How to prevent saddle sores?

Saddle sores are a common issue for long-distance cyclists, but they're very preventable! Here are the key strategies along with the right products:

1. Wear Padded Cycling Shorts (No Underwear Underneath!)
Quality chamois shorts are your first line of defense — the padding reduces friction and pressure directly at contact points.

2. Apply Chamois Cream Before Every Ride
Apply directly to your skin (and/or the chamois pad) to reduce friction and prevent bacterial buildup.

3. Other Key Tips:
Saddle fit — A properly fitted saddle (width-matched to your sit bones) dramatically reduces pressure sores

Shower promptly after rides — bacteria thrive in sweat-soaked shorts

Stand up regularly on long rides to restore blood flow

Avoid seams — choose shorts with flatlock stitching and no inner underwear

Bike fit — an improper saddle height or tilt causes shifting that creates friction