tri shorts vs bike shorts

[sg516]

my wife was explaining that tri shorts have a lot less padding bc of the swim part and water absorbtion and what not. and i can totally see that with the typical padded bike short but whtat about gel shorts? i would think they would absorb and retain a lot less water. so can gel shorts be used in place of tri shorts or is it best jsut to stick with tri shorts? thanks.

~Steve

[emartin10]

I find tri shorts to be much more helpful on the run. I'm soaked to the bone after a swim anyway, so a bit of water in the padding isn't a big deal. When I run though, if I have a diaper down there, it's freaking brutal! I'd go tri shorts all the way.

E

[hej76]

I much prefer tri shorts too. They make a big difference for me especially with the run. Plus, I almost like swimming in them better than a suit.

[sg516]

i will buy a pair of tri shorts this week than. i figure i better start getting used to biking with less padding if thats how i am going to do it at St. Anthony's in April.

[Rotwang]

Tri shorts for me.

[sg516]

i did a google search for "best tri short" i was looking for a website that offered reviews of different products. what i found was De Soto Men's Forza Tri Short w/ 4-Pockets 2008. New traithlon, training, racing - ONE TRI - Shop Triathlon Equipment and Gear: Clothing, Wetsuits, Bikes and more.

this. they just come right out and say this is the best on the market. any thoughts on that? anyone know if they are significantly better than something like Eastbay - Athletic Shoes - Performance Clothing - Sports Equipment
this?

if so. what makes it better?

[swiminto]

Just bought my first pair of tri shorts, holy crap, what a difference they make for my bike riding. Most comfortable I have been in the saddle since starting to train for my first tri.

Running in them was comfortable, as well, I just have to try swimming in them now.....I will wait until the weather is warmer and use them in open water, so that the chlorine does not wreck them, before my first race.