Best Bike Shorts For Touring (2024 Update)
For avid cyclists and bicycle tourists, finding the right pair of bike shorts is crucial to maximizing comfort and performance on long rides. When shopping for bike shorts, there are a few key factors to consider.
The chamois or pad is one of the most important elements of bike shorts. It provides padding to relieve pressure on sensitive areas. Look for a high-quality, multi-density foam chamois that offers ample padding without unnecessary bulk. The chamois should also feature seamless construction to prevent chafing.
Fabric is another essential factor. Synthetic fabrics like nylon and spandex wick moisture, dry quickly, and provide stretch and support. The ideal bike short fabric will be lightweight, breathable, compressive and durable enough to withstand many miles on the bike. Some shorts also feature an antibacterial treatment to minimize odors.
Comfort features like flatlock seams to eliminate chafing, a wide waistband that won’t dig in, and silicone leg grippers that keep shorts in place are also desirable. Reflective elements for visibility and pockets for storage and convenience are also nice additions for avid riders.
Do you want maximum comfort on long tours or a more streamlined fit for racing? Are sweat-wicking, stretchy fabrics or weather-resistant materials more important? Asking these questions will help identify preferences and find the best bike shorts to meet individual cycling needs.
10 Best Bike Shorts For Touring
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This product is ideal for female cyclists who want comfort and support during long, multi-day rides.
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Ideal for cushioned support and comfort during cycling with a longer inseam for additional coverage.
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The product is ideal for mountain bikers looking for loose-fitting shorts with padding for a more comfortable ride.
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Ideal for adding extra padding and comfort to men's cycling gear while riding on mountain or road bikes.
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5
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Ideal for cyclists in need of comfortable and functional shorts with unique pocket features.
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6
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Ideal for men's cycling, providing comfort and support with 4D padding, breathable materials, and moisture absorption.
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7
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Ideal for women who cycle long distances and want comfortable, high-quality spandex shorts with pockets made in the USA.
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8
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Ideal for providing a comfortable and breathable base layer during all-season cycling.
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9
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Ideal for women who want comfortable, padded cycling shorts with compression for multi-day rides.
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10
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Ideal for women cyclists who want a comfortable, supportive, and moisture-wicking compression short with a 5-inch inseam.
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1. Touring Cycling Shorts/regular – Women's 8 Inch Inseam Padded Compression Multi-Day Bike Short
Introducing the best multi-day, moisture-wicking, and fully-featured bottoms for touring, designed to provide superior comfort during your outdoor activities. These bottoms come with a wide waistband and an elastic-free front yoke, which ensures maximum comfort during your rides. The flat seam construction reduces the potential for chafing, while the 8" inseam provides excellent coverage.
These bottoms feature a zippered pocket at the high right hip, making it easy for you to carry your smartphone on all your adventures. The Flex Air Tour Padded Chamois is designed to offer the highest level of padding, soft wing technology, and perforated foam for breathability. It is made in Italy and designed by Terry, ensuring top-notch quality.
These bottoms are perfect for a range of outdoor activities, including cycling, fishing, hiking, running, gardening, golf, e-bike cruise travel, or other kinds of workouts. They are designed to keep you comfortable and dry, no matter your activity level.
At Terry, we stand behind the quality of our products, and we want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. That's why we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If for any reason you're not completely satisfied with your Terry purchase, please do not hesitate to contact us. Ride it, wear it, and love it – or return it.
2. Women's Touring Bike Short/plus – Women's Padded Compression Cycling Shorts – 9 Inch Inseam
This endurance riding short by Terry boasts a high-quality design with increased multi-density foam for maximum comfort. The shorts are made with all-way stretch and seamlessly molded with center padding and unpadded wings to enhance freedom of movement without any bunching or bulk. Elastic Interface Technology makes these shorts a cut above the rest, and Terry's expert design team has crafted them in Italy.
The shorts feature 8 panels, a wide waistband with an elastic-free front yoke, and flat-seam construction. A side-zip pocket at the hip provides convenient storage for small items. Additionally, the shorts are woven with Terry leg grippers and ultra-soft thread, ensuring a comfortable fit throughout your ride.
The fabric used in these shorts is composed of compression, super wicking T-Dry nylon/polyester/spandex, making them the quickest dry fabric in Terry's line. The Flex Air Tour chamois with added padding makes these shorts ideal for longer distance riding. Small perforations expedite air flow to aid in wicking moisture and increasing breathability on long, hot rides.
Terry stands behind its products with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you're not completely satisfied with your purchase, Terry encourages you to contact them promptly to arrange a return. With Terry's commitment to quality and comfort, you can confidently ride and wear these shorts with satisfaction.
