Tri-suit not for you? Triathlon shorts are a versatile alternative and are designed to keep your lower body covered throughout the swim, bike and run
Everyone has their own preferences. If that means you just don’t get on with tri-suits then that’s no drama, you just need to find an alternative to see you through race day.
Triathlon shorts have graced our screens many times over the years, particularly at the turn of the century and, although they’re less popular now then they have been in the past, they’re still a great option for training and racing.
The benefits are that you can buy a different-sized top or bottom to secure your closest fit, while mid-race toilet stops are a doddle. They’re also less likely to turn heads if you’re tackling brick sessions around the neighbourhood.
Negative points include an aerodynamic penalty from fabric bunching at the waist, they’re not ideal for the swim (you can swim in the shorts and don the top in T1) and the shorts can sag down to reveal both belly and/or bottom to your race rivals (or watching family).
Improved hem tech latterly has improved the latter, however, while they offer more versatility for training sessions than a conventional one-piece tri-suit.
With that covered, below we’ve listed our top picks for men and women at a range of price points, with choices based on analysis of consumer reviews, in-depth research and only from brands that 220 knows and trusts.
Best triathlon shorts for men and women
Zone3 Activate Tri Shorts
!["Zone3]("https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/34/2023/05/Untitled-3--2in-2023-05-26T155727.795-89462b6.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413" "\"Zone3")
This pair of men’s shorts comes from Zone3’s Activate range and features a tri-lite pad, which the brand claims keeps water absorption to a minimum and provides enough padding to keep you comfortable on the bike.
There’s also silicone leg grippers running up the inside of the knee, stated to keep the shorts in place. The fabric is held together with fine-line stitching and flatlocked seams, which Zone3 says helps to improve comfort.
We tested the brand’s Activate+ vested tri-suit in 2021 and praised it for the breathability of the fabric.
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2XU Core Tri Shorts
- Buy now from Sports Shoes (£58.00)
!["2XU]("https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/34/2023/05/Untitled-3--2in-2023-05-26T155528.126-9822895.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413" "\"2XU")
2XU’s tri shorts claim to focus on upper leg compression, which the brand says will help battle soreness and fatigue.
This is reportedly achieved using durable yarns that offer multi-directional stretch to achieve the compression, and this material is also designed to wick moisture away from the skin to keep you cool.
Meanwhile, flatlock seams are utilised to reduce irritation or chafing. There’s also a side pocket for your essentials or nutrition, plus reflective detailing if you’re likely to be racing or training in low light.
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Huub Commit Shorts
!["huub]("https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/34/2023/05/Untitled-3--2in-2023-05-26T155635.393-23296af.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413" "\"huub")
This pair of triathlon shorts (available in men’s or women’s) from Huub are reportedly made of a lightweight fabric with added stretch to avoid restricted movement.
The brand says the fabric dries quickly, while a mesh centre back panel is designed to keep you ventilated throughout your bike and run.
Huub includes a 3D tri-specific pad, which is said to provide ample padding for the cycle while not becoming uncomfortable on the run.
There’s a rear pocket for some added storage and leg grippers which aim to keep the shorts securely in place.
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Dhb Hydron Women’s Tri Short
- Buy now from Wiggle (£40.00)
!["dhb]("https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/34/2023/05/Untitled-3--2in-2023-05-26T155852.283-9a67d0b.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413" "\"dhb")
This pair of women’s tri shorts from dhb reportedly features particularly thin elastic fabric with a perforated foam, which the brand says will help to ensure speedy drying.
They also purport to offer multi-directional stretch designed for increased range of movement.
The chamois pad is also said to be fitted dynamically to reduce drag, and there’s a back pocket for gels and energy bars.
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Castelli Premio Tri Speed Short
!["Castelli]("https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/34/2023/05/Untitled-3--2in-2023-05-26T160030.143-1e7a881.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413" "\"Castelli")
This pair of men’s tri shorts from Italian sportwear and cycling giants Castelli come at a premium price but hold an array of features. They feature a tri seat pad, which the brand says will offer cushioning for long distances without being too bulky.
The shorts also feature a four-way stretch fabric, which Castelli claims offers some light compression with minimal seams for comfort, with elastic grip to keep everything locked in.
There’s also a back pocket and a Snaplock fastener, which is designed to clip to your shirt and keep them in place as you race.
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Zone3 Lava Shorts
!["ZONE3]("https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/34/2023/05/Untitled-3--2in-2023-05-26T155332.836-5923016.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413" "\"ZONE3")
These shorts from Zone3 are part of the brand’s Lava collection, which was first launched in 2013. Zone3 claims this pair has been updated to optimise aerodynamics, fit and become more water repellent.
The improvements are said to be indebted to a sensory fabric, which Zone3 claims is comfortable against skin but also provides extra support and compression.
This pair has also been fitted with integrated leg grippers and an extended panel which aims to keep the shorts in place throughout the run and cycle but remains aerodynamic for reduced drag in the water.
The fabric features water repellent coating and features a pad from Cytech, designed to keep you comfortable in the bike seat. There’s a 3.5cm waistband and a back pocket for a little extra storage.
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Compressport Triathlon Under Control Shorts
!["compressport]("https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/34/2023/05/Untitled-3--2in-2023-05-26T160151.564-593da50.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413" "\"compressport")
Compressport’s women’s tri shorts are said to feature premium support for your upper legs. The brand claims that the added compression can help to dampen muscle vibration by up to 30%, with the aim of boosting recovery and reducing fatigue.
This pair feature an integrated pad and silicone leg grippers, plus ventilation bands designed to keep you cool and enable the shorts to dry quicker.
Compressport says the silicone outer grips also aim to help you in the bike stage of your race, gripping the saddle and helping to keep you in place.
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What to look for when buying a pair of triathlon shorts?
- Material: Triathlon shorts should be made from a lightweight, breathable and quick-drying fabric. Common materials used include nylon, Lycra, spandex and polyester blends. Look for materials that offer good moisture-wicking properties to ensure you can dry off and keep cool during the bike and run.
- Padding: Triathlon shorts often come with a built-in chamois or padding to provide extra comfort during the bike leg. The padding should be sufficient to provide cushioning and reduce friction without being overly bulky or inhibiting movement during the swim or run.
- Fit: Look for shorts that offer a snug, but not overly tight, fit. They should be designed to stay in place without causing discomfort or chafing. Elastic waistbands and leg grippers are features that will help with this.
- Seams: Pay attention to the stitching and seam construction of the shorts. Flatlock, minimal or anti-friction seams can help to reduce chafing and irritation.
- Pockets: Some triathlon shorts feature pockets, typically located on the sides or at the back. These pockets can be handy for storing small items like energy gels or other supplements you might need in your race.
Top image credit: Tony Pham/Unsplash