Hello! Rayon is derived from natural materials such as wood, bamboo or other plants which provide the source of cellulose, and as a result is increasingly marketed as a 'natural fibre'. Unfortunately the intensive processing of the cellulose is anything but natural or sustainable - it requires significant quantities of energy and toxic chemicals, which are often released directly into the environment (as with most textiles, we rely on developing countries where they are dumped into waterways). Tencel, Lyocell, Modal are considered better fabrics, as the processing is 'closed loop', so the chemicals are reused and this could be thought of as more 'environmentally friendly'. Viscose Rayon is the dirtiest and despite the marketing, should really be avoided to reduce demand and its impact on the environment. It's sad that the marketing of these fibres is allowed to over-claim on their green credentials based simply on the starting raw materials, rather than transparency on the whole process and doubly ironic that this is then being sold to those of us who love all that nature provides for us. ✌🏽 P.s loved this two part series on the strange minefield that is 'what to wear to ride a bike' - thanks for sharing such a refreshing and generous outlook - keep up the great work.
What I have learned about rayon from wearing rayon shirts however is that if you live in the tropics in 100% humidity, it doesn't breathe... And keeps the heat in. Fair warning!
Hell yeah, tri shorts for the win! I get dirt cheap tri shorts on Amazon. WAY more comfortable than anything with a big fat pad. I've done Ragbrai 4x now self-contained wearing tri shorts.
100% agree on the tri vs standard bike short! Muscle development and the right saddle are really important and I've found that the extra padding takes away from that. I wear a tri short out on the road and sometimes on the trainer at home just a pair of boxer briefs.
Please more of Laura on this channel. Especially when you and Russ do a show together. He really seems to light up and it makes for consistently great episodes.
Bought a pair of the shorts you mention here (and a new Terry Butterfly saddle), and gave them a test ride today. I already knew I liked Terry Butterfly saddles but I was due for a new one, and the design has REALLY improved since 2011! Between that and the shorts it was fantastic; these are definitely my Holy Grail shorts! No padding, no seams in bad places, long enough to prevent chafing but not too long, they're not too loose on my thighs (I have skinny legs for a cyclist) or too tight on my waist, the pockets are deep enough for my phone, and they don't look stupid off the bicycle. HALLELUJAH. Thank you thank you thank youuuu
This is exactly what I needed to see. The TRI shorts sound great. I honestly hate the padding in chamois, but still want the wicking/anti-chafing properties. I'm glad I'm not alone in disliking standard chamois. Great video Laura.
Thank you so much for this Laura! The shorts info alone is a game changer. It's over 90 here in NJ 🥵 so definitely looking for some of those rayon tops.
I agree very much on the chamois without the padding even as a male. I have found old cycling bibs like this a number of years back and they are my favourite.
Thank you, Laura, for this! I love my tri shorts, but hadn't thought of wearing shorts over them for those fun coffee rides. Hope you do more videos with us ladies in mind!
I'm a lycra-clad roadie/cyclocrosser dude and I found very interesting. A lot of thought goes into your choices and some aren't particularly inexpensive, so it's not even a budget thing. Just very well researched and practical.
Well, I learned something new - rayon is a natural fibre! I always thought it was synthetic (like nylon). Every day is a school day! Do you plan to do a similar video on winter clothing (for men and women)? Non-cycling jackets, overtrousers, etc. always seem too baggie and bulky to wear while cycling.
As someone who both hikes and bikes, winter clothing is actually a lot easier for cycling because you can use a lot of the same clothing. Wool base-layer shirts and leggings help if it's really cold. Honestly, one of the best investments I ever made was a lightweight down jacket. It's perfect for pretty much any outdoor activity and will keep you warm on the bike, especially when paired with a light rain shell. And for pants, look for "outdoor" joggers. They are usually made out of the same lightweight material as other hiking pants, but are tapered or have elastic at the ankle.
Us dudes appreciate her too! Simply that she is so approachable & very telegenic. And most importantly (for me anyways) I trust what she and Russ say. I never feel they are being influencers for brands but they have subscribers best interests at heart. Makes it less stressful to watch their videos because I don’t have to parse every word trying to figure out if they are pushing products for a brand.
Tri shorts FTW! I like a shorter inseam, less padding, and good wicking/quick drying as well. I've been rocking Zoot 7" jammers as a liner and swimsuit for years. Thanks for all the great advice!
