How Long Do Cycling Shorts Last?
Cycling shorts are one of the most important pieces of gear that you need to buy when you start cycling. You might think that they’re just a pair of pants for riding, but cycling shorts are different from normal gym clothes. Cycling shorts are made from special fabrics and have padding in all the right places so that your ride is as comfortable as possible. That said, there is no reason why your cycling shorts should last only a few months before falling apart. Cycling shorts should last for years if you take care of them properly! Let’s take a look at how long different types of cycling shorts last:
Cycling shorts are made to last.
They’re made with high quality materials and durable stitching, so you can trust that they’ll be around for years to come. They’re also designed to be comfortable and breathable, so you won’t get chafed or feel like your legs are on fire during long rides. Cycling shorts are flexible (they don’t bunch up), lightweight, waterproof and other fun adjectives as well!
Some cycling shorts last longer than others.
While all cycling shorts are more durable than a pair of cotton boxers, not all are created equal. Some cycling shorts may have better stitching, more breathable fabrics and design elements that wick moisture away from the body effectively. Other times, you can pay extra for high-end clothing made with higher quality fabrics and materials—the same goes for those pricey cycling pants with pockets on them!
One thing’s for sure: When it comes to the durability of your favorite pair of cycling shorts or other gear, it’s important to evaluate what type of activities you do in them (and how often) before making a purchase decision based solely on price alone!
Factors that affect the lifespan of cycling shorts.
The lifespan of cycling shorts depends upon a number of factors. The most important factor is the type of cycling short you choose to wear. Padded cycling shorts are more expensive than knicker shorts, but they also last longer because they have built-in padding that can be replaced when it wears out. If you choose to wear knicker cycling shorts instead, then it’s likely that your pair will need replacing every couple of years.
The second most important factor is the material used to make the pair of cycling shorts you choose to purchase. The cheaper options are made from nylon or polyester; these materials break down faster than other materials such as lycra and spandex (which tend to cost more).
In addition, if you ride regularly and in warm climates where sweat can build up quickly, then both padded and regular-shaped padded cyclewear may not be suitable for you as they absorb moisture from sweat which makes them uncomfortable when riding over long distances on hot days – especially if there isn’t enough air circulating around your legs so that excess heat doesn’t build up under your clothing layer(s).
Fabric
There are a few things to consider when choosing a pair of cycling shorts, one of which is the fabric. Fabric quality can make or break whether or not you’ll enjoy wearing your cycling shorts and how long they last.
The best fabrics for cycling shorts are:
- breathable (to keep you cool when it’s hot)
- durable (so that they don’t tear during rides)
- comfortable (for maximum comfort on long rides)
- soft against your skin
- stretchy, so that there aren’t any restrictions in movement
- lightweight, so that they don’t weigh down your legs on climbs or sprints They also need to be able to withstand rain showers while still keeping you dry!
Padding
The padding in your shorts is important for comfort. It can be removed, replaced, or washed as needed. For example, if you like a little extra cushioning under your rear end but it gets smelly after a while (or you sweat more than the average person), consider buying some fresh padding to put inside your cycling shorts. If you prefer being able to ditch the padding altogether, check out our selection of unpadded cycling shorts. We also have padded cycling shorts without any water-wicking materials like lycra or spandex that are great for people who don’t want any extra bulk and prefer wool over synthetic fabrics. Finally, if you’re starting from scratch and want both comfort and moisture management on par with what professionals use—and don’t mind spending a little more than usual—we recommend checking out our high-end padded cycling shorts line here!
Washing
Cycling shorts are pretty simple when it comes to washing. Just wash them in cold water (hot water can shrink the material), and be careful not to use fabric softener or bleach, as both will ruin the elasticity of your cycling shorts. Don’t put your cycling shorts into the dryer, as this will cause them to lose their shape and become misshapen over time. Ironing cycling shorts is also not recommended—they’re made from a synthetic material that doesn’t respond well to heat!
If you want your cycling shorts to last longer, wash them by hand.
Hand washing will prevent the fabric from being damaged and preserve the padding. It also helps prevent your shorts from shrinking or fading. If you use a washing machine, it could cause the fabric around the seat area to stretch out and lose its elasticity over time. On top of that, most detergents contain harsh chemicals that can damage your underwear—not something you want when what’s between your legs is going to be rubbing against this delicate material all day long!
Cycling shorts can last for years and don’t need to be washed every trip, but they are worth investing in.
You can get expensive cycling shorts, which will last for years. They don’t need to be washed after every trip, but they are worth investing in because they are made to be used as undergarments and keep you comfortable while you ride.
To wash your cycling shorts:
- Machine wash them with a mild detergent and cold water on the gentle cycle. If necessary, use an extra rinse cycle afterward.
- Alternatively, you can handwash them with warm water and a small amount of soap or detergent by rubbing the fabric together with your hands until it feels clean (similar to how you would wash wool clothes). Let them air dry before wearing again!
Conclusion
Hopefully, this article has given you some insight into the lifespan of cycling shorts. While it’s impossible to give an exact number of years that they’ll last, we do know that they’re made to last and should be able to stand up against wear and tear. As long as you take care of them properly by washing them at least once every few months and keeping them clean by hand-washing them occasionally (once every six months or so), then your cycling shorts will last for years to come!