Originally Posted by
pdlamb
I think you're missing Dave's point. Chamois in the shorts is like leather work gloves; the chamois takes the rubbing and wear so your skin doesn't have to.
+1 That's it.
The whole use of cycling shorts, types of chamois as well as [the use of] lotions and powders can all be very confusing. Many of us can/could ride in underwear and shorts for long fast rides... rarely if ever having a problem. Others... blister or rub a hole in their skin if not moistened with a cream to help the padding stay on their skin.
Some cyclists have issues with chafing and/or saddle sores.... which are different issues altogether. Although any issue in that area could be related to the shorts/chamois/or lack of.