Guide: Preventing and Treating Saddle Sores

What Are Saddle Sores?

Saddle sores are skin irritations caused by prolonged friction, pressure, and sweat where your body meets the saddle. They often appear as red, inflamed areas or even painful boils. Common culprits include poorly fitting gear, excessive time in the saddle, or riding with wet or sweaty clothing.

Think of them as your body's not-so-subtle way of saying, "Something's not right down here."

How to Treat Saddle Sores

If you're already dealing with saddle sores, don't worry—you're not doomed to ride in misery. Here's how to treat them:

• Rest and Recover: Take a break from the bike to give your skin time to heal. Riding through the pain can make things worse.
• Keep It Clean: Wash the affected area gently with soap and water, and keep it dry to prevent infection.
• Apply an Ointment: Use a soothing cream or antibacterial ointment to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Over-the-counter options like diaper rash cream or a specific chamois cream can work wonders.
• Consult a Doctor: If the sore is persistent, extremely painful, or appears infected, seek medical advice.

How to Prevent Saddle Sores

• Invest in Quality Gear: Poorly designed or loose-fitting shorts are often the main culprit behind saddle sores. Choose bibs with a properly designed chamois (hint: that's where Civilized Bibs come in). Our bibs are made for real riders, with comfort-focused features that reduce pressure and friction.
• Use Chamois Cream: Apply a thin layer of chamois cream before every ride to minimize friction and keep your skin hydrated.
• Wash Your Gear: Never reuse dirty cycling shorts!—bacteria thrive in sweaty fabrics and can lead to saddle sores. Wash your gear after every ride to keep things fresh.
• Adjust Your Saddle: An improperly positioned saddle can cause unnecessary pressure. Experiment with saddle height, angle, and position to find what feels best.
• Take Breaks on Long Rides: Shift your position or stand up on the pedals occasionally to relieve pressure on sensitive areas.

Civilized Bibs: The Permanent Fix for Saddle Sores

At Civilized Bibs, we believe comfort isn't a luxury—it's a necessity. That's why our bibs are designed to eliminate the discomfort that leads to saddle sores in the first place.

• Proper Chamois Design: Our chamois provides the perfect balance of support and cushioning, reducing pressure on sensitive areas.
• Breathable Fabrics: Moisture-wicking materials keep you dry, even on long rides.
• Perfect Fit: No pinching, no bunching, no awkward seams—just bibs that feel like they were made for you.
• Made for Real Riders: We're not about elite gear for elite riders. We're about creating solutions that work for everyone.

Investing in quality bibs isn't just about avoiding saddle sores—it's about transforming your entire riding experience. Because when you're comfortable, you can focus on the ride, not the pain.

Final Thoughts

Got questions about saddle sores, gear, or anything else cycling-related? Reach out to us here. At Civilized Bibs, we're here to help you ride smarter, safer, and, most importantly, more comfortably.