Thanks to you I find out about the 5/10 shoes and 50/50 pedals awhile back. I ride an upright position hybrid bike (Trek Verve) for fitness. My feet would slip off the cheap plastic pedals when damp. Your suggestion was a great fit for me. Having foot problems, the larger pedals work better and the 5/10’s allow me to use my orthotics. Love watching your bike adventures. Keep up the good work!
Thanks for the helpful suggestions. What about sports bras - any recommendations? Definitely agree that a good seat is better than thickly padded shorts.
Laura here. I don't have recommendations for sports bras, because I'm mid-hunt for one I actually like. But I've found that a medium-impact bra works pretty well for me, enough support to minimize the bounce without it being as restrictive as a good running bra
It's really going to depend on your size and how much support you need, but I've been eyeing the SheFit bras! Their size range is AMAZING, but also you can easily adjust the amount of support via velcro--both the bra's band and the straps have hook-and-loop closures, which means that when you get off the bicycle and don't need as much support, you can reach under your top and loosen it. For most day-to-day commute riding I get away with stretchy bralettes, but PMS and/or bumpy rides require more.
Yay, Laura, thanks for sharing. Really nice to hear what you prefer to wear. Will check out the Patagonia shorts. 👍I love the idea of the shorter leg length and waist band comfort.
For those who wants an overshorts like Laura’s, Decathlon sells a similar design for dudes. Cheaper but less stretchy than what patagonia offers. Atleast you can recreate the Laura minimal aesthetic
I also find padding uncomfortable, and it makes me overheat. I’m going to look at tri shorts. If I could actually find them with longish legs I would get several pairs! Great vid btw!
I wonder. How much time do you spend time on the saddle on your normal ride? I personally find that how much you like padding directly corresponds to the lenght of your rides.
@@Jedrasification Laura here. Most of my rides are sub 2 hours, but I've worn tri shorts exclusively for the past decade+ including full days in the saddle. I think padding is a matter of personal preference and I know some of us just don't get along with it
Thanks for the tip on tri shorts, because they aren't padded I just assumed that they didn't have a chamois, but if you think about it they kinda have to I suppose. And thank for the info on rayon, I always assumed it was a synthetic fabric and avoided it.
Great info, definitely going to share with my wife, we have been discussing kit for her and realized I'm clueless I notice you both use small mirrors on your helmets would love to hear some recommendations, thanks
Laura mentions Take-A-Look and I just bought one a month ago. Game changer! It's soooooo nice to ride w/o looking back over your shoulder - I second that, Laura. I will say that if attached to your helmet, it's easy to knock them off, or move them enough to change your perfect position so, as I read in some other biking venue, use duct tape to keep them in place.
Laura- I know DeSoto has sizing on their website but just wanted to know how you feel their sizing is. Accurate- or size up or size down? Just getting started on my journey since moving to Washington and just found this channel today. LOVE iT! Soooo informational!
Laura here. I find their sizing is accurate, but it's definitely a snug cut, so size up if you're in-between sizes. I wear a medium and my hips are roughly 37"
To each their own. I personally on shorter rides, let's say under 2hr, preffer padding on the saddle. Anything longer and i'll take the hardest saddle I can find, that fits me botom bones and a quality pad attached to my butt. Overshorts with pockets are a lifesaver, anything else is whatever i feel like in my book.
I agree about padded shammies… for some reason every time I wear them, my hands go numb 5 miles into the my ride, no idea why. Without pads I can ride 50 miles non stop with no issues. What's that about??
Everyone's different! Personally I find that only high end chamois shorts are even worth considering. Anything below $50 MSRP is usually crap and you're better off with no pads. But a good chamois does make a world of difference on long rides for me.
It might be pushing your weight forward by lifting your rear. Numb hands are due to bad grip or your weight is too forward. Even a few mm can make a difference.
Love this msg. Turns out you can still smash "road heros" on climbs just wearing a tank top and shorts. Industry needs to move away from this race first mentality.
LIKE all your recommendation! I just don't look/dress like a PRO in the street. I am a causal rider cycling with Brompton only. Most people in our city from top to toe wear Lycra, it looks like a DUMMY more than a PRO themselves.
This was awesome, Laura! Would love to see more videos offering your female-specific perspective on things
Laura is a great voice. I'd love to see more content featuring her! Loved the Breadwinner videos she hosted!
not that I have plans to wear a female gravel casual, but I got through the end of the video because of how Laura talks, it is so calming. hahah.
Good tip on the tri shorts! I typically don’t wear bike shorts either. Darin might be interested in these thanks! Pockets are KEY.
