Can You Wear Pants Over Cycling Shorts?

Cycling shorts are an essential piece of gear when it comes to biking. But let’s be honest: sometimes they don’t exactly fit our fashion sense.

So, what do you do if you love the practicality of cycling shorts but still want a more stylish look while riding?

You could consider wearing regular pants over them – but does that even work?

You can wear regular pants over cycling shorts. Cycling shorts are often tight and clearly show your legs and butt contour that you may be uncomfortable with in a public setting.

Below, I’ll explain other reasons why many cyclists opt for wearing their regular clothes on top of their cycling shorts.

I’ll also give some expert tips on which types of clothing are suitable for pairing with your cycling shorts.

So, keep reading!

Wearing Clothes Over Bike Shorts

I’ve been a cyclist for 10+ years and I’ve learned to always wear two pairs of shorts when riding: a lightweight pair of padded cycling shorts underneath, and regular shorts on the outside.

This is for a couple of reasons.

Firstly, wearing two pairs of shorts ensures my comfort while riding.

The extra layer helps to reduce friction from the saddle and keeps me free from saddle sores.

Secondly, it looks much better than wearing just one pair of bike shorts.

I can avoid those unflattering tight cycling shorts and still stay comfortable!

Lastly, an added layer gives me extra protection in case of any accidents on my ride – which thankfully hasn’t happened too often!

Whether you’re heading on a long ride or just out for the day, having additional protection from clothing helps protect your skin from dirt, grime, and other elements of nature.

Your leggings should be snug but not too tight; you want them to move with your body as you pedal.

But most importantly, take into consideration what kind of fabric works best for the conditions you’ll be riding in.

If it’s hot outside, go with lightweight materials instead of heavy ones that may cause discomfort.

And remember, don’t forget about breathability.

Choose fabrics that will help keep air circulating around your legs so you won’t get overheated during those tough climbs.

From keeping warm on cold days to adding some pizzazz to your outfit, this simple layering technique can do wonders for both safety and style.

With these tips in mind, you’ll have no problem looking good while staying cool on two wheels!

An Overview Of Cycling Shorts

As a cyclist, I’m always looking for comfortable, stylish, and functional clothing to wear while out on the bike.

Cycling shorts are a great option because they provide the perfect combination of all three!

Knowing which type of cycling short best suits your needs will help ensure maximum comfort while out on the bike.

Whether it’s a high-intensity ride or a leisurely cruise through the city streets, having the right gear can make or break your experience.

Types Of Cycling Shorts

Cycling shorts are like a second skin, allowing riders to move along with ease and comfort.

As a longtime cyclist, I have become well-acquainted with the different types of cycling shorts.

• Regular shorts are great for casual rides or short distances while padded shorts provide more protection and comfort on longer rides.
  
• Baggy mountain bike shorts give you the freedom to move without excess material getting in your way.
  
  Protects you against branches, brambles, or ground. Comes with many pockets and air vents.
  
• Bib shorts are a cyclist’s go-to garment.
  
  Featuring an extension that covers the abdomen and straps that go over the shoulders, these shorts provide a comfortable fit for those long bike rides.
  
  But when nature calls, they can be a bit of a nuisance to remove. However, the comfort outweighs the inconvenience.

Whichever type of cycling shorts you choose, make sure it fits comfortably and provides the coverage you need for your style of riding!

The Benefits Of Two Shorts For Riding

Fashioning a comfortable ride can sometimes mean going against the grain.

Wearing two shorts for cycling—one over the other—may not be the most conventional choice, but it could prove to be one of your best decisions yet if done right!

1. You Rarely Use Underwear

When I first started cycling, I was under the impression that wearing underwear beneath my cycling shorts was essential.

After all, that’s what we’re taught to do with normal shorts! But after taking a few rides, I quickly realized that wasn’t the case.

Cycling shorts have a smooth surface and are designed to be worn directly against your skin.

This helps reduce friction and keep you dry even when you’re working up a sweat.

I’ve since learned that most cyclists don’t wear underwear with their bike shorts.

And wearing a pair of cycling shorts alone is strange!

That’s why I always use my casual shorts over cycling shorts to save myself from awkward situations in public settings.

This casual short will also prevent people from looking at your bottom while you’re on the bike!

2. Shorts Provide Extra Protections For Your Legs

To start with, double shorts provide extra cushion and protection from chaffing and saddle sores as well as providing extra warmth when needed. (1)

That layer of fabric between your legs is like an extra barrier that will save you from any discomfort caused by friction due to pedaling or even wind resistance.

