Top 25 Best Bike Shorts for Women

Bike shorts are all the rage now! Once just for bike rides or ’90s workout videos, bike shorts are now a current athleisure trend.

Whether you’re a serious cycler, want some longer shorts for the gym or your workout, or just want some for everyday wear in the summer months, you’re bound to be comfortable and stylish.

These long spandex shorts were fashionable in the late ’80s and ’90s. Princess Diana was often photographed on her way to the gym wearing bike shorts with an oversized sweatshirt. Sarah Jessica Parker would pair these shorts with an oversized blazer.

But the trend started to come back in 2018, and now you can find women all over wearing cute matching sports bra and bike shorts sets, a big T-shirt or crop top over cycle shorts, and basically any other style you can think of!

Best Bike Shorts for Women

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Cycling shorts are the best because you can wear them for all kinds of things — lounging at home, running errands, all kinds of workouts.

So get in on the style and find your new favorite among the best bike shorts for women, whether it’s for biking, yoga or brunching.

Considerations When Buying Bike Shorts

When when looking for the best bike shorts to buy, there are a few things you’ll want to consider. A lot of it depends on what you plan to do while wearing the shorts. Are they for fashion or exercise?

First, look at the material. Moisture-wicking fabric is your best bet, especially if you sweat a lot and plan to wear your shorts while exercising. Look for shorts made from materials like nylon and polyester rather than cotton. You’ll also likely want a short that is made from a breathable fabric and stretchy.

woman wearing bike shorts and white shirt

If you’re wearing your cycling shorts as loungewear, you probably want the softest fabric and won’t necessarily care about compression.

Next, consider the inseam length that you want. It’s down to your personal preference, but if you’re a cyclist, you’ll be better off going with longer inseams to prevent chafing. If you’re just wearing them around town, you might prefer short biker shorts.

Also, if you’re an avid bike rider, consider getting a pair of shorts with built-in chamois padding (the cushion between you and your bike saddle) for extra comfort on your long rides. This is an important element if you’re doing serious cycling, so you may have to try a few pairs to get the right saddle protection, and there are even removable pads that can be inserted into whatever bike shorts you like best.

25 Best Bike Shorts

Best Bike Shorts for Women

Here are 25 of the best women’s bike shorts – there’s a type for everyone! These are my top picks for women’s shorts for all kinds of activities.

Best Cycling Shorts

1. Beroy Bike Shorts with 3D Gel Padding

A number one seller on Amazon, these bike shorts are one of the best pairs for some serious cycling. They mostly come in black, but you have 72 options of what pop of color or pattern you want along the sides of the cycling short. The size range is inclusive, running from extra small up to 5x.

These shorts also have a lot of perks to keep you happy while on your bike! They’re made from polyester and spandex, have a thick chamois pad, and silicone grippers to keep shorts from riding up.

Pros

  • Waistband stays in place
  • A variety of sizes, color and pattern options

Cons

  • May need to size up

2. Castelli Prima Womens Short

Perfect for serious cyclists! These shorts are 100% leather (still breathable and quick drying!) and have chamois padding to keep you comfortable and avoid saddle sores no matter the distance. They also include reflective panels to keep you safe on the road.

There’s also a bib version of these shorts if you prefer that style.

Castelli Women’s Prima Short for Road and Gravel Biking I Cycling - Black/Dark Gray - X-Small
$94.99
  • IDEAL FOR: Female cyclists who seek a sleek, comfortable Short made from high-quality, durable fabric and materials. The Prima Short offers the KISS Air2 Donna seat pad and thoughtfully designed anatomic construction to keep cyclists comfortable.
  • PADDING: The women’s specific KISS AIR2 Donna chamois provides the perfect amount of comfort whether on long-distance or short rides.
  • BREATHABILITY: Pro Dry Soft matte Lycra fabric construction has a smooth matte finish that feels cool on the skin while being very supportive and quick to dry.
  • LEG BAND: Enhanced fit provided by GIRO3 engineered flat leg band which ensures a comfortable fit and ensures the shorts stay put.
  • VISIBILITY AND SAFETY: Rear reflective panels stitched throughout for better visibility in low-light conditions.
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03/08/2024 01:19 am GMT

Pros

  • Sweat-wicking
  • Comfortable

Cons

  • Expensive

3. Bandier All Access Center Stage High-Waist Bike Short

Great for indoor cycling, these shorts are made with a silky-smooth compression fabric made of 50% nylon, 50% spandex. Features also include a double-layered waistband, seamless front, and the fabric is quick-drying.

bandier bike shorts
image courtesy: Bandier

Pros

  • Inclusive sizing
  • High waistband

Cons

  • Only available in black

Top Exercise Shorts

4. Sunzel Biker Shorts for Women

These are my favorite bike shorts! I own multiple pairs of these and absolutely love them. They’re a good pair of shorts for marathon training when I run long distances or for just running errands!

