The greatest benefit of lycra, in my opinion, is the lower friction. In jeans or shorts, your legs are constantly rubbing the fabric and the fabric is constantly rubbing the saddle. In lycra, the fabric just rubs the saddle, and it's a very smooth action. I'd rather give up the shock absorbtion for non-chafed thighs.

Padded underwear isn't that much less than a cheap pair of shorts anyhow.

These might help add some padding

Padded underwear, I have just never found a set with the quality of lycra chamois' , nor does it seem they seat as well, to areas where you sense chafing.

baggy mtb shorts generally include a pair.

have two pairs of those too. Still never found mtn bike shorts with the comfort of say my PI's chamois. The chamois of other bike gear is just inferior. That is my experience. . Into long distance touring, I could care less what the world thinks. Be comfortable.

Plenty of people wear spandex riding shorts underneath their street clothes. With today's ultra-loose baggy shorts, that's a good option.

I own one of these.

Please, please buy it from me.

selle an-atomica

selle italia slr

i really could give a flip what people wear. I just try to lessen the impact of those who influence others not to try it , because of how it looks. They are being cheated by the influences of others from sensing a more comfortable cycling expeience. I'd endorse the above should someone think lycra looks distasteful. But, with time, on long rides; I bet those people who cover up with street clothes will be peeling them off as they look better. pant cuffs get in the way of saddles and inhibit cycling motion.

addiamos or just mtb undershorts