3. Softshell Mtb Shorts With Padded Comfort
When it comes to cycling, comfort is key and the cycling shorts by this brand provide just that. Made with a blend of lycra and polyester, these shorts are breathable, allowing water vapor and perspiration to move away from the body, keeping the rider feeling cool and dry.
The shorts also feature a top-of-the-line 4D COOLMAX seat cushion that provides excellent protection during transit, which helps prevent injuries caused by riding. Additionally, the shorts effectively reduce any sweat produced during riding, ensuring that the rider remains comfortable throughout their journey and in good health.
These shorts are not only comfortable, but highly functional as well. The baggy exterior and internal padded bike shorts make them ideal for bicycle touring and mountain bike rides. The legs are non-binding, elastic-free, and extremely soft to wear, ensuring that the rider can move around with ease.
To ensure the perfect fit, it is recommended that customers refer to the size chart provided by the brand before making their purchase. With these cycling shorts, riders can hit the road with confidence, knowing that they are wearing a high-quality product that offers both comfort and protection.
4. Padded Men's Cycling Shorts – Comfortable For Any Ride
Experience pro-level cycling performance with the Anti-Slip Leg Grips Bike Shorts. These shorts are designed to provide you with absolute comfort even on long-distance rides. Featuring leg grips that firmly hold the shorts in place, you can pedal with ease, without any abrasions or chafing.
The padded bike shorts are made with 3D padding that provides cushioning and support, even on long rides. The breathable pad is stitched with high-quality materials that resist wear and tear, making it durable and long-lasting. The shorts are made with 90% polyester and 10% spandex, making them highly flexible, tear-resistant, and breathable, ensuring that you have an enjoyable ride ahead.
These shorts are also sweat-resistant. The quick-dry material disperses sweat away from the shorts, keeping you dry and comfortable throughout your ride. The lightweight design further adds to the comfort, making you feel like you're riding on clouds.
Whether you're a professional cyclist or just love to ride, these bike shorts are perfect for you. With their anti-slip leg grips, 3D padding, and breathable material, you can experience unmatched comfort and performance. So why wait? Get your hands on these bike shorts today and experience the ride of your life.
5. Aero Tech Men's Gel Touring Usa Padded Shorts With Innovative Mesh Pockets
Introducing the Long Distance Gel Chamois Pad, the perfect solution for cyclists looking for a comfortable and durable option for long rides. This pad is designed to provide maximum comfort and support for rides lasting six hours or more, thanks to its high-density gel inserts.
Crafted with high-quality materials, the Long Distance Gel Chamois Pad is built to last multiple riding seasons. Its anti-chafe and durable crotch fabric, premium thread, and smooth single fabric face ensure that it stands up to the demands of even the most intense rides.
Innovative features make the Long Distance Gel Chamois Pad a standout choice. Large mesh side storage pockets provide ample storage for essentials, while the drawstring elastic waistband ensures a secure and comfortable fit. The soft silicone leg gripper prevents the pad from riding up, even during the most strenuous rides. 3M reflective accents provide added visibility and safety during nighttime rides.
The Long Distance Gel Chamois Pad is available in ten color options, including black, yellow, royal blue, safety yellow, teal, red, and charcoal. This extended range of colors ensures that every cyclist can find a style that suits their preferences.
With an extended size range, including options for big and tall riders, the Long Distance Gel Chamois Pad offers a comfortable fit for every cyclist. Its high-density gel inserts and innovative features make it a top-performing choice for long-distance rides.
Invest in the Long Distance Gel Chamois Pad for a comfortable, durable, and stylish option for your next cycling adventure.
6. Road-Ready Men's Bike Tights With 4d Padding
The bike shorts with critical saddle support are designed to provide maximum comfort during long and intense cycling sessions. The shorts feature three layers of high-performance sponge cushioning that ensure a comfortable seating experience. The breather material incorporated into the design keeps the seat dry even during strenuous exercise.
The second skin fit of the shorts is achieved by their excellent stretch on seams. This results in a sculpted-to-the-skin feel that maximizes both comfort and aerodynamic efficiency. The shorts are made of an 82% Nylon and 18% Spandex blend that provides optimum moisture transfer. This feature keeps you dry and chafe-free no matter how long the road ahead.
The silicone gripper integrated into the leg of the shorts offers a stay-put fit for greater freedom on the saddle. This feature ensures that the shorts stay securely in place, providing maximum comfort and preventing the need for constant readjustment.
