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If youre a regular indoor cyclist, you probably already have some of the necessary gear.

Woman wearing padded bike shorts

Corey Towers

As a Peloton regular who rides most days, Ive actually never worn a pair of padded bike shorts.

But its definitely a thing.

A quick scan of activewear and cycling retail sites shows a bunch of the padded options.

REI Junction padded bike shorts

Which made me think: Do peopleactuallyneed to wear padded bike shorts toindoor cycling classes?

Wondering if I was selling my workout short with my (woefully?)

What do padded bike shorts even do, anyway?

Shebeest padded bike shorts

Outdoor cyclists almost always wear bike shorts with a chamois just like they wear clip-in shoes, says Olsen.

That means youre able to give all your focus to your ride.

Who needs to wear padded bike shorts?

Rapha padded bike shorts

Heres how to choose a pair of padded bike shorts.

(She personally prefers bibs, which are shorts connected to shoulder straps, for a smoother fit.)

Additionally, if youre prone to chafing, its helpful to use chamois creme.

Machines for Freedom Endurance Bib

Quick-drying and breathable materials are also key, notes Raymer.

When you sweat, you want it to dry quickly so you arent sitting in it.

Ready to buy a pair?

Terry touring padded bike short

Below are six pairs of indoor cycling shorts our experts recommend.

Terry padded bike shorts