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The 21 Best Bike Shorts to Wear This Summer

When you’re lounging at a hotel or actually riding a bike.
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Once reserved for mountain trails and road races, bike shorts have become a wardrobe staple, transforming from cyclist essential to fashion statement that’s made its way into the closets of supermodels, yoga enthusiasts, and comfort-seeking travelers alike. 

Whether the athleisure look is something you subscribe to or not, there’s no denying just how practical bike shorts are: They’re hyper-comfortable, effortlessly packable, and extremely versatile, as easily paired with exercise tops as they are blazers, and fit for wherever you’re headed next—be it the gym, a hike or picnic in the park, or simply lounging on the couch at a hotel or in your summer Airbnb. Ahead, discover 21 of the best bike shorts to shop right now and add to your suitcase the next time you pack up.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Lindsey Olander.

For every day

Girlfriend Collective High Waist Bike Shorts

You don’t have to love biking to fall hard for Girlfriend Collective’s high-rise bike shorts, which add a pop of color to any look. The mid-length short comes in nature-inspired hues like saguaro green, superbloom pink, and wildflower purple. Plus, every short is made from 17 recycled water bottles, preventing over 12 pounds of CO2 emissions from entering the atmosphere and saving two gallons of water in the production process. After wearing your pair thin (trust us, you’ll never want to take them off), send it back to ReGirlfriend, which upcycles unwanted garments into new styles.

Everlane The Perform Bike Short

Arguably Everlane’s most exciting new release, the Perform bike short is the warm-weather version of the brand's top-selling leggings. Expect the same specs—lightweight compression fabric, sweat-wicking technology, hidden pockets, 58 percent recycled nylon—but with an eight-inch seam that reaches halfway down the thighs. The women's bike shorts come in four classic colors: ink grey, juniper, heathered charcoal, and black.

Girlfriend Collective Bike Unitard

Trying to pack light? This one's for you. Girlfriend's Bike Unitard takes up very little space in your suitcase and can be worn a dozen different ways—working out, on a road trip, or styled with a button-up and sling bag. It's made with Girlfriend Collective's classic compressive fabric that sculpts the body—it has a built-in bra and plenty of support for a one-piece—and comes from recycled plastic water bottles.

Halara Crossover Side Pocket Biker Shorts

The crossover design of these bike shorts is flattering on everyone's waist and a more chic way to rock these classic shorts. This pair has side pockets to store your phone and just enough stretch so that they don't dig into your legs. These are available in fun summer colors like rose, milky green, yellow, grape, and pale blue. Plus, they are pet hair resistant, so you don't have to worry about your furry friend shedding all over them.  

Madewell Form High-Rise 7 1/4" Biker Shorts

Rounding out this list of the best women's bike shorts is this ultra-comfortable pair from Madewell's Make Weekends Longer collection. The high-quality, sustainably-made stretch fabric molds to your body and moves with you. Complete the look with an oversize sweatshirt or matching bralette

Skims Fits Everybody Biker Shorts

Shapewear has never looked better. The Skims Fits Everybody bike shorts are specifically designed to smooth and sculpt your legs and hips. The Fits Everybody material is buttery soft and comfortable enough to wear all-day long. They don't dig into your skin and can be styled with a cute sweatshirt for a comfortable yet chic airport outfit

For active days 

Outdoor Voices Warmup 5" Short

These über-comfy bike shorts from Outdoor Voices have been flying off the shelves ever since Gigi Hadid was seen wearing them last fall. The style sculpts and lifts thanks to textured compression material, which stretches with your curves and—most importantly—stays put to minimize chafing. The best news? All thigh sizes are welcome: According to the site’s myriad rave reviews, the shorts flatter nearly every body type and will stay in place while dancing, jogging, hiking, biking, lounging, or walking around town.

Lululemon Align Super High Rise Short 10"

Ever-popular legging brand Lululemon has perfected the yoga pant, but for a breezier alternative, consider their high-rise shorts. The style sits well above the waist for added support during demanding poses (and comfort during long car rides ) while its longer hemline adds more coverage and compression. The nylon-and-lycra material is quick-drying and buttery soft, and there’s a hidden side pocket for storing valuables.