This brand has three different inseam lengths and a variety of colors and patterns, and these bike shorts are good for all types of exercise. They have all the features you’ll want: they don’t ride up (in my experience!), have side pockets, and compression. These are incredibly soft shorts and feel like a second skin!

Sunzel 8" / 5" / 3" Biker Shorts for Women with Pockets, High Waisted Yoga Workout Shorts
$23.99
  • [The New Upgraded Sunzel Blossomy Collection]: Made of a flexible material that improves mobility when working out. Extra support is provided by the high waist, and muscle control is made possible by the smooth, silky fabric.
  • [No Front Seam Biker Shorts with Pockets]: Breathable, buttery soft, four way stretch fabric, provide lasting comfort and sweat-wicking coverage. Sunzel has options with a 3- or 5-inch short inseam and a 8- or 10-inch knee length long inseam, depending on the style you’re looking for.
  • [Must-Have Features]: They don’t ride up, naked feeling, non see-through, side pockets, squat proof, tummy control, high waisted, seamless waistband, compression and super stretchy.
  • [Designed With Luxury And Functionality In Mind]: Pair these bike shorts with an oversized hoodie, sports bra or a cute cropped tank top to add polish to your workout outfit! These comfy bike shorts give you endless opportunities for styling and workouts.
  • [Womens Gym Shorts Made For]: Running, workout, athletic, yoga, fitness, excerise, walking, biking, hiking, cycling, playing volleyball, lounge or everyday casual summer wear.
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03/08/2024 06:28 am GMT

Pros

  • Moisture wicking
  • Lots of pattern choices

Cons

  • Run small
  • Some reviewers said the shorts rode up a lot

5. BALEAF Women’s High Waist Biker Shorts

These popular shorts on Amazon come in three different lengths and tons of color choices. These were the very first type of bike shorts that I ever bought. My sister and I (who is a different body type than me) both own and love them, so that definitely mean they must be one of the best bike shorts out there.

They’re not quite as soft as the Sunzel ones but have more structure to them, so you might find you like them best if you’re worried about your biker shorts riding up on you.

These are a good option for long walks, hiking or a cute athleisure look. They are moisture-wicking, breathable, anti-chafe, and have a side pocket for your phone.

Pros

  • Lightweight material
  • High rise fit

Cons

  • Not a lot of compression

6. Colorfulkoala Women’s High Waisted Biker Shorts

Made from a polyester spandex blend, you’ll be cool throughout your workout with this women’s high-waist bike short! The seamless waistband sits at your natural waistline and the shorts have side pockets. They are available in neutrals, colors, and fun patterns.

Colorfulkoala Women's High Waisted Biker Shorts with Pockets 6" Inseam Workout & Yoga Tights
$19.99
  • Crafted from a brushed, buttery soft and stretch fabric for delivering you the naked sensation and the unrestricted movement
  • Side pockets allow you to store your personal items when you’re on the go
  • Seamless waistband sits at the natural waist and feels light as air
  • Turn your gear inside out when washing. Wash separately, air dry or tumble dry low
  • Approx. 6" inseam
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03/07/2024 10:49 pm GMT

Pros

  • Buttery soft material
  • Stretchy

Cons

  • Tight

7. Vuori Clean Elevation Shorty

Another great option are Vuori! I own a pair of these, and they’re amazing. They’re a great choice for everything from running longer distances to yoga to wearing out with friends.

These high-rise, no slip shorts are great for any type of exercise. They have no side seams, giving you a sleek and comfortable fit.

vuori shorts
image courtesy: Vuori

Pros

  • Soft and comfortable
  • Good stretch

Cons

  • No side pockets

8. Outdoor Voices Move Free 6” Short

These lightweight and comfortable shorts will help you get through a tough workout. The nylon, lycra and polyester combo feels great when you’re working up a sweat. They’ll stay in place the whole time, and they come in nine color options. 

outdoor voices bike shorts
image courtesy: Outdoor Voices

Pros

  • Comfortable waistband
  • Buttery soft

Cons

  • Some colors can be see-through

9. Lululemon Align Super High Rise Short 8”

Bike shorts don’t always have to be for biking! These lululemon shorts are designed specifically for yoga and have a soft, breathable, buttery feel. And you know lululemon is a top brand for great athletic wear and knows how bodies move.