The shorts also feature a highly visible reflector on the logo, which makes for safer roadside riding after dark. The cat-eye reflector is an added safety feature that enhances visibility while cycling in low-light conditions.
7. Womens Gel Padded Spandex Bicycle Touring Shorts W Pockets Usa Made
This product is proudly made in the USA, ensuring top-notch quality and craftsmanship. It is designed to provide the utmost comfort and convenience during long cycling sessions. The inclusion of mesh pockets allows for easy and secure storage of essential items such as keys, phone, and wallet. The drawstring feature ensures a snug and comfortable fit, preventing any unwanted movement or discomfort while on the road.
For added safety during low-light conditions, the product features reflective trim that enhances visibility and promotes road safety. This feature is especially crucial for cyclists who prefer to ride during early mornings or late evenings.
The touring chamois pad is a significant highlight of this product. It is designed to provide maximum comfort during long rides, preventing any discomfort or chafing that may occur due to prolonged cycling. The chamois pad is made of high-quality materials that are durable and provide long-lasting comfort.
8. Men's Select Liner Cycling Shorts, All-Season Base Layer, Lightweight & Breathable
The SELECT escape 1:1 Chamois is an exceptional choice for avid cyclists who desire the best in moisture transfer and odor resistance. The updated pattern contours to the body for a perfect fit when riding. The main body is constructed with Transfer mesh fabric to prevent overheating while wearing shell shorts. The transfer fabric on the lower legs is designed to allow shell shorts to move freely without any friction during pedaling. The wide waistband provides ultimate comfort without adding any extra pressure.
The SELECT escape 1:1 Chamois has been designed to offer maximum comfort and performance during cycling. The moisture transfer technology ensures that the rider remains dry and comfortable even during intense workouts. The odor-resistant feature ensures that the product stays fresh and hygienic even after prolonged use.
The updated pattern of the SELECT escape 1:1 Chamois contours to the body, providing an optimal fit while riding. The product has been specifically designed to cater to the needs of cyclists, ensuring that they remain comfortable and can focus on their performance.
The Transfer mesh fabric on the main body prevents overheating, which is a common issue faced by cyclists. The fabric allows air to circulate freely, keeping the rider cool and comfortable. The transfer fabric on the lower legs has been designed to allow shell shorts to move without any friction during pedaling, ensuring maximum performance.
The wide waistband of the SELECT escape 1:1 Chamois has been designed to provide ultimate comfort without adding any extra pressure. The waistband is gentle on the skin, making it ideal for prolonged use.
9. Touring Cycling Shorts/long – Women's 10 Inch Inseam Padded Compression Multi-Day Bike Short
The 10 inch Touring Short/Long is a versatile piece of activewear that is perfect for full coverage and taller riders. With its precision fit and contoured waistband, this short provides maximum comfort during any workout or outdoor activity. It also features a side zip pocket and Terry leg grippers to keep everything in place.
The 10-inch inseam provides full coverage, but this short is also available in 5 inch and 8 inch inseams, as well as plus sizes, to fit a variety of body types.
This short is equipped with the Fleet Air Padded Chamois, a seamless chamois with 4-way stretch Elastic Interface Technology and multi-level foam padding. The chamois is perforated for ventilation and breathability, ensuring a comfortable ride.
This short is perfect for outdoor activities such as cycling, e-bike cruises, peloton, studio spin classes, and other kinds of workouts. It is designed to provide maximum comfort and support during any physical activity.
The manufacturer is so confident in the quality of this product that they offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If for any reason you're not completely satisfied with your Terry purchase, please do not hesitate to contact them. Ride it, wear it, love it or return it!
10. Women's Multi-Day Touring Cycling Shorts With Pad
The multi-density foam of these endurance riding shorts makes them perfect for long distance cycling, touring, cruise e-bike travel, mountain biking, fishing, trail hiking, running, gardening, golf or other kinds of sporting outdoor activities. Their tri-blended fabric keeps you dry, comfortable and supported all day long. The wide waistband with elastic-free front yoke provides superior comfort. Their flat seam construction and zippered pocket at high right hip (smartphone friendly) add to their practicality.
These shorts have a 5 inch inseam and are made from compressive nylon/polyester/spandex, which is our quickest dry fabric. The Flex Air Tour chamois with additional padding is suitable for longer distance riding, and the gentle woven leg gripper ensures they stay in place. Small perforations expedite air flow to aid in wicking moisture and increasing breathability on long hot rides.
The shorts are perfect for indoor and outdoor active recreations, and are 100% satisfaction guaranteed. The company is proud of the products they sell and they back them unconditionally. If for any reason you're not completely satisfied with your Terry purchase, please do not hesitate to contact them. Ride it, wear it and love it, or return it!
