Originally Posted by
mkadam68
We don't wear the spandex 'cause we think we look good (quite the contrary!). They're functional.
Tight helps cut down on friction as legs rub back & forth,
stop constant flapping in wind,
chamois cuts down on friction in sensitive areas,
lycra helps fabric conform to unique shape of individual
tight helps in active muscle massage, etc...
Any shorts will "do" for riding, but do they have all the benefits listed?
Proper MTB Shorts have a chamois, and the liner is normally some type of lycra. The outer shell is not as tight. So, for shorter rides, and, especially for bigger riders, they are fine.
I break down the gear by different types of needs and wants.
Safety Needs:
- Helmet
- Gloves (for unexpected stops, but also for comfort)
- Tire repair kit (Seat Bag; Patch Kit; Tire Levers; Multi-Tool; Extra Tube(s))
- Water Bottle(s) / Cage(s)
- Floor Pump (for home use w/ pressure gauge)
- Portable Pump (either mini-pump or CO2 pump)
- Pedals (some bikes come w/o pedals)
Comfort Needs:
- Bike Short(s)/Bib(s) (Need the chamois for comfort)
Performance Wants:
- Clipless Pedals
- Clipless Shoes
- Jersey(s) (wicking helps with comfort and performance)
- Sock(s) (wicking helps with comfort and performance)
- Cycling Computer (Smartphone can track rides; Strava / MapMyRide seem to be the most popular free apps, but have pay upgrades)
- Heart Rage Monitor
- Cadence Monitor
- Power Monitor
- Computer/Smartphone mount
GH