Laura very informative I know the ladies appreciate it
Laura, today I learned rayon is a natural fiber, thanks!
Yess
Hello! Rayon is derived from natural materials such as wood, bamboo or other plants which provide the source of cellulose, and as a result is increasingly marketed as a 'natural fibre'. Unfortunately the intensive processing of the cellulose is anything but natural or sustainable - it requires significant quantities of energy and toxic chemicals, which are often released directly into the environment (as with most textiles, we rely on developing countries where they are dumped into waterways). Tencel, Lyocell, Modal are considered better fabrics, as the processing is 'closed loop', so the chemicals are reused and this could be thought of as more 'environmentally friendly'. Viscose Rayon is the dirtiest and despite the marketing, should really be avoided to reduce demand and its impact on the environment. It's sad that the marketing of these fibres is allowed to over-claim on their green credentials based simply on the starting raw materials, rather than transparency on the whole process and doubly ironic that this is then being sold to those of us who love all that nature provides for us. ✌🏽 P.s loved this two part series on the strange minefield that is 'what to wear to ride a bike' - thanks for sharing such a refreshing and generous outlook - keep up the great work.
What I have learned about rayon from wearing rayon shirts however is that if you live in the tropics in 100% humidity, it doesn't breathe... And keeps the heat in. Fair warning!
Hey Laura, I totally agree with you on no padding in shorts. If you have a saddle that fits you properly, the padding is not necessary
Great Video, like the so natural way she talks.
Thanks for the review.just got myself the happy hike shorts and the Soto.
I’m always looking for well-made merino wool options, so thanks for mentioning Ridge.
For sure. They came on the market a couple years ago and have quickly become my go-to
Have to share this info with my daughter. Very informative.
Hell yeah, tri shorts for the win! I get dirt cheap tri shorts on Amazon. WAY more comfortable than anything with a big fat pad. I've done Ragbrai 4x now self-contained wearing tri shorts.
100% agree on the tri vs standard bike short! Muscle development and the right saddle are really important and I've found that the extra padding takes away from that. I wear a tri short out on the road and sometimes on the trainer at home just a pair of boxer briefs.
Please more of Laura on this channel. Especially when you and Russ do a show together. He really seems to light up and it makes for consistently great episodes.
Bought a pair of the shorts you mention here (and a new Terry Butterfly saddle), and gave them a test ride today. I already knew I liked Terry Butterfly saddles but I was due for a new one, and the design has REALLY improved since 2011! Between that and the shorts it was fantastic; these are definitely my Holy Grail shorts! No padding, no seams in bad places, long enough to prevent chafing but not too long, they're not too loose on my thighs (I have skinny legs for a cyclist) or too tight on my waist, the pockets are deep enough for my phone, and they don't look stupid off the bicycle. HALLELUJAH. Thank you thank you thank youuuu
Awesome! So glad you're loving the shorts!
Thanks Laura! Have always wondered what shorts you wear and now I know.
This is exactly what I needed to see. The TRI shorts sound great. I honestly hate the padding in chamois, but still want the wicking/anti-chafing properties. I'm glad I'm not alone in disliking standard chamois. Great video Laura.
Laura here. And, honestly, I'm surprised that tri shorts aren't more well-known as an option for those of us who don't get along with padding.
Tri shorts! Genius. I'm with you. Never found the need for bulky bibs with my Brooks b17. Great video Laura!
Great review. A natural presenter
Thank you so much for this Laura! The shorts info alone is a game changer. It's over 90 here in NJ 🥵 so definitely looking for some of those rayon tops.
I agree very much on the chamois without the padding even as a male. I have found old cycling bibs like this a number of years back and they are my favourite.
Thank you, Laura, for this! I love my tri shorts, but hadn't thought of wearing shorts over them for those fun coffee rides. Hope you do more videos with us ladies in mind!
I'm a lycra-clad roadie/cyclocrosser dude and I found very interesting.
A lot of thought goes into your choices and some aren't particularly inexpensive, so it's not even a budget thing. Just very well researched and practical.
Thanks. I've had a few years to try a lot of different pieces and combinations!
Well, I learned something new - rayon is a natural fibre! I always thought it was synthetic (like nylon). Every day is a school day!
Do you plan to do a similar video on winter clothing (for men and women)? Non-cycling jackets, overtrousers, etc. always seem too baggie and bulky to wear while cycling.
