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The Best Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts of 2023

Looking for a new pair of women's mountain bike shorts? We tested 12 of the best models on the market in 2023 to help you find the pair that best suits your needs, style, and budget.
Testing the best women's mountain bike shorts
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When we ride our mountain bikes, the shorts we wear can play a critical role in our comfort and enjoyment on the trail. We tested 12 of the best women’s mountain bike shorts on the market and have recommendations for every type of riding and rider.

With so many brands, styles, and options on the market, finding the right pair of women’s mountain bike shorts can be a daunting task. To help, we put twelve models through rigorous side-by-side testing and comparison to find the best. Whether you’re a casual recreational rider, hardcore trail fanatic, or gravity fiend, there’s a pair of shorts to meet the demands. And, mountain bike shorts are one place where it’s easy to reflect your personal style and add some flair through colors, prints, and cuts.

Over the course of several months, we took each pair of women’s mountain shorts to task while assessing their fit, features, pockets, on-trail performance, and style. Our top recommendations are listed below along with the best of the rest that are all still worthy options to consider. To compare the models we tested at a glance, check out our comparison chart. If you need help figuring out what you need, refer to our buying advice, or check out our FAQ section for answers to common questions. If you’re looking for men’s apparel, we’ve also got a comprehensive review of the best mountain bike shorts for men.

The Best Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts of 2023


The Best Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts of 2023

Best Overall Women's Mountain Bike Shorts

Wild Rye Freel

Specs

  • MSRP $129
  • Inseam Length 12 in.
  • Material WRDuraFlex, 4-way stretch nylon
  • Pockets 2 hand pockets and 1 zippered thigh pocket
  • Available Sizes 0-18
Product Badge The Best Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts of 2023

Pros

  • Flattering, performance-oriented fit
  • 3 functional pockets
  • Available in numerous fun colors and prints
  • Female-owned company, Certified B Corp, Certified Climate Neutral
  • 30-day return policy

Cons

  • Moderately expensive
Riding in the Wild Rye Freel women's mountain bike shorts
The Wild Rye Freel emerged as our favorite overall women’s mountain bike shorts. (photo: Kira Deschaux)
Best Budget Women's Mountain Bike Shorts

Ripton & Co. Jorts

Specs

  • MSRP $69
  • Inseam Length 5.5 in. (long version, 9 in. available in "Diesel" Jort)
  • Material 9.5 oz. "performance" denim
  • Pockets 2 hand pockets and 2 rear pockets
  • Available Sizes 24-36 Waist
The Best Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts of 2023

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Versatile
  • Hip style – looks good on the bike and off
  • Stretch denim moves well with the body
  • Color and hem options

Cons

  • Cut-off jeans may not be everyone's style
  • Slightly thicker/bulkier material
  • Short inseam – shows lots of leg
Posing in the Ripton & Co. Jorts during an evening test ride
The Ripton & Co. Jorts are affordable, stylish, and made from stretchy “performance denim”. (photo: Kira Deschaux)
Best Lightweight Women's Mountain Bike Shorts

Patagonia Dirt Roamer Shorts Women’s

Specs

  • MSRP $129
  • Inseam Length 12.5 in.
  • Material 4-way stretch, 86% recycled polyester/14% spandex, Fair Trade Certified sewn
  • Pockets 2 zippered thigh pockets
  • Available Sizes 0-22
The Best Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts of 2023

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Highly breathable
  • Good pockets
  • Low profile waist adjustments
  • Work well with knee pads

Cons

  • Moderately expensive
The Patagonia Dirt Roamer women's mountain bike shorts in action
Out for a test ride in the lightweight Patagonia Dirt Roamer shorts. (photo: Kira Deschaux)
Best Ventilated Women's Mountain Bike Shorts

Pearl Izumi Summit PRO Shell Women’s

Specs

  • MSRP $135
  • Inseam Length 12.75 in.
  • Material 91% recycled nylon/9% spandex with PI Dry water shedding coating
  • Pockets 2 zippered "Trail Access" thigh pockets
  • Available Sizes 2-14
The Best Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts of 2023

Pros

  • Super lightweight material
  • Laser cut thigh vents – great ventilation
  • Long inseam – good sun protection
  • Good waist adjustment system

