Probably one of the most debated subject of all time in modern cycling is the benefits of having shaved legs. If you didn't know many serious cyclists (female and male) shave their legs, surprise! I could go on for paragraphs why cyclists shave their legs, but here's a list of some popular arguments:
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| Those legs be gleaming. |
1)
It's more aerodynamic
- Personally, I do not buy this argument that having shaved legs is more aerodynamic. The real world difference is negligible and there are better things to improve on such as positioning that betters aerodynamics.
2)
It makes it easier for post-race massages
- Seriously, who can afford a personal masseuse after every race? Unless you are a professional rider, this excuse is not valid.
3)
It's easier to clean up road rash after a crash
- This argument is more subjective, but it certainly is nice not to have leg hairs more than an inch long stuck to you bandages when you want to remove them. Pro-tip: get Tegaderm to treat road rash.
4)
It's a cycling tradition
- Perhaps the most compelling reason, having shaved legs as a cyclist proves that you are dedicated to the sport. Lycra makes one's body look smooth; by having hairy legs, they mess with the lines. Also, your leg muscles look more impressive with shaved legs.
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| Which side looks better? Obviously, the bare side. |
Many athletes in other sports shaved their legs, and sometimes more, such as swimmers, bodybuilders, etc. What separates us cyclists from them are shaved legs +
tan lines. Grab a razor and have at it.