Best Bike Shorts For Touring FAQs
Are padded bike shorts necessary for touring, or are there other options?
Padded bike shorts are certainly a popular choice for touring, but they are not the only option. The purpose of padded shorts is to provide extra cushioning and support to the rider's bottom, which can be especially important during long rides.
However, some touring cyclists may find that they prefer other options, such as padded liners that can be worn underneath regular shorts or pants. These liners can provide similar levels of comfort and support without the need for a full pair of padded shorts.
Another option is to invest in a high-quality saddle that is designed specifically for touring. A good saddle can provide enough cushioning and support on its own, making padded shorts or liners unnecessary.
Ultimately, the choice between padded shorts, liners, or a quality saddle comes down to personal preference. It's important to find what works best for you and your body, as comfort is key when it comes to touring.
Are there any specific materials that are best for bike shorts for touring?
Yes, there are specific materials that are best for bike shorts for touring. The ideal materials for bike shorts for touring are breathable, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying. This is because touring involves long rides and exposure to different weather conditions, and you want to be comfortable and dry throughout your journey.
Some of the common materials used for bike shorts for touring include polyester, nylon, spandex, and Lycra. These materials are lightweight and stretchy, allowing for a comfortable and snug fit. Some manufacturers also use a combination of these materials to maximize their benefits.
In addition to the material, the padding or chamois in the shorts is also an important consideration for touring. The padding should be thick enough to provide comfort during long rides but not too bulky to restrict movement.
Overall, when choosing bike shorts for touring, it's essential to consider the material, padding, and fit to ensure maximum comfort and performance during your journey.
Can I wear compression shorts instead of bike shorts for touring?
Yes, you can wear compression shorts instead of bike shorts for touring, but it may not be the most comfortable option. Compression shorts are designed to provide support and improve circulation, but they lack the padding that bike shorts have. Bike shorts are designed to provide cushioning and reduce friction between your body and the saddle, which can be crucial during long rides.
Compression shorts may be a good option if you have a comfortable saddle and don't mind the lack of padding. However, if you plan to spend long hours on the bike, it's recommended to invest in a pair of high-quality bike shorts that have padding in the right places. Look for shorts with a chamois that is designed for your gender and body type, and make sure they fit well to avoid chafing and discomfort. Overall, it's important to prioritize comfort and support during long rides to prevent injuries and enjoy the experience.
Can I wear regular bike shorts for touring, or do I need special ones?
While it is possible to wear regular bike shorts for touring, it is highly recommended that you invest in a pair of special ones designed for this purpose. Regular bike shorts may not provide enough comfort and support for long rides, especially if you're planning on spending several hours a day in the saddle.
Touring bike shorts are typically made with a more durable and breathable material that can withstand the rigors of long-distance riding. They also feature padding in the seat area to reduce chafing and provide extra cushioning for your sit bones. Additionally, many touring shorts have pockets or other features that make them more practical for carrying essentials like snacks, a phone, or a map.
It's worth noting that everyone's needs are different, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you're planning on taking a shorter tour or you're comfortable in regular bike shorts, then by all means, go for it. However, if you're serious about touring and want to ensure the most comfortable and enjoyable experience possible, investing in a good pair of touring bike shorts is definitely worth considering.
How do I care for and maintain my bike shorts for touring?
Bike shorts are an essential part of any cycling gear, especially when it comes to touring. They provide comfort and support during long hours of riding. Proper care and maintenance of your bike shorts will ensure their longevity and keep them in good condition. Here are some tips to care for and maintain your bike shorts for touring:
1. Wash them after every use: It is essential to wash your bike shorts after every use to get rid of sweat and bacteria that may cause odor and infections. Use a mild detergent and wash them in cold water. Avoid using fabric softeners or bleach as they can damage the fabric and elastic.
2. Hang dry: Air-drying is the best way to dry your bike shorts. Avoid using a dryer as the heat can damage the fabric and elastic.
3. Store them properly: Store your bike shorts in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid folding them as it can damage the elastic. Instead, lay them flat or hang them to prevent wrinkles and creases.
4. Avoid abrasive surfaces: Avoid sitting on rough surfaces or rubbing your bike shorts against rough surfaces as it can damage the fabric and cause pilling.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your bike shorts remain in good condition and provide you with the comfort and support you need during your tours.
How do I choose the right bike shorts for touring?
When it comes to touring, comfortable bike shorts can make all the difference in ensuring an enjoyable ride. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right bike shorts for touring:
1. Padding: Look for shorts with a chamois pad that provides enough cushioning to reduce pressure points and chafing during long rides.
