The Best Biker Shorts For Exercising—And Everything Else

The best biker shorts have the breathability and flexibility to tackle my favourite workout classes, but they're just as versatile for everyday wear. Fashion editors, off-duty supermodels, and Kensington Palace royals are all proof. Princess Diana became my eternal style inspiration with her oversized-sweatshirt-and-biker short looks in the '90s. Decades later, runway collections elevated bike shorts into five-star resort beachwear (Chanel's seaside spring 2019 collection) and unexpectedly chic evening-wear (Gucci's Love Parade collection in 2021). Then there's Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, and Lori Harvey’s street style, consistently giving me off-duty outfit ideas involving a pair of biker shorts.

Since biker shorts look as effortless with an oversized blazer and summer sandals as the other half of a matching workout set and cool sneakers, my definition of the best pairs depends on where and how I'm styling them. When I’m getting sweaty in a challenging spin class or lacing up my best sneakers for a race, shorts with compression and moisture-wicking fabrics are essential. Activewear brands like Alo Yoga, Nike, and Splits59 have this hardworking category on lock. Biker shorts I wear for errands and evenings out still come from those labels, but I’ve also tried a few soft and design-forward pairs from Marysia, FP Movement, and Tory Sport with shop-worthy results.

Testing pairs in low impact and HIIT-style workout classes was only the start of my search for the best biker shorts on the market today. I also polled fitness experts and consulted other shoppers’ reviews to find styles that will last. From the pairs in fitness instructors' gym bags to the everyday versions Bazaar.com editors love, the 22 best biker shorts ahead are versatile essentials for working out and beyond.

Related article: Dua Lipa Looks Rich In A Money-Print Top And Biker Shorts

BEST ALL-AROUND BIKER SHORTS

Alo Yoga High-Waist Biker Short

Alo Yoga's biker shorts first landed on my radar when they turned up in wardrobes from Kendall Jenner to Hailey Bieber. This pair became my go-to after I tried them in spin, yoga, and interval training classes and experienced their signature Airbrush fabric firsthand. There's a smoothing compression effect that's supportive for runs and high intensity intervals, but there's a sleekness that works for non-athletic outfits. In short? I understand why they're a celebrity favorite.

Sizes: XXS–L

Colours: Black, White, Ivory, and more

What reviewers are saying: "Extraordinarily comfortable, high-waist band doesn't fold down during spin class. Material is very soft yet supportive. When I took them out of the bag they looked too small, but they actually stretched to fit perfectly. Hands down the best bike shorts I've ever purchased. Well done, Alo!"

BEST RIBBED BIKER SHORTS

FP Movement Happiness Runs Bike Shorts

If you're searching for a pair of biker shorts that feels like pajamas, these are the pair. The ribbed fabric is so soft, but there's "entry level" compression to support you through yoga, Pilates, and other gentle exercises.

Sizes: XS–XL

Colours: Strawberry Spritz, Black, Navy, Heather Gray

Materials: 85% Nylon, 15% Elastane

What reviewers are saying: "The reviews said they were going to look small but to try them on first; I agree. I got a M/L and weight 160 lbs. They look so small but I got them on just fine and they didn’t feel too tight. A nice compression without cutting off circulation. I’m keeping them!"

BEST SIZE-INCLUSIVE BIKER SHORTS

Girlfriend Collective Moss High-Rise Run Short

Athletes of all sizes adore these Girlfriend Collective shorts. Believe the Instagram hype: They're smooth, breathable, and plain cute with a matching sports bra.

Sizes: XXS–6XL

Colours: Moss, Black, Plum, and more

Materials: 79% RPET, 21% spandex

What reviewers are saying: "This was my first run short purchase and I’m so in love. Perfect short rise for summer. I specifically got a matching Paloma bra to make a cute outfit. The moss color is very flattering."

BEST BIKER SHORT FOR HIGH IMPACT EXERCISE

Splits59 Airweight High Waist Short

Beth Nicely, trainer and founder of the dance, HIIT, and tone class The Limit, wears these Splits59 shorts for her hard-hitting workouts. "I need what I wear to perform," she explains, and this high-rise pair is up to the challenge.

