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10 Best Triathlon Shorts 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

SLS3 Triathlon Shorts Mens – Tri Shorts Mens – 2 Pockets FRT – Designed by Athletes for Racing (Black, X-Large)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,364
Material
Padding (Chamois)
Fit

Most important from
703 reviews

Material
Good quality material that does not crawl up.
Padding (Chamois)
The padding is slightly thicker, providing more comfort for riding.
Fit
Excellent fit and snug with a nice drawstring.
Pockets
Pockets are small but can fit an energy gel or two.
Seam Construction
The seams are placed well, avoiding discomfort during long races.

The SLS3 Triathlon Shorts for men are designed with the athlete in mind, offering a mix of support, comfort, and practical features. Made from 80% Nylon and 20% Spandex, the material provides a good balance of comfort and muscle support without being overly tight. The shorts feature flatlock seams and a waistband with a drawstring, which help prevent chafing during long races.

The padding is foam-cushioned, designed to offer support during cycling without being bulky, making it comfortable for running as well. Two open hip pockets are conveniently placed for easy access to energy gels or small items, which is a thoughtful touch for endurance athletes. The leg grippers at the hem ensure that the shorts stay in place, eliminating the need to adjust them mid-race.

The sizing is X-Large, and the color is black, which should appeal to a broad audience. These shorts are manufactured in China and are targeted towards male triathletes looking for reliable and affordable race gear. The SLS3 Triathlon Shorts strike a good balance of performance-focused features, comfort, and affordability, making them a solid choice for triathletes.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,364
Material
Padding (Chamois)
Fit

Most important from
703 reviews

Material
Good quality material that does not crawl up.
Padding (Chamois)
The padding is slightly thicker, providing more comfort for riding.
Fit
Excellent fit and snug with a nice drawstring.
Pockets
Pockets are small but can fit an energy gel or two.
Seam Construction
The seams are placed well, avoiding discomfort during long races.
#2

SLS3 Triathlon Shorts Mens - Padded Tri Shorts Mens Triathlon Shorts - 2 Pocket FX Triathalon Shorts, Medium Compression (Black/Red Geo, Medium)

Rating
10.0
Fit
Padding (Chamois)
Leg Grippers

Most important from
194 reviews

Fit
The shorts fit true to size and the soft grippers keep them securely in place without discomfort.
Padding (Chamois)
The foam-cushioned pad strikes a perfect balance—providing enough comfort for cycling while remaining slim enough to not hinder running.
Leg Grippers
The shorts fit true to size and the soft grippers keep them securely in place without discomfort.
Pockets
Two generously sized pockets offer convenient storage for energy gels and snacks during training or races.

The SLS3 Triathlon Shorts are designed with triathletes in mind, offering a good blend of comfort, support, and practical features. Made from 80% nylon and 20% spandex, this fabric mix ensures a stretchy yet durable fit, which helps with muscle compression and freedom of movement. The medium compression provides decent muscle support without feeling too tight. The shorts include a foam-cushioned chamois pad tailored for both cycling and running, offering protection during your bike ride while being slim enough not to slow you down on the run. Flatlock seams reduce irritation and chafing, enhancing comfort during long sessions.

The 8-inch inseam with soft leg grippers helps keep the shorts in place, so you won't need to stop and adjust them mid-race. Two open hip pockets are practical for holding energy gels or small snacks, giving easy access on the go. The waistband includes a drawstring for a customizable fit, though it might require occasional tightening. One minor downside is that the shorts are hand-wash only, which could be less convenient if you train frequently. While the material is premium and feels nice on the skin, the imported nature and sizing should be checked carefully before buying.

These shorts are well suited for triathletes looking for a reliable, no-frills option that balances performance and price without unnecessary extras.

Rating
10.0
Fit
Padding (Chamois)
Leg Grippers

Most important from
194 reviews

Fit
The shorts fit true to size and the soft grippers keep them securely in place without discomfort.
Padding (Chamois)
The foam-cushioned pad strikes a perfect balance—providing enough comfort for cycling while remaining slim enough to not hinder running.
Leg Grippers
The shorts fit true to size and the soft grippers keep them securely in place without discomfort.
Pockets
Two generously sized pockets offer convenient storage for energy gels and snacks during training or races.
#3

Zoot Women’s LTD 6-Inch Triathlon Shorts, Endurance Cycle Padded Shorts for Swim, Bike, Run with Quick Drying UPF 50+ Fabric - Driftspeed - Large

Rating
9.7
Fit
Padding (Chamois)
Material

Most important from
36 reviews

Fit
Sizing up ensures a perfect fit, especially for athletes with muscular legs, resulting in comfortable wear that supports all triathlon movements without restriction.
Padding (Chamois)
The chamois padding strikes an ideal balance—providing comfort on the bike while staying unobtrusive during swims and runs.
Material
The shorts offer excellent all-around functionality, combining quality materials and thoughtful design for great value despite a higher price point.
Leg Grippers
Vibrant colors and well-made stitching enhance both style and durability, with no-slip leg bands that stay in place without bulkiness.