2. Fabric: Choose shorts made of breathable, moisture-wicking materials such as spandex or polyester to keep you cool and dry.
3. Fit: Make sure the shorts fit snugly but not too tight, and avoid any excess fabric that could bunch or rub.
4. Length: Consider the length of the shorts – some riders prefer longer shorts that provide more coverage, while others prefer shorter shorts for increased mobility.
5. Features: Look for additional features such as pockets for storing small items, reflective accents for visibility, and flatlock seams for added comfort.
It's essential to try on different styles and brands of bike shorts to find the right fit and features for your needs. Investing in high-quality bike shorts will make your touring experience much more comfortable and enjoyable.
What are the best bike shorts for long-distance touring?
When it comes to long-distance touring, choosing the right bike shorts is crucial for comfort and performance. There are several factors to consider when selecting the best bike shorts for long-distance touring.
Firstly, look for shorts with a comfortable chamois pad. The chamois should be thick enough to cushion your sit bones and prevent chafing, but not so thick that it inhibits your movement. Look for shorts with a breathable and moisture-wicking fabric to keep you cool and dry during long rides.
Secondly, consider the fit of the shorts. They should be snug enough to stay in place but not so tight that they restrict your movement. Look for shorts with a high waistband to prevent them from slipping down and causing discomfort.
Some popular options for long-distance touring include the Pearl Izumi Quest Shorts, the Castelli Free Aero Race 4 Bibshorts, and the Gore Wear C5 Shorts. Ultimately, the best bike shorts for long-distance touring will depend on your personal preferences and needs. It's important to try on different options and test them out on shorter rides before committing to a pair for a long tour.
What are the best brands of bike shorts for touring?
When it comes to touring, it's important to have comfortable and durable bike shorts to make the journey more enjoyable. There are a variety of brands that offer high-quality bike shorts for touring, but some of the best include Pearl Izumi, Castelli, and Gore Wear.
Pearl Izumi is known for their innovative technology and attention to detail. Their touring shorts feature a comfortable chamois pad for long rides, moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry, and reflective elements for visibility.
Castelli is a premium brand that offers high-end touring shorts with a focus on performance. Their shorts feature a compressive fit to support muscles and reduce fatigue, while also providing excellent breathability and comfort.
Gore Wear is another top brand for touring shorts. Their shorts are designed with a focus on comfort and durability, featuring a breathable and quick-drying fabric, a comfortable chamois pad, and a wide waistband for added support.
Ultimately, the best brand of bike shorts for touring will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It's important to consider factors such as comfort, durability, and performance when choosing the right pair of shorts for your next tour.
What features should I look for in bike shorts for touring?
When it comes to bike shorts for touring, there are some key features that you should look for to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable ride. Firstly, the shorts should be made of high-quality, moisture-wicking material that will keep you dry and comfortable throughout your ride. Look for materials like spandex or polyester blends that are breathable and stretchy to allow for ease of movement.
Another important feature is padding. Touring often involves long rides, so having a chamois or padding in the shorts will help alleviate pressure points and prevent chafing. The padding should be thick enough to provide cushioning but not so thick that it feels bulky or uncomfortable.
Additionally, consider the fit of the shorts. They should be snug enough to stay in place during your ride but not too tight that they restrict movement or cause discomfort. Look for shorts with a waistband that stays securely in place and leg grippers that prevent the shorts from riding up.
Lastly, pockets can be a useful feature for touring shorts. Look for shorts with pockets that are easily accessible and large enough to hold essentials like your phone, wallet, or snacks.
Overall, when choosing bike shorts for touring, prioritize comfort, moisture-wicking properties, padding, fit, and pockets.
What is the difference between men's and women's bike shorts for touring?
Men's and women's bike shorts for touring differ in several ways. Firstly, men's shorts typically have a longer inseam and a wider waistband, while women's shorts have a shorter inseam and a narrower waistband to accommodate their hourglass figure. Secondly, women's shorts often have a chamois pad that is designed to fit the female anatomy, providing better support and comfort during long rides. Men's shorts, on the other hand, have a chamois pad that is designed to accommodate their anatomy. Thirdly, women's shorts often have a higher waistband to prevent them from slipping down during the ride, while men's shorts are designed to sit lower on the waist.
Overall, the difference between men's and women's bike shorts for touring lies in the fit, comfort, and support they provide based on the rider's anatomy. It is important to choose the right shorts that fit well and provide adequate support to avoid discomfort and injuries while riding.
