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10 Best Tri Shorts Women 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

SLS3 Tri Shorts for Women - Triathlon Shorts in Womens - FX Slim Athletic Fit (Black/Sunrise Blooms, Large)

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,247
Material
Chamois Padding
Fit

Most important from
55 reviews

Material
Once they're on, you forget you're wearing them thanks to the great compression and quick-drying fabric.
Chamois Padding
The thin pad is comfortable for running and swimming, although it doesn't dry as quickly as the rest of the material.
Fit
Perfect fit for larger sizes, with stretchy material that stays in place during activities.

The SLS3 Tri Shorts for Women offer a specialized fit designed for performance, made with an 80% Nylon and 20% Spandex blend that provides flexibility and muscle support. The material is stretchy and forms a 'second skin' feel, which can be highly beneficial for athletic activities. However, this means the fit is tighter than everyday athletic wear like yoga pants, so reviewing the size chart is essential for a comfortable fit.

The shorts feature a thin but effective chamois padding, which is less bulky than traditional cycling shorts, reducing chafing and drying quickly, making it suitable for both biking and running. The elastic waistband and drawstring keep the shorts securely in place, while the leg grippers prevent the shorts from riding up without causing the 'sausage leg' effect. The flatlock seams add to the comfort by minimizing potential irritation from seams.

One notable downside is the absence of pockets, which could be a drawback for those who need to carry small items during a race. Also, the shorts require hand washing, which may be less convenient for some users. The design and color options are visually appealing, adding a stylish element to the functionality. These tri shorts are ideal for female triathletes looking for performance-oriented gear that offers both comfort and style during races.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,247
Material
Chamois Padding
Fit

Most important from
55 reviews

Material
Once they're on, you forget you're wearing them thanks to the great compression and quick-drying fabric.
Chamois Padding
The thin pad is comfortable for running and swimming, although it doesn't dry as quickly as the rest of the material.
Fit
Perfect fit for larger sizes, with stretchy material that stays in place during activities.
#2

Zoot Women’s Core 6-Inch Tri Shorts – Women’s Performance Triathlon Shorts with 6in Inseam, Drawstring Closure, and Hip Pockets (Black, Large)

Rating
9.6
Chamois Padding
Fit
Pockets

Most important from
174 reviews

Chamois Padding
The padding strikes a perfect balance, providing comfort on the bike without causing discomfort during the run or swim.
Fit
An adjustable waist string ensures a secure and customizable fit, accommodating different sizes comfortably.
Pockets
Convenient hip pockets are ideal for carrying fuel or essentials without the need for additional gear.
Seam Construction
Quality construction is evident, though sizing runs small, so careful size selection is important.

The Zoot Women’s Core 6-Inch Tri Shorts are designed with triathletes in mind, offering a solid balance of comfort and performance across swimming, biking, and running. Made from a stretchy Italian Endura+ fabric, these shorts dry quickly and provide UPF 50+ sun protection, which is great for long outdoor training sessions. The integrated compression fit is more comfortable than typical compression shorts and helps reduce muscle fatigue while improving aerodynamics.

The seams use a stitch design that minimizes chafing, enhancing comfort during long races. For keeping essentials close, the two hip pockets are very convenient. The BIOWRAP technology ensures the leg openings stay in place without uncomfortable grippers, so the shorts won’t ride up during activity. The pull-on closure with a drawstring adds to a secure fit without fuss.

These shorts are best suited for triathletes looking for a versatile, comfortable option that moves well across all three sports, although serious cyclists who prioritize thicker padding might want to explore specialized cycling shorts. They present a well-rounded option for women wanting reliable performance and protection in a tri-short.

Rating
9.6
Chamois Padding
Fit
Pockets

Most important from
174 reviews

Chamois Padding
The padding strikes a perfect balance, providing comfort on the bike without causing discomfort during the run or swim.
Fit
An adjustable waist string ensures a secure and customizable fit, accommodating different sizes comfortably.
Pockets
Convenient hip pockets are ideal for carrying fuel or essentials without the need for additional gear.
Seam Construction
Quality construction is evident, though sizing runs small, so careful size selection is important.
#3

SLS3 Triathlon Shorts Women - FRT Tri Shorts Women Triathalon Shorts - Slim Athletic Fit Womens Tri Shorts, Padded (Black/Martinica Hibiscus Blooms, Medium)

Rating
9.3
Fit
Leg Grippers

Most important from
25 reviews

Fit
Choosing the right size is crucial; they need to be comfortable both wet and dry.
Leg Grippers
Despite concerns about compression, the shorts stayed right where they needed to be throughout all three sports.

The SLS3 Triathlon Shorts for women are designed with an emphasis on performance and comfort, making them suitable for triathletes. These shorts are made from a high-quality blend of 80% Nylon and 20% Spandex, providing excellent stretch and a snug, compressive fit. The material and flatlock seams ensure comfort and reduce irritation during long wear. The thin chamois padding is a standout feature, offering enough cushion for cycling while drying quickly and minimizing chafing during running. However, this padding is thinner than what you might find in typical cycling shorts, which could be less comfortable for those who prefer more cushioning on longer bike rides.

The elastic waistband and drawstring help keep the shorts in place, and the silicone gripper-free leg finish avoids the discomfort of tight leg bands. These shorts are designed to fit like a second skin, which means they will be tighter than casual wear like yoga pants. Checking the size chart is crucial to ensure the correct fit. One potential downside is the lack of detailed information about pockets, which could be a consideration for those needing storage during races. Moreover, the hand wash care instructions might be less convenient for some users.

Rating
9.3
Fit
Leg Grippers

Most important from
25 reviews

Fit
Choosing the right size is crucial; they need to be comfortable both wet and dry.
Leg Grippers
Despite concerns about compression, the shorts stayed right where they needed to be throughout all three sports.

Buying Guide for the Best Tri Shorts Women

When it comes to picking the right tri-shorts for women, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit and performance for your needs. Tri-shorts are designed to be worn during triathlons, which means they need to be comfortable, durable, and functional across swimming, cycling, and running. Here are the key specs to consider and how to navigate them to find the perfect pair for you.
MaterialThe material of tri-shorts is crucial because it affects comfort, durability, and performance. Look for materials that are quick-drying, breathable, and have good stretch. Common materials include nylon, polyester, and spandex blends. If you prioritize comfort and flexibility, opt for a higher percentage of spandex. For durability and quick-drying properties, nylon or polyester blends are ideal. Consider your typical race conditions and personal comfort preferences when choosing the material.
Chamois PaddingChamois padding is the cushioning in the seat area of the shorts, designed to provide comfort during the cycling portion of a triathlon. The thickness and type of padding can vary. Thicker padding offers more comfort for longer rides but may be less comfortable for running. Thinner padding is less intrusive during the run but may offer less comfort on the bike. If you are a beginner or have longer bike segments, opt for thicker padding. Experienced triathletes or those with shorter bike segments might prefer thinner padding.
FitThe fit of tri-shorts is essential for comfort and performance. They should be snug but not too tight, allowing for a full range of motion without causing chafing. Look for shorts with a good balance of compression to support your muscles and reduce fatigue. Consider your body shape and size, and try on different brands and styles to find the best fit. If you are between sizes, consider the type of material and its stretch properties to decide whether to size up or down.
Leg GrippersLeg grippers are the bands at the bottom of the shorts' legs that keep them in place during activity. They prevent the shorts from riding up and causing discomfort. Look for grippers that are comfortable and do not dig into your skin. Silicone grippers are common and effective. If you have sensitive skin, look for softer, wider grippers. