Best Bike Shorts In 2022
The summer is getting hot, or sultry, or both at once. Now is the time to get your bike out and enjoy the outdoors. However, to get the best out of your cycle experience, only the right gear will do. Whether you practice cycling as a leisure interest or as a professional activity, you need specialized clothing that helps you get the most out of the sport. An essential part of a cyclist’s sports gear is a pair of bike shorts, which are purposely built to offer all the well-needed comfort. With lightweight materials, laser-cut vents and taped seams, some bike shorts even manage to weigh less than 150 grams. If you are in the market for the best bike shorts, our team here at Gearhungry have segregated the top-notch models from the riff-raff; also offering a well-curated list below that will ensure you end up with only the most comfortable and well-designed bike shorts available. Our buying guide and FAQ will further reassure you of your chosen product with further information on what to look out for when purchasing bike shorts.
The Best Bike Shorts
1BEROY Womens Bike Shorts
With the BEROY Women’s Bike Shorts, a whole lot is expected and it all translates to maximum comfort. These shorts are equipped with an extremely soft microfiber upper that makes for a perfect fit. All this and more ensures that the shorts themselves are designed in such a way that there’s no chafing or friction in the mix. There’s also the addition of a bacteriostatic treatment that guards against a wide range of sores and infections. Furthermore, there’s the addition of a highly functional Seamless integrated technology that comes in the form of a cushioning technology.
Even better is the fact that the BEROY bike shorts are incredibly flexible. This is a must-have characteristic when it comes to bike shorts as a whole. Then there’s the thickness of the pad, this is second to none for a number of reasons. It’s special mostly because the thickness occurs exactly where it’s needed to enhance comfort. As a result, the all-around thickness varies depending on the body part in question. The way the human body is built, uniform thickness would wreak havoc in some specific areas. These shorts make use of dual-density padding to ensure comfort through and through.
There’s maximum thickness located in the bone, moderate thickness in the perineum and finally minimum thickness right at the perimeter. That’s not all, users will equally benefit greatly from the anatomical shape here. Thanks to this handy feature, there’s a perfect interface created between the body and the bike. So, with every stroke of the pedal, there’s perfect harmony.
Made of a combination of nylon and Spandex
Fitted with a 3D gel padding
Fabric absorbs moisture
Hemmed with silicone
- BrandBEROY
- ModelW509697B
- Weight7 Ounces
2Sponeed Men’s Bike Shorts
Many riders often fear for their rear end, which is subjected to endless friction that can cause pain and general discomfort. Thankfully, products like the Sponeed Men’s Cycling Shorts help to get rid of this discomfort so riders like yourself can enjoy their bike rides to the fullest. With the inclusion of a 3D silicone gel padding, these athletic-looking bike shorts ensure that there is enough padding in the right places for bike riders. Additionally, the moisture-wicking materials offer all the antibacterial properties that are needed to reduce the accumulation of moisture around sensitive areas. This, in turn, protects cyclists from the risk of infection, which may occur due to absorbed moisture from prolonged use.
With total comfort over long distances guaranteed, the Sponeed bike shorts also offer a breathable Lycra/spandex material. Featured on the shorts is a sublimation print that has been efficiently created with the use of a high-quality anti-fade Italian ink. Suitable for cyclists at all levels, the Sponeed Bike Shorts can be worn in all kinds of weather as it is UPF 50+ protective. Our guide to the best compression shorts features more amazing clothes for active men, so check them out.
Made of a combination of polyester and spandex
Equipped with a 4-way stretch
Fitted with silicone leg grippers
Moisture-wicking material
- Brandsponeed
- Weight1 Pound
Antimicrobial material
Ample amount of padding
Suitable for cycling under all kinds of weather
Tight around the knees
Long material may not be suitable for short cyclists
Difficulty in finding the right size
3Baleaf Men’s Cycling Underwear Bike Shorts
If a snugly fit for your cycling exercise is what you are after, the Baleaf Men’s Bike Cycling Underwear Shorts have been designed with an exceptional level of padding that offers a perfect fit. Made of 80% polyester and 20% spandex, this bike shorts were created for cyclists who desire maximum comfort and long-lasting use. With the inclusion of an anti-pressure gel, vibrations are reduced which, in turn, lessens the rate of pain to long-distance riders.