Cons

  • Moderately expensive
  • Pocket zippers are hard to close while riding
The lightweight and well-ventilated Pearl Izumi Summit Pro Shell women's mountain bike shorts
If you find yourself on all-day epics that may include sunset light on a mountain top, the Pearl Izumi Summit PRO Shell may be the shorts for you. (photo: Kira Deschaux)
Best Technical Women's Mountain Bike Shorts

7Mesh Glidepath Women’s

Specs

  • MSRP $150
  • Inseam Length 15.25 in. (size M)
  • Material 85% Nylon/15% Elastane with DWR, Bluesign and Oeko-Tex certified, PFC/PFAS-free
  • Pockets 2 hand pockets and 2 zippered hip pockets
  • Available Sizes XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
The Best Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts of 2023

Pros

  • Long but flattering cut
  • Pair well with knee pads
  • Premium feel to match the high price
  • Water repellant fabric works effectively

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Sizing is a little different than other brands – use the size chart
Water beading on the technical fabric of the 7Mesh Glidepath women's mountain bike shorts during a drizzly test ride
The 7Mesh Glidepath shorts are made from a quality technical fabric that is great for riding in changing conditions. (photo: Kira Deschaux)
Best Women's Mountain Bike Shorts for Gravity Riding

Troy Lee Designs Mischief

Specs

  • MSRP $120
  • Inseam Length Not specified (but fairly long)
  • Material 4-way stretch woven, Bluesign approved
  • Pockets 2 zippered hand pockets and 1 zippered thigh pocket
  • Available Sizes XS, S, M, L, XL
The Best Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts of 2023

Pros

  • Tough, durable, more protective material
  • Baggy but flattering
  • Work great with knee pads

Cons

  • Heavier/warmer material
  • Not the best for pedaling
Test riding in the Troy Lee Designs Mischief women's mountain bike shorts
The Troy Lee Designs Mischief shorts are made for riding big bikes at high speeds in aggressive terrain. (photo: Kira Deschaux)
Best Variety of Prints and Cuts

Shredly All-Time

Specs

  • MSRP 14": $115, 11": $105, 5": $98
  • Inseam Length 14 in (tested), 11 in., 5 in.
  • Material ecoMove 4-way stretch recycled polyester/spandex
  • Pockets 2 hand pockets, 1 zippered thigh and 1 snap cargo
  • Available Sizes 00-16
The Best Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts of 2023

Pros

  • Lots of fun colors and patterns
  • Offered in multiple inseam lengths
  • Comfortable
  • Work well with knee pads
  • Female owned and sustainably minded brand
Riding in the Shredly All-Time 14" women's mountain bike shorts
Shredly’s variety of prints, colors, and cuts are enough to make anyone smile. (photo: Kira Deschaux)
Best Trail Shorts if You Don't Wear Knee Pads

Troy Lee Designs Luxe

Specs

  • MSRP $120
  • Inseam Length not specified (slightly above the knee)
  • Material 4-way stretch woven body, waist, and side panels, Bluesign approved
  • Pockets 1 zippered back of thigh and 1 zippered back of waistband
  • Available Sizes XS, S, M, L, XL
The Best Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts of 2023

Pros

  • Slip-on design
  • Comfy stretch waistband
  • 3 zippered pockets
  • Laser-perforated inner thigh vents

Cons

  • Shorter inseam may cause pad-gap if used with knee pads
  • Snugger fit may not be for everyone
Best of the Rest

POC Essential MTB Women’s

Specs

  • MSRP $100
  • Inseam Length 13 in.
  • Material Stretch nylon with DWR
  • Pockets 2 zippered hand pockets and 1 zippered card pocket on back of waistband
  • Available Sizes XS, S, M, L, XL
The Best Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts of 2023

Pros

  • Flattering cut
  • High back of waist
  • Good stretch
  • Work well with knee pads

Cons

  • Pockets could be better
  • Slimmer fit may not work for everyone

100% Airmatic Women’s

Specs

  • MSRP $99
  • Inseam Length not specified
  • Material Polyester/elastane
  • Pockets 3 zippered
  • Available Sizes S, M, L, XL
The Best Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts of 2023

Pros

  • Moderate price
  • High crotch gusset
  • Mesh ventilation panel on lower back
  • Solid waist adjustment and silicone grippers to keep shorts in place

