Prevent Saddle Pain on your Bike Rides

Nobody gets into cycling thinking "can't wait to have my sit bones feel like they've been through a meat tenderizer." But here we are. Whether you're just starting out or you've been riding for years, the discomfort that comes with poorly designed bike shorts and cycling bibs is something we've all experienced.

The cycling industry has perpetuated this idea that discomfort is just part of the sport. But after years of research, development, and real-world testing with cyclists of all levels, we've discovered that comfort isn't just possible – it's essential for enjoying and maintaining a sustainable cycling practice.

You're Not "Doing it Wrong"

First off, if you're dealing with saddle pain, you're not "doing it wrong." The traditional cycling industry has somehow convinced everyone that being uncomfortable is just part of the deal. It's not.

This mindset has created generations of cyclists who believe that suffering is normal. We've heard countless stories from riders who gave up on longer distances or even quit cycling altogether because they thought the pain was their fault. The truth is, your body isn't designed to endure unnecessary discomfort, and you shouldn't have to.

Modern biomechanics research has shown that proper support from well-designed cycling bib shorts can eliminate most riding-related discomfort. The problem isn't your riding style, body type, or experience level – it's the outdated approach to cycling gear design that prioritizes tradition over actual comfort.

Three Reasons You're Hurting

  • Your Bibs Are Working Against You:
    Most bike shorts are designed for some mythical "ideal rider position" that no one actually maintains for more than 5 minutes. Think about your typical ride: you're constantly adjusting your position, standing up at stoplights, reaching for water bottles, or checking over your shoulder for traffic. Yet traditional cycling bibs are designed as if you're going to maintain a perfect aerodynamic tuck the entire time. This one-position-fits-all approach creates pressure points and chafing zones that get worse the longer you ride. The materials often bunch up in exactly the wrong places, and the chamois pads are frequently too rigid to move naturally with your body.
  • Nobody Told You How to Actually Use Chamois Cream:
    It's not just for long rides - you need to reapply on longer rides, and no, it shouldn't feel like you're sitting on an ice pack. The cycling industry has turned chamois cream into some kind of mystical solution, but they've failed to explain how to use it effectively. Many riders apply it too sparingly, thinking a thin layer will do the trick. Others choose creams with intense cooling effects, which might feel nice for the first few minutes but can actually increase friction and irritation over time. And almost nobody talks about the importance of reapplication during longer rides. Your chamois cream needs to maintain a consistent moisture barrier between your skin and the pad – once it breaks down or dries out, you're back to square one with discomfort.
  • Your Body Isn't the Problem:
    Different bodies need different support - the issue isn't your weight, fitness, or flexibility. This is perhaps the most damaging myth in cycling: that discomfort means there's something wrong with your body. We've seen riders of all shapes, sizes, and experience levels struggle with poorly designed gear. The truth is, human bodies are incredibly diverse, and what works perfectly for one rider might be completely wrong for another. Your sit bones, riding position, and comfort preferences are unique to you. Instead of trying to force your body to conform to inadequate gear, you need cycling bibs that are designed to work with your natural biomechanics.

Real Solutions for Your Rides

  • For City Rides:
    Look for bibs that work when you're stopping and starting, focus on breathability over pure padding. Urban cycling presents unique challenges – you're constantly transitioning between different positions, dealing with traffic, and navigating obstacles. Your cycling bib shorts need to handle these dynamic movements while preventing sweat buildup in stop-and-go conditions. The best urban-focused bibs feature flexible chamois designs that move with you, strategic ventilation zones, and materials that maintain their support even when you're frequently changing positions. They should also be easy to care for, since city riding often means dealing with road grime and pollution.
  • For Longer Rides:
    Get bibs that support movement, comfort at mile 1 should feel the same as mile 20. Long-distance comfort isn't about maximizing padding – it's about consistent, reliable support throughout your entire ride. Your cycling bibs should feature a chamois that maintains its shape and support properties even after hours in the saddle. Look for multi-density padding that targets pressure points without creating new ones, and pay attention to how the bibs handle moisture. Even the best chamois cream won't help if your bike shorts aren't effectively wicking sweat away from your skin. The seams should be strategically placed to prevent chafing, and the compression should be firm enough to support your muscles without restricting movement.
  • For Daily Commutes:
    Prioritize durability and ease of care, look for chamois that doesn't retain moisture. Commuter cycling comes with its own set of demands. You need cycling bib shorts that can handle multiple rides per day, varying weather conditions, and frequent washing. Focus on finding bibs with quick-drying properties to prevent bacterial growth between rides. The chamois should be antimicrobial and designed to release moisture rather than trap it. Pay attention to the overall construction quality – reinforced seams and durable materials will save you money in the long run. And don't overlook the importance of easy care instructions – your bike shorts should be able to handle regular washing without losing their shape or support.

Final Thoughts

If your current setup isn't working:

  • Stop riding through the pain: Continuing to ride with equipment that causes discomfort isn't making you tougher, it's just increasing your risk of long-term problems
  • Try something different: Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles and brands until you find what works for your body
  • Trust your instincts: You know your body better than anyone, and if something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't

Ready to transform your riding experience? Take the first step toward comfortable cycling today. Your perfect ride is waiting, and it doesn't have to involve pain.

Our cycling bibs are made in LA by people who believe cycling shouldn't feel like punishment. We've spent years developing bike shorts that actually work for real riders, testing our designs with cyclists of all shapes, sizes, and riding styles.

Check out our comfort-first cycling bibs designed for real riders. Experience the difference that thoughtful design and quality materials can make in your riding comfort.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.