Originally Posted by
MrCjolsen
It's not about aesthetics or having a place to put stuff. My only concern is comfort. I ride 4000 to 5000 miles a year and almost never wear padded shorts. And most of the time I am 100% comfortable at the end of the day. Here's the thing, padded shorts bug me. The recent times I've worn them on 30 mile rides have not felt any better than regular pants over the same distance. But on the other hand I haven't been on any long rides in a while with or without padded shorts. (yeah, I know. But it's a very flat ride and a very leisurely pace I'm not real concerned)
Why did you start this thread? You already know what you want to do.
If you have any doubt, carry shorts just in case. The extra 10 ounces won't make any difference. (After reading the OP fully) See, we think alike. Except I do wear shorts, and use "cream" at times as needed. But you should do what works for You.