Chamois Cream: Worth It or Marketing?

Ignored chamois cream for years. Seemed like another thing cyclists buy that they don’t actually need. Then I got saddle sores bad enough to keep me off the bike for a week. Started using cream. Haven’t had issues since. Sometimes the stuff everyone recommends actually works.

What It Actually Does

Reduces friction between you and the chamois pad. Creates a barrier that prevents the chafing that leads to saddle sores. Some formulas add antibacterial properties to prevent the bacterial growth that causes problems.

That’s what makes chamois cream endearing to us long-distance riders — it’s preventative medicine for a problem you really don’t want to get.

The History

Old cycling shorts used actual chamois leather. Riders applied cream to keep the leather supple — dry leather chafed terribly. Modern synthetic chamois doesn’t need conditioning, but the friction problem remains. The cream evolved to address skin rather than leather.

How to Apply It

Two schools of thought: apply directly to skin, or apply to the chamois pad. Probably should have led with this, honestly — I apply directly to skin in the areas that get irritated. Some people prefer coating the chamois. Either works; experiment to find your preference.

Clean, dry skin first. Generous application in friction zones. Don’t be shy with the amount — too little does nothing.

When You Need It

Short rides? Probably not. Anything over two hours? Strongly recommended. Hot, humid conditions? Essential. Multi-day riding? Non-negotiable.

I’m apparently someone who needs it even on shorter rides. My friend does centuries without any cream and never has issues. Bodies vary.

Popular Options

Chamois Butt’r: The standard. Widely available, reasonably priced, works for most people. The original formula is my go-to.

Assos: Premium price, premium performance. Some swear by it; others find it no better than cheaper options.

DZ Nuts: Silly name, serious product. Good blend of lubrication and antibacterial properties.

Rapha: Upscale feel, works well. You’re paying for the brand to some degree.

Mad Alchemy: Natural ingredients, variety of formulas for different conditions. The warming version is interesting for cold weather.

DIY Options

Some riders use coconut oil, petroleum jelly, or generic anti-chafe products. These can work but lack the antibacterial properties of cycling-specific creams. Your call on whether that matters.

Beyond Cycling

Runners use chamois cream for inner thigh chafing. Hikers apply it to prevent blisters. Any activity involving repetitive friction can benefit. I’ve used it for long hikes and it works there too.

Storage and Travel

Most formulas last a year or two stored properly. Keep the container closed; contamination is a thing. Travel-size options exist for trips — TSA counts it as a liquid.

Washing Your Shorts

Wash after every ride regardless of whether you use cream. The cream should wash out normally. Don’t use fabric softener on cycling shorts — it degrades the chamois.

When Cream Isn’t Enough

If you’re using cream and still getting sores, the problem is elsewhere. Saddle fit, shorts quality, bike position, or hygiene practices. Cream addresses friction but can’t fix fundamental fit issues.

Worth the small investment for the problems it prevents.