Chamois Cream Myths Debunked: The Truth About Saddle Sore Prevention

Chamois cream – that slippery, anti-chafe cream for cycling – is sometimes misunderstood. From road racers to weekend warriors, every cyclist seems to have an opinion. Unfortunately, a lot of myths about chamois cream can leave you confused (and uncomfortable). Believing the wrong advice might keep you from riding in comfort or cause saddle sores cycling long distances. In this post, we’re busting the top myths about chamois cream so you can pedal pain-free with confidence. And for those that want a pro level chamois cream (trust me, you do!), try Velovaere's all-natural formula. 

Common Chamois Cream Myths (Busted!)

1.     Myth: “Only newbies (or pros) need chamois cream.”
Reality: Chafing doesn’t care if you’re new or have thousands of miles under your belt – anyone can benefit from a good cream on longer rides. It’s true you might skip it for a quick 30-minute spin, but if you’re riding for hours (or multiple days) even experienced cyclists swear by using chamois cream to stay comfortable. Pro racers in brutal stage races use it regularly, and many amateurs eventually discover that a quality cream dramatically improves their ride by preventing friction and pain in their behind. In short: it’s an inexpensive “insurance policy” for your skin, no matter your skill level.

2.     Myth: “Any lotion or petroleum jelly works just as well.”
Reality: Don’t throw just anything down your shorts – the wrong product can cause more harm than good. Regular moisturizers lack the lasting lubrication and anti-bacterial properties of dedicated cycling creams. Worse, petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) may be cheap, but it’s a big mistake for cycling. Petroleum-based ointments don’t wash out of your shorts properly, can trap bacteria, and even wreck the pads’ material and antimicrobial treatments. In fact, some saddle and short manufacturers warn that petroleum jelly can void warranties due to the damage it causes. For saddle sore prevention, stick with creams formulated for cycling – ideally an all-natural chamois cream that is water-soluble and washes out easily.

3.     Myth: “The more chamois cream you slather on, the better.”
Reality: When it comes to chamois balm, you can have too much of a good thing. It’s a Goldilocks situation – you want enough to coat the skin, but not so much that you’re sliding around in your shorts. Using a huge glob can actually increase friction because you’ll slip and rub more, like a skin lubricant slip ’n slide. Most cyclists find that about a quarter-sized dollop (or a two-finger scoop) is plenty to cover high-friction areas. Apply it evenly to your skin (or the chamois pad) where you tend to chafe, but don’t overdo it. A quality cream will do its job with a thin layer – more is not always better.

4.     Myth: “Modern bike shorts are so good, chamois cream is obsolete.”
Reality: High-end bib shorts with smooth, cushy pads are wonderful – but even the best shorts can’t eliminate friction and pressure on sensitive skin during long rides. Today’s synthetic chamois pads are much improved over the old leather ones, yet people still use chamois cream because it offers benefits shorts alone can’t. Think of it this way: your shorts are like the suspension on a car, and chamois cream is the motor oil reducing engine wear. The cream creates a lubricating barrier between your skin and the pad (and between skin folds) to stop the micro-rubbing that causes chafing and saddle sores. It also often contains anti-bacterial ingredients to keep germs at bay. Even with great gear, adding a layer of cream can be the difference between finishing a century ride comfortably or wincing in pain. If pros with top-of-the-line kits still use chamois cream on century rides and Grand Tours, you probably should consider it too!

5.     Myth: “There’s only one correct way to apply chamois cream.”
Reality: Some say you must apply it to your chamois pad, others insist you only put it on your skin. Here’s the truth: both methods work – do whatever you find easiest, as long as the cream ends up where it’s needed (on your contact points with the saddle). Many cyclists prefer rubbing it on their skin (e.g. inner thighs, groin area) before putting on shorts, while others spread a layer directly onto the pad. You can even do both for maximum coverage. Just remember the golden rule if you’re applying cream in a public locker room or parking lot: try not to make eye contact with anyone during the act (awkward!). The key is simply to use it correctly, in the right spots – method aside, don’t apply chamois cream like sunscreen on your legs or something. Focus on the areas that experience friction. As long as you cover the usual suspects (sit bones region, perineum, inner thighs), you’re good to go.

By dispelling these myths, we hope you feel more confident about using chamois cream as part of your cycling routine. The bottom line: a high-quality chamois cream can be a game-changer for your comfort on the bike. Don’t let hearsay stop you from trying it. Experience the difference with Velovaere all-natural chamois cream – a product designed by cyclists to keep you comfortable and saddle sore-free. Give it a try, and you might wonder how you ever rode without it. Happy riding!

About the Author
Alex Meucci — Founder of Velovaere and retired professional cyclist. After years of riding 20–30 hours per week and struggling with ineffective creams, Alex created Velovaere’s all-natural chamois cream to help road bikers, mountain bikers, gravel riders, and triathletes ride longer, stay comfortable, and avoid chafing.