The Best Mountain Bike Shorts for Every Type of Rider

Anyone that’s experienced a sweltering day on their bike knows that a good pair of mountain bike shorts are worth their weight in gold (and then some), but in fact, most mountain bikers will opt for shorts rain or shine. Even if your teeth are chattering at the beginning of your ride, it’s hard to pass up the unencumbered movement and flexibility a pair of shorts bring to any mountain biking trail. If you’re due for a new pair or are just beginning and don’t know where to start, we’ve got you covered.

What to look for in mountain bike shorts

Shorts are appealing thanks to their low-maintenance vibe: you put them on, hop on the bike and generally, that’s about it. However, there are a few key features you should pay attention to while shopping that can make or break your next ride: weight, materials and liners.

Mountain bike shorts generally sit between seven and 15 ounces, although there are outliers on each end of the spectrum. A good pair of mountain bike shorts will make use of technical fabrics like nylon, elastane and polyester to achieve a balance between weight and durability. Like many outdoor items, mountain bike shorts are only getting more technical, lighter and efficient, but it’s still worth noting what yours are made out of, and how the weight will feel on your ride.

Most of the shorts on our list don’t include a liner: it’s often easier to layer the liner of your choice under whichever pair of shorts you’re rocking that day. Being able to choose the liner that works best for you, or opt out of one completely, allows for more customizable comfort.

Patagonia

Best Minimalist Mountain Bike Shorts

Patagonia Dirt Roamer Bike Shorts

• $129.00 at Patagonia

Roam if you want to in Patagonia’s lightweight, quick-drying minimalist bike shorts. Built with four-way stretch, moisture-wicking fabric, the newest version of the Dirt Roamer is longer, roomier and more comfortable than ever. The 12.5-inch shorts feature an articulated fit, adjustable waistband and welded seams to increase comfort, cut extra weight and keep your ride smooth.

• Weight: 5.6 ounces
• Materials: Recycled polyester, Spandex, DWR finish
• Liner: No

REI

Best Women's Mountain Bike Shorts

Machines For Freedom Key Shorts

• $75.00 at REI
  $108.00 (31% off)

If you’re looking for a short that can hold its own on trails and fit in just as easily at the brewery post-ride, Machines for Freedom has you covered. The Key Short was built to be a comfortable and technical overshort that functions across all riding disciplines. The slide lock closure at the waistband and zip back pockets with pulls for easy access come in clutch for quick adjustments on the trail and the UPF protection makes long days on the bike a breeze. Offered in 5.5-inch and 11-inch inseams, MFF’s Key Short comes in extended sizing, from 24-38, but be warned, the shorts do tend to run on the smaller side, so if you’re in-between sizes, consider sizing up for a roomier fit.

• Weight: 6.3 ounces
• Materials: Polyester
• Liner: No

Courtesy

Best Affordable Mountain Bike Shorts

Endura SingleTrack Short II

• $120.00 at endurasport.com

A favorite of many mountain bikers, Endura makes men’s and women’s shorts built to withstand any challenge thrown their way. Part of its lineup for years, the SingleTrack Short II has been upgraded this year with improved length and fit, better pockets and more adjustability, most noticeable in the waist.

Durable nylon fabric is paired with ample, stretchy side panels for an uncompromised fit and plenty of flexibility, while ventilated slots on each thigh promote airflow. Designed with knee pads in mind, the leg length has been optimized to avoid any pad-gap faux pas.

The Single Track II is also available in a trouser, for anyone looking for a little more protection or coverage.

• Weight: ~8 ounces
• Materials: Nylon
• Liner: No

Courtesy

Best American Made Mountain Bike Shorts

Kistbow Haskell Lighterweight Short

• $219.00 at kitsbow.com
  $229.00 (4% off)

Known for its quality construction, attention to detail and superior performance, you’d be hard pressed to find a more comfortable or dependable mountain bike short than the Haskell Lighterweight. Made to order in Old Fort, NC, Kitsbow’s everyday short is built to run, hike and of course, bike with complete freedom. Made with multi-stretch, quick dry fabric, you can choose between two colorways and either an 8 or 11-inch inseam while ordering. Kitsbow is definitely an investment brand, but if you’re into American manufacturing and superior performance, those extra dollars will be well spent on these shorts.

• Weight: 7 ounces
• Materials: Nylon twill and spandex
• Liner: No

Courtesy

Best Overall Mountain Bike Shorts

Mission Workshop Traverse

• $185.00 at missionworkshop.com

If you haven’t had the chance to wear Mission Workshop on any of your rides yet, consider this your sign to get on board. The brand tailors all of its riding gear and apparel (as well as its bags and other accessories) to have the most accurate and detailed fit of any shorts we’ve tried, and its use of premium fabrics and finishings takes the Traverse shorts to a whole new level.

Built with all-mountain riding in mind, the Traverse features four-way stretch, American-made fabric, custom aluminum hardware, Prym straps and YKK zippers throughout. The gusseted inseam and integrated waistbelt keep the Traverse exactly where you want them: no riding up or pinching here. MW says on its site the Traverse runs a little small; if you’re between sizes, consider going up one for a more accurate fit.

• Weight: 7.79 ounces
• Materials: Nylon, elastane, DWR treatment
• Liner: No

Rapha

Best Mountain Bike Shorts for Bikepacking

Rapha Explore Overshorts

• $150.00 at Rapha

Bikepacking, much like backpacking, requires a laser-focused packing list that will keep weight low and function high. If you’re the type that can get by with just one pair of shorts, make it this pair for your next adventure.

The Explore Overshorts are as versatile as they come and feature ergonomic paneling that can accommodate liners and long stints in the saddle without bunching or pinching, as well as two zipped side pockets, two hand-warmer pockets and a DWR treatment for extra measure. The Explore Overshorts are constructed with a 121gsm technical face fabric that cuts weight and adds durability and is ideal for wear in hot conditions.

• Weight: ~10 ounces
• Materials: Nylon, elastane, polyester
• Liner: No

Courtesy

Most Comfortable Women's Mountain Bike Shorts

POC Essential MTB Women’s Shorts

• $100.00 at pocsports.com

Any collection of mountain bike shorts would be remiss not to include POC’s Women’s Essential Mountain Bike Shorts (with a similar version available in men’s), this do-it-all pair combines POC’s know-how and reputation with enhanced comfort to deliver our most comfortable ride yet.

Super stretchy, with an adjustable waistband and cut for active movement, the Essential MTB Short features lightweight and durable nylon fabric, a DWR treatment and a zippered back card pocket. Featuring just what you need and nothing you don’t, POC’s everyday style is so easy to wear, that you won’t want to take them off.

• Weight: ~6 ounces
• Materials: Nylon, DWR treatment
• Liner: No

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