Ok, I give up... why do cyclists/triathletes/etc shave legs?

[DisgruntledVirus]

I understand why swimmers do. I can understand why pro cyclists do. However, why does it seem like so many cyclists/triathletes shave their legs? Nothing wrong with it, just never understood the reason why non-pros do it since I doubt the extra hair really has any effect at the level they are performing at. So is there another reason they do it?

 

[Kaido]

I think mostly vanity. I guess the biggest reason would be easy cleanup if you get wounded. Plus sweat vs. hair. I think mostly people do it because everyone else does it

 

[Zeze]

Prevent chaffing?

 

[Scotteq]

Perhaps they came to a conclusion that, as long as they're going to spend hours and hours covered in thin spandex, head down/buns up, jockeying for position in a pack of sweaty men...

...may as well shave the legs too...

 

[jaedaliu]

c'mon, you know you want to do it too. You're just afraid.

psychological advantage? In an endurance event, if you think you can go faster, longer, you actually can. Though, the fall off afterwards can be quite steep.

 

[theApp]

Also road rash is easier to clean without hair.

 

[_Rick_]

Also road rash is easier to clean without hair.

This.

And many people just strive for that pro look.

I myself am considering shaving my legs this summer, as last year's wipe-out had me deal with hair stuck to an open wound, which is unpleasant.

Also, aesthetics and massages. If you can find someone who gives your legs a good squeezing after a hard ride, you will appreciate that they don't pull your hair out and get your follicles infected.

 

[Megatomic]

Triathletes do it for less painful donning and doffing of wetsuits. I'm a runner and I DO NOT shave anything. But I do clean up the bush some...

 

[Phanuel]

I just hate looking at myself in lycra with hair on my legs. *shrug*