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10 Best Tri Shorts Women 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

MY KILOMETRE Womens Triathlon Shorts 8” Inseam Tri Shorts with Side Pockets Adjustable Drawstring Coral Red

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,236
Material
Chamois Padding
Fit

Most important from
530 reviews

Material
The shorts maintain their quality and show no unusual wear even after several months of triathlon use.
Chamois Padding
The padding provides just the right balance—comfortable enough for cycling without becoming cumbersome during running.
Fit
The fit runs small, so sizing up ensures a comfortable but secure feel once on.
Leg Grippers
Wide leg grips ensure the shorts stay firmly in place without causing uncomfortable marks.
Pockets
Pockets on both sides offer convenient storage for nutrition or small essentials during races.

The MY KILOMETRE Women's Triathlon Shorts come with several thoughtful features that make them well-suited for triathletes. The fabric is a high-quality stretchskin material treated to stay dry, which helps with comfort and muscle support during all three sports. The chamois padding is a standout here—it's multi-density and designed specifically for women, providing good cushioning while cycling without restricting movement during swimming and running. The fit is enhanced by a female-specific waistline and flat, smooth seams that reduce skin irritation. These shorts have wide elastic leg endings with silicone grips to keep them firmly in place, which is important during active motions. Storage is convenient with pockets on both sides, allowing easy access to nutrition or small items on the bike or run. The adjustable drawstring waist helps get a secure fit, though the shorts require hand washing, which might be less convenient for some.

With an 8-inch inseam, they offer a balance of coverage and freedom of movement. These shorts deliver great padding, comfort, and practical features tailored for female triathletes, while the need for gentle care and the drawstring closure might be minor drawbacks depending on personal preference.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,236
Material
Chamois Padding
Fit

Most important from
530 reviews

Material
The shorts maintain their quality and show no unusual wear even after several months of triathlon use.
Chamois Padding
The padding provides just the right balance—comfortable enough for cycling without becoming cumbersome during running.
Fit
The fit runs small, so sizing up ensures a comfortable but secure feel once on.
Leg Grippers
Wide leg grips ensure the shorts stay firmly in place without causing uncomfortable marks.
Pockets
Pockets on both sides offer convenient storage for nutrition or small essentials during races.
#2

Zoot Women’s Core 6-Inch Tri Shorts, Quick Dry Performance Triathlon Short with Cycling Chamois Pad, Pockets & UPF 50+ Fabric - Jet Black - Large

Rating
9.8
Chamois Padding
Fit
Pockets

Most important from
177 reviews

Chamois Padding
The padding strikes the perfect balance—comfortable on the bike without causing any issues during running or swimming.
Fit
The fit is true to size and designed specifically for triathletes, making movement easy and unrestricted.
Pockets
Dual hip pockets are a practical feature for carrying nutrition or small essentials during long workouts.

The Zoot Women’s Core 6-Inch Tri Shorts are designed specifically for female triathletes who want comfort and performance across swim, bike, and run. They use a high-quality Italian fabric that dries quickly and offers UPF 50+ sun protection, which is great for long outdoor training or races. The mid-rise fit is streamlined and athletic, helping you move easily without restriction. A standout feature is the updated ultra-plush chamois padding, which is thick enough to provide good cushioning on the bike but thin and smooth enough to not cause discomfort when swimming or running. The leg grippers are non-restrictive, so the shorts stay in place without feeling tight or pinching your legs.

Practicality is considered with dual hip pockets that can hold nutrition or small items, a nice touch for keeping essentials close during long workouts. Additionally, the seam construction uses a special stitching technique to prevent chafing, enhancing comfort during extended use. On the downside, while the minimalist style is sleek, some users might find the 6-inch inseam a bit short if they prefer more coverage on their thighs. Also, the price point and brand reputation suggest these are aimed at serious or competitive triathletes rather than casual users.

These shorts provide solid support, quick drying, and smart features that suit endurance athletes looking for reliable gear designed to perform well through all triathlon stages.

