An Ultimate Buyer’s Guide To Buy Best Triathlon Shorts in 2020
When participating in a triathlon race, then careful selection of sportswear is essential. To put your entire focus and energy into the competition, you need to wear the best and comfortable outfit that can improve your ability and do not create any hindrance in your ability to compete.
It is not a deep subject that you need to spend a lot of time. When it comes to triathlon gear, many people think about getting the best wetsuit. Choosing the right suit is essential because a wetsuit is entirely different than other types of clothing.
Your selection of shorts plays a considerable role in your race, so it is essential to choose them with great care. Only a good-quality short can bring your advantage in your race.
Best Men’s Triathlon Shorts
De Soto Forza Tri Shorts
- 4mm Clasico Integrated Pad provides comfort on the bike and goes unnoticed on the run
- Forza Compressor fabric provides support and helps reduce delayed onset muscle soreness
- 3-inch Mobius Comfort Compression leg-bands keep short in place without tight constriction
- Curvilinear seamlines, and contrast flatstitch offer support, comfort and both aerodynamic and hydrodynamic advantages; making it great for non-wetsuit races
- Swim, bike, and run in comfort without changing. Wears well under your wetsuit! Use in Triathlons. Please refer to our size chart for sizing guidance. If you are in-between sizes we recommend sizing...
Last update on 2024-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This type of shorts comes with four pockets and also has the patented Mobius Comfort Compression leg bands. These leg bands make the De Soto Forza Tri shorts one of the best shorts available in the market.
It is perfectly ideal for Ironman distance triathletes. They are also suitable for a short distance race. You can store more thing or extra pieces of nutrition in its four pockets that will be helpful during the last miles on the course. Also, the comfort compression leg bands will push your more to finish the line even when you are low on energy.
Features
Other best features of this triathlon shorts are:
1″ lower rise as compared to other models of De Soto and thus it will sit ideally below your hip bones.
4mm Clasico integrated pad gives high-level of comfort during riding a bike and make the biker feel like there is nothing there on the run.
For increased durability and to reduce chafing, these shorts are made with seamless inner thigh design.
Forza Compressor material is beneficial in reducing soreness and supporting muscles.
3″ Mobius Comfort Compression leg bands help in providing the optimal level of movement by keeping your shorts from moving.
Four pockets are handy to store extra nutrition for the race. These pockets will not create drag when they are empty.
For tiny waists, these shorts also come with elastic waistband and drawstring.
Performance and Fit
The shorts should not be very restrictive and should fit like a glove. The material should be quick drying and breathable. When you get out of the water, the shorts will be fast drying and should be durable enough to last for seasons to come.
The length of shorts is always the personal choice of athletes.
If you fit in excel, then these shorts have a 10″ seam, and for smaller sizes, it is 8″ seam. Consider a different brand or model for a shorter seam.
But longer seams always provide better protection from sun and road burns.
These shorts get all the positive reviews with minimal negative remarks.
These shorts are highly suitable if you want extra storage space, primarily competing in Olympic distance triathlon. Plus, if you are going for long-distance riding then also consider these shorts.
PROS
CONS
Castelli Free Tri Short
These shorts are beneficial in excelling every discipline in training or race day.
These shorts are designed with Castelli’s hydrophobic Instadry Speed fabric that helps the athlete to glide through the water with lesser absorption of water.
Its skin-tight fit design provides a high-level of support for hard-working muscles. It is also to be more aerodynamic that helps the athletes to reach their personal records.
It also contains the distinct Kiss Tri Chamois of Castelli with multi-density foam. This material has dual functions which are handling of all cushioning duties and providing the best aerodynamic position on the bike.
The Chamois pad was specifically designed in a unique way to avoid any disturbance during the swim.
The panels of shorts sewn with flatlock stitching that helps in preventing chafing. As its made with Giro Air technology, it helps to hold the shorts in the right place while providing optimal support to your muscles.
Performance and Fit
The shorts should fit like a glove and should not restrict the movement of your legs.
No matter what part of the ace you are running for, your shorts should always move comfortably with your body. You should not feel like your shorts are creating a “diaper butt” for the rest of the race.
