I've worn both. My seat is padded. I get the thinnest pad I can for my shorts. Synthetic smells worse than wool, to my nose, unless the synthetic is washed with special detergent or soaked in vinegar. Quick drying is a definite advantage. Easier to care for is a definite advantage. Lower cost is a definite advantage. Those advantages all lie with synthetics. I may very well fit into my old Black Bottoms next year. If my memories are false, I'll find out and, having taken this position, share my experience.