These shorts come in a variety of neutral colors and a few bright colors. They also come in a few different lengths if 8 inches isn’t what you want!

lululemon shorts
image courtesy: lululemon

Pros

  • Hidden waistband pocket to fit credit card and keys
  • High rise

Cons

  • May need to size up

10. Universal Standard Next-to-Naked Bike Shorts

These bike shorts are super size-inclusive, running from 00-40. Designed with sweat-wicking material and side pockets, these shorts are great for all kinds of active activities.

universal standard bike shorts
image courtesy: Universal Standard

Pros

  • Soft
  • Good coverage

Cons

  • Only available in three colors

11. Aerie OFFLINE Real Me Crossover 7” Bike Short

This comfortable bike short is a crowd favorite! It has a crossover waistband that makes it flattering on all body types. These soft bike shorts are well-loved by reviewers and would be best for yoga or low sweat activities.

aerie bike shorts
image courtesy: Aerie

Pros

  • Flattering
  • Many sizes

Cons

  • Some found the material to be too thin

12. Terez Black Rainbow Star Foil UpLift Bike Shorts

How fun are these star print bike shorts? They’re lightweight with high compression and best for running or everyday activities. The three-inch waistband provides compression, which is something many reviewers love!

terez bike shorts
image courtesy: Terez

Pros

  • Moisture-wicking fabric
  • Wide waistband

Cons

  • Pricey

13. Everlane The Perform Bike Short

These bike shorts are made from 80% recycled materials. They’re designed to have a lightweight feel and have an extra high waist. These are best for low to moderate activity.

everlane bike shorts
image courtesy: Everlane

Pros

  • Interior front pocket
  • Sweat-wicking

Cons

  • Only comes in one color

14. Beach Riot Bike Shorts

If you’re all about the fun patterns, you’ll love Beach Riot’s variety. From bright colors to neon pink print, you’ll be able to sport a fun look while exercising. They’re also super cute with an oversized T-shirt. These are a good high-waisted pair of compression shorts.

beach riot bike shorts
image courtesy: Beach Riot

Pros

  • Fun patterns
  • High waistband

Cons

  • Limited sizes

15. Zella Live In High Waist Pocket Bike Shorts

No matter how you choose to work out, Zella has you covered with these shorts. Designed with a moisture-wicking fabric, you’ll be comfortable all day long. The shorts won’t rub or irritate your skin and there are side pockets to store whatever you need while you’re on the go.

zella bike shorts
image courtesy: Zella

Pros

  • Side pockets
  • High waisted

Cons

  • May need to size up if you’re between sizes

16. Girlfriend Collective High Waist Bike Shorts

Available in five colors and eight sizes, Girlfriend Collective has a bike short that’s perfect for everyone! The shorts are made from recycled plastic bottles and won’t ride up.

girlfriend bike shorts
image courtesy: Girlfriend Collective

Pros

  • A variety of sizes and colors
  • Eco-friendly

Cons

  • Runs small, size up

17. Under Armour Women’s HeatGear Middy Shorts

These shorts have an ultra-tight compression and are fast drying. A hard workout has nothing on these shorts – they’re made with anti-odor technology and the material wicks sweat.

Under Armour Women's HeatGear Middy Shorts
$18.00
  • Locked-in UA Compression fit makes you feel more powerful|Super-light HeatGear fabric delivers superior coverage without weighing you down|Material wicks sweat & dries really fast|4-way stretch construction moves better in every direction|Anti-odor technology prevents the growth of odor-causing microbes|Ergonomic flatlock seams deliver a comfortable, chafe-free fit|Super-soft elastic waistband with interior wordmark
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03/08/2024 07:14 am GMT

Pros

  • Sweat-wicking
  • Chafe-free fit

Cons

  • Shorter
  • Rides up

18. Nike Sportswear Essential Bike Shorts

Available in either black or grey, these bike shorts are made from a stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric. This cotton blend is sure to keep you comfortable on your ride or throughout your workout.

nike bike shorts
image courtesy: Nike

Pros

  • Stretchy
  • Moisture wicking

Cons

  • Runs small

19. Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation 7” Short

Available in three colors, these shorts from Athleta are best for yoga or studio workouts. They’ll feel buttery soft and include a three-layer waistband and back pocket for things like your phone, keys, or cards.

athleta bike shorts
image courtesy: Athleta

Pros

  • A wide range of sizes (XXS-3X)
  • Comfortable

Cons

  • Ride up a little bit

20. Lavento Women’s Naked Feeling Biker Shorts

Perfect for yoga, studio practice, running, and outdoor hikes, these shorts come in a variety of fun colors. They’re super soft and have a gentle compression. The material is sweat-wicking and anti-chafe, so you’ll be comfortable all day.