Most of the athletes who have worn these shorts say all good things about their quality. The only drawback of these shorts is that there is a lack of drawstring that makes the players feels uneasy.
These are perfect for any level and distance triathlete. But the sizing of shorts run small by at least one size. If you are a petite triathlete, then this brand would work great for you.
PROS
CONS
ROKA Generation II Elite Aero Triathlon Shorts
- IMPROVED FIT: ROKA's Premium Schoeller Eschler carbon knit front panel provides thermoregulation aid and core support.
- NEW LASER CUT LEG: Premium double knit fabric featuring clean compression with a laser cut finish and strategic silicone print to eliminate “sausage-leg”, and aerodynamic upgrade.
- UPDATED LEG CONSTRUCTION: New fabric taken from ROKA's learnings through cycling and aerodynamics with fewer seam lines for a more comfortable fit.
- LOW PROFILE CHAMOIS: Elastic interface, single-density, low profile foam chamois moves with the body and doesn’t sacrifice long distance comfort—it conforms, protects and moves with you on the...
- OPTIMAL BALANCE: Aerodynamics, race day function, and premium comfort for triathlons of any duration, from sprint to full iron distance.
Last update on 2024-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
These are the second generation of Elite Aero Triathlon shorts by ROKA which have been upgraded based on feedbacks of its first generation shorts.
These shorts are breathable and more comfortable than the last ones.
These shorts are designed to create the perfect balance between comfort, aerodynamics, and function.
These shorts offer compressive fit for races with excellent shape retention capability that will work well for years to come.
ROKA tested these shorts in open water, on the road, and in a wind tunnel.
The material or fabric of these shorts is thin and comfortable enough to wear under the wetsuit.
As these made with Full Coldback technology thus helps in perfect regulation of body and core temperature throughout the training and race.
They have no-sew premium knit fabric and still has the best compression.
Features
They provide optimal thermoregulation and abdominal support due to premium Schoeller Eschler carbon. The fabric of these shorts has fewer seam lines that make them perfectly fit and comfortable for performance.
Its supportive and discreet Chamois quickly moves with your body movement without creating any compromising comfort.
Fit and Performance
The shorts should fit right while compressing your muscles without creating any restriction in the movement. The shorts should provide the optimal level of comfort as you put on and off a wetsuit with them.
Many athletes also wear them like the thermoregulation feature that helps in keeping the body cool. It also helps them in their endurance for training sessions and longer races.
Finally, these shorts are best for those athletes who want to step up their game. Or for anyone who is looking for a high-quality brand and becoming more serious about the competition.
PROS
CONS
Sugoi RPM Triathlon Shorts
- TriFlex fabric for moisture wicking and supportive stretch
- Waistband with integrated pockets and inner drawcord for secure fit
- TriLite 3 chamois for lightweight comfort and support
- Self fabric folded leg band without silicone gripper
Last update on 2024-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
These shorts designed and created with TriLite 3 Chamois, Flat seams, and TriFlex fabric.
The most practical features of these shorts are drawstring, elastic waistband, and easily accessible rear pockets.
These shorts made with the excellent combination of TriFlex nylon and spandex fabric that effectively wicks away excess moisture during the swim for making your ride more comfortable.
Its waistband has integrated pockets at the rear side that offers easy access to nutrition during a run or on a bike. The easy access to nutrition helps in getting a quick slug of energy during long bike rides.
The perfect flat seams help in reducing rubbing and chafing.
Its flexible and light Chamois does not retain much water and thus makes the athletes perform efficiently.
These shorts are made explicitly by keeping the effect of high summer heat in mind. Plus, these shorts also have a UPF 5- rating that makes the perfectly suitable to wear during blistering summer days. Just remember to apply the sunscreen.
Performance and Fit
These shorts should comfortably support your whole ride by perfectly fitting like your cycling shorts. You should be able to play all three sports with an optimal level of comfort and should feel supported during your entire race.
Many athletes have said that with these shorts, they experienced fewer sunburns during their race day.