Cons

  • Light color tested is somewhat see through
  • Don't stand out from the competition

Rapha Trail Shorts Women’s

Specs

  • MSRP $158
  • Inseam Length 15 in. (size M)
  • Material 88% Nylon, 12% Elastane (Bluesign and Oeko-Tex certified)
  • Pockets 2 zippered thigh pockets
  • Available Sizes XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL
The Best Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts of 2023

Pros

  • Stretch waist
  • Work with knee pads
  • Good pocket design/layout
  • Comes with repair patches/repair program

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Snug fit through hips

100% Ridecamp Women’s

Specs

  • MSRP $69
  • Inseam Length not specified (but fairly long)
  • Material 2-way stretch polyester with DWR
  • Pockets 2 zippered hand pockets
  • Available Sizes S, M, L, XL
The Best Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts of 2023

Pros

  • Affordable price
  • Long inseam protects from sun and trailside bushes
  • Reflective accents

Cons

  • Basic design and fabric
  • Pockets aren't great for holding phone while riding

Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts Comparison Chart

Model NameMSRPInseam LengthPocketsAvailable Sizes
Wild Rye Freel$12912 in.30-18
Ripton & Co. Jorts$695.5 in. (also offered in 9 in.)424-36 waist
Patagonia Dirt Roamer W’s$12912.5 in.20-22
Pearl Izumi Summit PRO Shell W’s$13512.75 in.22-14
7Mesh Glidepath W’s$15015.25 in. (size M)4XS-XXL
Troy Lee Designs Mischief$120not specified (down to the knee)3XS-XL
Shredly All-Time$11514 in. (also offered in 11 and 5 in.)400-16
Troy Lee Designs Luxe$120not specified (slightly above the knee)2XS-XL
POC Essential MTB W’s$10013 in.3XS-XL
100% Airmatic W’s$99not specified (down to the knee)3S-XL
Rapha Trail Shorts W’s$15815 in. (size M)2XXS-XL
100% Ridecamp W’s$69not specified (down to the knee)2S-XL

Why Should You Trust Us?

Here at Bikerumor, we take biking very seriously. From the bikes we ride to the clothes we wear, we’re always seeking the best products to enhance our experience and enjoyment out on the trails. Our team has been testing and reviewing the latest and greatest bikes, accessories, and apparel for well over a decade.

Our women’s mountain bike shorts review author, Kira Deschaux, is a die-hard mountain biker and mountain bike coach based in the Lake Tahoe/Reno, NV area. An adrenaline junkie with a racing background, she enjoys all types of riding but has a taste for steep, aggressive, technical trails. Kira has been mountain biking for 13+ years and working in various fields in the outdoor industry for over 20. She has worked in retail soft and hard goods in the snowboard and mountain bike industries all over the western US and New Zealand. Her riding and work experience combine to give her unique insight into product quality, technical features, and design from the inside out. She has spent years traveling the US, Canada, and Australia with her mountain bike and swapped gear knowledge with athletes all along the way. Her ongoing search for the best and highest quality mountain bike gear means that she loves to try new brands and products as much as possible. As a mountain bike coach with a retail background, she also understands the range of needs of people from a variety of backgrounds, skill levels, and riding styles. Among her friends, her expertise and experience make her the go-to source for product recommendations, especially when it comes to mountain biking. 

After researching the best women’s mountain bike shorts on the market in 2023, we chose 12 models to put to the test. Over the course of several months, Kira put each pair of shorts through their paces on the varied terrain of the greater Lake Tahoe and Reno, NV area. From steep and aggressive skidders, flow trails, all-day epics, and casual after-work spins in a wide range of spring weather conditions, these shorts have definitely seen it all.

Review author Kira Deschaux testing the best women's mountain bike shorts
Going to extremes to put the POC Essential MTB shorts through their paces while testing the best women’s mountain bike shorts. (photo: Kira Deschaux)

Buying Advice: How to Choose Women’s Mountain Bike Shorts

Mountain biking shorts, also known as “baggies”, are not just shorts. They are technical pieces of apparel that you wear when you ride. Yes, you can wear any old shorts you’d like when mountain biking, but there is a reason there are specific shorts for the job. And, not only are there specific shorts for mountain biking, but like everything else in the sport, different models are designed to cater to different types of riding and needs. No matter the type of riding you do, we recommend mountain bike specific shorts because they are made for the task. Reasons to wear baggy mountain bike shorts include zippered or sealed pockets, technical fabrics that stretch, resist abrasion, dry quickly, and, of course, style. Here are some things to consider when searching for your next pair of shorts.