Sizes: XS–XXL

Colours: Black, Indigo, Arugula, Pale Lavender, and more

Materials: 81% nylon, 19% spandex

What reviewers are saying: "Buttery soft and super flattering. Does not cut circulation off around the leg or leave weird indents. I have the XS and S. I prefer the small as it has a bit more room and flexibility. Love that the waist stays up when I am sitting or exercising."

BEST CASUAL BIKER SHORT

Everlane The Perform Bike Short

While these Everlane shorts have the slight compression and breathability of a workout-ready short, their softness and mid-thigh length make them another favorite for casual outfits. During the summer, I'll wear them with an oversized button-down and slip-on sandals.

Sizes: XXS–XXL

Colour: Black

Materials: 58% Recycled Nylon, 42% Elastane

What reviewers are saying: "Just what I was looking for! Fits well and is snug to the body without feeling too tight. Really well made and can be dressed up or dressed down."

BEST SHORT BIKER SHORTS

Nike Pro 3" High-Waisted Training Shorts

Virginia Preston, a trainer with iFIT, swears by this pair with a three-inch inseam. "The fabric is soft and breathable, they're great for activities from cycling to yoga and everything in between, and, oh, that waist band. Not only is it undoubtedly iconic, but I don't believe there's anything more flattering than a wide, statement waist band to accentuate a woman's natural curves," she says.

Sizes: XS–XXL

Colours: Black, Orange

Materials: 78-83% polyester, 17-22% spandex

What reviewers are saying: "I absolutely love these shorts! They are comfortable, great fabric, not see through so makes for a great option for the gym. The only thing that would make these the perfect training shorts is you need to size up for the right fit! Otherwise highly recommended!"

BEST BIKER SHORTS FOR HIGH-INTENSITY EXERCISE

Fabletics On-The-Go PowerHold Ultra HW 6'' Short

BAZAAR.com senior digital director Nikki Ogunnaike highly recommends this unassuming yet hardworking pair by Fabletics. "After years of running and trying other brands, I've found that they're the only ones that don't ride up," she says. Also, they have pockets.

Sizes: XXS–4X

Colours: Dark Pine, Red, Black, Passion Orange, and more

Materials: 80% Nylon/20% Lycra

What reviewers are saying: "Truly appreciate how bright these shorts are, they fit beautifully...I did not have to adjust the waste while running and playing soccer. They are so soft to the touch."

"I absolutely loved these shorts and the QUALITY!!!!! ITS DEFINITELY A 10/10. They are super thick, compress in all the right places and they have pockets need I same more!"

BEST BIKER SHORTS FOR HIGH-INTENSITY EXERCISE

Ultracor Essential Venus Bike Shorts

Taryn Brooks, an instructor at Barry's, prefers ultra-supportive biker shorts like this pair from Ultracor. They have all the features she needs for the intense intervals of a typical Barry's class. "The high waist is super flattering, not to mention extra supportive for high-impact activities," she says.

Sizes: XXS–XL

Colour: Black

Materials: Polyester/nylon/Lycra spandex

What reviewers are saying: "Runs small, nice thin fabric, love the design."

SOFTEST BIKER SHORTS

Lululemon Align High-Rise Short

Low-intensity workouts—yoga, Pilates, barre, breath work—call for biker shorts in softer, less constricting knits. The Class instructor Tia Spowart and I are fans of Lululemon's Align shorts. When her gear stays in place, Spowart can stay in the moment: "I like my clothing to feel like a second skin. I don't want my thoughts to be consumed with what I am wearing so that I can focus on my breath and body," she explains. The Align's high waist and buttery smooth fabric fit the bill.

Sizes: 0–20

Colours: Black, Pink, Purple, White, and Navy

Materials: 81% Nylon, 19% Lycra Elastane

What reviewers are saying: "I’ve worn these a couple of times now for walking and weightlifting. They are going to be perfect for the warmer summer months! I love the fabric and fit and will be buying more colors!"

"Bought two pairs to wear under some summer skirts. They are super comfortable, fit true to size and work perfectly as an under layer."

BEST CONTOURING BIKER SHORTS

Gymshark Sweat Seamless Shorts

BAZAAR.com associate editor Chelsey Sanchez gets her movement in through yoga and rock climbing. Of all the pieces she's tried for working out, she says, "Few sportswear brands make bottoms as comfortable and seamless as Gymshark does. Their shorts get extra points for their ultra-compressive yet breathable contouring mesh fabric."