These shorts are suitable for those athletes who are going to buy triathlon shorts for the first time. These are a basic level of shorts, but they are fit enough to support your all triathlon needs. After getting some experience and understanding of what group of muscles in your body need more support, you can then try different brands.
PROS
CONS
Pearl Izumi Elite Pursuit Triathlon Shorts
- ELITE transfer In-R-Cool fabric powered by cold Black provides superior cooling and reflective sun protection
- ELITE transfer In-R-Cool fabric features lycra sport that helps garments maintain original compression levels
- One easy-access envelope back pocket
- Tri quick-dry Chamois
- 8 inch inseam (size medium)
Last update on 2024-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Construction
Whether you are looking forward to buying your first shorts for a triathlon or want to add a new pair to your wardrobe, these triathlon shorts are perfect for both situations.
These shorts are made with high-quality and improved fabric that helps in increasing compression and aerodynamics.
Features
Its weight is 2 lbs, and dimensions are 30 x 15 x 15. In the interior of the back, it contains three mesh dividers to keep your running, biking, and swimming gear in different spaces. You can easily remove the sizable wetsuit. The best features of this bag are its outside pocket for holding a water bottle. Plus, it also contains zipper pouches for keeping food items or snacks. It provides total space of 75 litres including all compartments and pouches.
The fabric of these shorts powered by Coldback, which offers the best reflective sun protection.
These shorts also come with LYCRA Sports compression feature that helps to retain perfect compression level.
To make the shorts comfortable on your skin, these are made with merrow stitch design and construction.
These shorts contain elastic silicone leg gripper to keep shorts in the right position.
For providing optimal fit and comfort, they also include a stretch drawstring.
These shorts also envelop back pocket to fulfill your quick nutrition needs,
The quick dry Chamois of shorts provide an optimal level of comfort on the bike.
These shorts are made from Polyester, Nylon, and Lycra.
Fit and Performance
The fit of these shorts should be form-fitting or compressive on your body before you begin your training.
These shorts should quickly move with your body while offering complete comfort during race.
Athletes should be able to quickly and comfortably wear these shorts over wetsuits, and they should not come off with the wetsuit.
These shorts are recommended for anyone who wants to try new shorts for training or race. These shorts come with fewer drawbacks and excellent support, compression, and fit to the body.
PROS
CONS
Zoot Men’s Performance Tri Shorts
- Performance Endura+ fabric to help you stay dry and comfortable
- TekSheen BIOwrap gripper-free hem
- Integra SBR 2D pad construction
- UPF 50+ Sun protection
Last update on 2024-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Zoot is a well-recognized brand in the market that has been running longer than many other companies. Zoot completely understands the all necessary things and features that should be included in a great pair of triathlon shorts.
Zoot has also won the Editor’s Best Performing triathlon shorts for men.
Materials
Zoot uses the same stuff that all other brands use but in a slightly different way that plays a massive role in enhancing performance. For examples, their shorts are made of lycra and nylon like other shorts, but the blend is a little bit heavier on the lycra. Moreover, for adding more improvement, this blend is then reinforced with nylon and Endura polyester blend. All these enhancements make these pairs of shorts perfectly moisture-wicking and durable.
Pad
Apart from the material of the shorts, the pad is also the essential part of shorts. These Zoot shorts use Integra SBR 2D pad, which is the most higher performing pads in the market.
PROS
CONS
SLS3 Triathlon Men’s Tri Shorts
- SUPPORT AND COMFORT WHERE YOU NEED IT MOST: The fabric mix of these mens tri shorts delivers unparalleled comfort and support. Designed for a medium level of compression that supports your muscles...
- POCKETS PERFECTED: The essential carry system of these tri shorts mens gear keeps your stuff locked down. Two open hip pockets provide easy access to your energy gels, bars or chews when needed.
- PERFECT PADDING FOR CYCLING & RUNNING: These mens triathlon shorts come with a foam-cushioned pad that provides you a chafe-free support throughout your entire bike ride. Plus, it's so light & slim it...
