Your bike shorts can make (or break) your cycling experience, especially if you’re going on long rides or riding for several hours every week. “Aside from cosmetic differences like color and style, a key feature to look for in cycling shorts is what’s called the ‘chamois’ (pronounced sha-mē)," says Tony Rich, Founder and Head Coach at EventHorizon Endurance Sport. This is the padding that provides comfort on a hard bike seat. To avoid any chafing, you’ll also want to find shorts that fit snuggly but not too tight.
Many bike shorts also feature moisture-wicking capabilities for triathletes, sweatier riders, or those who live in a humid climate. And though most shorts are designed for outdoor wear, they can also be worn for indoor cycling. The bike shorts in our roundup were reviewed based on their material; including moisture-wicking and anti-microbial properties, padding, length and available sizes, the grip around the leg openings, and special features like pockets or reflective strips.
Reviewed & Approved
Our best overall selection for women are the Terry Touring Bike Shorts for their moisture-wicking and anti-microbial properties as well as being offered in three lengths and sizes from XS-XXL. Our top selection for men are the Black Bibs Black Shorts Plus that are available in sizes from XS-XXXL.
Here are the best bike shorts on the market.
The Terry Touring Bike Short is our best overall pick and is designed to be comfortable and cooling while offering additional functions, like a side zip pocket. And while they’re more expensive than some, avid cyclers say that they own multiple pairs thanks to their comfort and quality.
Best Overall for Women
Terry Touring Bike Short
Multiple lengths and sizes
Moisture wicking technology
Antimicrobial fabric to reduce odor
Side zip pocket included
Expensive
Only comes in black
Featuring signature Terry chamois, they include padding that helps reduce saddle pain on long rides. They also come in multiple lengths—making them great for short and tall riders, and for those looking for more modest coverage. The fast-drying material wicks away moisture and reduces odors, and the elastic-free waistband eliminates digging into your skin.
Price at time of publication: $115
Key Specs:Material: Nylon, polyester, spandex | Length: 5 inches, 8 inches, 10 inches | Sizes: Extra-small to extra-extra-large | Pockets: Side zip pocket | Leg gripper: Soft woven
“No Label. No BS. Undeniably Affordable,” is the brand’s motto, which perfectly describes their popular, high-quality shorts. Budget-friendly and comfortable, customers say that they live up to the same standards as brand-name options.
Best Overall for Men
The Black Bibs Black Shorts Plus
Wide range of sizes
Moderately priced
Chamois for long rides
Folded leg opening for comfort
Only comes in black
No pockets
Folded leg openings provide security, but since the shorts aren’t made with non-slip materials, they won’t constrict or cause you discomfort. They also have fewer seams to reduce chafing.
Price at time of publication: $55
Key Specs:Material: High Compression | Length: 9.6 inches, 10.6 inches | Sizes: Extra-small to extra-extra-extra-large | Pockets: None | Leg gripper: Silicon
For beginners or those on a budget, the BALEAF Women’s Bike Shorts offer all of the basic features you need for short- to mid-length rides. Featuring 3D gel padding, they’re supportive and comfortable, though they may be a bit constricting for longer cycling adventures.
Best Budget for Women
BALEAF Women’s Bike Short
Wide waistband
Material with UPF 50+ protection
Multiple colors available
Gel padded chamois
Only comes in one seam length
No pockets
The wide waistband keeps the shorts from rolling down and the anti-slip silicone grippers around the leg openings keep the shorts from riding up. Additionally, the fabric offers UPF 50+ protection to keep your skin protected on your outdoor rides.
Price at time of publication: $40 for black
Key Specs:Material: Nylon, spandex | Length: 9 inches | Sizes: Extra-small to extra-extra-extra-large | Pocket: None | Leg gripper: Silicon
Cyclists love the men’s Sponeed short and say it’s comfortable, high-quality, and affordable in comparison to more prominent brands in the industry. With 4D gel padding, they’re designed to keep you comfortable on long rides while the spandex-polyester-blend material breathes as you ride.
Best Budget for Men
Sponeed Men’s Cycling Short
Very affordable
Multiple colors and sizes
4D gel for maximum padding
Soft, breathable fabric
Waistband rides low, which may roll down
The branding might be too overwhelming for some, but they’re offered in a variety of sizes and colors for a customized look. For a short that doesn’t sacrifice function and comfort in the name of budget, Sponeed has you covered.