As someone who both hikes and bikes, winter clothing is actually a lot easier for cycling because you can use a lot of the same clothing. Wool base-layer shirts and leggings help if it's really cold. Honestly, one of the best investments I ever made was a lightweight down jacket. It's perfect for pretty much any outdoor activity and will keep you warm on the bike, especially when paired with a light rain shell. And for pants, look for "outdoor" joggers. They are usually made out of the same lightweight material as other hiking pants, but are tapered or have elastic at the ankle.
I have that same Frankie tank from Ridge Merino and it's the only top I ride in during the summer.
Laura, thank you so much for this.. the “non dude’s” appreciates it.
Us "non dudes" gotta stick together!
Us dudes appreciate her too! Simply that she is so approachable & very telegenic. And most importantly (for me anyways) I trust what she and Russ say. I never feel they are being influencers for brands but they have subscribers best interests at heart. Makes it less stressful to watch their videos because I don’t have to parse every word trying to figure out if they are pushing products for a brand.
Tri shorts FTW! I like a shorter inseam, less padding, and good wicking/quick drying as well. I've been rocking Zoot 7" jammers as a liner and swimsuit for years. Thanks for all the great advice!
Thanks to you I find out about the 5/10 shoes and 50/50 pedals awhile back. I ride an upright position hybrid bike (Trek Verve) for fitness. My feet would slip off the cheap plastic pedals when damp. Your suggestion was a great fit for me. Having foot problems, the larger pedals work better and the 5/10’s allow me to use my orthotics. Love watching your bike adventures. Keep up the good work!
You look good and comfortable with those new bars on there. Good feedback for the ladies and some info applicable to men as well. Thanks.
Thanks so much for this. I don't like padded shorts either so this helped a lot!
Thanks for the helpful suggestions. What about sports bras - any recommendations? Definitely agree that a good seat is better than thickly padded shorts.
Laura here. I don't have recommendations for sports bras, because I'm mid-hunt for one I actually like. But I've found that a medium-impact bra works pretty well for me, enough support to minimize the bounce without it being as restrictive as a good running bra
It's really going to depend on your size and how much support you need, but I've been eyeing the SheFit bras! Their size range is AMAZING, but also you can easily adjust the amount of support via velcro--both the bra's band and the straps have hook-and-loop closures, which means that when you get off the bicycle and don't need as much support, you can reach under your top and loosen it.
For most day-to-day commute riding I get away with stretchy bralettes, but PMS and/or bumpy rides require more.
Thanks, Laura! Nice choices and great suggestions.
Thanks for the info on tri shorts. I'm not a fan of padding and have worn out my leather chamois shorts.
Learnt a lot and some great tips. Will give tri shorts ago. Even as a bloke, I don’t want to look as if I have fallen out the back of the Ineos truck!
Yes - for tri-shorts!
Gonna give the tri-shorts a go, though I do like some padding and I prefer full-length tights.
Perhaps a Brooks saddle will make the difference?
I was hoping there would be a women’s version. Thanks!
Thanks for the info! I was lost on what to tell my gf to get for bike clothes. Hearing it from a woman rider helps her out too.
Yay, Laura, thanks for sharing. Really nice to hear what you prefer to wear. Will check out the Patagonia shorts. 👍I love the idea of the shorter leg length and waist band comfort.
You'll love them. The stretchy waist was a game-changer for me!
Oh dear! I doubt you'll get a thumbs up from the ladies on GCN but you get a thumbs up from me!! . KEEP SAFE!
Actually, GCN has been pretty open to whatever. They just like race culture.
Thanks for making this fantastic video! I appreciate that you share the exact brand and name of the clothes you buy.
Laura you are awesome i like your take♡♡ i love this channel
Thanks!
Hi, which mudguard is that on your Breadwinner? Thanks. Love your channel!
For those who wants an overshorts like Laura’s, Decathlon sells a similar design for dudes. Cheaper but less stretchy than what patagonia offers. Atleast you can recreate the Laura minimal aesthetic
ilikewasabe which ones? Their range is so vast
Great video! More like this please!!!!!
Thank you so much for this info Laura! Do you have the 4" or 6" Happy Hike shorts? 🙂
4 inches.
I also find padding uncomfortable, and it makes me overheat. I’m going to look at tri shorts. If I could actually find them with longish legs I would get several pairs! Great vid btw!
I wonder. How much time do you spend time on the saddle on your normal ride? I personally find that how much you like padding directly corresponds to the lenght of your rides.
