I have 2 pairs of spandex shorts (chamois and gel). I started with the gel and now hate it. After quite a bit of use, the gel has moved on one side which is horrible. The chamois feel great! I hand wash the shorts so no idea what happened to the gel.

As far as the look goes....who cares? (is my opinion). I wear them while riding into work and no I don't shave my legs and yeah I am over 40. I could care less what other roadies think when they see me and care even more less what people at my work think. I work with a bunch of fat pants who can't believe I am 42 and as in shape and active(duh, we live in Florida, how the hell can you NOT be active) as I am...lol...so, I go with the "who cares what they think, I feel comfortable" attitude.

If I have to ride somewhere and do some walking around/indoor shopping, I'll wear the chamois shorts under cargo pants.