A good pair of cycling shorts is one of the most essential articles to wear wherever you’re pedaling, whether you’re an avid cyclist or a beginner to road biking. Everyday workout shorts simply tend to, well, not “work out” for biking. They often ride up and gather uncomfortably in the groin area, resulting in constant pulling and tugging of shorts with almost every pedal. You can own the best and finest bike, but if you lack the proper riding gear, that bike will simply not live up to its potential. Road biking — especially if you plan on biking more than just a few miles on the regular — can be an incredibly thrilling and challenging workout.
The best biking shorts for your ride
A pair of cycling shorts for men is supposed to protect you against chafing and make your ride in the saddle comfortable, so you can venture farther without restrictions. If you’re just going on a short trip, you’ll also want to check out the best bike commuting gear. For long rides that involve flying down back roads and hills that put your gear shifter to the test, check out our picks for the best cycling shorts for men.
Specialized Men’s RBX Shorts
The four-way fabric of these super-soft men’s cycling shorts ensures freedom of movement so you can pedal without restriction or friction, and the silicone-infused cuffs keep them in place no matter how hard you’re going in the saddle. We love these for long-distance rides as the padding provides plenty of support under your sit bones.
Pearl Izumi Men’s Attack Bike Shorts
The Pearl Izumi Men’s Attack Bike Shorts are one of the more affordable options from the sophisticated cycling brand. These
Castelli Entrata Bib Shorts
If you’re gonna go for bib shorts, this is the pair to pick. The eight-panel construction ensures a near-perfect anatomical fit, while the Kiss Air2 chamois cushions and supports your backside. These cycling
REI Men’s Co-op Link Padded Liner Shorts
These bike shorts are a great value compared to many others on this list and feature comfortable, supportive padding that the casual biker will appreciate. The side pocket fits a phone or ID snugly, and the compression leg bands keep these liner
Rhone Basic Cycling Shorts
Premium men’s activewear brand Rhone came to conquer with its Basic Cycling Short. They take their material seriously, proudly stating that they spend “up to four times more on fabrics than the big box brands.” With its lightweight Italian recycled nylon knit fabric, you can really feel the difference in the thickness and comfort this pair of shorts provides. Featuring a soft Y-fold elastic at the waist, interior molded chamois, and flatlock stitching for anti-chafe comfort, these bike
Endura Hummvee Mountain Bike Baggy Cycling Shorts II
If tight bike shorts aren’t the look you’re going for, these urban cycling
The Black Bibs The Black Shorts Plus
The Black Bibs knows how to make high-quality cycling apparel at an accessible price point. These men’s shorts are cut from the same pattern that has been used by the UCI Cyclus Sports and Lupus Racing Team, so you know they’re world-champion-level in terms of comfort and fit. The length, stretch, and chamois in this pair of cycling
Louis Garneau Men’s CB Carbon 2 Cycling Bibs
If endurance is your goal, you need gear that won’t let you down when you’re 50 miles into a 100-mile ride. The form-fitting construction of these premium men’s cycling shorts moves with your body as you’re pushing up the mountain or flying down that hill. Made with highly stretchable and compressive CB Carbon + Lycra and Endurexx fabrics, the CB Carbon 2 bib is designed to help increase blood flow, reduce muscle vibration, and reduce fatigue.
Giordana Men’s FR-C Pro Cycling Shorts
If only the best will do, and bib-style suspender shorts aren’t your jam, we love Giordana’s FR-C Pro Cycling
Legendfit Men’s Cycling Shorts
These padded cycling shorts are made with six layers of high-impact foam padding to provide superior support, dampening the vibration from the bike while also eliminating pressure points. Nonslip leg openings keep these adhered to your thighs during the entirety of your ride. The mesh design also allows for quick moisture evacuation, which makes for a more comfortable ride in the saddle. Plus, we dig the elastic waistband loop for stowing a towel, rain shell, sun protection, etc.
What is the best material for men’s cycling shorts?
The “best” material for men’s cycling shorts depends on several factors, including your riding style, the climate, and personal preferences. However, there are several materials used:
- Nylon/Lycra blend: These materials offer breathability, comfort, and durability.
- Polyester: This is a breathable and quick-drying material, but it may not be as comfortable as nylon/Lycra in hot weather.
- Merino wool: Naturally breathable, insulating, and resistant to odors, merino wool is ideal for cold-weather riding.
- Cordura: A highly durable fabric resistant to abrasion and tears, Cordua is perfect for mountain biking.
- High-tech fabrics: Brands like Polartec and Gore-Tex offer specialized fabrics with advanced moisture wicking, breathability, and weather protection.
