Best 3/4 cycle pants

Some three-quarter cycling shorts are designed to support fluid transport in the tissues – because athletes naturally start to sweat. The sweat should not then form a liquid film between the skin and the trousers, as this phenomenon is extremely unpleasant. In addition, damp fabric can stick to the skin, which can have a negative effect on mobility and friction between the skin and textile.

As a rule, cycling shorts fit tightly against the body – regardless of their length. On the one hand this also reduces the friction between fabric and body, on the other hand the trouser leg cannot get caught in the chain or on the pedal.

Cycling shorts exist in different lengths, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The term “cycling shorts” has become established especially for shorts that end above the knee. Compared to them, three-quarter trousers have the advantage that they cover the knee. The sensitive joint is thus better protected against wind. The airflow can be uncomfortable and contribute to excessive cooling of the joint. However, the extent to which this protection is necessary is controversial. Often the individual feeling plays a more important role: Some cyclists simply don’t like the pull at their knees.

Compared to the long cycling trousers that end at the ankle, the three-quarter trousers are airier. It is therefore often a compromise in moderate weather. In contrast to long cycling trousers, three-quarter trousers cannot rub against the ankle, which in some cases leads to unpleasant skin irritations. The same applies, however, to the hem of three-quarter cycling shorts, especially for poorly processed garments.

The right size is even more important for cycling shorts than for other sports shorts. Cycling causes a lot of friction. Especially on longer tours or during regular intensive training, clothing that sits too loosely can gradually chafe the skin and even cause open wounds. With such an injury, training is difficult. On the other hand, if the trousers are too tight, the legs can no longer move freely. In this context, it should also be remembered that intensive sport usually causes the muscles to swell slightly.

A good three-quarter cycling shorts is elastic for this reason. Flexible materials adapt ideally to the individual body shape – because every person is built differently. In addition, elastic fabric expands as needed and often makes a firm and secure fit of cycling clothing possible in the first place.
When buying cycling shorts the question often arises: With bags or without? A pocket (with zipper) in the three-quarter cycling shorts offers the advantage that small objects such as keys and mobile phone can be transported in it. At the same time, however, this results in a disadvantage: a filled bag can irritate and restrict freedom of movement. Often pockets in the jersey or secure brackets on the bike are the better solution.