Chamois cream is one of those items that provokes fevered discussion, the marmite of the cycling world - you either love it or hate it.
Some riders will swear that t if you ride for a decent length of time then you can't leave home without a liberal application of chamois cream. Chapeau have two versions in their line-up, original and menthol. Besides an obvious difference in fragrance, the original has a slightly thicker consistency.
The menthol version does smell nice and is only slightly thinner in it's consistency.
The stated way to use the cream is with a generous application to the buttocks and perineum before added some directly onto the chamois pad itself. The cream benefits the rider through creating a long lasting barrier between the rider and pad but also an anti-friction layer to prevent bacterial gowth. A useful bonus for every rider.
The low down in performance terms, it does provide a thick layer when applied to the pertinent areas. It does provide a comfortable barrier and on longer runs it does keep matters running smoothly allowing you as a rider to concentrate on your effort without getting distracted. For longer rides you will have to be liberal in the amount you apply.
Once applied the cream is easy to wash off so there is no sticky residue left to cause unpleasantness later on your ride.
Either flavour of the Chapeau Chamois Cream provides a suitable layer of protection. The original is slightly thicker but the menthol version smells nice.
Provides an extra layer of protection from the saddle so you feel more comfortable on longer rides especially in the warmer weather.
road.cc test report
Make and model: Chapeau Chamois Cream
Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?
Aimed at riders who want to ride further for longer. In the warm weather it keeps your seat area comfy and has the stated ability to keep things hygienic. Two things important to every cyclist.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
There is a slight difference in thickness between the two creams, the original is the thicker of the two. However both offer a decent layer and are easy to wash off your hands once applied.
Rate the product for performance:
8/10
Both chamois creams provide a layer of protection from discomfort and over a longer ride keep seated matters from distracting you.
Rate the product for durability:
9/10
The cream lasts sufficiently for longer rides, the only time there was a wearing off of the benefits, there was over 10 hours of saddle time.
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
8/10
The layer of protection and comfort provided make for an enjoyable experience.
Rate the product for value:
9/10
The 200ml tube will last a fair while even with liberal use of it.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
I've never used chamois cream before but was surprised how effective it was. A convert.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
Besides the performance the ease at which you can wash it off means you don't get any residue left on your hands.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
I don't know if the ease at which the cream washes off means it is not quite as thick as it could be to provide a true barrier. This is a small gripe considering the other benefits.
Did you enjoy using the product? I was pleasantly surprised by the effectiveness.
Would you consider buying the product? Yes
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes
Age: 44 Height: 178cm Weight: 80kg
I usually ride: Currently riding a Pinnacle Evaporite Three My best bike is: As above
I've been riding for: 5-10 years I ride: Every day I would class myself as: Experienced
I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, commuting, sportives, mtb, Not yet but looking to dip my toe in the world of TT
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