Lavento Women's Naked Feeling Biker Shorts - High Waisted Ultra Soft Workout Yoga Shorts - 5" / 6" Inseam
$14.44
  • THE FEEL: Brushed soft and support stretch
  • THE FIT: High-rise waist; 3"/ 5"/ 7" inseam for option
  • PERFORMANCE: Cool and smooth skin feel, gentle compression
  • FEATURES: Flatlock seams minimize chafing, opaque fabric squat proof
  • BEST FOR: Yoga, Pilates and studio practice, running, training and daily wearing
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03/08/2024 09:49 am GMT

Pros

  • Breathable
  • High waisted and fitted silhouette

Cons

  • Runs small

21. Sweaty Betty Power 9” Biker Shorts

These comfy bike shorts are stretchy and breathable. They pass the squat test and you’ll look stylish working out!

Sweaty Betty also makes padded bike shorts for cyclists!

sweaty betty bike shorts
image courtesy: Sweaty Betty

Pros

  • High-rise waistband
  • Stretchy material

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Only comes in black

Best Everyday/Loungewear Shorts

22. TheMogan Mid Thigh Cotton High Waist Active Short

A steal at only $10 on Amazon, these comfortable bike shorts are are the best shorts for lounging around the house or to throw on with a sweatshirt when running errands (gives me serious Princess Diana vibes!). Everyone will be satisfied with these shorts – they come in over 60 colors and run in sizes small up to a triple X.

TheMogan Women's Cotton Mid Thigh High Waist Active Short Leggings Brick S
$10.99
  • High waist styling , mid thigh length leggings
  • Close-cut body-conscious fit, Elastic waistband, pull-on style
  • Lightweight solid stretch cotton jersey fabric
  • Fits true to size, take your normal size, S = Size(2-4), M = Size(6-8), L = Size(10-12), XL = Size(14-16) | NOTICE: Before order, please carefully read the Size Chart we provided in the pictures (Not Amazon size chart)
  • Model size : 5'3" height, 33" bust, 24" waist, 34" hip, and is wearing a size S
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03/08/2024 07:45 am GMT

Pros

  • Flattering for all body types
  • A wide range of colors and sizes

Cons

  • Made out of cotton, so not meant for exercising

23. Lunya Cozy Cotton Silk Bike Short

When you need some cozy shorts to wear when the weather starts to get colder, look no farther than these knitted shorts! These are made from a blend of organic cotton, nylon, and silk. You can also pair it with the matching top from the brand’s website to have a full matching set.

lunya bike shorts
image courtesy: Lunya

Pros

  • Comfortable
  • Flattering

Cons

  • Only comes in two colors
  • Pricy

24. BP High Waist Bike Shorts

At only $12, these bike shorts are great for everything from grocery store runs to gym workouts. They’re breathable, high-waisted, and come in either solid black or cheetah print.

bp bike shorts
image couresty: BP.

Pros

  • Good price
  • Breathable

Cons

  • The material is semi-sheer

25. Spanx Faux Leather Bike Short

How fun are these faux leather shorts? These shorts have your best interests in mind – they have a shaping waistband, a contoured design, and no center seam so you can avoid camel toe. Plus, these shorts are stylish!

spanx bike shorts
image courtesy: Spanx

Pros

  • Slimming effect features
  • Comfortable

Cons

  • Not meant for workouts

Whether you’re about to hit the trails, pedal in a spin class, go to your next sweat session, or just want a comfortable short to wear around town, bike shorts are the trend to try! Look stylish and feel comfortable the whole time no matter what you do when you find the best pair for you!

If you’re looking for more comfy shorts, check out my post where my sister and I tried on a bunch and picked our favorites!

Author

    by
  • Jen Biswas

    Jen has styled women for photo shoots, fashion shows, board meetings, work trips and most importantly, every day life! She's been hired to style many homes as well. Her aesthetic aims to make style approachable and practical, and most of all fun! She's a mom of 3 who loves frozen cookie dough, plants and a generous pour of creamer in her coffee. Her biggest joy is helping others find joy in personal style through practical tips and inspiration. She loves to share all of her styling secrets on Paisley & Sparrow! Feel free to send Jen a message or join the fun on Instagram!

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