How to Choose Cycling Tights

Mar 07, 2018 by Paula Dyba

What to look for when shopping for cycling tights

Cycling tights give you full length protection from chilly or freezing weather, or from the sun. Consider the weight of the fabric to suit the range of conditions you will be riding in.

To pad or not to pad.

Unpadded tights are normally worn over your cycling shorts or liners, giving the advantage of being useful for other off-bike purposes. The disadvantage is that double layers of fabric can add to friction and bulk which we like to avoid.

Padded tights are cycling specific and a lovely way to go full length without the added bulk of fabric and seams over seams which can cause friction and chafing.

Evaluate the fabric.

A range of options exist, from thermal wind-protective, fleece interior Winter Tights (20-40º), to 3-season, moisture wicking Coolweather Tights (30-50º+). Neither are waterproof, so consider adding a GORE-TEX® shell (pant or short) as an outer layer if faced with wet conditions.

Seam placement.

Pay attention to placement of the seams on cycling tights. Poor placement can lead to chafing, particularly around and behind the knee.

Select the proper size.

Cycling tights should fit tightly, with no bagging or sagging fabric that will catch on your saddle.

Length is important of course, since we're all shaped a little differently. Our most popular Terry bike tights are available in different lengths to suit taller or shorter riders. If in doubt, our customer service team will be happy to point you in the right direction.

Match your cycling tights to the riding conditions.

Choose fabric weight, lining and water resistance to the weather and road or trail conditions you expect. We put our bike tights to a tough real-ride field test.

Shop our complete selection of bike tights here.