Sizes: XS–XXL

Materials: 83% Nylon, 9% Elastane, 8% Polyester

Colours: Grape Blue, Fossil Brown, Evening Blue, Black, and more

What reviewers are saying: Reviewers rate this style an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars, saying they're comfortable and great value.

BEST BIKER SHORTS FOR LOW-INTENSITY EXERCISE

Outdoor Voices FreeForm 5" Shorts

I own Outdoor Voices' FreeForm shorts in two colors and can see myself buying a third. When I take dance or Pilates classes, they never roll down in the waist or roll up on my thighs. The fabric in the inseam hasn't pilled or faded after many, many wears.

Sizes: XXS–XXXL

Materials: 85% Polyester, 15% Spandex

Colours: Black, White

What reviewers are saying: "I returned the Warmups and kept these because the material and fit were way better for my preferences (lounging and also wearing for spin class/weightlifting). The compression is less intense than the Warmups and therefore fit me better, even when 4 months pregnant. After receiving the black I wanted to purchase more colors but they are all sold out in my size which is a shame. I sized up due to being pregnant but fit seems right."

"Being on the bigger side, my thighs chafe. These shorts are the great length to stop that from happening and still look good. They don’t ride up either! They stay put throughout the whole day. Really liked these and recommend them. I have these in 3 colors that’s how much I loved them!"

BEST BIKER SHORTS FOR LOW-INTENSITY EXERCISE

Marysia Billy Jean Shorts

Some days, I'm in the mood for a stretching video and meditation or a walk around my neighborhood. The biker shorts from Marysia's debut sportswear collection are my go-to for gentler activities like these. The ribbed fabric is pliable and pillowy; then there's the preppy scalloped hem that's a complete compliment magnet. All in all, these biker shorts are about taking it easy.

Sizes: XXS–XXL

Materials: 88% Polyamide, 12% Elastane

Colours: White, Black

BEST BIKER SHORTS FOR YOGA

Tory Sport Weightless Printed Bike Short

Krissy Jones, cofounder of Sky Ting yoga, tells BAZAAR.com she teaches classes in a one-piece swimsuit under Tory Burch's biker shorts. The 4.9" inseam are a perfect length for stretching into all her yoga poses, plus riding a bike home after class.

Sizes: XS–XL

Colours: Floral Print

Materials: TACTEL Light Weight Interlock

What reviewers are saying: "I ordered my first weightless leggings this year and I adore the fit. When I saw these in this floral print, I had to have them. They fit great and love the print. They stay put and are so functional and fun."

BEST CROSSOVER WAISTBAND BIKER SHORTS

Aerie OFFLINE Real Me Crossover 7" Bike Short

I already own Aerie's flare leggings with a crossover waistband, so I suspected these biker shorts would deliver the same comfortable fit. I was proven correct when I ordered this pair—plus, I found that the V-shaped detail looks a touch cooler than my usual shorts.

Sizes: XXS–XXL

Colour: True Black

Materials: 88% Nylon, 12% Elastane

What reviewers are saying: "This is my third purchase from the offline crossover collection. I have been living in these shorts since I bought them. They are the perfect staple for summer with an oversized tee or tank. They are comfortable, stretchy, great length, and don’t ride up!"

"I’m a pear shape and I wanted some shorts that are longer to prevent chafing with my thick thighs! This came and they looked SUPER small but they stretch very nicely and hugs in all the right places! They fit perfectly, they are not see-through and they don’t roll up."

BEST HIGH-RISE BIKER SHORTS

All Access High Waisted Center Stage 9in Biker Short

The extra-wide waistband on these All Access shorts lands higher on your midriff than other pairs for optimal contrast with a barely-there top. Satisfied reviewers note there isn't a front seam on the shorts, giving them a more streamlined look.

Sizes: XXS–3XL

Colour: Black

Material: 50% Nylon, 50% Spandex

What reviewers are saying: "These have the perfect combination of the wide waist band that sucks me in, the legs that don't ride up or run too tight on my thighs, and no front seam for a flattering fit. I love these for workouts, lounge, and for running around doing errands!"

"Really comfortable. High waisted, but doesn't compress a lot (I dislike a lot of compression). Went for a run and doesn't ride up. Love these."