For free airflow, the Baleaf bike shorts have been designed with an elastic and wide moisture-wicking waistband that keeps sweat away leaving the body feeling cool and rejuvenated during bicycle rides. Also featured in the exceptional design is the 3D Coolmax technology that has been fitted into the fabric, offering an extra layer of protection while also facilitating quick absorption. These bike shorts can be worn under long pants as they are extremely lightweight and breathable, giving the cyclist ample room to move on the saddle.
Soft and breathable material
Equipped with reflective detailing
Fitted with 2 large side pockets
Fitted with 3D pads
- BrandBaleaf
- Weight2.2 Pounds
Wide and elastic waistband which keeps sweat away from the body
Moisture-wicking fabric allows the bike shorts to dry quickly
Ample padding
Padding may be too thick
It slides down while riding
Legs can be a bit loose
4Santic Cycling Men’s Bike Shorts
Are you sick and tired of having a sore bump at the end of a long ride? Do you long for that comfortable pair of bike shorts that still offers a sporty and athletic look? If you are nodding to these questions, you can certainly make it happen with the Santic Cycling Men’s Biking Shorts. Unquestionably one of the best bike shorts in the market, it is specially and specifically designed for long-distance riders. It is made from a unique combination of 82% nylon and 18% Lycra and spandex and also features the 4D COOLMAX cushioning technology which consists of a two-panel construction with a seamless pad that reduces the experience of unpleasant sores.
These bike shorts also help to improve your overall hygiene during long periods of cycling thanks to its antibacterial fabric that wicks moisture away for a relatively dry experience for an extended period. Giving the Santic Biking shorts, its attractive yet functional look is the inclusion of silicone leg grippers, which aids in keeping the shorts in place during rides. The surface of these shorts also offers a cool and smooth microfiber material with added UPF 50 sun protection that prevents excessive dehydration. If you are also into running, be sure to check out our guide to the best running shorts.
Made of nylon, spandex, and lycra
Fitted with a reflective logo
Has a 12-panel design
Breathable material
- BrandSantic
Very comfortable for long-distance rides
Adequate ventilation and cooling
Loose fittings
No varying stylish designs
Different size options are limited
Light padding
5Nooyme Men’s Cycling Shorts
Bike shorts are functional clothing. They are not only meant to look good but also to serve a practical purpose. For those who are after the additional coziness only a good cycling short can provide, the Nooyme Men’s Cycling Shorts definitely ticks your box. It was designed to provide ample support and comfort for cyclists of all ages as well as prevent chafing between the legs. These bike shorts are made primarily from ultra-breathable polyamide and spandex fabric which have greater moisture-wicking capability than any other bike shorts in the market. The Nooyme Men’s Cycling Shorts is designed as a smooth flat-lock with a 3D Chamois padding that is equipped to prevent skin irritation and friction, which also fits cozily to the body.
It also features non-slip silicone leg grippers which prevent the shorts from moving up the legs during a ride. In addition, this superb product consists of a gel pad that functions to absorb shock from riding, which greatly minimizes the incidence of sores. Also included are two reflective parts on either side of the shorts, which ensures visibility at night. For those of you who also enjoy practicing yoga, we have prepared our selection of the best yoga shorts, so be sure to check them out.
Padded Chamois for shock absorption
Moisture-wicking material keeps skin dry
Highly reflective marks which improve visibility at night
Made of 80% polyamide and 20% spandex.
- BrandNOOYME
Its 3D Chamois is breathable
Wicking material regulates heat
Various designs
Inadequate padding
Prevalent small sizes
No drawstring attached for adjustment
6SUGOi Men’s Evolution Zap Short
Enjoy hassle-free nightly bike rides with the ultra-reflective SUGOi Men’s Evolution Zap shorts. Evolution is indeed in play as these bike shorts allows you to take bike rides at night with utmost confidence of being very visible to fellow cyclists, motorists and pedestrians. These reflective shorts are luminescent in nature, and they are visible from 140 meters away. Made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials, these shorts can be worn at any time of the day or night to guarantee comfort and maximum performance.
