Though the best biker shorts shot into the limelight with Princess Diana, they have pretty much stayed there because of the immense comfort and style they offer. They have become a must-have in every wardrobe and are extremely versatile in their use. Their breathable and moisture-wicking fabric makes them ideal for sweaty workouts but they are equally suitable for a lazy day on the couch too. Their wide and figure-hugging waistbands and versatile inseams are a pleasant change from baggy sweat shorts.

Based on our observations we found that when paired with a button-down or a sporty jacket one can pull off these shorts into looking supremely chic. Or you can go for an athleisure look by pairing them with sneakers and a sweatshirt. There’s a reason this garment has become so popular with many celebrities and runway models.The best biker shorts don’t restrict comfortable movement or ride up and don’t cause chafing. Our contributor Stefaniya Veresovaya, a renowned stylist and founder of the brand- Heymimisters, explains about the comfortable feel biker shorts provide, saying, “When made of breathable materials, [biker shorts] offer both comfort and flexibility, making them ideal for relaxation, thus ideal to be worn as loungewear.”

The best biker shorts don’t restrict comfortable movement or ride up and don’t cause chafing. And if you are planning to use them for long hours of cycling or an intense workout, they should ideally have additional features like pockets for your keys and cell phone and extra padding. They are extremely convenient to maintain and can be flattering to your figure thanks to their contoured fit. It’s a good idea to have a few of these in different colors in your wardrobe and to save you some trouble we have rounded up the 12 best biker shorts available in the market.

• 1
  Best in Moisture-Wicking

  st Biker Shorts for Athleisure Wear Baleaf Women's High Waist Biker Shorts - Black 8 Inches

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Crafted with 87 percent polyester and 13 percent spandex, Baleaf Women's High Waist Biker Shorts has pull-on closure. This combination of fabric is breathable and moisture-wicking and its 4-way stretchable fabric makes it easy to squat in. These biker shorts provide moderate compression and can be worn comfortably throughout the day. Its wide and elastic waistband has a slimming effect as it provides tummy control. You will also find deep pockets measuring 5.5 inches on the thighs — perfect for keeping keys, cards, and wallets. It also has an inseam of about 5 inches and is perfect to wear under dresses. Its gusseted crotch has flat lock seams which make movement easy and prevent chafing.

2

Best in Tummy Control

The Gym People High Waist Biker Shorts - Black

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The high-waisted and moisture-wicking biker shorts by The Gym People have a pull-on closure and the 4-way stretch fabric is breathable and quick-dry. It doesn’t lose its shape on repeated washing but it’s recommended to hand wash it. It features 2 deep side pockets which is ideal for storing your phone or iPod. Based on our first hand experience, we observed that its wide waistband provides tummy control and molds to your body shape giving both support and compression. It comprises 88 percent polyester and 12 percent spandex which is non-see-through. It’s perfect for all kinds of exercise and allows room for freedom of movement.

3

Best Value for Money

IUGA Biker Shorts - Black

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The slim-fit IUGA Biker Shorts boast an extremely soft and opaque fabric without being see-through. These trendy and sporty black biker shorts have the usual pull-on closure and an inner pocket at the waistband. These shorts are designed to lift, compress and shape the body and their high waistband prevents a muffin top. There’s nothing like a pair of shorts that make you feel comfortable even while looking dapper. Thanks to its fabric which contains 77 percent polyester and 23 percent spandex, and is breathable, it’s easy to slip into even on a hot sweaty day. You can expect a combination of comfort, style, and performance with these awesome biker shorts!

4

Best in Compression

Sunzel Women's Biker Shorts - Black 5-Inch Inseam

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A combination of 70 percent nylon and 30 percent spandex, Sunzel Women's Biker Shorts have an elastic type seamless design that is crafted with silky smooth, stretchable material that adds to the ease of mobility when exercising. Its high waistband gives extra support, especially to the tummy, and its 4-way stretch and breathable material along with its moisture-wicking makes exercising a pleasure. They are available in multiple trendy colors, including an animal print pattern. These shorts do not ride up nor are they see-through even when you squat. They provide sufficient compression and have side pockets to store small objects if you decide to wear them to the gym too. These short biker shorts are available in 8 and 10-inch long inseams as well and can be paired with an oversized hoodie or a cute cropped top for a different look.

