Children's cycling shorts

Choose a size in which your child can pedal comfortably now. A much larger pad can slip and fold. Compare height and measurements with the brand's chart instead of buying a large spare margin in the hope of longer use.

A suitably shaped pad can help on longer periods in the saddle. On short play rides, freedom to move may matter more. Check the seated feel on the child's own bike and choose padding proportioned to their current size.

Let your child wear the intended pads while trying the trousers and squatting down. Knees and hems should not catch. Check the actual combination rather than assuming that a loose cut will always leave enough room.

Wash according to the label and let the pad dry fully. Extra underwear beneath padded shorts can introduce seams that rub. The inside should be clean and dry before your child wears them on the next ride.