What Type of Riding Do You Do?

As there are many different styles of mountain biking, women’s mountain bike shorts are made in varying cuts, designs, and fabrics to meet the needs of riders across the spectrum. If you are riding downhill, you’ll likely want a longer inseam for more leg coverage and compatibility with knee pads, as well as a tougher material that can stand up to the rigors of aggressive riding. If you’re more of a trail or XC rider, there are lightweight and well-ventilated options that barely even feel like they are there. Aggressive trail and all-mountain riders will often seek the happy middle ground between the burly downhill options and the lightweight XC models. Many women’s mountain bike shorts can also easily span across multiple riding styles.

7Mesh Glidepath women's mountain bike shorts fit
A proper fit is the first and most important step in finding the right mountain bike shorts. The 7Mesh Glidepath shorts shown here fit pretty much perfectly. (photo: Kira Deschaux)

Fit

Like anything else you wear while riding, getting the right fit is the most critical piece of the puzzle when buying mountain bike shorts. They need to fit comfortably, with enough space to wear a chamois underneath (if you wear one) and have enough width or stretch to be able to pull up your knee pads (if you wear them). Even if you don’t wear either of those, you still want your shorts to move with your body and be comfortable while exerting yourself. Comfort is key because we have enough to think about when we are focusing on the features and trail ahead, we don’t want to be distracted by ill-fitting clothing.

People come in all shapes and sizes, so trying shorts on is the best way to ensure that they fit appropriately for your body type. Likewise, shorts come in multiple sizes, of course, and most brands have detailed size charts on their websites that are helpful in determining what size will fit you best. For women’s mountain bike shorts, these size charts often include both waist and hip measurements. Some brands offer their shorts in a larger number of sizes. Patagonia, for example, offers the Dirt Roamer shorts in sizes 0-22, which should help to ensure a more precise fit. Wild Rye and Shredly offer their shorts in a similar size range. Other brands, like 100% and Troy Lee Designs, offer their shorts in fewer total sizes, XS, S, M, L, and XL, though they still aim to fit a wide range of body shapes and sizes.

100% Ridecamp women's mountain bike shorts worn with knee pads
If you ride in knee pads, you may want to consider shorts with a longer inseam to help prevent pad gap. (photo: Kira Deschaux)

Inseam Length

How long shorts are is an important factor to consider, as different models have different cuts and some are even offered in multiple inseam lengths to suit varying needs and preferences. Riders who wear knee pads often prefer a longer inseam length so that the shorts hang down low enough to cover the top cuff of the pads to avoid what is called “pad gap”, or skin showing between the pad and shorts. Similarly, those with longer legs or who prefer the extra coverage or look of a longer inseam tend to gravitate towards shorts with 12-inch, or longer, inseams. While they provide less coverage and protection from the sun or the ground in the event of a crash, many women may prefer a shorter inseam for style reasons. Thankfully, there are options to suit all preferences, and some brands even offer their shorts in multiple lengths. Shredly, for example, sells the All-Time shorts in 5-inch, 11-inch, and 14-inch inseam lengths to cover all the bases.

7Mesh Glidepath women's mountain bike shorts, technical fabric, water beading
Most mountain bike shorts are made from technical fabrics that are stretchy, tear-resistant, and quick drying. Some, like the 7Mesh Glidepath, repel water very well too. (photo: Kira Deschaux)

Technical Fabrics

One of the main things that sets mountain bike shorts apart from other types of shorts is the materials used in their construction. Most often, this is a blend of polyester or nylon and elastane or spandex. One of the most important performance benefits is that these materials tend to have 4-way or 2-way stretch so the material moves with your body on the bike. Mountain biking is a dynamic sport, your shorts should be as well. These fabrics are also generally tear-resistant and can be weather resistant if treated with a durable water-repellant (DWR). In general, the fabrics used in mountain bike shorts are also relatively lightweight and quick drying.

