Possibly a daft question

[ska face]

but when cycling adverts speak about "chamois" pads in short liners and shorts, does this mean it's actually made from chamois, or is it a generic term for the pad?

If this is a stupid question, please tell me and I will go away and hide my shame!

[JohnBarleycorn]

In the olden days, it was made from very soft leather, and took lots of care to keep supple. When I started cycling in the early eighties, most shorts still had leather chamois.

These days, they are all synthetic, and machine washable, and far superior. As far as I know, nobody is producing shorts with chamois fitted, but the name has stuck.

[ska face]

Ok, thanks very much.

I have been avoiding them just in case, but will buy with a clear conscience.