Price at time of publication: $40 for gray
Key Specs:Material: Spandex, polyester | Length: 9 inches | Sizes: Small to extra-extra-extra-large | Pockets: None | Leg gripper: Silicon
Perhaps one of the most well-known brands in cycling apparel, Pearl Izumi rises to the top in pretty much all areas from comfort to functionality and design. The Pro men’s and women’s shorts use luxurious Italian fabric, which while compressive, offers a buttery soft feel.
Best Splurge
Pearl Izumi Women’s Pro Short
Flexible, breathable fabric
Few seams for reduced chafing
Reflective for low-light riding
Silicone leg grippers
Expensive
Narrow waistband
The seven-panel design reduces the number of seams that can rub and chafe, and the reflective fabric is great for riding in low-light conditions. Customers also note that these bike shorts are more comfortable than competitors, especially on rides lasting a few hours.
Price at time of publication: $175 for black (2019)
Key Specs:Material: Nylon, polyester, lycra, elastane | Length: 8.5 inches | Sizes: Extra-small to extra-extra-large | Pocket: None | Leg gripper: Silicon
Crafted specifically for the female body, these shorts are fitted enough to eliminate rubbing, but not so snug that they’re uncomfortable. They’re made with the company’s Flex Air Tour Chamois, a high level of padding, and perforated foam for breathability.
Best Plus Size
Terry Women’s Touring Bike Short/Plus
- Chamois for female body
- Moisture wicking technology
- Antimicrobial fabric to reduce odor
- Flat seams to reduce chafing
The eight-panel design offers support in all the right places and the tri-blend material is moisture-wicking and quick-drying. Terry also makes their products in a green energy-certified sewing facility—meaning you can feel comfortable while being eco-friendly.
Price at time of publication: $125
Key Specs:Material: Nylon, polyester, spandex | Length: 9 inches | Sizes: Extra-large to extra-extra-extra-large | Pockets: Size zip pocket | Leg gripper: Soft woven
If you’re not a fan of the traditional bike short look, these low-profile shorts will give you ultimate padding without any restriction. Essentially a mix between shorts and underwear, they can be worn on their own or under other less fitted shorts. The lightweight, breathable material dries fast and provides important sweat-wicking capabilities.
Best Padded
BALEAF Men’s Padded Short
Can be worn under regular shorts
Lightweight, breathable material
Multiple colors and sizes
Short inseam
Crafted with padding in all the right places, these shorts will keep you comfortable on the saddle. A wide elastic waistband also keeps them in place to prevent any chafing.
Price at time of publication: $30 for black with blue padding
Key Specs:Material: Polyester, spandex | Length: 4.7 inches | Sizes: Small to extra-extra-extra-large | Pockets: None | Leg gripper: Elastic
Designed for hot summer rides, the men’s Escape Shorts are made from signature P.R.O transfer fabric for optimal moisture transfer and increased comfort. The breathable chamois also helps reduce the amount of sweat against your skin and few seams keep chafing at a minimum.
Best Cooling
Pearl Izumi Men’s Elite Escape Shorts
Moisture-wicking fabric
Reflective for low-light riding
Few seams for reduced chafing
Silicon grip at leg openings
Chamois is highly breathable
Expensive
Riders note that the padding feels less “diaper-like” than some other shorts, but still does the job of reducing soreness on long rides. Plus, silicone grips at the leg openings ensure they don’t ride up, no matter how long you’re working out.
Key Specs:Material: Polyamide, polyester, elastane | Length: 9.5 inches | Sizes: Small to extra-extra-large | Pockets: None | Leg gripper: None
If you’re more interested in fashion over function, these shorts from Outdoor Voices will provide you with exactly what you’re looking for. Perfect for going from studio to the street, they’re made with a high-rise waistband for unrestricted comfort and security. The material is a blend of polyester and spandex to make them ultra-soft, stretchy, and fairly breathable. Plus, they come in fun and vibrant colors to match your personal style.
