Shaving Your Legs for Cycling: Is It Worth It?

I have always been a lifelong cyclist, having raced all kinds of bikes, from road to mountain bikes, and even some TT and triathlons. While my racing days have slowed down, my love for cycling remains. I am a frequent 5-day-a-week rider and a lifelong commuter. My cyclist mentality and lifestyle changes have not changed, and I still feel the ritual of shaving my legs.

My Personal Experience with Leg Shaving

My first leg shave was at the age of 17, preparing for a race in Winston-Salem. As I continued to ride and race, I adopted this practice as part of the cyclist ritual. Many would question if it made me faster, more powerful, or gave me more endurance. Logically, the answer is likely no. But for me, it was always a part of the routine.

The Myths and Realities of Leg Shaving

Cyclists often provide reasons for shaving their legs that can be misleading or even just silly. One of these reasons is the belief that hair traps bacteria and increases the likelihood of road rash getting infected. Sterilization methods can handle this issue regardless of whether hair is present or not. Another myth is that massage aids recovery, leading to smoother skin being preferable. However, once oiled, there's no real difference. In truth, these beliefs might stem more from vanity than practicality.

More Feasible Benefits

Two things in favor of leg shaving are women's preferences and the sensation of sliding smooth legs into cool, clean sheets on a hot summer day. Women find cuddling with smooth legs more pleasant than those with hair. This simple ritual enhances the overall experience during those intimate moments.

Practical Considerations

Leg shaving might be particularly beneficial unless you plan on cycling through a large swarm of bugs. While riding, hair can trap moisture and potentially attract small insects. Wound care can be improved by not having hair for bandages to stick to; alcohol wipes can also be used to clean the skin more effectively.

The Bottom Line

Whether leg shaving is worth it for you ultimately depends on your personal preference and practical needs. If you prioritize appearance or want to enhance comfort during cold nights, it might be a worthwhile ritual. However, if you're more concerned about performance on the road, the benefits are likely negligible.