The 14 Best Bike Shorts to Add to Your Closet ASAP

Blame the timelessness of Princess Diana's style, the world's never-ending love of stationary bikes, or your favorite fashion-forward celeb, but bike shorts have become an activewear staple akin to leggings and sports bras. A bridge between fashion and fitness, they're one of the few activewear items that work for an Instagram photo one day and a boxing class the next. They're also so popular that finding the very best can be a difficult pursuit — luckily, this list can help.

Here are the 14 best bike shorts for women, according to customer reviews. Every bike short included here meets basic criteria: Each pair is form-fitting, opaque (aka squat-proof), and stretchy, plus has a waistband that won't roll down during a workout, according to reviewers. And each selection has a unique feature that makes it a standout to suit individual shoppers' particular needs. For example, some people may be seeking a high-waisted option that hits above the belly button, while others may prioritize a longer inseam that hits just above the knee.

This list covers it all, with styles in several lengths, fits, fabrics, and prices. Plus, shoppers seeking options from popular activewear brands won't be disappointed; best-selling styles from Alo, Girlfriend Collective, and GymShark all made the list. (Warning: These bike shorts are stylish and functional, but not padded. Cyclists should check out this roundup of the best padded bike shorts instead.)

• Most Reviewed: Baleaf High Waist Biker Shorts
• Best High-Waisted: Joyspels Biker Short
• Best Mid-Rise: GymShark Flex Shorts
• Best Cotton: Hanes Stretch Jersey Bike Short
• Best Short Inseam: Colorfulkoala High Waisted Biker Shorts
• Best Long Inseam: Year of Ours Ribbed High-Waisted Bike Short
• Best Cheap: Tnnzeet 3-Pack Biker Shorts
• Most Size-Inclusive: Girlfriend Collective High-Rise Bike Short
• Best Squat-Proof: All Access Center Stage Biker Short
• Most Comfortable: Free People Seamless Rib Bike Short
• Best Printed: Onzie High Rise Biker Short
• Best White Shorts: Alo 7" High-Waist Biker Short
• Best with Sun Protection: Prana Electa Short II
• Best to Live In: Beyond Yoga Spacedye High Waisted Biker Short
  

Below, shop all the best bike shorts, from the best high-waisted pair to the most affordable design.

Most Reviewed Bike Shorts: Baleaf High Waist Biker Shorts

These moisture-wicking shorts have snagged the coveted title of Amazon's favorite bike shorts with more than 54,000 (!!) five-star ratings. Customers love that the style is "not see-through at all" and has an extra-high waistband that's actually comfortable. It's loved by style-minded folk and athletes, with one ultramarathoner giving it their stamp of approval. Plus, convenient side pockets allow you to stash your phone, keys, and credit card when you're on a run or headed to brunch. Available in dozens of colors, two inseam lengths, and a few multipack options, the style is proof that you don't have to spend a fortune for a trusty pair of bike shorts.

Best High-Waisted Bike Shorts: Joyspels Biker Shorts

Another Amazon favorite, these bike shorts are made with a stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric that dries quickly even after a sweaty HIIT workout. But the design element that stands out most among the 6,000+ glowing reviews? The waistband. It's wide and structured, yet comfy and soft — some reviews deem it "perfect." Even die-hard Lululemon lovers can't get enough.

Best Mid-Rise Bike Shorts: GymShark Flex Shorts

If you've ever scrolled through TikTok, chances are you've noticed more than a few fitness-focused users rocking this brand. With a slightly shorter length, seamless fit (no chafing here!), and contour shading that flatters curves just right, these sweat-wicking shorts are a total no-brainer. A bonus? They come in multiple colors, so you can stock up if you fall in love with them.

Best Cotton Bike Shorts: Hanes Stretch Jersey Bike Short

Bike shorts are just as important for lounging as they are for lunging, which is why some people eschew compression. This pair from Hanes is made from stretchy cotton jersey and has a perfect rating from more than 25,000 shoppers, who rave that they're extra-soft and lightweight. Less spandex means you might want to size down for a tighter fit, according to a few reviewers, but it all depends on your intended use — and for some, that's a night in watching Netflix.

Best Short Bike Shorts: Colorfulkoala High Waisted Biker Shorts

Most people imagine a knee-length style when thinking of bike shorts, but inseam length can vary. A 6-inch style, such as this popular pick from Colorfulkoala, is a great choice for anyone that's new to the bike short world (or under 5′5"). It doesn't cut off the leg visually and still gives the added coverage of bike shorts. Shoppers say these high-waisted shorts are basically a cropped version of the brand's best-selling leggings.