Most Stylish
Outdoor Voices Flow 7” Short
Fun design and color options
Soft fabric
Wide waistband
No chamois or padding
Not sweat-wicking
Since they’re not traditional bike shorts, they may not be comfortable for long rides. However, they’re a good option for beginners or those who go on casual, occasional rides.
Price at time of publication: $58
Key Specs:Material: Polyester, spandex | Length: 7 inches | Sizes: Extra-small to extra-large | Pockets: None | Leg gripper: None
Hitting the trails instead of the street? The Shredly MTB Curvy Shorts, available in sizes 2 to 24, are designed specifically for you. Available in a variety of patterns, the lightweight fabric and wide waistband provide comfort for every ride. They also include invisible zipper thigh vents to increase airflow on warmer days.
Best for Mountain Biking
Shredly MTB Curvy Short
Comfortable, breathable material
Zipper vents for additional airflow
Multiple colors and designs
Wide waistband
Chamois is sold separately
An optional chamois liner is available (sold separately) for those looking for a padded option. They’re also made with 100 percent recycled materials, so you can rest easy knowing you’re taking care of the environment while enjoying your workout.
Price at time of publication: $105
Key Specs:Material: Recycled fabric | Length: Varies by size | Sizes: 2 to 24 | Pockets: Velcro leg pocket | Leg gripper: None
Triathlon or “tri” shorts are specifically designed to work well in the water, on the bike, and on the run. While comfortable, the Roka tri shorts are known for their quality material and lower-profile chamois that provide optimal aerodynamics for racing.
Best for Triathlon
Roka Men’s Tri Short
Aerodynamic material and design
Material made for in-water use
Low profile chamois
UPF 30+ fabric
Only one color and length
Expensive
Made with double-knit fabric and fewer seam lines, they’re compressive without being restrictive. Plus, a carbon knit front panel provides thermoregulation for a variety of workouts both in and out of the water.
Price at time of publication: $145
Key Specs:Material: Proprietary fabric | Length: 7.5 inches, 9.5 inches | Sizes: Extra-small to extra-large | Pockets: None | Leg gripper: Silicon
Designed with comfort and function in mind, the Terry Wayfarer short is worth the premium price. As with other Terry shorts, these ones are made specifically for female riders, ensuring the right fit of both the overall short and padding.
Best with Pockets
Terry Wayfarer Bike Short
- Satin compression-fit material
- Chamois for female body
- Large side pockets
- Antimicrobial material
The large pockets on each leg make carrying your phone or other essentials easy, and the luxurious Italian material provides comfort with optimal sweat-wicking capabilities. If you’re riding longer distances—or just want a top-of-the-line short with all the bells and whistles—this compressive short won’t let you down.
Price at time of publication: $140
Key Specs:Material: Meryl nylon, spandex | Length: 11.5 inches | Sizes: Extra-small to extra-extra-large | Pockets: Side pockets on both legs | Leg gripper: Zig-zag stitch, elastic-free
For those looking for extra cushioning for longer rides, the Beroy padded women’s shorts will fit your bill and budget. In addition to a variety of sizes from extra-small to extra-extra-extra-large, these shorts are offered in multiple colors and designs. They also include reflective elements, which are ideal for low-light conditions.
Best for Long Rides
Beroy Padded Women’s Shorts
3D padding for extra comfort
Multiple colors available
Wide range of sizes
Narrow waistband
While the material is made with a standard blend of spandex and polyester, they feature quality padding and a non-slip waistband to keep them in place during your rides.
Key Specs:Material: Polyester, spandex | Length: 7.2 inches, 8.6 inches | Sizes: Extra-small to extra-extra-extra-extra-large | Pocket: None | Leg gripper: Non-slip belt
What to Look For in Bike Shorts
Material
Jon Fearne, cycling and running coach at E3coach.com, says that fit, chamois padding, material quality, and grip are the most important things to note prior to buying a pair of bike shorts.
Final Verdict
For women, there truly is no better brand than Terry. And the Touring Bike Short (view at Terry Bicycles) checks all the boxes that we look for in a quality short—comfort, design, and function. Among men’s shorts, Black Bibs (view at The Black Bibs) feature few seams to reduce chafing and breathable material for maximum comfort on long rides.
