Let me tell you a story, the kind of story that you didn’t expect. I took a little break from cycling, this was because of some personal reasons. When I tried on my shorts for a month-long break, I had this really weird feeling. I kept on asking myself, are these really my cycling shorts? The chamois was lumpy and it made the shorts extremely uncomfortable, I then said to myself that it was time to let these shorts go. This experience made it clear to me: Bike Shorts Have Limited Durability!
I just got these amazing cycling shorts last year and now they were not even worth wearing, just imagine how I felt at that time. As much as I was disappointed that day, I also got to know about the limited durability of these bike shorts.
How Long Do Bike Shorts Last: (When You Should Replace)
Whenever you plan to get some cycling shorts or bike shorts, you must keep in mind that they need to be replaced after 500 hours of cycling. How can we translate 500 hours of cycling though? 500 Hours of cycling is 1-2 years’ worth of cycling, although this isn’t an iron rule, it can be more or less than that.
Bike Shorts are expensive, and if you go for an even better pair of shorts then you need to be careful while getting them. Ask the store about the cleaning instructions, usage, and how you should store them. With this additional information, I am sure that you will be able to use the pair of shorts for a long amount of time.
If the shorts depict visible signs of wear like broken stitching then that is an even bigger sign to replace them. Apart from the broken stitching, you could even see worn-out Lycra grippers. Remember I gave you my own example, when I tried out my bike shorts after a while, there was increased discomfort and I was really sore while riding. You could face that too if you are not careful enough. Explore our selection of padded bike shorts for a smoother ride.
How Long Do Bike Bibs Last: (When You Should Replace)
When it comes to fitting, bike bibs and bike shorts are the same. The durability of bike bibs is also the same as shorts, which is 500 hours of cycling (1-2 years). Cycling bibs are a bit different than the shorts, although they fit the same way. Bibs come with built-in shoulder straps, they are like a full cycling suit. Cycling bibs cover the rider’s whole body (Both the upper and lower parts).
You need to know that the apparent signs of wear and tear will be different for every rider. The signs mainly vary because of riding style, riding conditions, and body shape. As soon as the bike bibs are worn out to the point that they can’t protect you properly or even provide comfort, change them.
It must be understood that bike shorts and bike bibs are under a lot of pressure when you are cycling. There is pressure from pedaling, weather conditions, extreme sunlight, and even washing/drying. If all of these conditions are very severe then both the bibs and the shorts will wear out sooner than expected.
Should You Choose Between Bike Bibs or Shorts?
As bike bibs and shorts are a bit different, it is natural if people are concerned about their durability. As per my experience, there is not a lot of difference between these two pieces of cycling gear when it comes to durability. Yes, they are very different comfort-wise but durability is almost the same. Still, should you go with bike bibs or shorts? Let me make it very easy for you:
- Cycling Shorts: These are a really good choice if you prefer simplicity and easy bathroom access. They are also a bit cooler in hot weather. You need to be very comfortable while riding in hot weather, so shorts are preferred in this regard.
- Cycling Bibs: Bibs are great for longer rides and more serious cyclists. The shoulder straps ensure a secure fit and prevent discomfort caused by a tight waistband. They are especially popular among road cyclists and competitive riders.
If you are a beginner and want to focus on leisure rides then go with Cycling Shorts. On the other hand, if you are planning to participate in some professional races or are an advanced-level cyclist then I would suggest that you go with the cycling bibs.
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What Are The Major Signs Of Shorts/Bibs Wear and Tear?
How do we actually know that our bike bibs are signs are no longer usable? Well, here are some signs that depict the wear and tear of cycling shorts/bibs.
The Cycling Shorts/Bibs Become See Through
One of the major signs of bike shorts becoming unusable is when they become see-through. How does this happen though? Over the span of days/months/years, your cycling shorts can and will break down. These shorts/bibs stretch all the time and in almost every direction. When they stretch, the whole process degrades the fabric at a fast pace.
Apart from stretching, there are a lot of reasons that speed up fabric degradation. Some of those reasons are:
- Rain
- Body Sweat/Heat
- Moisture
- Excessive Washing/Drying
Rapid fabric degradation can make the shorts see-through, this happens mainly at the backside of the shorts. When the shorts become see-through, the rider is exposed to harmful foreign elements as well as other riders (Oops!).
The Lycra Loses The Compression
The best kind of cycling shorts/bibs are those that fit in nicely and are also snug. If they are too tight and cut off the air circulation then they are simply not worth it. The bike shorts need to be tight enough to keep your chamois in the right spot without it sliding here and there. When your shorts get old and out of date, the Lycra’s stretchiness begins breaking down. You will notice that the lycra has lost its compression and snug fit. Upon noticing this, it is best to change the shorts ASAP.
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The Threads Start Unraveling
You might have noticed this yourself but the first thing to break down in shorts are the threads and the stitching. If you get higher-quality shorts then the thread holds on for a long time, they can break down pretty quickly if you are just trying to get by. Even though they are strongly reinforced, stretching actually puts them under a lot of strain. When you find loose threads in your pair of shorts, it is due time to change them and get a new pair.
The Chamois Breaks’ Down
The bike shorts construction is pretty simple, the chamois should fit tightly against your body without sliding. The chamois is there to prevent friction and also cushion your groin against the seat vibration. With time, the groin will break down, it will seem lumpy and out of shape. Once it seems out of place and doesn’t provide protection, you should change your shorts.
