Mountain Bike Shorts: Why They're Essential and How to Pick the Right Pair

Mountain biking is an exhilarating sport that provides a great workout and a chance to get deep into the outdoors. As with any physical activity, having the right gear is essential to ensure a comfortable and safe ride. One essential piece of gear for mountain biking is mountain bike shorts. These shorts are specially designed for off-road cycling on rugged terrain and come in different types, including baggy, Lycra, and bib shorts.  

Why Do We Need Mountain Bike Shorts?

Mountain bike shorts are essential gear for any mountain biker out there. They're designed to provide comfort, support, and protection during long rides on rough terrain. But why do you need them? Well, let me tell you.

The terrain on mountain biking trails can be rugged, with lots of rocks, bumps, and roots. So wearing regular shorts can lead to chafing, irritation, and discomfort. That's where mountain bike shorts come in - paired with chamois MTB shorts help absorb shock and reduce friction, making them ideal for long rides on rough terrain. But that's not all. Mountain bike shorts are made from durable, breathable, and moisture-wicking materials like nylon, polyester, or spandex. These materials help keep you cool and dry while riding, which is especially important for a physically demanding sport like mountain biking.

Types of Shorts You'll See in the Cycling Industry 

Baggy Shorts

"Baggies" are the most popular type of mountain bike shorts. They feature a loose fit compared to a road cyclist's wear, providing ample room for movement, and are typically made from durable materials like nylon or polyester. In addition to your baggies, you'll need a padded liner. The padded liner is a chamois that helps absorb shock and reduces friction, making it ideal for long rides. Sometimes companies have the Chamois already intergraded into the short, or you can buy them separately. Baggy shorts also feature multiple pockets that are easily accessible and can hold your essentials like your phone, keys, snacks, tools, etc. Shop Men's and Women's MTB Shorts

Lycra Shorts

Lycra shorts, spandex, or cycling shorts, are tight-fitting shorts made from stretchy materials like Lycra or elastane. They're designed to provide maximum aerodynamics, support, and comfort during high-intensity rides. Lycra shorts come with an intergraded padded chamois that helps absorb shock and reduces friction, making them ideal for long rides. Lycra shorts are more form-fitting than baggy shorts, providing less room for movement. However, they offer superior performance and comfort during high-intensity rides.

Bib Shorts

Bib shorts are a variation of Lycra shorts that feature suspenders over the shoulders. They provide more support and comfort than regular Lycra shorts because they eliminate the need for a tight waistband, which can cause discomfort during long rides. Bib shorts also feature an intergraded padded chamois that helps absorb shock and reduces friction, making them ideal for long rides. Professional cyclists often wear bib shorts because they offer superior performance and comfort. However, bib shorts have recently shifted into the mountain bike world as mountain bikers started venturing further into the backcountry for extended periods. Shop Men's and Women's MTB Shorts

Features to Look for in "baggy" Mountain Bike Shorts 

1. Material: Look for shorts made from durable, breathable, and moisture-wicking materials like nylon, polyester, or spandex. These materials will provide ample comfort and protection while keeping you cool and dry on hot days.
2. Fit: Choose shorts that actually fit but not too tight, as this can restrict movement and cause discomfort. Look for a fit that allows ample mobility and support without causing chafing or irritation.
3. Pockets: Look for shorts with ample pockets that are easily accessible and can hold your essentials like your phone, keys, tools, and snacks. Safety is critical when biking, so having shorts with ample pockets for all your needs limits your risk so you can reap the singletrack reward!

Don't forget the Chamois 

The padded liner, or Chamois, is another essential feature of "baggy" mountain bike shorts. The padded Chamois provides ample cushioning and shock absorption to reduce friction and pressure points, ensuring maximum comfort during long rides. Some shorts come with removable chamois, and some don't, so this is an essential factor to consider when getting geared up for your next ride. 

What's Your MTB Style

Lastly, the style and color of the shorts are also essential. Mountain bike shorts come in various colors and designs, and you want to choose a pair that complements your style and personality. For example, some shorts come in bright and vibrant colors, while others come in more subdued and classic colors. Whatever your preference, choose a pair of shorts that you'll feel comfortable and confident in. 

You're in Luck: Cognative Makes The Best MTB Short

Now that you've learned why you need MTB shorts and what to look for let us tell you why our Guide Trail Shorts are an excellent option for mountain bikers looking for a high-quality and stylish pair of shorts. 

Here are some reasons why you should consider buying The Guide Trail Shorts from Cognative MTB:

1. Durable and high-quality materials: These shorts are made from a combination of polyester and spandex, making them both durable, flexible, and lightweight. Long gone are the days of heavy and hot MTB shorts. Trail tested in Pisgah National Forest, these cycling shorts can withstand the rigors of mountain biking with YKK zippers, reinforced nylon webbing on the waist button, and DWR coating.
2. Moisture-wicking and breathable: Our Durastretch Pro+™ fabric is designed to wick away moisture and keep you cool and dry while riding. 
3. Comfortable fit: Say goodbye to baggy and awkward mountain biking shorts, and experience the difference of our tapered leg opening. Feel the ease of movement in our lightweight 4-way stretch poly-performance material and dial in your fit with hook and webbing waist adjustments.
4. Multiple pockets: These shorts come with four pockets, including two zippered pockets and two open stash pockets, providing ample storage for essentials like your phone, keys, tools, or snacks.
5. No Unisex Sizing: We make both Men's and Women's mountain bike shorts. No unisex sizing here! We take pride in creating men's and women's specific mountain bike clothing and dialing in the sizing to fit sizes of all ranges better. 
6. Stylish design: The Guide Trail Shorts have a sleek and modern design that looks great both on and off the bike. They come in classic black, grey, and moss green making them versatile and easy to pair with any top. More colors and styles are coming soon! Shop Men's and Women's MTB Shorts

Mountain bike shorts are essential for any avid mountain biker looking to stay comfortable and safe on the trails. These specialized shorts feature durable materials, specialized designs, and comfortable fits that help reduce friction and keep you cool and dry during long rides on rough terrain. So, if you're planning to hit the trails and want to take your riding experience to the next level, remember to invest in a high-quality pair of mountain bike shorts. These shorts are a must-have item for any serious mountain biker with their many benefits. 

Interested in more than just shorts and need the whole kit? You're in luck! We've got you covered for all your mountain bike clothing needs at Cognative MTB!

Shop The Men's MTB Collection

Shop The Women's MTB Collection