Ask experienced cyclists what changed their long rides most and many will say chamois cream. It is a simple product that reduces friction where you meet the saddle, and it can be the difference between finishing a century comfortably and counting the miles.
What is chamois cream?
Chamois cream is an anti-friction cream used with cycling shorts. The name comes from the chamois, the padded insert in cycling shorts that was once made from chamois leather. Today's pads are synthetic, but the job of the cream is the same: reduce friction between your skin and the pad so you can pedal for hours without rubbing raw.
Why cyclists use it
- Less friction. Thousands of pedal strokes mean constant small movements against the saddle.
- Fewer saddle sores. Friction, pressure and moisture are the main ingredients of saddle sores. Reducing friction helps.
- More comfort on long rides. The longer the ride, the bigger the difference.
How to apply chamois cream
- Start clean. Apply to clean, dry skin and use clean shorts every ride.
- Apply to your skin, the pad, or both. Many riders apply a layer directly to the skin where they contact the saddle. Others also add a thin layer to the pad. Try both and see what feels best.
- Focus on contact points. Cover the areas that touch the saddle and the inner thighs where the shorts' edges can rub.
- Use enough. A thin smear won't last a long ride. Use a generous amount for longer efforts.
- Reapply on long days. On very long rides or multi-day events, reapply at a mid-ride stop.
Choosing a chamois cream
Look for a cream that stays put for hours and feels comfortable rather than sticky. SLATHER Anti-Chafing Cream is made to work as a long-lasting chamois cream. It is infused with tea tree oil and has a subtle cooling sensation with a fresh scent. Because it doubles as a general anti-chafe cream, the same tube also covers your feet and thighs on run days.
Other ways to prevent saddle discomfort
- Get a bike fit. Saddle height, setback and tilt all change pressure and movement.
- Find the right saddle. Saddles are personal. Width and shape should match your anatomy.
- Wear good shorts with no underwear. Cycling shorts are designed to be worn against the skin. Underwear adds seams and moisture.
- Change out of your kit quickly. Get out of damp shorts soon after the ride and shower.
- Stand up periodically. Short out-of-the-saddle efforts relieve pressure.
If you already have a saddle sore
Keep the area clean and dry, give it time off the bike if you can, and protect it well when you ride again. If a sore is very painful, growing or looks infected, see a healthcare provider.
For chafing beyond the bike, read our complete guide to preventing chafing.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need chamois cream for short rides?
Many riders skip it on short rides. It becomes more valuable on rides over an hour or two, in hot weather, or if you are prone to saddle sores.
Do I apply chamois cream to my skin or the pad?
Either works, and many riders do both. Apply to clean, dry skin at the saddle contact points and add a thin layer to the pad if you like.
Can I use SLATHER as a chamois cream?
Yes. SLATHER is made to work as a long-lasting chamois cream for cycling and to help prevent saddle sores.
Should I wear underwear with cycling shorts?
No. Cycling shorts are designed to be worn against the skin, and underwear adds seams and holds moisture.