The Best Bike Shorts for Running 2023

Performance-ready meets versatile everyday wear.

Even though they sport the name of another activity, bike shorts are a popular choice among runners.

Many women prefer the high-rise waist and extra leg length design of bike shorts, as well as their styling versatility and overall flattering fit.

In the summer months when it’s simply too hot to wear full-length leggings, bike shorts are a perfect combination of comfort, style, and function.

In many ways, bike shorts are like the warm weather version of leggings.

Plus, the stretchy and comfortable second-skin fit of compression is breathable, quick-drying, and sweat-wicking, making bikers a great choice for those hot and sweaty miles on your route.

Beyond the track and running paths, bike shorts are an easy-to-style option that can be incorporated in your everyday wardrobe.

They can even be worn under dresses and skirts to avoid uncomfortable chaffing.

So, whether you’re training hard for a marathon or just looking for a stylish piece for everyday wear, bike shorts are perfectly designed to handle your active lifestyle.

Note: Featured products are independently selected and reviewed by Compression Athlete. If you purchase through our links, we may earn commission.

1. 2XU Form Stash Hi-Rise Bike Shorts 2.0

The 2XU Form Stash Hi-Rise Bike Shorts feature an ultra-matte, anti-pill double knit fabric that’s quick-drying, squat-proof, and soft to the touch. These bike shorts have a high-rise fit with a secure power mesh waistband for supportive coverage.

Shop at 2XU: 2XU Form Stash Hi-Rise Bike Shorts

2XU’s Form Stash Hi-Rise Bike Shorts utilize a graduated compression fit for comfortable all-day wear that provides improved circulation and recovery. These bike shorts have flatlock seams to reduce chafing and multiple pocket options for storage.

2. Adidas TruePace Cycling Shorts

The Adidas TruePace Cycling Shorts feature aerodynamic performance in a stylish high-rise design with playful hues and contrasting lines. These bike shorts have stretchy buttery-soft fabric and reflective details for visibility.

Shop at Adidas: Adidas TruePace Cycling Shorts

Adidas’ TruePace Cycling Shorts are designed to fit like a glove with a drawcord elastic waistband to keep in place while you move and a zippered back pocket for small item storage.

3. Adidas Optime Trainicons 3-Stripes Bike Shorts

The Adidas Optime Trainicons 3-Stripes Bike Shorts feature slick Adimove fabric for an extra smooth feel and moisture-absorbing AEROREADY teachnology to keep you dry and comfortable.

Shop at Adidas: Adidas Optime Trainicons 3-Stripes Bike Shorts

Adidas’ Optime Trainicons 3-Stripes Bike Shorts have a versatile high-rise design that works great layered or on their own. These bike shorts sport a stay-put elastic waist and a convenient inner key pocket.

4. Adidas Optime Training Bike Shorts

The Adidas Optime Training Bike Shorts feature Adimove fabric for a slick feel with smoothing support, as well as four-way stretch and added lycra for shape retention.

Shop at Adidas: Adidas Optime Training Bike Short Tights

Adidas’ Optime Training Bike Shorts have a secure fit with a high-rise waistband that stays put for superior coverage. These bike shorts feature an elastic waistband with a hidden pocket and moisture-absorbing AEROREADY technology to keep you dry and comfortable.

5. Under Armour Meridian Bike Shorts

The Under Armour Meridian Bike Shorts feature an incredible combination of comfort and performance with a sweat-wicking knit fabric that’s stretchy and extra soft. These bike shorts are lightweight, breathable, and quick drying.

Shop at Under Armour: UA Meridian Bike Shorts

Shop at Under Armour: UA Meridian Bike Shorts (Heather)

Under Armour’s Meridian Bike Shorts have an 8-inch inseam, built-in side pockets for storage, and a wide and flat waistband that stays put. These bike shorts feature 4-way stretch for a full range of motion and extended wear comfort.

6. Under Armour HeatGear Bike Shorts

The Under Armour HeatGear Bike Shorts are the latest version of the UA original performance baselayer that’s super lightweight and constructed with ergonomic flatlock seams for an extra comfortable chafe-free fit.