Wild Rye Freel zippered phone pocket
Depending on what you carry, pockets may be an important factor to consider. Fortunately, many mountain bike shorts, like the Wild Rye Freel, have good pocket designs that work well with modern smartphones. (photo: Kira Deschaux)

Pockets

We know there is a problem in the women’s clothing industry with a lack of sufficient pockets, but mountain bike shorts tend to not follow that trend. YAY! While the number and placement of pockets on a pair of mountain bike shorts isn’t a make or break factor, it is definitely worthy of consideration depending on what you carry on a ride. Almost all baggy mountain bike shorts have at least one pocket, with most having 2-4 in various configurations. Sometimes these pockets are zippered, and other times they are not. How many pockets a pair of shorts has and their orientation can make the difference between carrying a pack or not, and may play a role in how comfortable you are while riding.

With pockets, we think about ease of access when riding and what is essential to have in the pocket. Things we carry on a ride: phone for easy access to maps and taking photos (and let’s be real, text messages too), chapstick with SPF, and a snack, always a snack! Sometimes this list includes keys and a wallet (or card) if trying to ride without a pack. That’s a lot of stuff to be hauling around, but two well-placed pockets can usually get the job done. Of course, your individual needs may vary, but at the very least, a zippered pocket that can fit a modern smartphone is the minimum we look for.

The placement of pockets is also a factor. Thankfully, many, but certainly not all, brands have recognized the need for well-designed pockets that hold their contents securely, are easy to access, and don’t allow their contents to flop around while riding. Others may include open hand pockets that add a bit of style and enhance functionality off the bike when grabbing food, drinks, or running errands post-ride.

Troy Lee Designs Mischief women's mountain bike shorts posing shot
If you’re riding chairlifts and wearing a full-face helmet, then ventilation is probably less important than a durable, more protective fabric. (photo: Kira Deschaux)

Ventilation

Depending on the type of riding you do and the temperatures you ride in, ventilation may or may not be an important consideration. Downhill riders who ride lifts or shuttles to the top of their descents are typically less concerned with the ventilating properties of their shorts than those who spend lots of time pedaling to the top of the hill. Likewise, those who live and ride in more temperate climates may care less about ventilation and breathability than those who ride frequently in hot temperatures.

Some shorts come with ventilation in the form of laser-cut holes or mesh panels while other shorts are made with lightweight materials that are super airy and breathable on their own. Models like the Patagonia Dirt Roamer and Pearl Izumi Summit PRO Shell are super light, breathable, and quick drying, and are our top recommendations for riding in hot weather or on super high-intensity rides. Shorts like the Troy Lee Designs Mischief and the 100% Airmatic, on the other hand, and made from heavier materials that are better suited to days at the bike park or when riding in cooler temperatures. Again, what works best for you will depend on your specific needs.

Shredly All-Time women's mountain bike shorts style
Baggy mountain bike shorts are a style in and of themselves, but there are loads of options to suit your tastes. Shredly offers a huge range of cuts and prints, including this subtle topo map design. (photo: Kira Deschaux)

Style

On their own, baggy mountain bike shorts are a style choice. They signify that you ride dirt. Across the brands we tested there are a lot of different looks with some that focus more on sweet colors and patterns, like the Shredly All-Time and Wild Rye Freel and others that take a more subdued approach. The way different models fit also plays into style with some leaning towards more form-fitting and others trending baggier. How you like your shorts to fit will depend on your personal style and also your riding style. With so many options, most people should be able to find a pair that fits and looks how you want them to. When you look good you feel good, and when you feel good you can perform better on the bike.  

Brand

Some people are brand loyalists, and there is nothing wrong with that. If you have a brand and aesthetic that you like, go for that matching kit! There are quite a few brands out there, however, and, especially for women, there are a ton of different fits. While brand loyalty is fine, we feel that ensuring the shorts fit your body is much more important than the brand itself. If there is a pair that just feels right but maybe doesn’t match the rest of your kit (or your partner’s favorite brand), we say go for it. Having the right fit will enhance your comfort and performance more than any brand’s logo.