5

Best Breathable Fabric

Wirarpa Women's Biker Shorts - 4 Pack Black

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We can all unanimously agree that there’s nothing better than a pair of skin-soft shorts that feel comfortable to run, walk, or even sleep in. But with this pack, you’ll get 4 pairs of amazing shorts that feels luxurious. This comfortable garment by Wirarpa Women's Biker Shorts hugs your body like a second skin. It has been upgraded to have a softer and wider waistband for freedom from chafing. A customer said, “I have always had problems getting underwear to fit properly. This product fits the bill!” This incredible fabric is both breathable and moisture-wicking. In addition, it comes with a relaxed fit between the thighs for freedom of movement without the cameltoe. It’s best to machine wash these best women’s bike shorts in a laundry bag so that it stays as good as new.

6

Best Skin-Friendly Fabric

YOLIX 3 Pack Biker Shorts for Women - Black (No Pockets)

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Get rid of boring biker shorts that make you look bulky and old. A great combination of 92 percent polyester for softness and 8 percent spandex for stretch awaits you — YOLIX 3 Pack Biker Shorts for Women. These high-waisted and mid-thigh shorts are compression garment that smoothens the appearance of cellulite and holds the buttocks and thighs comfortably. It is not only great for cycling but for any kind of workout. These biker shorts are soft like butter and prevent friction between the thighs. The  4.5 inches broad waistband provides added support to the back as well as the abdomen. They are available in various solid colors like sky blue and olive as well as a leopard print.

7

Best in Durability

Molasus Women’s Biker Shorts - Black - 4 pack

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Say goodbye to chub rub with a classic 8-inch inseam brought by Molasus Women’s Biker Shorts. These biker shorts are made with sustainable and eco-friendly materials which is a huge deal because it stays so close to the intimate areas. The premium quality cotton has a slight stretch and can be comfortably worn all day long because of its breathable fabric that keeps sweat at bay. Also, the length of the shorts is such that the legs do not roll up or cause unnecessary pulling and tugging. These shorts are quite popular and over 70 percent of reviews that gave it a 4+ rating!  Based on our observations, we concluded that its wide waistband does not roll down and stays in place making it ideal for all kinds of exercises, even those that require high-intensity activity.

8

Best in Versatility

QGGQDD 3 Pack High Waisted Biker Shorts for Women

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For super comfy shorts that you can wear around the house, especially in the summer when it’s too hot to be bothered with leggings or anything longer than shorts, these shorts by QGGQDD is the best. It is also long enough to wear out to run errands or just lounge in comfortably. The smooth and premium fabric of these high-waisted shorts is heavy on polyester and spandex, which gives it elasticity. It’s so light that it feels like you are not wearing anything. These biker shorts can be machine washed and tumble-dried without fear of damage. These versatile shorts come in several solid color combinations to match every look and style.

9

Best in Stretchability

Chrleisure Biker Shorts for Women - 12 Inches Black

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Whether you are a dancer, a yoga enthusiast, or just tired of wearing shorts that keep slipping at the drop of a hat, these Chrleisure Biker Shorts for Women will solve your problems. With 2 large pockets to add to its functionality, these long biker shorts are easy to slip into and are extremely soft on the skin, and have amazing stretch. It allows complete freedom of movement for biking, squatting, and all other types of exercises. It contours to your curves without being too tight and gives gentle compression for a smooth and flat tummy. They are not see-through nor are they prone to fading or pilling. Its sturdy crotch gussets add to its durability. Available in 20 other colors, they cater to all tastes.

10

Best in Softness

The Drop Women's Jeannie High Rise Mid-Length Bike Short

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For shorts that are multi-functional and allow you to transition from gym to the part in a jiffy, get your hands on the Drop Women's Jeannie shorts. This brand is your inside source for all the popular fashion that your influencers sport, so skip the beeline for these biker shorts that offer perfect stretch and compression and grab them. They fit a little larger than the usual sizes, so we recommend you size down. These shorts also have a seamless pull-up closure that can glam up your outfit without any unwanted attention to the abdomen. Pair this with jackets, athleisure, or just oversized t-shirts.

11

Aoxjox Trinity Workout Biker Shorts for Women - Black

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The superior fabric of Aoxjox Trinity Workout Biker Shorts for Women is extremely soft and breathable and is available in over 30 shades and patterns. You can pick one for each day of the month and enjoy its tri-seam that allows immense freedom of movement and stretch. These black biker shorts are made from traditional nylon and spandex which provides them the much-needed stretch.  It has no front seam but the back seams and multi-seam design on the waistband are extremely flattering. The high waist is ideal for tummy control and helps keep your shape. It is best to hand wash these.

