The style books of Princess Diana, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Hailey Bieber are vastly different, but one common thread is a serious love for the best bike shorts. Lady Di and SJP wore them back in the ’80s and ’90s, and, over the last few years, the stretchy cutoffs have become as essential to a well-rounded wardrobe as a good pair of black leggings.
Bike shorts are undoubtedly comfortable for working out during warmer temps, and they’ve proved to be ideal for all sorts of activities, from online shopping on the sofa to catching rays on early-morning walks. With their figure-hugging waistbands and versatile inseams, the best cycling shorts are the antithesis to baggy, borrowed-from-the-boys joggers. Despite the sporty vibes they give off, they have infinite styling potential for turning a full look on hot days. Pair them them with an oversized hoodie for an effortlessly cool take on the trend, or wear them with a white T-shirt, blazer and gold jewellery to look more polished.
Whether you want a celeb-approved style for your next brunch date (looking at you, Adanola) or a quick-drying pair to wear with your favourite gym trainers, we've combed the internet to bring you all the best women’s bike shorts you can buy right now. Check them out below.
Tried-and-true black bike shorts
Black bike shorts will stand the test of time—and you can get a pair for as little as £7 (hi, ASOS). If you want something you can dress up with a white shirt or soft cashmere knit, try experimenting with materials like a superfine ribbed knit or lustrous black.
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Colourful bike shorts
Arguably the most attention-grabbing style of the bunch, this season’s rainbow hues come in everything from highlighter green to zesty orange and Barbiecore pink. Pair yours with a contrasting sports bra when it’s hot, then throw on a roomy crewneck when things get breezy.
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Compression bike shorts/Shaping bike shorts
Yes, we all want cute workout clothes in our repertoire, but who can exercise comfortably in a pair of bike shorts that are too sheer or flimsy? Whether you’re indoor cycling, mountain biking, or doing a HIIT class in your living room, these second-skin options are made from breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics that will hold up during any kind of workout or shapewear-inspired materials for a sculpted, SPANX-like finish. Oh, and if you want a chamois — that is, a pair of cycling shorts with silicone cushioning for longer rides — to prevent your behind from bruising, we like these padded bike shorts with side pockets from Amazon. The gel padding is a godsend for saddle sores on stationary or road bikes.
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Bike shorts with pockets
Just like with a pair of leggings, pockets can be a game changer when you don't want to carry a bum bag to work out. The four below have earned hundreds of shoppers' seals of approval, thanks to their cute designs and comfy pocket placements on the upper hip to store a phone, keys, credit cards, and — yes — snacks. Special shout-out to Gymshark's high-rise style, which are just as great as its best-selling leggings.
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Anti-chafing shorts/bike shorts to wear under dresses
If you're in the market for bike shorts to wear under dresses or skirts, these options deliver. They add an extra layer of coverage and support, and can be slipped on under sheer options as well as more formal styles depending on the look you're going for. They also prevent any chafing from occurring. Godsends.
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This article originally appeared on GLAMOUR US.