Best Long Inseam Bike Shorts: Year of Ours Ribbed High-Waisted Bike Short

A great choice for those who don't love the short-short look, these bottoms feature a 9-inch inseam and a wide waistband for extra coverage and support, ensuring they don't fall down or ride up. Reviewers on the brand's site rave that they are extremely comfortable. (If you plan to sport them solely with a sports bra, opt for the Year of Ours V-Waist Bike Short, which has a trendy, visually interesting waistband but still keeps a low profile.)

Best Cheap Bike Shorts: Tnnzeet 3-Pack Biker Shorts

This multipack — with three pairs of high-waisted shorts for under $20! — lets you stock up for sunny weather (or stationary biking) without spending a fortune. Designed to feel like a second skin, they're made with a buttery-soft fabric that has plenty of stretch; one reviewer says it "feels like Lululemon." But they don't just feel good: Shoppers say the squat-proof shorts stay in place even during high-impact workouts such as running.

Most Size-Inclusive Bike Shorts: Girlfriend Collective High-Rise Bike Short

Everyone deserves a good pair of bike shorts, and Girlfriend Collective delivers with sizes XXS to 6XL. But it's not just the sizing options that are stacked; the compressive shorts, which are made from recycled water bottles, come in five essential colors (such as black and moss green) as well as limited-edition hues, so there's always something new to add to your collection. Another reason to add to cart? They're designed with high-impact workouts in mind, so you'll spend less time adjusting your clothing and more time working hard. (P.S. The brand's sporty skirt is another athleisure alternative that's easy to style for the gym or weekend brunch.)

Best Squat-Proof Bike Shorts: All Access Center Stage Biker Short

Ashley Graham is a fan of these bike shorts and the brand's leggings — even going as far as to call them "baller" — if that tells you anything. They effortlessly mix style and performance, making them ideal for workouts, running, and just hanging around the house. They come in multiple colors, two textures (All Motion and Sport Rib), and two inseam lengths. Graham swears that they're squat-proof and pass the no-visible-underwear test.

Most Comfortable Bike Shorts: Free People Seamless Rib Bike Short

If you're looking for a colorful option, these Free People bike shorts will do the trick. Available in an array of shades including rich bright and neutral hues, the soft, seamless shorts are comfy enough to sweat or lounge in. Not to mention, the cooling fabric is perfect for hot summer days or sweaty indoor routines. Reviewers are calling them a "wardrobe staple."

Best Printed Bike Shorts: Onzie High Rise Biker Short

These animal-print bottoms are super versatile since they can be worn with almost any other color. The high waistband, mid-length cut, and compression fabric will make them your go-to for everyday wear. Leopard print not your style? Choose from the brand's other eye-catching patterns, including snakeskin and checkered.

Best White Bike Shorts: Alo 7" High-Waist Biker Short

It's never the wrong time to experiment with white workout bottoms — but start with these if you've never tried them before. These are made with high-quality fabric that's moisture-wicking and anti-odor, so you never have to worry about embarrassing sweat stains or smells. Plus, the shorts have a front-smoothing panel, meaning you can go commando with no fear. Many shoppers tout these as "the best bike shorts" they've ever worn. Don't trust white workout wear? Grab one of the brand's limited-edition or staple shades instead.

Best Bike Shorts with Sun Protection: Prana Electa Short II

With a wide waistband for support, built-in UPF 50+ to protect you from the sun, and a triangle gusset for extra comfort while you move, this bike short checks all the boxes. The style also boasts nifty side pockets and a secure key pocket to stow your essentials. Customers swear by them, with one sharing that they're the most flattering item of clothing they own. Also great: They're sustainably made of recycled material.

Best Bike Shorts to Live In: Beyond Yoga Spacedye High Waisted Biker Short

If you want to flow through an hour-long yoga class, grab brunch with your friends, and then binge some Bridgerton without making a pitstop to change into fresh bottoms, slip into these bike shorts before you head out. The buttery-soft shorts have UV protection to keep you sunburn-free and are mid-thigh length with a wide 5-inch waistband, so they stay in place no matter how you move. The fabric also offers a four-way stretch — which, according to one reviewer, makes the bike shorts fit perfectly throughout pregnancy and postpartum.