Answer
Sep 25, 2020 - 09:29 AM
Hello. This is a good question, but the answer is "layered," at best. Gel vs. foam padding is generally personal preference, and, in truth, gel pads are still predominantly foam. They just have an extra gel layer positioned at the sit bones to help with added support.
Gel generally doesn't compress as easily as foam does and it is usually better at absorbing road vibrations too. While all padded cycling shorts aim to reduce sit bone discomfort as one of their many functions, many riders feel that gel pads help very well in this area primarily for these reasons.
Again, many riders are just as comfortable when using purely foam-based pads but this depends on a multitude of factors, including the rider's personal preference, their posture, their ride duration, their ride terrain, etc.
The Gel Touring Chamois is certainly one of our most popular product lines because of its supportive chamois (as well as other cool features like the pockets too). But please let us know what questions you have and we'd be more than happy to help: 1-800-783-8326 or cyclewear@aerotechdesigns.
Thanks!