BEST SEAMLESS BIKER SHORTS

Beyond Yoga Spacedye High Waisted 7" Biker Short

When it comes to everyday biker shorts in extended sizes, Beyond Yoga's pair is the only one you should consider. This pair has heaps of praise for the soft, breathable fabric and seamless, pinch-free design.

Sizes: 1X–3X

Materials: 87% Polyester, 13% Elastane

Colour: Green

What reviewers are saying: "Wow, where have these shorts been all my life. I'm postpartum and have been living in these shorts for days. Love the high waist and support of my midsection. Anticipate that it will be fantastic for summer workouts, hikes, and hot yoga."

BEST BIKER SHORTS FOR SWIMMING

Left on Friday All Star Short *Mid

Left on Friday's signature swim fabric re-appears in these sculpting and lifting biker shorts with a five inch inseam. Their quick-drying and sweat-wicking threads are as suited to a day at the beach as an early-morning workout at home.

Sizes: S–XL

Colours: Red, Navy, Neon Green, Black

Materials: Smoothing fabric

What reviewers are saying: "Obsessed. Fit is as good as you’ll anticipate given the nature of the bathing suits. Color is so cool and fun. Recommend!"

"I wear these for everything. Workouts. Lounging. Trust to home depot. Dog walking. Nothing can stop me in these luxurious bike shorts!"

BEST BIKER SHORT FOR A MATCHING SET

Anine Bing Blake Biker Short

Anine Bing's biker shorts are athleisure perfection on their own, with a seven-inch inseam and a high waistband. Pair them with the label's coordinating bra top and an editor-approved black blazer, and they're worthy of a street style photoshoot.

Sizes: XXS–XL

Colours: Black, Artichoke, Purple

What reviewers are saying: "Great bikers! Fits perfect, so comfortable and great quality. Normally I wear XS, but Blake Bikers I bought size S and they fits great, they are low to size, take one size up."

BEST MATERNITY BIKER SHORTS

Nike Zenvy Maternity Bike Shorts

NORDSTROMDICK'S SPORTING GOODSNIKE

When your body changes during pregnancy, your biker shorts need to change with it. This Nike pair has stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric that adapts to the shape of your bump. Some new parents say they've kept wearing the shorts even after pregnancy because they're so comfortable.

Sizes: XS–L

Colour: Black

What reviewers are saying: "The fabric of these shorts is amazing. It is soft to the touch, yet stretchy. While it has some give, it's still supportive. The fabric is also quite thick, without being bulky, so I don't have to worry about anything showing through. It's rather impressive how well these shorts can support while being incredibly comfortable. These shorts are also incredibly versatile. They're comfortable enough that I have worn them just while lounging about the house, but also great for a workout or yard work. I appreciate that I can stretch in them and they allow me the flexibility to go as deep into the stretch as I need to."

"These shorts fit and feel amazing. There is plenty of support for my growing belly without feeling tight. They’re super lightweight and stretchy. They stay in place and don’t roll down. If I had to improve on one area it would be to add pockets."

BEST BIKER SHORTS ON AMAZON

Baleaf High Waist Biker Short

Baleaf's biker shorts are the most personalized option you can find on Amazon, with two inseam lengths (five or eight inches) and more than 25 colors to choose from. Trust the wisdom of the crowd: These shorts are a certified Amazon hidden gem with an average rating of 4.4/5 stars after more than 86,000 ratings.

Sizes: XS–6XL

Colours: Black, Blue, Gray, Green, Red, and more

What reviewers are saying: "I came back to order another pair and thought I should leave a review. I’ve worn these constantly since Aug 2021. They go through washer / dryer with no special treatment."

"I’d say these are somewhere between mid rise and high rise. The waistband sits just below my belly button. So nice to find shorts that don’t go over your entire stomach.The material is really soft, super comfortable. I’ve worn these shorts for CrossFit, which involves so many different movements. Never have issues with having to pull them up."

BEST WHITE BIKER SHORT

Recreational Habits White Mini Biker Short

Where tennis whites meet Tour de France cycling style, you'll find these mini biker shorts. Their crisp color is just the start of their must-shop qualities: Other impeccable features include a soft hand feel and a pocket large enough to stow an iPhone 12.

Sizes: XS–XL

Materials: Elastane-Nylon blend

This article originally appeared in Harper's BAZAAR US.