The Evolution shorts are constructed with dual-surfaced, Evo-tech materials with comfy Recaro pads that reduce friction while keeping the body comfortably dry. Also embedded within its fabric is the upgraded RC Pro Chamois which is stretchable and provides a blend of cushioning and support. For non-restrictive movement of the thighs, the Evolution Zap short features MAB Powerband silicone leg grippers which provides slip-free comfort. If you are also on the hunt for some amazing bike equipment, check out our guide to the best bike speedometers.
Zap reflectivity which provides visibility up to 140 meters
Silicone leg grippers keep hems in place without riding up
Made from Evo-tech materials
Dri- fabric wick moisture
- BrandSUGOi
- ModelSUGOi
- Weight10.9 Ounces
Slim-fit
Flat seams
8-panel design
Logos fade out after a while
Bulky look
The Chamois might be too much for some
7Pearl Izumi Men’s Escape Cycling Shorts
For long rides on a sunny weekend morning, you sure need a pair of bike shorts that guarantee utmost comfort in the warm weather. Cue the Pearl Izumi Men’s Escape Cycling Shorts, whose high-quality fabric features an enhanced technology that rapidly absorbs moisture from the surface of the skin, leaving the body feeling cool. The most important feature of the amazing product is its 3D Chamois, which offers you endless support throughout the day.
Technology truly meets the needs of cyclists with these shorts as the wicking materials embedded within the fabric gets rid of heat which has been trapped against the body, minimizing the breakout of rashes and other skin discomforts. It is also anatomically designed with a 6-panel construction which enhances versatility, moisture transfer, and breathability, thereby ensuring optimum performance. The design also includes 3M Scotchlite Reflective Material, which increases the rider’s visibility, especially at night. Also featured are silicone leg grippers which ensure that the hems are held in place and the shorts do not ride up. Our guide to the best mountain bike helmets features more high-quality equipment for cyclists.
Enhanced technology that absorbs moisture from the skin
SELECT transfer wicking technology
3M Scotchlite reflective materials
Anatomic design with 6-panel construction
- BrandPearl iZUMi
- ModelPearl Izumi
- Weight10.6 Ounces
Leg hems stay in place with silicone backing
BioViz reflective accents help you stay visible
Form-fitting
Need to be worn as undershorts
Not enough padding
Various sizes may be difficult to come across
8Louis Garneau Men’s CB Carbon 2 Shorts
The only factor that ensures a cyclist reaches or surpasses their endurance levels is the level of comfort provided while riding. The Louis Garneau CB Carbon Shorts are designed to offer riders utmost comfort for long leisure or competitive bike rides. As implied in its name, the Louis Garneau shorts are made of Carbon X mesh fabric which gives users a nice fit with a gentle compression which prevents a great deal of excess vibration during rough rides.
Also included in its fabric is a sun-reflecting coldblack treatment which protects the skin from harmful effects of ultraviolet rays from the sun. The panels of the shorts are held in their assigned places by straps of Highlander mesh bibs that absorb road noise without absorbing moisture, providing added layers of comfort. Combined with the compressive CB carbon are Lycra and Endurexx fabrics which increase blood flow to the straining muscles, reduce fatigue, and improve general performance. With an innovative 4Motion chamois, the LG Carbon 2 shorts also offers 3D pre-shaped wings and a deep split at the back which enables movement in multiple directions. Be sure to also check out our guide to the best bike mirrors and pick the right one for your next trip.