@@Jedrasification Laura here. Most of my rides are sub 2 hours, but I've worn tri shorts exclusively for the past decade+ including full days in the saddle. I think padding is a matter of personal preference and I know some of us just don't get along with it
I, too, use tri shorts in 8 to 9" lengths. Because I run XL or XXL, I opt for Terry, Coeur and RSports :)
Happy Solstice!
I know it's probably been said before, but Laura you give Russ a run for his money as a presenter and maybe in some ways are even better. Ha!
Thanks Laura! So many great points! Getting a stingy type insects down your shirt while riding is THE WORST!
Been there with the stingy insect down the shirt, don't want to do it again!
Thanks for the tip on tri shorts, because they aren't padded I just assumed that they didn't have a chamois, but if you think about it they kinda have to I suppose. And thank for the info on rayon, I always assumed it was a synthetic fabric and avoided it.
Yeah, rayon is derived from wood fibers. It may not be super environmentally-friendly, but it breathes well!
Great info, definitely going to share with my wife, we have been discussing kit for her and realized I'm clueless
I notice you both use small mirrors on your helmets would love to hear some recommendations, thanks
gary hildebrandt yes please talk about those small mirrors as opposed to getting bar end mirrors
Rearview mirrors are great! We use the Take-a-Look brand that clips onto glasses. Makes it easy to look behind you without swiveling your head
Laura mentions Take-A-Look and I just bought one a month ago. Game changer! It's soooooo nice to ride w/o looking back over your shoulder - I second that, Laura. I will say that if attached to your helmet, it's easy to knock them off, or move them enough to change your perfect position so, as I read in some other biking venue, use duct tape to keep them in place.
what bra/cami do you wear? Have you tried the Ridge Merino bralette?
Thanks, Laura!!
ok so what is Laura's current saddle and how does she choose one?
Pretty sure there's a video about that a wee while back.
Specialized Mimic saddle
Nothing against you, Russ but Laura is a natural in front of the camera.🎬
She needs a spin-off channel she explains things very well!!!
Love you guys!
Laura- I know DeSoto has sizing on their website but just wanted to know how you feel their sizing is. Accurate- or size up or size down? Just getting started on my journey since moving to Washington and just found this channel today. LOVE iT! Soooo informational!
Laura here. I find their sizing is accurate, but it's definitely a snug cut, so size up if you're in-between sizes. I wear a medium and my hips are roughly 37"
Awesome information!
Thank you!!!!!!!!!
More Laura!
No padded shorts?
Just curious, whats the benefit of an overshort instead of just wearing the trishort?
Maybe you value blending in more while touring and not looking like an “other”. Also pockets.
To each their own. I personally on shorter rides, let's say under 2hr, preffer padding on the saddle. Anything longer and i'll take the hardest saddle I can find, that fits me botom bones and a quality pad attached to my butt. Overshorts with pockets are a lifesaver, anything else is whatever i feel like in my book.
Laura as always great info I like ride in long sleeve shirts.keeps the sun and bugs off your arms.Probably not cool but who cares.🚲🇨🇦
Also, look into sailing, fishing or hunting gear if you’re not into loud colours.
What do you think about some of the CasaVerde stuff on Crust's website? I've been thinking of buying some of their stuff for my girlfriend.
Haven't had a chance to try it, but I like their aesthetic
Pockets!!
I agree about padded shammies… for some reason every time I wear them, my hands go numb 5 miles into the my ride, no idea why. Without pads I can ride 50 miles non stop with no issues. What's that about??
Everyone's different! Personally I find that only high end chamois shorts are even worth considering. Anything below $50 MSRP is usually crap and you're better off with no pads. But a good chamois does make a world of difference on long rides for me.
It might be pushing your weight forward by lifting your rear. Numb hands are due to bad grip or your weight is too forward. Even a few mm can make a difference.
OMG you're twins!
I have never understood the padding, or rather saving grams on saddle just to have feeling of wearing diapers
Love this msg. Turns out you can still smash "road heros" on climbs just wearing a tank top and shorts. Industry needs to move away from this race first mentality.
Killer legs 💪🚴
this was perfect than you two kindly.
I am interested in your take on bras
LIKE all your recommendation! I just don't look/dress like a PRO in the street. I am a causal rider cycling with Brompton only. Most people in our city from top to toe wear Lycra, it looks like a DUMMY more than a PRO themselves.
The cycling shorts with the padding gave me the worst case of thrush of my life. NEVER AGAIN.