- NO RIDING UP: The tri shorts men are made to stay put no matter the race situation. We added a softleg finish at the hem to make sure the legs would not ride up, so you don’t have to stop your race...
- PREMIUM EVERYTHING: Unlike the big brands that overdesign and overcharge, we make high-quality tri shorts that are made by athletes for athletes. We’ve built SLS3 to reflect our passions and values:...
Last update on 2024-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
SLS3 is a very prestigious brand and most preferred over other brands in the market. However, this is a very young company which was founded by 2 German triathletes. This brand understands all the essential qualities of shorts that are essential for triathletes. These shorts provide a perfect balance between performance and price.
Pad
Pad is the most critical part of triathlon shorts because for legs it is meaningful. However, for every other leg of rave, the pad is at worst can become a legitimate impediment to your race.
The channel tri pad correctly ensures that the bike leg does not create any discomfort. The channel tri pad can perform at its peak functioning for three legs. However, the tri-pad does not readily absorb water for the swim leg. This pad is very light and will surely not chafe your thighs.
Quality
There is nothing much to complain about the quality and performance of these shorts. The high-quality material and construction play a vital role in its best performance. For better durability, the panels are sewn with flatlock seams. These are the best shorts for triathlon competition that you should use for tough competitions.
PROS
CONS
Synergy Men’s Tri Shorts
- Proven Technology Equals Superior Performance - Advanced NeoGel pad with soft fleece keeps you comfortable while giving you the right support for your ride.
- Trims - Flatlock stitching throughout. Flat and long drawstring for a custom fit.
- Exceptional Functionality - Soft and effective leg grippers keep your shorts in place. Modesty panel for comfort and support.
- Superior Fabric - Made from advanced semi-compression materials to help you perform at your peak.
- Design - Reflective logos are both stylish and improves visibility.
Last update on 2024-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This brand was founded in the early 1990s, and that was the time when serious manufacturing of triathlon shorts was just started. Synergy was more focused towards creating specialized triathlon equipment and gear for best performance in competitions.
Pad
The triathlon chamois is the most crucial factor of any triathlon shorts. Thus, some companies make their best efforts to provide better quality chamois available. Synergy makes the best effort in this matter by using NeoGel pad, which performs much better than other pads used in the shorts.
Materials
The materials of these Synergy shorts are not at all unexpected as these are also made of lycra and nylon blend for offering excellent mobility and compression. However, other shorts are not made with the use of any new processes to improve their quality. In this regard, these shorts are undoubtedly ahead of the competition. This is because these are the only shorts that feature an antimicrobial fleece weave. However, these shorts cannot handle water well, and neither does the NeoGel pad. These shorts are best suitable if you either change them during the race or swimming.
PROS
CONS
Blueseventy Core Shorts
- EXCELLENT FRONTAL BUOYANCY - the CORE SHORT provides excellent frontal buoyancy due to thick Aerodome rubber.
- IMMEDIATE FEEDBACK - Bright orange graphics on the front and back provide immediate feedback of hip rotation to a coach on deck.
- IMPROVED SWIMMING - It provides improved swimming in all four strokes while allowing natural kick, hip rotation and turning
- UNISEX FIT - Features drawstring waist closure for a secure fit for both men and women
- SIZING - Sizing is based on Waist Size: XS = 28” , S = 30” , M = 32”, L = 34” , XL = 36"
Last update on 2024-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Blueseventy has an excellent reputation for providing high-end triathlon gear. This is the first brand which is providing distinct quality triathlon gear and equipment from more than two decades. Blueseventy have been rated as the best brand of swimming men’s triathlon shorts.
Swimming
The central fact about these shorts is that they are specifically designed for the swimming leg of the triathlon. These are geared towards offering the best benefits for the leg of the race. These are the only shorts which are coated in SCS that helps in repelling water and other moisture. Plus, these are the only shorts that feature unique panels that help in maintaining proper swimming posture.
Construction
The best thing about these Blueseventy shorts is that these are more durable than other shorts of different brands. These shorts feature a 5/3 construction ration that implies the legs are 3 mm thick whereas other sections are 5 mm thick. Also, this is the only product in this list that is made of neoprene that is technically a type of rubber. The neoprene is the best material for swimming and much more durable than other types of materials used for manufacturing sports. However, it has some ventilation and breathability issues.
