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10 Best Cycling Shorts For Men 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

PEARL IZUMI Men's 10.5" Pro Padded Cycling Shorts, Supportive with Pro Levitate Chamois & Reflective Safety Elements, Black, XX-Large

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,280
Fit
Material
Padding (Chamois)

Most important from
64 reviews

Fit
Fits like a glove with great material and padding that makes longer rides much more comfortable.
Material
Fits like a glove with great material and padding that makes longer rides much more comfortable.
Padding (Chamois)
Fits like a glove with great material and padding that makes longer rides much more comfortable.
Design
The lightweight and durable fabric combined with effective leg grips enhances the professional feel and stability during rides.

The PEARL IZUMI Men's 10.5" Pro Padded Cycling Shorts are made with a blend of nylon, polyester, and LYCRA elastane that offers a breathable and moisture-wicking fabric, which helps keep you dry and comfortable during rides. Their stretchy material ensures a snug yet flexible fit, allowing you to pedal freely without feeling restricted. The standout feature is the Pro Levitate chamois padding, designed to provide targeted support and reduce fatigue on longer rides, making these shorts suitable for serious cyclists who spend significant time in the saddle.

Reflective safety elements add an extra layer of visibility for low-light conditions, which is a thoughtful touch for safety-conscious riders. The pull-on closure means there are no adjustable waistbands for a more customized fit, so sizing needs to be accurate to avoid discomfort. While the padding is high-quality, some riders might prefer thicker or differently shaped chamois depending on their personal comfort needs and type of cycling. These shorts are built to be durable, handling frequent and intense use, which is great if you cycle often.

These shorts represent a solid choice for men looking for comfortable, supportive cycling shorts with good breathability and durability, especially for longer rides, but it is important to check the sizing carefully since the fit is snug and not adjustable.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,280
Fit
Material
Padding (Chamois)

Most important from
64 reviews

Fit
Fits like a glove with great material and padding that makes longer rides much more comfortable.
Material
Fits like a glove with great material and padding that makes longer rides much more comfortable.
Padding (Chamois)
Fits like a glove with great material and padding that makes longer rides much more comfortable.
Design
The lightweight and durable fabric combined with effective leg grips enhances the professional feel and stability during rides.
#2

Men's Bike Shorts 3D Padded Cycling Road Biking Underwear Mountain Riding Biker Bicycle UPF 50+ Cycle Shorts Zipper Pockets(Blue Grey,L)

Rating
10.0
Fit
Padding (Chamois)
Design

Most important from
2206 reviews

Fit
Comfortable fit with solid padding support that enhances riding comfort.
Padding (Chamois)
Comfortable fit with solid padding support that enhances riding comfort.
Design
The leg pockets hold a phone securely and comfortably, making it easy to carry essentials without extra bulk.

These men’s cycling shorts are designed with comfort and practicality in mind. The fit is enhanced by silicone leg grips and an articulated design that keeps the shorts securely in place during rides, while the soft elastic waistband adds comfort without feeling tight. Made from a blend of nylon and spandex, the material is lightweight, stretchy, and quick-drying, which helps keep you cool and dry on longer rides. The 3D padded chamois is thick enough to reduce road vibrations and provide cushioning for medium-distance cycling, making the shorts a good choice for both road and mountain biking sessions.

One standout feature is the multiple pockets: two front side pockets can hold a smartphone securely, and a back zipper pocket provides safe storage for valuables, which is quite handy for riders who prefer to carry essentials without a backpack. Reflective details improve visibility in low-light conditions, adding a layer of safety. However, the 9-inch inseam may not suit everyone’s preference—some might want longer or shorter shorts depending on personal comfort and riding style. Also, while the padding is suitable for moderate rides, cyclists planning very long-distance trips might find it less cushioning than specialized high-end shorts.

These bike shorts provide a well-balanced combination of comfort, functionality, and safety features, making them a practical option for casual to moderately serious cyclists.