Nike Mid-Rise Bike Shorts

For a sporty, effortless look, these Nike bike shorts are your new go-to. They feature the brand's signature swoosh and look great with a pair of white sneakers and simple T-shirt.  These hug your body and aren't too short, so you can wear them comfortably even while running or on especially hot days. 

Alo Yoga High-Waist Bike Shorts

If a stylish workout set is what motivates you to get moving, this one's for you. Pair these bike shorts with any of Alo's matching sport bras in colors like peach, fuchsia, olive, ivory, and magenta. Ideal for yoga, long walks, or other activities, Alo's bike shorts are made to smooth your body without feeling too compressive. 

Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket Shorts

If you're looking for a shorter pair that will actually stay in place as you move, these brightly-colored shorts with side pockets are perfect. They're breathable, moisture-wicking, and made from recycled nylon fabric that keeps your skin dry while you sweat, even during high-intensity workouts. 

Aerie Recycled Hugger High Waisted Bike Shorts

Whether you're headed to the hotel gym or just running errands, these Aerie bike shorts have got you covered. The high-waisted fit makes them ultra-flattering and you don't have to worry about them sliding down during a workout. They're affordable, fully opaque, and have a pocket on each side that fits your phone or cards.

For days spent cycling

Beroy Womens Bike Shorts with 3D Gel Padded

Sometimes, style isn’t everything. Those with actual cycling plans have a different set of needs when it comes to the best women's bike shorts—namely, padding in the seat area, which is essential for preventing saddle sores. With over 10,000 happy reviews on Amazon, the people have spoken: Beroy’s best-selling cycling shorts are top of the line. The chamois is built with 3D gel padding that molds to the body and reduces impact, the performance fabric reduces friction while absorbing moisture, the reflective logo ensures on-road safety, and built-in silicone beads prevent the material from riding up your leg. The hardest decision left to make is choosing among the 36 different designs.

Terry Bicycles Soleil Bike Short

These compressive beauties have everything you need for summer rides: UPF 50+ fabric to protect legs from the sun, mesh pockets, padding, and ventilation. Plus, they're manufactured in a green-energy certified sewing facility.

Adidas Padded Cycling Bib Shorts

We'd be remiss not to include another one of our favorite high-quality bib shorts for the avid cyclists out there. These padded shorts offer ample cushioning and breathability. Wear them and enjoy long rides chafe-free, without the constant need to adjust.

Louis Garneau Fit Sensor Shorts

Next time you head out for a long but local ride—perhaps to the next town over for lunch, or to the nearest body of water—slip into these comfortable, form-fitting shorts with subtle (but effective) padding. Find them in black, navy, and slate. 

Pearl Izumi Pro Bib Short

Bib shorts are a must for serious, long-distance riders. The straps keep your shorts snugly in place with no need for a waistband, and won't restrict deep breaths as you ride and climb. For long days on the road, like on a multi-day cycling tour, these are a great choice.

For lazy days

Lunya Cozy Cotton Silk Bike Short

For your lazier days working from home or lounging on the couch, the Cozy Cotton Silk bike shorts from Lunya feel like a cloud. These aren't overly tight on the waist so they're comfortable to relax in and breathable enough to wear on warmer days.

Beyond Yoga Keep Pace Space Dye Bike Shorts

Available in electric pink and classic black, the Beyond Yoga bike shorts are comfortable and not see-through. The space-dyed yarn gives them a subtly heathered effect and they have just the right amount of stretch. Pack these in your carry-on for morning workouts or exploring a new town during the day. 

Year of Ours V-Waist Biker Short

If you dig the biker short look but prefer a fabric that’s a little less athletic, check out this pair from Year of Ours. The soft short is made with a nylon-and-spandex stretch material that’s ribbed for added texture, with a crossover waist that is universally flattering. Throw on a loose-fitting top and add a denim jacket for a look that works as well in a museum as it does a farmer's market.

Aday Self-Care Short

These high-waisted wonders are cool, comfy, and perfect for all your upcoming warm weather adventures. The breathable, moisture-wicking fabric is made of nylon and elastane, and the shorts have sleek side pockets to stash your phone, keys, or Chapstick.