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Whether you are an avid cycler or not, these are the best bike shorts for your workout.

Bike shorts are making a comeback, in and out of the gym! Whether you are an avid cycler or you are just looking for a new trendy piece for your casual summer closet, you’ve come to the right place.

While your typical workout leggings and sports bra combination is a classic, bike shorts are a great way to expand your workout wardrobe while still avoiding short-shorts that ride up when you’re on the go.

From sweat-wicking to padded to even period-proof, we’ve found bike shorts that are right for you.

We conducted our own research, combed hundreds of online reviews to determine the best bike shorts for every occasion and budget, and reviewed the Good Housekeeping Institute’s top-tested picks for bike shorts.

These bike shorts take the cake as one of the best bike shorts on the market. Not only are they a great value, they feature an elastic waist, smooth flatlock seaming designed to not rub or irritate, plus moisture-wicking fabric dries quickly to keep you cool and comfortable. One happy Nordstrom reviewer praises these shorts, saying “these fit like a dream! So flattering in every sense of the word. They will accentuate what you want and hide what you don’t. Plus the side pockets are uber convenient. A must for anyone on the hunt. Worth every penny.”

For only $10.99, these flattering shorts are a steal by any means. Choose from over 60 color options for these super comfy cotton shorts, perfect for lounging. Though to be clear, this option isn’t designed for exercise, so this isn’t your first choice to take with you to your next workout. One happy Amazon reviewer says “these are freaking great! I’ll likely buy more for the summer! Exactly what I’ve been looking for, shorts that are comfy and will not start riding up while walking.”

If you’re a frequent cycler, you may want to opt for a short with more padding. This Amazon best seller has over 50 different color and style options. Bonus: these shorts also feature a hem with silicone beads to prevent the shorts from riding up plus an extra thick chamois for comfy support on your bike seat. One Amazon reviewer says, “The padding is just right and doesn’t look obviously bulky under yoga pants/leggings.”

If you’re not into the longer bike short look, these buttery soft shorts with 3.5” inseam might be perfect for you. They’re still a great option for working out, but you can also hide them under a dress or skirt outside the gym. One satisfied Outdoor Voices customer says, “I LOVE these shorts! They’re compressive but they don’t squeeze all my jiggle out. They are squat-proof and stay in place, so they’re perfect for lifting, running, or even just hanging out.”

If you’re looking for a high-waisted, less compressive, and extremely comfortable option for a lower impact workout, this bike short is definitely a contender. From Beyond Yoga, these bike shorts are designed to fit well, look good and stay in place throughout your practice—or your whole day! One happy Nordstrom customer says, “These are the greatest bike shorts I’ve ever worn in my life. Comfortable waist, super soft fabric, thick enough to be flattering when doing yoga.”

Size-Inclusive AND environmentally friendly? Yes please! Made from recycled water bottles for an eco-sexy reputation and look, these bike shorts bring both mind and body comfort to your workout routine. This bike short comes in sizes XXS to 3X, one of the wider size ranges out there. One satisfied Nordstrom reviewer says “I love these bike shorts! I was looking for shorts that I could lounge, walk, do yoga, and hike in, and these are it!”

If you’re exercising and putting in the work, you’re sure to break a sweat. Fortunately, these shorts can keep you dry! Under Armour’s super-light HeatGear fabric delivers superior coverage without weighing you down, and the material wicks sweat & dries really fast.One pleased Amazon reviewer says “I’m a very sweaty person and these hardly show my sweat despite being gray. Super impressed! I’m pretty picky about my workout clothes but the price was hard to beat to not give them a try.”

Want to find a super cute bike short and reduce your environmental impact all in one? These bike shorts from Everlane are made with 80% recycled materials, as well as sustainable textiles. And a bonus, these bike shorts feature an interior front pocket, perfect for holding your cards or keys when you’re on-the-go. Reviewers on the Everlane website rave about the comfort and high quality, one saying these are “perfect for workouts, running errands, or even just lounging.”

If you love a good romper or jumpsuit, this best selling bike short unitard may be the perfect addition to your workout wardrobe. This option from the Girlfriend Collective is made with compressive recycled PET fabric and bonus, there’s a hidden built-in bra to keep you supported in the gym and on-the-go. One satisfied Nordstrom reviewer also states, “the bodysuit is great for going out on walks or runs with a t-shirt or hoodie on over it because you’ll be more covered up if the weather changes or you get hot. 10/10 great piece.”

Whether you’re already a fan of period underwear or if you just hate wearing pads to work out, this may be a great choice when it’s not your favorite time of the month but you still want to be comfortable and active. Shoppers will appreciate the moisture-wicking fabric, as well as the front pocket for a heating pad when Aunt Flo comes to town! One verified Amazon customer says, “These shorts feel like I’ve got normal clothes on—they’re soft, stretchy and comfortable, all while giving me the reassurance that I’ll stay fresh and clean.”

✔️ Look for synthetic, moisture-wicking fabric: According to The Good Housekeeping Institute’s Textiles Lab. "Fabrics like nylon and polyester, which are moisture-wicking, opaque and have superior stretch compared to cotton. To avoid brands with false moisture wicking claims, place a small drop of water on the inside of the fabric. If it’s a moisture wicking material, the water will quickly absorb and spread out. Avoid any fabric where the water beads, as the shorts will feel sweaty when you’re exercising.”

✔️ Think about length. Depending on what kind of activities you are hoping to do in your new bike shorts, you may want to take length into consideration. If you struggle with chafing or you like wearing compressive fabric over more of your legs, you may want to look for bike shorts on the longer side. Meanwhile, if you prefer running over cycling and you’re looking for less skin coverage, shorter shorts might be right for you.

✔️ To Cycle or Not to Cycle: If you are an avid cyclist, you may want to consider a chamois. Typically, the padded crotch section is made from foam designed to alleviate pressure when on a bike. However, if you’re simply looking for a longer short to do your other workouts in or to go run errands, you may not need the extra support.