Riding a singletrack in the Wild Rye Freel women's mountain bike shorts
Many brands are taking steps to reduce the environmental impact of the products they make. Wild Rye, who make the Freel shorts pictured here, is one such brand that’s trying to make a difference. (photo: Kira Deschaux)

Environmental Impact

While most people participate in the sport of mountain biking for the enjoyment of being outside, virtually every product we buy related to riding bikes has some sort of environmental impact. Within the mountain bike industry, many brands are starting to come around and are trying to make positive changes in this regard. Some brands use materials made from recycled content or are reducing harmful chemicals used to treat their fabrics, while others support environmental sustainability projects or advocacy, among other things. As consumers, we have the power to speak with our wallets, so if the environmental impact of the products you wear is important to you, you can choose to support the brands that are making an effort. 

Warranty, Crash Replacement, or Repair

Mountain bikers love a warranty, right? Let’s face it, everything we use when mountain bike is prone to damage, and our shorts often take a beating from trailside bushes, trees, mud, dust, and the occasional crash. We’re not going to baby our mountain bike shorts, but we still want them to last a long time and get our money’s worth. Many shorts have warranties against manufacturing defects or offer exchanges/replacements if you get the wrong size. More recently, a number of brands offer crash repairs to help extend the life of your product rather than just throwing it away. Rapha, for example, includes color-matched patches to fix small holes with their Rapha Trail Shorts, and if it’s too difficult to repair it at home, they offer a free repair service. Likewise, Patagonia has DIY repair videos on their website and they have a product repair service as well as the Worn Wear program where you can trade in used gear for credit towards future purchases.

Value

In the world of mountain biking, shorts are relatively inexpensive compared to many of the other things we buy. Still, the price of shorts varies pretty dramatically among the models we tested from $69 up to $158. Any of the shorts in this review will get the job done better than non-mountain bike specific shorts, and most will likely last you a couple of seasons or more barring any catastrophic crashes or serious mistreatment. The biggest differences are that less expensive models tend to be made from less technical materials and have more basic designs than their more expensive counterparts. The Ripton & Co. Jorts, for example, are made from stretchy “performance denim” and are essentially just cut-off jean shorts. While they may not fit everyone’s idea of mountain bike shorts, they are surprisingly functional, versatile, have a unique style, and are relatively affordable. Still, we found the highest performance and best features in the more expensive models we tested.

Review author, Kira Deschaux, spent months and many hundreds of miles testing the best women’s mountain bike shorts on the market. (photo: Kira Deschaux)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should I Choose Mountain Bike Specific Shorts?

While you can certainly ride in any pair of shorts you want, we recommend mountain bike specific shorts for a number of reasons. First, the shorts are designed with mountain biking in mind. Most shorts have athletic cuts, articulated waists for enhanced comfort in the seated pedaling position, and high crotch gussets to prevent getting snagged on your seat. They are made from technical fabrics that stretch with your body, resist tearing, sometimes resist water, and dry quickly. Some shorts have ventilation, and most have pockets designed to hold items comfortably and securely while riding. They also come in varying styles and designs intended to suit different styles/types of riding.

Why Should I Wear Baggy Mountain Bike Shorts?

There’s certainly no rule that says all mountain bikers must ride in baggy shorts. In fact, many cross-country riders or racers choose to ride in spandex/lycra shorts for various reasons. That said, the majority of mountain bikers tend to wear baggy shorts these days. Not only do they provide a little modesty, but they also provide leg coverage and protection from the sun and serve as an additional layer of protection from scrapes and abrasion. If you wear knee pads, many of the longer inseam models interface with them well for added protection and a clean, gap-free look. It’s also a style thing, as many people simply prefer the way that baggy shorts look, and the variety of cuts, colors, and prints allow you to express yourself out on the trail.

What About a Padded Liner or Chamois?

Padded liner shorts, also known as a chamois (pronounced: chammy), are used by many, but certainly not all, riders to enhance comfort while riding. Comprised of a tight-fitting spandex or mesh material with a chamois pad for your underside, they create a cushioned surface between your sit bones and your bike saddle. When used with baggy mountain bike shorts, these thin liners are simply worn underneath. All of the shorts we tested for this buyer’s guide are sold without a padded liner short, although several can also be purchased with one for an additional fee. While an included liner short can add value to a purchase, they are typically not the highest quality, in our experience. In general, we have found that it’s best to spend a little more on a higher-quality padded liner short for maximum comfort. This ensures that you can get one that fits properly and provides the desired level of cushioning.

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