PROS
CONS
Best Triathlon Shorts for Women
Louis Garneau Pro 6 Carbon Triathlon Shorts
Last update on 2024-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
These shorts are considered as one of the best shorts of this year that you must buy. The prime quality of these triathlon shorts is that they offer a high level of comfort. The manufactures designed these shorts to provide the maximum level of support in the water, on the bike, and to the final step of the finish line.
These shorts are manufactured with a very light Power, Pro + Lyrcs, and Carbon-X Mesh fabric. The combination of all these fabrics provides excellent support to your hard-working muscles while maintaining the optimal level of blood flow to fight exhaustion.
All these three fabrics can quickly dry sweat and water that helps in maintaining the right level of temperature during competition.
The Chamois of these shorts can quickly absorb vibration while allowing the athlete to comfortably enjoy full and natural movement during swimming and running competition.
Its Tri Air Chamois conforms to every curve as it is made of four-way stretch material. Its high-grade Chamois also helps in quickly evaporating water to keep your body dry.
These shorts also have pockets that are perfect for keeping your nutrition need during the run. Also, it contains an elastic band for providing the best fit possible.
Fit and Performance
These shorts always feel comfortable in every phase of the competition. These are perfectly suitable for small waist also as these shorts come with adjustable drawstring that won’t allow them to slip under any condition.
Most of the athletes who have used these shorts say that these always stay in the right position and do not cause any chafing.
Many women athletes have reported that these are perfectly designed for the women body.
These shorts are recommended to be used as a back-up pair that you can use on serious competitions.
PROS
CONS
Zone3 Lava Triathlon Shorts
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These shorts are designed to offer endurance to the long-distance triathletes.
Zone3 has manufactured these shorts by doing detailed research and tests for delivering maximum comfort and performance.
Their latest shorts are made of new fabric that makes them very comfortable, breathable, and lightweight.
These shorts are designed to offer the best level of comfort and compression for Ironman.
Fit and Performance
These shorts should provide a high-level of comfort and support during long rides of 112 miles and beyond.
These shorts should fit on your body correctly and move quickly with the body as they have advanced chamois padding. They should offer complete support during long rises and should not cause “diaper butt.”
These shorts are recommended for the test run and one-time use. Buyers have given the mix reviews on their padding. I would recommend these shorts for practice and training before the actual competition.
PROS
CONS
MooMotion Womens Pivot Tri Short
- Breathable and streamlined multi-density padding with 4 way stretch; perfect for multisport and cycling activities; contoured support without unnecessary bulk
- Figure flattering waistband and hip holster pockets; 6.5 Inch inseam with comfortable gripper-free leg bands
- Fits true to size
- UPF 50+ Sun Protection; 79% Lycra / 21% Spandex; Machine wash cold, tumble dry low / hang dry
- Made in the USA
Last update on 2024-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
MooMotion is a well-recognized brand that specializes in gear and equipment of triathlon. They specifically focus on providing best-quality gear and equipment for women.
Materials
The material of MooMotion shorts is quite different from the other shorts of different brands mentioned on our list. This pair of shorts does not have any base fiber in the material blend. Instead, these shorts are made with the mix of lycra with their Lycra SPORTS fabric that offers the best compression level. This excellent blend of these materials makes them fit better than other shorts of different brands. However, during first wear, these shorts might seem quite tight-fitting. The main benefit of having these shorts is that they offer the highest level of motion and flexibility to the athletes.
Construction
Here, we are not covering the pad detail of these shorts as they do not offer anything exceptional to the mix. We are going to discuss the construction of these shorts as it is far better than other shorts mentioned in this guide. Moreover, this is the only short on our list that comes with multiple pockets. Also, these shorts also provide the best level of protection from the sun as they come with UPF 50+. The flatlock seams of these shorts make them highly durable.