The Zoot Women’s LTD 6-Inch Triathlon Shorts are designed as versatile shorts for swim, bike, and run activities, making them suitable for triathletes who want one piece of gear for all three sports. They use a quick-drying, breathable fabric with UPF 50+ protection, which helps keep you comfortable under sun exposure and during intense workouts. The fit is snug and supportive with a mid-rise waistband and an adjustable drawstring, helping the shorts stay in place without feeling restrictive.

One of the standout features is the dual hip pockets, convenient for carrying small items during cycling or running without interfering with movement. The shorts have a lightweight chamois padding designed primarily for bike comfort, but it’s not overly bulky, so it won’t feel uncomfortable during swims or runs. Seamlink stitch construction minimizes chafing, which is important for long sessions.

These shorts balance compression and flexibility well, but if you prefer a looser fit or more extensive padding for longer bike rides, you might want to explore other options. Made with durable materials, these shorts offer good value for women looking for a reliable, multi-sport triathlon short that performs well across all triathlon disciplines.

Rating
9.7
Fit
Padding (Chamois)
Material

Most important from
36 reviews

Fit
Sizing up ensures a perfect fit, especially for athletes with muscular legs, resulting in comfortable wear that supports all triathlon movements without restriction.
Padding (Chamois)
The chamois padding strikes an ideal balance—providing comfort on the bike while staying unobtrusive during swims and runs.
Material
The shorts offer excellent all-around functionality, combining quality materials and thoughtful design for great value despite a higher price point.
Leg Grippers
Vibrant colors and well-made stitching enhance both style and durability, with no-slip leg bands that stay in place without bulkiness.

Buying Guide for the Best Triathlon Shorts

Choosing the right triathlon shorts is crucial for your performance and comfort during a triathlon. Triathlon shorts are designed to be worn throughout the entire race, including the swim, bike, and run segments. Therefore, they need to be versatile, comfortable, and durable. When selecting triathlon shorts, consider the following key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs.
MaterialThe material of triathlon shorts is important because it affects comfort, durability, and performance. Look for shorts made from high-quality, quick-drying, and breathable fabrics like nylon, polyester, or spandex. These materials help to wick away moisture, reduce chafing, and provide a snug fit. If you prioritize comfort and flexibility, opt for shorts with a higher percentage of spandex. For durability and support, a blend with more nylon or polyester might be better.
Padding (Chamois)Padding, or chamois, is a critical feature in triathlon shorts as it provides cushioning during the cycling portion of the race. The padding should be minimal yet effective, as too much padding can be uncomfortable during the swim and run. Look for triathlon-specific chamois that are thinner and designed to dry quickly. If you are a beginner or have longer bike segments, you might prefer slightly thicker padding for extra comfort. Experienced triathletes often opt for thinner padding to reduce bulk and improve transition times.
FitThe fit of triathlon shorts is essential for comfort and performance. They should be snug but not too tight, allowing for a full range of motion without causing discomfort. Compression fit shorts can help improve blood flow and reduce muscle fatigue. If you prefer a more relaxed fit, look for shorts with a slightly looser cut. Always try on different sizes and brands to find the best fit for your body shape and personal preference.
Leg GrippersLeg grippers are bands or silicone strips at the bottom of the shorts' legs that prevent them from riding up during the race. This feature is important for maintaining comfort and avoiding distractions. High-quality leg grippers should be snug but not too tight, ensuring they stay in place without cutting into your skin. If you have sensitive skin, look for shorts with softer, wider grippers to minimize irritation.
PocketsPockets in triathlon shorts can be useful for carrying small items like energy gels, keys, or a phone. Consider how many pockets you need and their placement. Some shorts have side or rear pockets that are easily accessible during the race. If you prefer to carry minimal items, you might opt for shorts with fewer or no pockets to reduce bulk. Think about your race strategy and what you need to carry to determine the right pocket configuration for you.
Seam ConstructionSeam construction affects the comfort and durability of triathlon shorts. Flatlock seams are ideal as they lie flat against the skin, reducing the risk of chafing and irritation. Look for shorts with minimal seams in high-friction areas to enhance comfort. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to chafing, prioritize shorts with flatlock or bonded seams for a smoother feel.

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