Rating
10.0
Fit
Padding (Chamois)
Design

Most important from
2206 reviews

Fit
Comfortable fit with solid padding support that enhances riding comfort.
Padding (Chamois)
Comfortable fit with solid padding support that enhances riding comfort.
Design
The leg pockets hold a phone securely and comfortably, making it easy to carry essentials without extra bulk.
#3

Bike Shorts for Men 3D Padded Bicycle Cycling Underwear Road Biking Biker Mountain Riding Cycle UPF 50+ Shorts Zipper Pockets?Black Large

Rating
9.4
Fit
Padding (Chamois)
Design

Most important from
2206 reviews

Fit
These shorts have a true-to-size fit, which is a relief given how often biking clothes sizes can be off.
Padding (Chamois)
The padding is well-positioned for more upright riding, making it ideal for e-bike enthusiasts who pedal frequently.
Design
Elastic leg bands effectively keep the shorts in place during long rides, which adds to the comfort.

The Bike Shorts for Men with 3D padding are designed to enhance comfort and performance for cycling enthusiasts. They feature a soft, lightweight, and breathable nylon mesh fabric that helps wick away moisture and dry quickly, which is beneficial for long rides. The material's 4-way stretch ensures flexibility and comfort during different cycling activities. The shorts also include multiple pockets, with two side pockets that can fit a 5.5-inch mobile phone and a back zipper pocket for securing valuables. These pockets are practical for cyclists who need to carry small items while riding.

The 3D padding is a standout feature, positioned to reduce vibrations and enhance comfort during medium-length rides. This could make a noticeable difference for cyclists who value added cushioning in their shorts. Reflective elements on the shorts add an extra layer of safety for those who might ride in low-light conditions. The anti-slip leg grips and articulated design ensure the shorts stay in place and provide a snug fit, which is crucial in preventing discomfort and chafing.

Some cyclists might find the 9-inch inseam longer than preferred, which could affect those who favor shorter cycling shorts. Additionally, while the shorts are quick-drying, the 80% nylon and 20% spandex fabric might feel less breathable compared to other materials like polyester blends, particularly in very hot conditions. These cycling shorts are well-suited for a variety of cycling activities, including road biking, mountain biking, and indoor cycling. They would particularly benefit casual to medium-distance cyclists who appreciate pockets and additional padding.

Rating
9.4
Fit
Padding (Chamois)
Design

Most important from
2206 reviews

Fit
These shorts have a true-to-size fit, which is a relief given how often biking clothes sizes can be off.
Padding (Chamois)
The padding is well-positioned for more upright riding, making it ideal for e-bike enthusiasts who pedal frequently.
Design
Elastic leg bands effectively keep the shorts in place during long rides, which adds to the comfort.

Buying Guide for the Best Cycling Shorts For Men

Choosing the right cycling shorts is crucial for comfort and performance during your rides. The right pair can make a significant difference in your cycling experience, whether you're a casual rider or a serious cyclist. When selecting cycling shorts, consider factors such as fit, material, padding, and design. Understanding these key specifications will help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your needs.
FitThe fit of cycling shorts is important because it affects your comfort and performance. Cycling shorts should fit snugly without being too tight. A good fit reduces chafing and ensures that the padding stays in place. There are generally two types of fits: race fit and relaxed fit. Race fit is tighter and more aerodynamic, suitable for competitive cyclists. Relaxed fit offers more comfort and is ideal for casual riders. Choose a fit based on your riding style and preference for comfort versus performance.
MaterialThe material of cycling shorts impacts breathability, moisture-wicking, and durability. Most cycling shorts are made from a blend of synthetic fabrics like polyester and spandex. These materials provide stretch, support, and help keep you dry by wicking away sweat. Higher-end shorts may include additional features like UV protection or antibacterial properties. If you ride in hot conditions, look for lightweight, breathable materials. For cooler weather, consider shorts with thermal properties.
Padding (Chamois)Padding, also known as chamois, is a critical feature in cycling shorts as it provides cushioning and reduces pressure on sensitive areas. The thickness and quality of the padding can vary. Thicker padding offers more comfort for longer rides, while thinner padding may be sufficient for shorter rides or more experienced cyclists who prefer a closer connection to the bike. Consider the duration and frequency of your rides when choosing the level of padding.
DesignThe design of cycling shorts includes elements like the length of the shorts, the type of waistband, and the presence of features like pockets or reflective elements. Shorts can be either bib shorts, which have straps that go over the shoulders, or regular shorts with an elastic waistband. Bib shorts provide better support and prevent the waistband from digging into your stomach, making them a popular choice for long rides. Regular shorts are easier to put on and take off, making them convenient for casual rides. Reflective elements enhance visibility in low-light conditions, and pockets can be useful for carrying small items.

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