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Why so few mountain bikers with spandex?

5 min read

Asked by: Dashaun Hartford

Do mountain bikers wear spandex?

In general, trail riders and downhill riders tend to opt for baggy kit consisting of loose-fitting shorts with a pair of padded Lycra shorts underneath and a loose-fitting jersey, whereas more race-focused cross-country riders will often go full Lycra.

Why do mountain bikers wear spandex?

Baggy mountain bike shorts will often cover more of your legs protecting you from sunburn and the risk of skin cancer. Some spandex shorts are also thin and you can actually get sunburnt through the material. Baggy shorts provide more sun protection, especially in a longer length like our MTB Long and MTB Curvy Long.

Why do bike riders wear spandex?

These needs include padding in the right places, strategically placed seams, tight-fitting, flexible materials like Lycra and spandex. These materials reduce air resistance and allow a full range of motion on the bike as well as provide the right amount of breathability and wind block.

What should every mountain biker have?

Gear Options

  • Lock.
  • Water bottles with cages.
  • Cycling computer and/or GPS.
  • Compass.
  • Saddle or handlebar bag.
  • Wrist altimeter.
  • Headlight.
  • Taillight.

What’s the difference between spandex and biker shorts?

As for construction, we usually find that the bike shorts are made of a higher proportion of poly or poly blend, while compression shorts usually have a little more spandex. This helps the compression shorts keep a very firm fit on the athlete’s leg at all times.

Why do bike riders wear skin-tight clothing?

Most importantly, it helps cut through the wind. Looser items of clothing will balloon out when riding in the wind, seriously slowing you down. It’s not until you’ve done a long ride with your jacket acting as a parachute that you realise the potential benefits of tight fitting clothing.

Why do bikers tuck their pants into their socks?

Wear tall socks or tuck your pants into your hiking boots to keep ticks at bay.

What do mountain bikers wear under shorts?

Mountain bikers wear Chamois under their baggy shorts choosing the right Chamois for the type of riding they intend to do. In this we’ll use the term bike short and Chamois interchangeably.

Why do mountain bikers have their seats so high?

In order to maximize pedaling efficiency, the seat height is adjusted to allow the rider to reach near full extension of the leg upon the maximum downstroke of the pedal rotation cycle. Unlike some other forms of biking like BMX or even road cycling, the mountain biker is concerned with ultimate power efficiency.

Why do cyclists wear padded shorts instead of padded seat?

The main purposes of padded shorts is to protect and cushion the bottom and genitals from the pressure of the body on the saddle, and to cushion the sit bones. The pad – also known as the chamois – is designed to sit against the crotch and form a cushioning barrier between your body and the bike saddle.

Why do bike riders wear Lycra?

Reduces Aerodynamics



It is found that clothing is a huge factor that increases the overall drag on a cyclist whilst riding. However, by wearing skin-tight clothes such as lycra, this can be minimized.

Why are spandex so comfortable to wear?

Nylon Spandex is a great substitute for rubber in clothing since it has the great elasticity that can easily return to its original shape. Clothes made from Nylon Spandex are more comfortable, even though, they are tight. Nylon Spandex fabric is very much lighter compared to natural rubber that is easier on the skin.

What is the purpose of spandex shorts?

They are made of a stretchy, synthetic fabric meant to fit tightly against the skin. This makes them ideal for activities like biking, running, or Crossfit because they help to keep the wearer cool and comfortable. Spandex shorts can also be worn as everyday clothing and come in various colors and styles.

Why do people wear spandex shorts?

There are many reasons why people wear spandex shorts. Some people like the way they feel, and others like how they look. Spandex shorts can be worn for various activities, from running to biking to dancing. They are comfortable, stretchy, and form-fitting, and they offer great support for athletic training.

Why do bikers wear tight shorts?

Quote from video:

Are biker shorts considered spandex?

Biker shorts, also known as cycling shorts, are skin-tight shorts usually made out of spandex.

What clothing should I wear for mountain biking?

If you’re looking to turn your mountain biking hobby into a year-round activity, then we suggest investing in a waterproof and or windproof jacket to help you tackle extreme weather conditions. There are a few types we can look at, a lightweight jacket, a hybrid jacket, and a fully waterproof jacket.

What do mountain bikers wear under shorts?

Mountain bikers wear Chamois under their baggy shorts choosing the right Chamois for the type of riding they intend to do. In this we’ll use the term bike short and Chamois interchangeably.

How should a mountain biker dress?

What to Wear Mountain Biking Checklist

  1. Helmet.
  2. Chamois or padded liner shorts.
  3. Mountain bike shorts.
  4. Mountain bike jersey.
  5. Mountain bike gloves.
  6. Tall socks.
  7. Mountain bike shoes.
  8. Glasses or goggles.

Why do mountain bikers wear Hawaiian shirts?

The Hawaiian shirt is light, breathable, and packs small. This means it performs well on the river, on the trail, and on spring ski slopes.

Why do mountain bikers wear long socks?

If you’re a mountain biker, then you’ll probably want a pair of higher, more durable socks to help protect your ankles and lower legs from brush, gravel and dirt.