Ask Dethroner: Are There Any Bike Shorts That Aren’t Creepy?

Will writes:

Are there bike shorts out there that don’t make me look like a dork? I can’t exactly wear cargo shorts on my bike, as the flaps get caught on the chain and in general the extra fabric snags on the seat, but I don’t think I can walk around in public in Lycra; a man has gotta take a stand somewhere. Something with pockets would be nice too.

According to Wheat Ridge Cyclery’s helpful guide, it looks like you’re looking for “baggy bicycle shorts” or simply “baggies.” Baggies still have a lycra lining (complete with anti-bacterial funk fighters) but include another layer that look more like traditional hiking shorts. You’ll still get the benefit of ridding commando—no seams means no chafing your nethers—but you can walk into a store without looking like a door-to-door cucumber salesman.

I can’t speak to specific brands as I measure my bike sessions by packs smoked, but it looks like a basic pair will cost you in the $40-$100 range.