Fortunately, I haven’t experienced too much saddle sore over the years. But, a painful posterior can be one of the big drawbacks of cycling long distances. I don’t apply a chamois cream every ride, but for longer ones, it helps to prevent chaffing and makes for a smoother ride. Quite often I forget to put it on, but regret it a little later.
You can apply it directly to the skin or to the short. As time goes by, some shorts become harder and stiffer; regular application of chamois cream can help maintain a greater suppleness and elasticity in the short. Definitely modern chamois need less maintenance than the old fashioned leather straps, but it definitely helps to apply a chamois cream at certain intervals to shorts.
Menthol in the cream gives a cooling effect when applied to the skin. It can feels a little weird at first, but on long hot days it is good to have that cooling effect from the short.
Ingredients in chamois cream include:
- Almond Oil (to soften the skin)
- Witch Hazel (cleansing, healing and soothing)
Assos Chamois cream is more expensive than other brands at £14. You could try alternatives such as Udderly Smooth (using Shea Butter. It is half the price at £7. I haven’t tested Udderly Smooth because I’ve always stuck with the one I know. But, at £14 it gives a high level of comfort / price.
Conclusion
Even a small improvement in saddle comfort can make a big difference to the enjoyability of a ride. More comfort makes this product good value. If you ever get saddle sore, you’ve nothing to lose by trying it. Even if you don’t have bad saddle sores at the moment, this can help prevent the worst of chafing. For long rides over 2 hours, I definitely recommend it. Simple, but effective.
Note on Saddle Sore
Assos Chamois Cream
- Assos Chamois Cream at Evans Cycles
- Creams for saddle sore including Assos Chamois cream
- Creams for dealing with saddle sore at Wiggle cycles
I swear by this stuff. Whether I’m cycling 10 or 40 miles I always apply it. Always to the skin never felt the need to apply it to the chamois on the shorts. I use the same brand as featured and the cooling effect when applied can be noticed and does help keep you fresh.
It cost me 11.99 from Evans but I price matched and got it a little cheaper (a true Yorkshireman)and you don’t need to use a lot so a jar should last a long time.