How to find the best pair of cycling tights?

One simple way to choose a pair of cycling tights you’ll love wearing is to find the brand of your favorite cycling shorts and see if they offer a similar design in tights. That way, you’ll know before you’ve even tried them on that you love the chamois and the fit. Of course, it’s not guaranteed that you’ll love the tights as much as your favorite shorts because you have to consider other factors like warmth and weather protection, but it’s a good place to start.

At first glance, most cycling tights look similar–they’re usually black (to hide dirt) and fit snuggly. The differences to carefully consider when shopping for any type of cycling tights are the quality and effectiveness of the chamois and fabrics and the comfort or construction. Make sure the chamois is dense but not bulky, moisture-wicking, and gender-specific for a great fit. Make sure the fabric is effective at blocking wind, repelling water, and keeping sweat from lingering on your skin. Also, look for panels placed strategically in tights to keep you dry over most exposed areas like your thighs and knees, while remaining breathable and flexible behind the legs. It’s not easy designing a garment that shields against rough weather and remains breathable, but panels are one way to achieve this. The more technically advanced the tights are, the higher the price, but quality cycling tights can last you for many winters.