The weather is getting warmer and riders all across Sacramento State are pulling out their bicycles after a long winter hibernation. It’s time for long rides, sunshine and the inevitable discomfort that comes with being in the saddle for longer than 10 miles.

Every cyclist knows the feeling of saddle overexposure, and every activity has it’s own set of embarrassing and awkward physical ailments. In cycling, it’s the chafing that surrounds the nether regions.

The solution to this type of saddle discomfort is something that all riders use, but rarely talk about.

Chamois (Sha-me) cream: the magical cream that will keep your bum feeling good in the saddle, and eliminate the chafing that will happen – because, it will happen.

Chafing while riding has been a struggle since the early days of the wheel. What ancient cyclists used to resort to was the actual hide of a real chamois, a mountain goat that is now on the endangered species list. Eventually, a lotion was used to keep the leather supple, resulting in today’s chamois cream. Every cyclist in the 20th century, recreational, novice and professional, is happy that the days of riding on animal fur is over.

There is a certain etiquette that should be used when applying chamois cream, especially if you are on a group ride.

The weather is getting warmer and riders all across Sacramento State are pulling out their bicycles after a long winter hibernation. It’s time for long rides, sunshine and the inevitable discomfort that comes with being in the saddle for longer than 10 miles.

Every cyclist knows the feeling of saddle overexposure, and every activity has it’s own set of embarrassing and awkward physical ailments. In cycling, it’s the chafing that surrounds the nether regions.

The solution to this type of saddle discomfort is something that all riders use, but rarely talk about.

Chamois (Sha-me) cream: the magical cream that will keep your bum feeling good in the saddle, and eliminate the chafing that will happen – because, it will happen.

Chafing while riding has been a struggle since the early days of the wheel. What ancient cyclists used to resort to was the actual hide of a real chamois, a mountain goat that is now on the endangered species list. Eventually, a lotion was used to keep the leather supple, resulting in today’s chamois cream. Every cyclist in the 20th century, recreational, novice and professional, is happy that the days of riding on animal fur is over.

There is a certain etiquette that should be used when applying chamois cream, especially if you are on a group ride.

1. Don’t share the tub: Remember, this cream is going on your unspeakables, so if you are using someone else’s chamois cream, try to avoid scooping it out of a tub. You never know where someone else’s hands have been.

2. Discretion is the magic word: It is never OK to apply chamois cream in public. It takes a certain dance to get all the cream in all the right spots. It’s a solo dance and should be performed in private. If you absolutely must apply in front of a group, avoid eye contact at all cost.

3. Wash your hands: It’s just like going to the bathroom. After sticking your hands down your pants, its the polite thing to do.