinner towards the edges so it does not bunch between your thighs, and shaped for your anatomy, which is why men's and women's pads are cut differently. It should feel supportive rather than spongy.
The fabric
Look for a stretchy, breathable fabric that wicks sweat away and dries fast. Damp skin is softer and chafes more easily, so a fabric that stays dry is as important as the padding. Mesh panels help in warm weather, and some fabrics add UV protection for long sunny days.
Seams and waistband
Seams should be flat, so there are no ridges rubbing against your skin for hours. The waistband or leg grippers should hold the shorts in place without digging in. If a waistband leaves a deep mark after a short ride, it will feel much worse after a long one.
Fit
Padded shorts should feel close-fitting, almost like a second skin. Loose shorts let the pad slide around, and a moving pad causes exactly the friction you are trying to avoid.
Types of padded cycling shorts compared
The phrase padded cycling shorts covers several quite different garments. Choosing the right type for how you ride is the first step.
| Type | What it is | Best for | Worth knowing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lycra cycling shorts | Close-fitting stretch shorts with a pad, worn on their own | Road rides, sportives, training | The waistband can roll or press on long days |
| Bib shorts | Padded shorts held up by shoulder straps instead of a waistband | Long road rides | No pressure at the waist, but toilet stops are fiddlier |
| Padded undershorts | Close-fitting underwear with a pad, worn under any shorts or trousers | Commuting, leisure rides, touring, e-bikes, spin classes | Discreet, and you choose what goes on top |
| Baggy MTB shorts with liner | Loose outer shorts with a padded inner liner | Trail riding, casual riding | Liner quality varies a lot between models |
The best padded cycling shorts for long distance
On a long ride, small problems grow. A seam you barely notice after half an hour can be sore after four hours, and a pad that shifts slightly becomes a real irritation. For long distances, put these points first:
- Pad shape over pad thickness. The pad should sit exactly where your sit bones meet the saddle and stay there.
- Moisture control. A quick-drying fabric keeps your skin drier, which many riders find makes the biggest difference on hot or wet days.
- No underwear underneath. Padded shorts and padded undershorts are designed to be worn next to the skin. Ordinary underwear adds seams and traps sweat.
- A spare pair for multi-day trips. Starting each day in a clean, dry pair matters on tours.
Are extra padded cycling shorts better?
Not automatically. A very thick, soft pad can feel lovely for the first few minutes, then compress, hold heat and move around. Many experienced riders prefer a pad that is supportive and medium thickness, combined with a saddle that suits them. If you ride an upright bike with a wide, cushioned saddle, you need less padding in your shorts than someone on a narrow road saddle.
Gel or foam?
Gel cushions well and spreads pressure, which is why it is popular for longer rides and rough roads. Foam tends to be lighter and very breathable. Many pads combine both. What counts most is that the pad is shaped well and does not shift.
Our gel padded undershorts: which one suits you
Our cycling underwear is designed to be worn on its own under your usual cycling shorts, trousers or leggings. Every model uses 5D gel padding that cushions sensitive areas and absorbs road vibration.
| Model | Price | Sizes | Key features | Suits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CycloGel (men's) | £34.95 | M, L, XL, XXL | 5D gel, breathable quick-drying fabric, ergonomic fit | A first pair, commuting, weekend rides |
| VeloShield (men's) | £49.95 | S to 3XL | 5D gel, mesh panels, stay-in-place fit, UV protection | Long rides, warm and sunny days |
| RideGuard (men's) | £74.95 | S to 3XL | 5D gel, high-performance mesh, quick-drying, UV protection | Riders who spend the most hours in the saddle |
Our pick: for long-distance riding, the VeloShield cycling underwear (£49.95) is a strong all-rounder. Its 5D gel pad reduces pressure points on rough roads, mesh panels help wick moisture, the ergonomic fit is designed to stay in place without slipping, and built-in UV protection helps on long rides in full sun. It comes in sizes S to 3XL.
Our pick: if you want our most complete model, choose the RideGuard cycling underwear (£74.95), with a high-performance mesh that wicks moisture and dries fast after hard efforts. For a lower price, the CycloGel cycling underwear (£34.95) keeps the 5D gel pad and an ergonomic fit that stays in place.
Riding a lot? Cycling underwear comes with buy 2, get 1 free: put three pairs in your basket, mixing any models, and the cheapest one is free, once per order, applied automatically at checkout. Delivery is free on every order, with tracking. You can see every model in our cycling underwear collection. Women riders will find advice on pads cut for female anatomy in our guide to women's padded cycling underwear, and men can go further with our guide to padded cycling shorts for men.
Getting the size right
Padded shorts only work if they fit closely, so take your waist and hip measurements and compare them with the size chart rather than guessing from your jeans size. For hygiene reasons, cycling underwear cannot be returned or exchanged, so it is worth spending two minutes on this. Our cycling underwear size guide explains how to measure and what to do if you fall between two sizes.
Looking after your padded shorts
- Wash them after every ride, inside out, on a cool cycle.
- Skip fabric softener, which can clog breathable fabrics.
- Let them air dry rather than putting them on a radiator or in the tumble dryer.
- Replace them when the pad goes flat or the fabric turns thin and shiny.
Even the best shorts will not fix every comfort problem. If you are dealing with rubbing or sores, read our guide on how to prevent saddle sores and chafing.
Frequently asked questions
Are gel padded cycling shorts better than foam ones?
Neither is better for everyone. Gel is good at cushioning and spreading pressure, which many riders like on long or bumpy rides, while foam is often lighter and very breathable. The shape of the pad and how well the shorts fit usually matter more than the material.
Do you wear underwear under padded cycling shorts?
No. Padded shorts and padded undershorts are designed to sit directly against your skin. Wearing ordinary underwear underneath adds seams and traps moisture, which is a common cause of chafing.
What are the best padded cycling undershorts in the UK for beginners?
For a first pair, choose padded undershorts with a gel pad, flat seams and a breathable fabric, in the right size. They let you keep your usual clothes on top, which suits commuting and leisure rides. Our CycloGel model at £34.95 is a simple way to start.
How long do padded cycling shorts last?
It depends on how often you ride and how you wash them. Signs it is time to replace a pair include a pad that has gone flat, fabric that has become thin or see-through, and elastic that no longer holds. Washing on a cool cycle and air drying helps them last longer.
Can you wear padded undershorts under jeans or trousers?
Yes, that is what they are designed for. Close-fitting padded underwear sits under everyday clothes, so you can ride to work or the shops in comfort without changing into full cycling kit.
