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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

MY KILOMETRE Mens Triathlon Shorts with Adjustable Drawstring Easy Reach Leg Pockets Chamois for Long-Distance Tri Race Black-Blue

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,278
Padding (Chamois)
Fit
Leg Grippers

Most important from
824 reviews

Padding (Chamois)
The padding is just right for biking and comfortable enough for running, ensuring a good balance for triathlon activities.
Fit
Despite not being a fan of compression shorts, these provide a comfortable fit without feeling overly tight or restrictive.
Leg Grippers
The leg grippers work well, keeping the shorts in place without riding up during activities.
Pockets
The mesh side pockets are perfect for holding nutrition, phone, or other essentials, making these shorts highly functional.

The MY KILOMETRE Triathlon Shorts are designed for athletes seeking performance and comfort in long-distance races. The main fabric is a blend of 78% Regenerated Polyamide and 22% Xtra Life Lycra, which offers moderate compression, chlorine resistance, and UPF 50+ protection. These features make the shorts suitable for both indoor pool swims and outdoor activities.

The inclusion of accessible nutrition storage pockets on the sides of the legs is a thoughtful addition for easy access during bike rides or runs, enhancing convenience for athletes. The MK TRI2.0 MULTI DENSITY CHAMOIS is specifically designed to provide comfort in the aero position, which is crucial for long cycling sessions and transitions to running. This padding aims to maximize performance without compromising comfort.

The ultra-thin and ultra-light elastic leg grippers ensure a snug fit without causing silicone discomfort, adding to the comfort and flexibility of the shorts. Flat locked stitching is used to prevent chaffing and enhance durability, benefiting those who engage in rigorous activities. However, the shorts require hand washing, which might be inconvenient for some users. Additionally, the drawstring closure might not be preferred by everyone, as some might find it less secure compared to other closure types. Despite these minor drawbacks, the MY KILOMETRE Triathlon Shorts are a strong contender for triathletes looking for reliable, comfortable, and performance-oriented gear.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,278
Padding (Chamois)
Fit
Leg Grippers

Most important from
824 reviews

Padding (Chamois)
The padding is just right for biking and comfortable enough for running, ensuring a good balance for triathlon activities.
Fit
Despite not being a fan of compression shorts, these provide a comfortable fit without feeling overly tight or restrictive.
Leg Grippers
The leg grippers work well, keeping the shorts in place without riding up during activities.
Pockets
The mesh side pockets are perfect for holding nutrition, phone, or other essentials, making these shorts highly functional.
#2

MY KILOMETRE Mens Triathlon Shorts with Adjustable Drawstring Easy Reach Leg Pockets Chamois for Long-Distance Tri Race Black-red

Rating
9.8
Material
Padding (Chamois)
Fit

Most important from
824 reviews

Material
Light enough for swimming and running, yet padded enough for biking, making them versatile for various activities.
Padding (Chamois)
The shorts fit well without riding up, and the padding is just right for long distances.
Fit
The fit is true to size, and the mesh side pockets are perfect for holding nutrition or a phone.
Pockets
The fit is true to size, and the mesh side pockets are perfect for holding nutrition or a phone.

The MY KILOMETRE Mens Triathlon Shorts are designed with performance in mind, making them suitable for long-distance triathlons. The fabric is 78% Regenerated Polyamide and 22% Xtra Life Lycra, offering durability, chlorine resistance, and UPF 50+ protection for outdoor use. The moderate compression aids in muscle support during intensive races. The MK TRI2.0 MULTI DENSITY CHAMOIS pad is specifically tailored for comfort in the aero position during biking and running, which is a significant advantage for triathletes.

The shorts feature ultra-thin and ultra-light elastic leg grippers that provide a secure fit without the discomfort associated with silicone. Additionally, the flat locked stitching enhances comfort by preventing chafing and aligning with the body's contours. Easy access nutrition storage pockets on the sides are perfect for race day, allowing quick access to energy gels or snacks.

However, the shorts are pull-on style, which might not be as convenient for quick changes. Also, they require hand washing, which could be a downside for those preferring machine-washable gear. While the shorts appear lightweight at 5.28 ounces, the imported nature and specific care instructions may be less appealing to some users. Ideal for dedicated triathletes, these shorts offer a combination of comfort, durability, and practical features that enhance performance.

Rating
9.8
Material
Padding (Chamois)
Fit

Most important from
824 reviews

Material
Light enough for swimming and running, yet padded enough for biking, making them versatile for various activities.
Padding (Chamois)
The shorts fit well without riding up, and the padding is just right for long distances.
Fit
The fit is true to size, and the mesh side pockets are perfect for holding nutrition or a phone.
Pockets
The fit is true to size, and the mesh side pockets are perfect for holding nutrition or a phone.
#3

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

Rating
9.7
Material
Padding (Chamois)
Fit

Most important from
688 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
9.7
Material
Padding (Chamois)
Fit

Most important from
688 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.

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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