When it comes to mountain biking, there are a few things that are essential. A good bike, the right gear, and plenty of determination. One piece of gear that often goes overlooked is mountain biking shorts. Most people simply assume that all shorts are created equal. However, this could not be further from the truth! In this blog post, we will discuss the reasons why MTB shorts are so long and how you can choose the right pair for your needs.
The History Of Mountain Bike Shorts
The first recorded instance of mountain biking took place in the early 1900s. However, it wasn't until the 1970s that the sport began to gain popularity. During this time, cyclists were using clothes that were not specifically designed for mountain biking. This often resulted in shorts that were too short or too baggy.
It wasn't until the 1980s that mountain biking shorts began to be specifically designed for the sport. The first MTB shorts were made from a polyester fabric that was lightweight and quick-drying. These shorts were also much longer than traditional cycling shorts, which helped to protect the rider's legs from branches and other obstacles.
Why They Are So Long
While the fabric and style of MTB shorts have changed over the years, the one constant has been the length. So, why are MTB shorts so long? Let's take a look at a few reasons.
1. More Protection
The longer shorts offer more protection. When you're riding through the woods, there are a lot of things that can scratch or cut your legs. Having longer shorts helps to protect your legs from these obstacles.
2. Keep Your Legs Cool
They help to keep you cool. When you're riding, your legs will often get very sweaty. Wearing shorter shorts can often result in chafing and a feeling of being too hot. Longer shorts help to keep your legs cooler by providing more surface area for the sweat to evaporate.
3. Longer Shorts Look Better
Longer shorts simply look better. When you're out on the trails, you want to be able to focus on your riding, not on your clothes. Wearing shorter shorts can often be a distraction. Longer shorts help you to blend in with the crowd and look more like a professional rider.
4. More Storage
They provide more storage. Most mountain biking shorts have at least two pockets, which can be used to store things like energy bars, your phone, or a small first-aid kit. Having these items close at hand can be very useful in case of an emergency.
5. Better Padding
They often have better padding. When you're riding, you want to be as comfortable as possible. Many shorts have a padded liner that helps to cushion your ride. This can make a big difference on longer rides.
Shorts that are too short can leave a considerable "pad gap".
How To Choose The Right Pair Of Long MTB Shorts
Now that you know the reasons why MTB shorts are so long, you might be wondering how to choose the right pair for your needs. There are a few things that you should keep in mind when making your decision.
1. Consider The Type of Riding
First, consider the type of riding that you'll be doing. If you're planning on doing a lot of downhill riding, then you'll need a different type of short than if you're going to be doing mostly cross-country riding. Downhill riders often prefer shorts that are made from a thicker fabric that can withstand more abuse. Cross-country riders, on the other hand, often prefer lighter-weight shorts that don't weigh them down when they're climbing hills.
2. Think About The Weather
You'll also need to consider the weather. If you're going to be riding in hot, humid conditions, then you'll want shorts that are made from a lightweight fabric that will help to keep you cool. If you're going to be riding in colder conditions, on the other hand, you might prefer shorts that are made from a thicker fabric that will help to keep you warm.
3. Don't Forget About Style
Finally, don't forget about style. While function is important, you also want to make sure that you look good when you're out on the trails. There are a wide variety of styles available, so take some time to try on a few different pairs before making your final decision.
The best brands for long MTB shorts
There's no doubt that Cycorld is the best brand for MTB shorts. With a wide variety of styles and colors to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect pair for your needs. Cycorld shorts are made from high-quality materials and are designed to withstand the rigors of mountain biking. They also feature excellent padding that will keep you comfortable on even the longest rides.
Tips On How To Take Care Of Your Long MTB Shorts
Once you've found the perfect pair of long MTB shorts, you'll want to make sure that you take care of them so that they last for many years. Here are a few tips on how to do just that:
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Wash your shorts after every ride. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that could damage the fabric.
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Store your shorts in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or in a damp basement.
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Inspect your shorts regularly for signs of wear and tear. If you see any fraying or holes, patch them up as soon as possible.
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Follow the care instructions on the label. This will help to prolong the life of your shorts.
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Try to avoid crashing. This is probably the best way to prevent damage to your shorts!
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Now you know everything there is to know about why MTB shorts are so long. So, go forth and enjoy your rides in comfort and style! And don't forget to take care of your shorts so that they'll last for many years to come.