Shop at Under Armour: UA HeatGear Bike Shorts (Print)

Shop at Under Armour: UA HeatGear Bike Shorts (Solid)

Under Armour’s HeatGear Bike Shorts feature sweat-wicking and quick-drying fabric with four-way stretch for a free range of motion. These bike shorts have an encased elastic waistband for superior coverage and are available in both print and solid designs.

7. Lululemon SenseKnit Running High-Rise Shorts

The Lululemon SenseKnit Running High-Rise Shorts feature signature SenseKnit technology for targeted support, breathability, and unrestricted running freedom. These compression shorts sport a high-rise design with a 10-inch inseam length.

Shop at Lululemon: Lululemon SenseKnit Running Shorts

Shop at Lululemon: Lululemon SenseKnit Running Shorts (Grey)

Lululemon’s SenseKnit Running High-Rise Shorts have comfortable four-way stretch and foldover envelope pockets for secure storage. These compression shorts utilize a continuous drawcord and engineered grippers at the hem to keep in place.

8. Lululemon Base Pace High-Rise Shorts

The Lululemon Base Pace High-Rise Shorts feature the smooth and lightweight Nulux fabric that’s sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and has four-way stretch. These compression shorts have breathable fabric that provide a comfortable weightless coverage.

Shop at Lululemon: Lululemon Base Pace Shorts

Lululemon’s Base Pace High-Rise Shorts feature a back pocket for storage, a no-inseam design for smooth striding, and a continuous drawcord that cinches for a locked-in feel that won’t shift or ride up as you’re active.

9. Nike One Mid-Rise Bike Shorts

The Nike One Mid-Rise Bike Shorts are a versatile option that’s perfect for workouts or layering for everyday wear. These bike shorts have an extra comfortable design, squat-proof fabric, and sweat-wicking Dri-FIT technology.

Shop at Nike: Nike One Mid-Rise Bike Shorts

Nike’s One Mid-Rise Bike Shorts feature a seamless design, mid-rise waistband, and a contoured V-shape back. These bike shorts are highly rated, have a 7-inch inseam, and include 2 hidden pockets in the waistband.

10. LSKD Fusion X-Length Shorts

The LSKD Fusion X-Length Shorts feature a versatile performance design in a supportive fit and no front rise seam for extra comfort. These bike shorts sport 4-way stretch fabric with a soft matte finish and side pockets for secure storage.

Shop at LSKD: LSKD Fusion X-Length Shorts

LSKD’s Fusion X-Length Shorts utilize a comfortable flat lock seam construction, a high-rise fold over waistband, and are available in several stylish color options.

11. Saucony Fortify Biker Shorts

The Saucony Fortify Biker Shorts feature a stylish and performance driven design with ultra-stretchy fabric that’s supportive and fits like a second skin. These compression shorts stay-put as you’re active while also providing a full range of motion.

Shop at Saucony: Saucony Fortify Biker Shorts

Saucony’s Fortify Shorts have a comfortable power waistband with storage pockets to keep everything secure. These compression shorts have an 8-inch inseam length and secure mid-rise design.

12. Baleaf Laureate High Rise Shorts

The Baleaf Laureate High Rise Shorts feature a soft and breathable performance fabric with a body-contouring flat lock seam construction that provides a flattering chafe-free fit.

Shop at Baleaf: Baleaf Laureate High Rise Shorts

Baleaf’s Laureate High Rise Shorts have a wide waistband for maximum coverage, a gusseted crotch to eliminate camel toe, and a 3-pocket design with 2 drop-in side pockets and 1 hidden waistband pocket.

13. P.E Nation Title Game Bike Shorts

The P.E Nation Title Game Bike Shorts feature a compressive bike short design with a shiny tech fabrication that’s built for performance.

Shop at P.E Nation: P.E Nation Title Game Bike Shorts

P.E Nation’s Title Game Bike Shorts are a versatile option designed to handle high-intensity action with a high-rise waist, 7-inch inseam length, and a squatproof finish.

And if you’re looking for more great compression short options for running, check out our top picks for the Best Compression Shorts for Running.