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Bike shorts left the gym years ago — now they’re under dresses, with oversized blazers, and, yes, on actual bikes. Here are 10 pairs worth buying, from a squat-proof gym short to a longline biker, each linked to a well-reviewed pick.
My top pick: A high-waisted, squat-proof bike short in a buttery brushed fabric with a 20–25cm inseam and a wide waistband is the one to own — it doesn’t roll or ride up, it’s opaque when you bend, and mid-thigh length means no chafing.
1. High-Waist Squat-Proof Gym Short
Brushed, opaque, wide band, mid-thigh length. The everyday one. Start here. Shop high waist bike shorts women on Amazon →
2. Compression Bike Short
A firmer knit that holds the muscle — for running, spin, and lifting. Shop compression bike shorts women on Amazon →
3. Longline Biker (Knee-Length)
Ends just above the knee — more coverage, the under-a-dress and styling length. Shop knee length bike shorts women on Amazon →
4. Pocket Bike Short
Deep side pockets that hold a phone — the practical gym and dog-walk short. Shop bike shorts with pockets women on Amazon →
5. Seamless Ribbed Bike Short
Knitted in one piece, no side seams — smooth under dresses, very now. Shop seamless bike shorts women on Amazon →
6. Padded Cycling Short
An actual chamois pad for real riding — buy this if you cycle, not for the gym. Shop padded cycling shorts women on Amazon →
7. Bike Short with a Skirt Overlay
A built-in short under a tennis-style skirt — coverage plus a bit of polish. Shop skirted bike shorts women on Amazon →
8. Faux-Leather Bike Short
A coated matte finish — the going-out biker, with an oversized blazer and heels. Shop faux leather bike shorts women on Amazon →
9. Maternity Bike Short
An over-bump panel that stays put — support and no waistband dig through a pregnancy. Shop maternity bike shorts on Amazon →
10. Bike Short Multipack
A value pack of everyday brushed shorts in neutrals — the sensible bulk buy. Shop bike shorts multipack women on Amazon →
The bottom line
A high-waisted squat-proof brushed short is the one to own — check reviews specifically for rolling and sheerness. Add a pocket version for walks and a longline pair for wearing under dresses.