Tight or baggy cycling shorts? What's your preference?

As a biker who is finally getting serious about long-distance rides that will continue for two weeks in length, I am faced with a question: Tight or baggy shorts? I'm going to purchase a pair and don't want to regret the first pick.

Around town, I am checking out every single biker I see because I am curious of what kind of gear they have chosen to use for their ride. For many, I see the tight cycling shorts, and that's what I see in races in the news, too. But really, is it all that comfortable? I question how much air flow a person is getting and if it is a bit too tight and cutting off any blood circulation. Plus, my healthcare provider gave me a stern warning, "Don't wear those tight shorts. The number of women I see after Ragbrai...well, it's not pretty."

So I have been looking into baggy cycling shorts for the sake of breathability and notice that there is another tight liner within them, too! What's the point of the baggy style if it's still tight? Sure, a person doesn't have to show off his of her derrier when getting off the bike and strolling through town, but how comfortable is the ride in them?

Right now, I train in standard workout shorts. However, I know I need to get a pair of proper cycling shorts with a padded lining before I head to Japan for a 2-week ride from Nagasaki to Hiroshima, Japan. So that leaves me with the ultimate question, at least on this issue, tight or baggy shorts? What do you think, fellow community member?

And if you'd like to learn more about the International Peace Bike Tour in Japan this August and/or make a donation to support me, the U.S. Biker/Citizen-Ambassador and participants from developing countries, please visit www.psriowa.org