As we prime our wardrobes for a season enjoying the outdoors, bike shorts are the versatile staple we plan to coordinate many warm-weather ’fits around. Whether you want a celeb-approved style for your next brunch date (looking at you, Alo) or a quick-drying pair to wear with cute hiking boots, we combed the internet to bring you all the best women’s bike shorts you can buy right now. Check them out below.
(P.S. This story includes Quick Shop products—you don’t have to leave Glamour to purchase them.)
Tried-and-true black
Black bike shorts will stand the test of time—and you can get a pair for as little as $11 (hi, Amazon). If you want something you can dress up, à la Gigi Hadid, try experimenting with materials like a superfine ribbed knit or lustrous black.
Lounge-ready bottoms
Quarantine introduced us to knit bike shorts in a range of supersoft materials—think ultra-fine ribs, cashmere, and bouclé—and we’re eternally grateful for the rise of this supremely comfy style. Because these bottoms are typically made of thicker fabrics, they’re a practical choice for wearing in AC-filled spaces (we’re definitely not working out in these), and you can dress them up in a low-key way with a matching top.
Bright colors
Arguably the most attention-grabbing style of the bunch, this season’s rainbow hues come in everything from hot pink to tomato red and Tipp-Ex white. Pair yours with a contrasting bikini top when it’s hot, then throw on a roomy crewneck when things get breezy.
Sustainable materials
Whether it’s using recycled plastic bottles for fabrics or empowering the people producing the clothing, a number of brands are working hard to improve fashion’s carbon footprint. Here are six high-quality, compression bike shorts worth checking out if you’re shopping more consciously.
Compression shorts to actually work out in
Yes, we all want cute workout clothes in our repertoire, but who can exercise comfortably in a pair of bike shorts that are too sheer or flimsy? Whether you’re indoor cycling, mountain biking, or doing a HIIT class in your living room, these second-skin options are made from breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics that will hold up during any kind of workout. P.S. If you want a chamois to prevent butt chafing (read: cycling shorts with silicone cushioning for longer rides), we like these padded bike shorts with side pockets and from Pearl Izumi. The gel padding is a godsend for saddle sores on stationary or road bikes.
’80s-inspired unitards
Bike short onesies are an unexpected trend we’re vibing for effortless dressing. The look is a riff off compressive spandex pro bibs (the onesies professional cyclists wear on long-distance rides), making this silhouette super practical for working out. The one-and-done piece slips on quickly, and there’s no too loose or wide waistband to constantly pull up. The straps also stay put—and you can find quick-drying, moisture-wicking options with thick, flat straps or spaghetti-thin ones. Oh, and when turned out in fun colors and prints, unitards can also look super elevated. For outfit inspo, style with a boyfriend blazer and your favorite dad sneakers.