Shorts also provide an outer layer of protection against extreme weather conditions.

They shield my legs from direct sunlight and strong winds, preventing burns or freezes and making long rides much more enjoyable.

Additionally, having an outer layer like baggy shorts or leg warmers also adds protection from debris like mud, water, and insects that can come your way on longer trails.

As a mountain biker, this has been essential for me as I make my way through more rugged terrain.

3. Shorts Help You Save Time and Carry Things

Having an additional pair of shorts gives you another layer of convenience when it comes to taking breaks during those long rides.

For instance, instead of changing out of your bike shorts every time you stop off somewhere, you have the option to slip out of just one outer short before getting back on the saddle again.

This saves time and energy, so you don’t have to fuss about changing clothes all day.

Also, cycling shorts are a little inconvenient when it comes to carrying items.

Again, wearing a pair of shorts over my cycling shorts has solved this problem!

The zippered pockets are also convenient for carrying keys, smartphones, earphones, and other small items.

So if you’re looking for comfort on longer journeys, this option may be right up your alley!

3 Things To Consider When Wearing “Normal Clothes” Over Bike Shorts

Wearing bike shorts under normal clothes can be a great way to stay comfortable and stylish while also taking advantage of all the benefits that come with bike shorts.

However, there are three things you need to consider. Read on.

1. Gets Caught in Pedals / Gears

I’ve had a few experiences with regular shorts getting caught in the pedals or gears of my bike.

It’s always a scary feeling when your clothing gets stuck while riding and can be potentially dangerous if it causes an accident.

I highly recommend avoiding any type of shorts that are loose, baggy, or have excess material as these can easily get caught in the pedals or chain.

If you want to wear something extra underneath your cycling shorts for added warmth, opt for leg warmers instead since they don’t bunch up around the ankles and won’t get caught in the bike.

Mountain bikers might also prefer to wear a pair of baggy mountain bike shorts or bib shorts over their tighter padded bike shorts for added protection from brush and rocks on trails.

2. Traps Moisture

As someone who has experienced the unpleasantness of saddle sores, I’m all for doing anything to avoid them.

One thing I’ve learned is that wearing shorts over cycling shorts can trap moisture and make you uncomfortable.

During long rides, it’s especially important to stay dry and comfortable.

If you’re looking for an extra layer of warmth with your cycling shorts, try pairing them with a pair of leg warmers instead.

Leg warmers are designed specifically for cyclists and will not trap moisture as a regular pair of casual shorts or tight shorts might.

3. Hinders Movement

When I first started cycling, I made the mistake of wearing any kind of shorts over my bike shorts.

Little did I know that this could hinder my movement while pedaling.

Cycling shorts are made to fit snugly and be form-fitting so they don’t snag on your pedals or chain while you’re riding.

Wearing normal, baggy-style shorts over your pair of cycling shorts can cause excess material to get caught and often makes pedaling difficult.

How to “Hide” Your Bike Shorts

When you’re commuting to work or running errands on your bike, it can be awkward to show up in bright Lycra cycling shorts.

Coincidentally, you’re probably here because you don’t want to show off your bike shorts—but still need the comfort and convenience of wearing them!

Fortunately, there are several ways to keep your biking attire under wraps without having to sacrifice comfort.

First off, consider loose-fitting pants or a skirt over the bike shorts.

This will provide plenty of coverage while maintaining breathability and freedom of movement when cycling.

You can also find specialized bottoms designed specifically for cyclists that have an extra layer on top in order to conceal their shape.

These typically come in form-fitted styles but with a longer length making them easier to wear over your cycling gear without feeling too bulky.

Finally, opt for cropped trousers or culottes instead of full-length pants if you’d like something more modern looking.

They are usually made from lightweight fabrics so they won’t add any bulkiness either which is great for keeping cool during summer rides.

Plus, most pairs come with an elastic waistband allowing adjustable fit.

Perfect for accommodating all types of body shapes as well as different sizes of bike shorts underneath!

These should help you stay comfortable yet stylish on all your biking adventures.

My Verdict

It’s clear that wearing shorts over your cycling shorts can be a great way to add an extra layer of coverage and protection when you’re out on the bike.

When it comes to materials, opt for fabrics that are lightweight and breathable so you don’t get too hot during your ride.

Safety should also be top of mind, as certain types of fabric may cause chafing or discomfort if not worn properly.

After all, variety is the spice of life! The diverse range of styles available means you’re bound to find something that suits your personality perfectly.