PROS
CONS
TYR Women’s Sport Competitor Tri Compression Shorts
- Performance driven
- Industry's most durable swim gear
- Accommodate athletes and water enthusiasts at every level
Last update on 2024-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
TYR is a very different brand than other companies mentioned in our list. This company gained its good hold in the market during the initial stage due to the need for triathlon gear and equipment in the market. But now, it has established its good grip in the market. However, TYR is not specialized in manufacturing gear and equipment for the triathlon. This company was founded by an Olympic swimming medalist who works towards providing the best swimwear.
Material
TYR is a swimwear company rather than gear and equipment brand. These TYR shorts are made with polyester instead of nylon. However, it is not a very big change, but polyester has much better properties than nylon that makes this material suitable for triathlon shorts. However, polyester is quite less durable than nylon, but it wicks moisture in a better way and far more resistant to water.
Pad
These TYR shorts has patented TYR competitor AMP Pad that is specially engineered to offers high-grade performance in the race. This pad is designed with advanced triple-density foam for the biking leg that helps in preventing fatigue and soreness. This pad also helps in absorbing water and moisture to prevent chafing.
PROS
CONS
Canari Women’s’ Triathlon Shorts
- Swim, ride & run in comfort in this 6 panel design tri short
- 6" inseam for speed & leg coverage
- Micro FLEECE seamless pad
- Softouch leg grippers
- 1" elastic waistband with flat drawcord
Last update on 2024-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Canari is another company that does not specialize in manufacturing triathlon gear and equipment. Instead, this is the company which is recognized for offering high-end biking gear. However, not many people are aware of the fact that in the beginning, mostly biking shorts were used by athletes for triathlon competitions. Canari is a well-recognized brand with a strong reputation in the market from almost four decades.
Design
Most of the brands that make women’s triathlon shorts mostly put their primary focus on offering seamless design. Many high-end triathlon products provide a more anatomical range of motion by paneling sections of sportswear with the body’s muscularity. Thus, many manufacturers tailor different panels for various reasons. But this is not the same case with Canari shorts for women. These shorts offer a better range of motion and a better fit than other brands.
Comfort
In most of the cases, shorts which are manufactured by professional triathletes provide a higher level of comfort. However, other corporations and scientists that specifically focus on triathlete wear focus on achieving some quantifiable achievement. These shorts offer a high level of support to triathlete than shorts of other brands.
PROS
CONS
Betty Designs Pink Signature Triathlon Short
If you are looking for a different kind of shorts that can add a bit of style to your look, then these shorts are perfect for your choice.
Features
These shorts are made with the mix of Betty Designs Signature and Picciesque design.
Made of BettyStyle Raceflow luxe fabric and quick dry technology that helps them to shimmer.
These shorts offer excellent sun protection up to SPF 50.
To make these shorts suitable for all sizes of triathletes, these shorts come with a yoga waistband.
To offer an optimal level of breathing and support your muscles, these shorts are made of compressive material.
These shorts can quickly wick away moisture from your body after a swim or run.
The ergonomic pattern of these shorts perfectly accentuates your curves and reduces drag.
The Tri Chamois makes these shorts lightweight and antimicrobial.
Performance and Fit
The fit of these shorts should be similar to other good-quality shorts listed in this buyers review guide.
However, the performance and quality level of these shorts are not as good as many other brands.
The waistband of these shorts cannot work for all types of triathletes body.
This product is recommended only for fashion and style purpose. But these shorts do not offer the optimal level of functionality. The brand is mainly focused on providing style to the triathletes.
PROS
CONS
Conclusion
Finally, we can observe that no single pair of shorts is perfect for all athletes. Plus, both the genders need different types of shorts according to their body structure. But, after analyzing different shorts, you can get a good idea of the right kind of shorts.
For men’s, Zoot shorts are the best Zoot has made a lot of improvements in these shorts. Zoot shorts are made of specialized materials and design. Also, they offer all-around performance in the competition.
For women, MooMotion is the best brand that they can choose to get the best pair of shorts. There are no other types of women’s shorts that offer the best functionality and performance for biking leg. This brand has managed to effectively balance the optimal level of compression for providing flexibility and preventing muscle fatigue.
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