12

CRZ YOGA Women's Light Running Shorts - Black 6 Inches

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The light fabric and skin-hugging fit of CRZ YOGA Women's Light Running Shorts makes you feel as if you are wearing nothing and is one of the best biker shorts. The fabric is made of 62 percent polyamide and 38 percent spandex making it exceedingly comfortable for biking or any other exercise. It features a pull-on closure and is silky soft and cool to the touch. Our research indicates that its high waist is designed for tummy control and it provides enough compression for support while exercising. It has a 6-inch inseam and allows you to squat comfortably. It features 2 big side pockets to house your keys, phone, and cards while you work out. It’s available in 24 other colors to suit all tastes.

We have tried to give you a good idea about the best biker shorts that are available for your asking. That should help you to pick up the very best if you are planning to invest in a pair.

With a mental check of these points, there’s no way you can go wrong while picking out the most comfortable pair of biker shorts.

FitBibs vs. Shorts

One can choose between bib-style shorts or standard biker shorts. Bibs stretch over the back and stomach and have shoulder straps. Like standard shorts, bib-shorts too are made of stretchable material, molded to the contours of your body, and have a chamois pad for comfort in the seating area. The biggest advantage that fit bibs have over standard shorts is that they dig into your abdomen and waist when you bend forward and are extremely comfortable.
 

Padding

For biker shorts, it’s imperative to check whether there is sufficient padding in the seat area or not as that will determine whether you will have a painful or comfortable ride. It is usually a chamois pad or may be of synthetic fabric. Men's and women's biker shorts would differ in their fits, cuts, and chamois. The chamois pad in women’s biker shorts should be wider at the back and rounder and shorter at the front. The chamois pad in men’s biker shorts is usually less wide at the back and is longer in the front, often with a center cutout for extra padding. They may also have an extra layer of padding inserted in the front of the shorts.

Tightness

This would depend on the purpose for which you are buying the shorts. Professional cyclists prefer skin-tight biker shorts as they are the most aerodynamically suited and provide extra speed. But if you’re biking to a place from where you intend to go hiking, you would probably prefer looser shorts. These would also ideally have pockets to store some personal items within reach without needing to carry a backpack.

Fabric

Our contributor Stefaniya Veresovaya, points out things to consider while buying biker shorts. He says, “Choosing the right fabric is key for comfort. If made from natural materials, they're an excellent choice because they allow the skin to breathe. However, if they're of synthetic materials, they might not be as breathable, potentially making the skin feel trapped or suffocated.” Biker shorts are designed to keep sweat off your body. They keep you dry and prevent the growth of bacteria from growing. This is only possible without extra material between your skin and the shorts and that’s why biker shorts are designed to be worn without undergarments.

Fit

Biker shorts are meant to have a tight fit but not so tight that they cut off circulation. They should be snug enough to remain in place while you bike. Since they are designed for your body in a pedaling position, they may not always look as good when you are standing. Also, size may vary among brands, so it’s a good idea to try them on first. There’s no fixed length for biker shorts but they should be long enough that your skin doesn’t touch the seat. The best biker shorts should have between 6 to 12 panels for a contoured fit.

Elastic

This needs to be of very good quality as that’s what holds them up and the elastic band should be wide enough that it doesn’t cut into you. As you will be using them in a crouched position for a long time, bend over while trying them on and check whether they are comfortable.

Now that you know what you should be looking for, here is what you should be doing to have the ultimate comfortable experience with your best biker shorts.

Position of Straps 

In the case of bib shorts which have straps like suspenders, the straps should go under and not over the top of your jersey.  In case you are wearing a base layer, you can secure the straps over the base layer and then put on your jersey.

Cream Up

Some prefer to use chamois cream to prevent friction and chafing. This was more important when chamois pads were made of leather rather than a premium quality synthetic material.

While biking in wet conditions or on rough gravel surfaces for a long time, chamois cream gives you extra protection.

The best biker shorts were initially used by cyclists to protect their legs while cycling for long periods. But then, Princess Diana gave them a boost of glamor with her iconic look when she paired them with a loose sweatshirt. Today, it has become essential for an athleisure look among celebrities and models. It has become one of the most versatile pieces in anyone’s wardrobe and can be used for cycling, workouts, or a chic look. 

They have the best stretch and coverage as well as compression and moisture-wicking. There’s no limit to the way you may want to style them. It requires no effort to maintain them and apart from being very flattering to the figure with their contoured fit, you don’t compromise on the elegance quotient. So the next time you are out shopping to update your wardrobe, do go in for a pair of biker shorts and you will never regret it.

Contributor: Stefaniya Veresovaya, Stylist and Founder - Heymimisisters