While most bike shorts will suffice for shorter rides (or indoor cycling), premium materials can make a difference on longer rides because of their superior wicking and antimicrobial capabilities. Most lower-end shorts are made from a mix of polyester and spandex, which may not be as breathable as higher-end options that contain other materials like lycra, silk, and nylon.
Padding (chamois)
“The chamois, which can vary by size and cut, is designed to alleviate pressures when you sit on the saddle. It also reduces friction and chaffing,” says Rich. “How much padding will be a very personal choice,” adds Fearne.
While padding where the sit bones meet the saddle is most important, padding in the front can help with comfort too. “Some chamois even have antimicrobial properties that reduce odor and bacteria,” notes Rich. However, Fearne explains that more padding isn’t necessarily better—too much can leave you feeling like you’re wearing a diaper.
Length
This is ultimately a personal preference, but longer shorts tend to offer more comfort as there is less chance of them riding up and allowing chafing against the bike seat. With that said, longer shorts can also be more restrictive, so note the length of your rides or the type of workout you’ll be doing when wearing them before you buy.
Leg gripper
To reduce any rubbing or movement while riding, you want a short that has some sort of gripping capabilities so that it stays in place around the leg openings. Silicon leg grippers are most common, but some brands offer a design that holds shorts in place without the need for something to “stick” to your legs.
Waistband
A wide waistband isn’t necessary, but it typically helps your shorts stay in place better—especially on women. Choose one that fits comfortably and doesn’t dig into your stomach when you bend over (which is how you spend your time on your bike).
Why Trust Verywell Fit
Sarah Anzlovar, MS, RDN, LDN, is a registered dietitian, indoor cycling instructor, outdoor cyclist, and former triathlete. She has logged many hours on the road and knows how important comfort and function are on the bike. She’s always keeping up with the latest updates to fitness apparel, but more importantly believes that exercise should be accessible at all budget and fitness levels, and knows that you can get a great product in varying price ranges.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do you wear underwear with bike shorts?
- “I would not recommend wearing underwear since cycle shorts are designed for commando wearing and any extra layer can cause discomfort,” says Fearne. Chamois that have moisture-wicking elements and antimicrobial properties that reduce odor and bacteria are designed to be against the skin of the cyclist. Rich adds that most cyclists and triathletes go without underwear, since wearing underwear can result in chaffing.
- How should you wash bike shorts?
- This will vary by short, but most brands recommend washing immediately after use on a delicate cycle and hanging to dry. This prolongs the use of the short by helping to maintain the integrity of the material.
- How are bike shorts supposed to fit?
- “Cycle shorts should be well-fitted and cling to all areas of your body,” says Fearne. If they’re too loose and move around, you may experience some chafing, but shorts that are too tight can also restrict movement. “The clothes a cyclist wears can create drag resistance,” notes Rich—another reason to make sure they are well fitted against the body. But if speed isn’t your main goal, then comfort might trump aerodynamics.
- Can you run in bike shorts?
- Yes, you can run in bike shorts. However, you’ll want to consider the type of chamois, because thicker padding can feel heavy or diaper-like on the run. Triathlon shorts are designed with a thinner chamois that will be more comfortable for running.
“I would not recommend wearing underwear since cycle shorts are designed for commando wearing and any extra layer can cause discomfort,” says Fearne. Chamois that have moisture-wicking elements and antimicrobial properties that reduce odor and bacteria are designed to be against the skin of the cyclist. Rich adds that most cyclists and triathletes go without underwear, since wearing underwear can result in chaffing.
This will vary by short, but most brands recommend washing immediately after use on a delicate cycle and hanging to dry. This prolongs the use of the short by helping to maintain the integrity of the material.
“Cycle shorts should be well-fitted and cling to all areas of your body,” says Fearne. If they’re too loose and move around, you may experience some chafing, but shorts that are too tight can also restrict movement. “The clothes a cyclist wears can create drag resistance,” notes Rich—another reason to make sure they are well fitted against the body. But if speed isn’t your main goal, then comfort might trump aerodynamics.
Yes, you can run in bike shorts. However, you’ll want to consider the type of chamois, because thicker padding can feel heavy or diaper-like on the run. Triathlon shorts are designed with a thinner chamois that will be more comfortable for running.