Coldblack treatment which regulates body temperature
Endurexx stretch panels which facilitate movement
Carbon fabric which prevents bacterial build-up
4Motion Chamois which absorbs vibration
- BrandLouis Garneau
- Model1058315-020-L
- Weight7.2 Ounces
Bib-shorts improves cycling performance
Bib is breathable which improves ventilation
Reflective marks increase visibility
Light padding
Various designs are limited
9Endura HummVee Mountain Bike Baggy Cycling Shorts
If you are yearning for a lightweight yet tough bike shorts for your day-long bike rides, the Endura HummVee Mountain Bike Shorts is a perfect choice. Sturdily built, the Endura’s snap-on Chamois liner can be removed to favor padded under armor when needed. These classic HummVee shorts are constructed from coated, water-resistant nylon that comes with a mesh liner and an adjustable webbed belt. The triple-stitched outer rip-stop nylon can withstand all kinds of wear and tear to guarantee long-lasting use.
Also featured are water-resistant pockets located at the back which are large enough to hold supplies along the way. The leg grippers hold the hem of the shorts in place with the aid of Coolmax pad; this also helps to absorb moisture from the skin. Built for long-lasting use, the shorts incorporate tough nylon and are double stitched in vital areas. The HummVee also comes complete with an Endura Clickfast detachable liner for wicking comfort throughout the day. You may also like some of the best bike lights from our list, so take a moment to check them out.
Zipped hand pocket
Seamless and durable seat panel
Detachable Chamois
Armor-friendly
- BrandEndura
- ModelEndura
- Weight1.05 Pounds
Lightweight but rugged
Large pockets
Non-binding materials
Limited waist adjustability
Thick Chamois
Zipped ventilation
Bike Shorts Buying Guide & FAQ
How We Choose Our Selection Of Bike Shorts
Brand - Bike shorts come in different brands, and some are more popular than others. It is, however, important to consider brands that tailor their products to your requirements so as to get good value for money. For example, brands such as Louis Garneau offer adequate protection and comfort while the SUGOi offers versatility and all-round use.
Price - The fit of your chosen bike shorts depends largely on your needs of which might include comfort and performance enhancement. While you might want a tight fit for a sporty and athletic look, a tight fit can also greatly restrict movement which negatively impacts performance.
Review - The bike shorts listed above were not selected randomly but were selected based on the positive evaluation of factors such as comfort, construction, and breathability.
Features To Look For In Bike Shorts
Fit - The fit of a bike shorts depends largely on the needs of an individual which may include comfort and performance enhancement. While a cyclist may want a tight fit for a sporty and athletic look, a tight fit can also greatly restricts movement which negatively impacts performance.
Comfort - Depending on how sensitive you are, you may need an ample amount of padding to minimize the discomfort associated with long bike rides. The bike shorts we chose have padded Chamois and flat seams that ensure continuous comfort in the right places.
Material -The material of your bike shorts matter a lot and the best of them are made with a blend of Lycra and polyester which determines how stretchable, heavy or lightweight a bike short can be.
Breathability - During bike rides, sweat tends to accumulate in the rear areas and it can lead to general discomfort if the shorts are not made of a breathable fabric. Good bike shorts are designed to wick away the sweat from your body giving you some degree of ventilation in the right areas.
Style - All the pairs of bike shorts on this list come in superb designs and colors which gives cyclist looks ranging from an athletic to a leisure one.
Bike Shorts FAQ
Q: Do I really need bike shorts?
A: This answer is definitely a Yes as bike shorts are specifically designed to protect your rear when riding. They are also fitted with pads which generally improves comfort.
Q: What should I wear underneath bike shorts?
A: Though it may feel strange, it is not advisable to wear anything under your bike shorts as they are designed to fit closely to the skin. As there is plenty of padding in the fabric, there will be chafing if a underwear in worn underneath.
Q: Do bike shorts really help?
A: Yes! Bike shorts really help because some are engineered for optimum performance, long-lasting use and constant comfort. Bike shorts also help to reduce the accumulation of moisture which prevents bacterial infection. Some bike shorts also help by increasing blood flow to muscles, increasing visibility at night and providing adequate ventilation; all of which improves performance.
Q: Which cycling shorts have the best padding?
A: This would be the Sponeed Men’s Cycling Shorts. These shorts comes with various features such as 3D silicone gel padding and fast drying polyester which guarantees comfort and long-lasting use. It can be worn for indoor and outdoor use. For cyclists who are on a budget and desire the best quality bike shorts, the Sponeed meets their needs.