Rating
9.8
Chamois Padding
Fit
Pockets

Most important from
177 reviews

Chamois Padding
The padding strikes the perfect balance—comfortable on the bike without causing any issues during running or swimming.
Fit
The fit is true to size and designed specifically for triathletes, making movement easy and unrestricted.
Pockets
Dual hip pockets are a practical feature for carrying nutrition or small essentials during long workouts.
#3

SLS3 Triathlon Shorts Women - FRT Women's Tri Shorts - Slim Athletic Fit, Padded (Black/Martinica Hibiscus Blooms, Medium)

Rating
9.6
Fit
Leg Grippers

Most important from
27 reviews

Fit
Choosing the right size is crucial; they need to be comfortable both wet and dry.
Leg Grippers
Despite concerns about compression, the shorts stayed right where they needed to be throughout all three sports.

The SLS3 Triathlon Shorts for women are designed with an emphasis on performance and comfort, making them suitable for triathletes. These shorts are made from a high-quality blend of 80% Nylon and 20% Spandex, providing excellent stretch and a snug, compressive fit. The material and flatlock seams ensure comfort and reduce irritation during long wear. The thin chamois padding is a standout feature, offering enough cushion for cycling while drying quickly and minimizing chafing during running. However, this padding is thinner than what you might find in typical cycling shorts, which could be less comfortable for those who prefer more cushioning on longer bike rides.

The elastic waistband and drawstring help keep the shorts in place, and the silicone gripper-free leg finish avoids the discomfort of tight leg bands. These shorts are designed to fit like a second skin, which means they will be tighter than casual wear like yoga pants. Checking the size chart is crucial to ensure the correct fit. One potential downside is the lack of detailed information about pockets, which could be a consideration for those needing storage during races. Moreover, the hand wash care instructions might be less convenient for some users.

Rating
9.6
Fit
Leg Grippers

Most important from
27 reviews

Fit
Choosing the right size is crucial; they need to be comfortable both wet and dry.
Leg Grippers
Despite concerns about compression, the shorts stayed right where they needed to be throughout all three sports.

Buying Guide for the Best Tri Shorts Women

When it comes to picking the right tri-shorts for women, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit and performance for your needs. Tri-shorts are designed to be worn during triathlons, which means they need to be comfortable, durable, and functional across swimming, cycling, and running. Here are the key specs to consider and how to navigate them to find the perfect pair for you.
MaterialThe material of tri-shorts is crucial because it affects comfort, durability, and performance. Look for materials that are quick-drying, breathable, and have good stretch. Common materials include nylon, polyester, and spandex blends. If you prioritize comfort and flexibility, opt for a higher percentage of spandex. For durability and quick-drying properties, nylon or polyester blends are ideal. Consider your typical race conditions and personal comfort preferences when choosing the material.
Chamois PaddingChamois padding is the cushioning in the seat area of the shorts, designed to provide comfort during the cycling portion of a triathlon. The thickness and type of padding can vary. Thicker padding offers more comfort for longer rides but may be less comfortable for running. Thinner padding is less intrusive during the run but may offer less comfort on the bike. If you are a beginner or have longer bike segments, opt for thicker padding. Experienced triathletes or those with shorter bike segments might prefer thinner padding.
FitThe fit of tri-shorts is essential for comfort and performance. They should be snug but not too tight, allowing for a full range of motion without causing chafing. Look for shorts with a good balance of compression to support your muscles and reduce fatigue. Consider your body shape and size, and try on different brands and styles to find the best fit. If you are between sizes, consider the type of material and its stretch properties to decide whether to size up or down.
Leg GrippersLeg grippers are the bands at the bottom of the shorts' legs that keep them in place during activity. They prevent the shorts from riding up and causing discomfort. Look for grippers that are comfortable and do not dig into your skin. Silicone grippers are common and effective. If you have sensitive skin, look for softer, wider grippers. Consider how the grippers feel during movement and ensure they provide a secure fit without restricting circulation.
PocketsPockets in tri-shorts can be very useful for carrying nutrition, keys, or other small items during a race. The number, size, and placement of pockets can vary. Some shorts have side pockets, while others have rear pockets. If you need to carry gels or other items, look for shorts with secure, easy-to-access pockets. Consider your race strategy and what you need to carry to determine the best pocket configuration for you.
Seam ConstructionThe construction of the seams in tri-shorts affects both comfort and durability. Flatlock seams are ideal as they lie flat against the skin and reduce the risk of chafing. Look for shorts with minimal seams in high-friction areas. If you are prone to chafing, prioritize shorts with flatlock seams and smooth construction. Consider the quality of the stitching and how it feels against your skin during movement.

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