Short support - we've got mail - bike shorts - Brief Article - Letter to the Editor

Within an otherwise interesting article about Cathy Sassin [in the January issue of Better Nutrition], I was floored to read such an ignorant stipulation concerning bike shorts-that no one looks good in them and they shouldn't be worn for that reason. The cover and subtitle of this piece touted this "question," and I expected some wisdom relating to matters of health. Furthering the idea that women will not exercise if they cannot look "pretty" is an unworthy and sexist assessment by this athlete.

Moreover, I would like to hear Ms. Sassin's alternative to the shorts' padded, breathable materials that have been engineered specifically to protect sensitive crotch areas during this sport.

K.S. BROWN
Gainesville, Fla.

Sassin responds:

"My point was not that I don't like the functionability [of bike shorts], but the external look is not the most flattering design for women." Sassin says a number of cycling apparel companies have developed designs more flattering to women's figures--either incorporating a second layer of shorts or a "skort" on top of the form-fitting shorts.

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