The Bike Shorts/Bibs Are Often Smelly
Have you ever wondered that no matter how many times you wash your pair of shorts/bibs, they are still smelly? Let me explain why this happens. The odor-causing bacteria from our sweat often sticks itself onto the fabric and stays there. When this happens, it doesn’t matter how many times you wash it or rinse it, it won’t go away.
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The Silicone Grippers Don’t Hold Anymore
The Silicone Grippers are there to hold and keep the waist and leg openings of your shorts where they should be. With the passage of time, these silicone grippers and elastic strips will wear and won’t function like they used to. You will notice that these grippers are not able to hold the shorts in place.
Apart from this, the silicone grippers could also become hard and cracked, which will make them extremely uncomfortable. When this happens, it is best to change your shorts as fast as you can.
The Shorts/Bibs Become Stained and Faded
Have your shorts become faded and seem stained even though you have washed them multiple times? Yeah, this is a huge sign of them wearing out. Your bike shorts are going to become dingy and faded and will also seem stained with the passage of time. This happens from normal wear/tear, accidents, dirt, and natural oils. You can only protect your shorts to an extent, when this happens change them ASAP.
The Bib Strap Falls Down
Bike Bibs are a bit different from shorts because they cover the whole body via straps. When they become too stretched, the bib straps start falling down. These bib straps are usually made from elastic and lycra, and with time those fibers will break down.
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When Should You Replace Your Bike Shorts/Bibs?
Now that you are aware of the signs of bike shorts/bibs wear and tear, when should you actually replace them? I can understand that many of you might still be confused about bike shorts and when is the best time to change them. When you come across these signs, it is time to look for a new pair.
Butt Print Permanence
Now that your bike shorts have molded themselves to your posterior so well that they’ve practically become a second skin. While it’s impressive that they’ve been accommodating for a while, it’s also a sign that the fabric may be wearing thin. If your shorts are starting to resemble a fingerprint of your behind, it’s time to consider an upgrade. When this happens, the shorts will also become see-through, change them quickly when this happens.
Threadbare Thighs
Have your shorts become holey as Swiss cheese, and I mean in the thigh area, this is a big sign to change your pair. Those thinning patches are not only compromising your modesty but also hinting that the fabric’s days of providing adequate support are numbered. Be smart and invest in a new pair now!
Seam Stress
Have you noticed anything strange with your cycling shorts? Are the shorts unraveling at the seams, resembling a mini-explosion of stitching? Well, that’s not just a fashion statement; it’s a distress signal, something that you need to be very careful about. If your shorts are coming apart at the seams, they’re not holding up their end of the bargain when it comes to durability.
Out-of-Style Shame
So your buddies keep on gazing at you when you are out cycling? Well, it is not always a good sign! Are your cycling buddies giving you quizzical looks and asking if you’ve unearthed your shorts from a time capsule? While vintage can be very cool, if your shorts are so outdated that they’re considered “retro”, it might be time to embrace modern technology and style.
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Our Expert Advice: The Best Time To Change Bike Shorts/Bibs
Hopefully, now you might have a really good idea about bike shorts/bibs and when should you change them. Still, I want to give you my own advice. As I have been cycling for more than a decade now, there are some tips and tricks that need to be shared with you. We know the standard procedure that shorts and bibs should be replaced after 500 hours of cycling but that isn’t an iron rule. There are different brands of both bibs and shorts and all of them have varying levels of durability. Check out our coverage of Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2022 for amazing discounts on cycling gear.
Hand-washed and air-dried shorts actually have longer durability than shorts/bibs that have been washed in a machine. This also varies from fabric to fabric but I myself have noticed this. When you wash these shorts with your own hands, there is a certain level of care that you adopt.
If you get into an accident, then your cycling gear is also affected and this includes the shorts/bibs. They might get holes in them or worse, and if their condition actually exceeds then it is time that you change them. With that being said, there are also higher-end cycling apparel companies that offer warranty on their products. Some of those brands are:
Watch: Why You Should Invest In Cycling Bib Shorts
Cycling bib shorts are the future, and they will make you feel at ease like nothing else. Watch this insightful video to find out why they are worth getting in 2023!
FAQs
Question: How Long Do Bike Shorts Last?
Bike Shorts and Bike Bibs last around 500 hours of cycling which is 1-2 years. It is better to replace your pair of shorts before they become totally useless.
Question: What Is The Best Material For Bike Shorts?
Nylon Spandex is one of the best materials for bike shorts. This material is known for its durability and stretching capabilities.
Question: What Material Is Best For Hot Weather?
You can go for materials like cotton, linen, and silk. All of these materials are heat-resistant.
Recap
Just like any other piece of cycling gear, shorts and bibs also have limited durability, and you need to know all about it. In the world of cycling, where every pedal stroke counts and comfort is key, the durability of bike shorts and bibs stands as a testament to the marriage of technology and design. Find the latest and greatest in mountain biking gear and clothes to enhance your off-road adventures.
Excessive washing/drying, rain, sweat, moisture, and stretching accelerate the wear and tear process. This allows the fabrics to break down and thus it damages the shorts and bibs. Cyclists can wash their shorts and bibs themselves if they wish to prolong the durability of their gear. Hopefully, now you will have a clear understanding of bike shorts’ durability and will also be able to understand the wear and tear signs. I can assure you that if you follow even a little bit of my advice, then you will get to wear your cycling shorts for an extended period of time.
What tips and tricks would you like to share regarding the durability of bike shorts? Let us know in the comments below!
Also Read:
- Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Padded Bike Shorts
- Long Distance Cycling: Tips And Tricks
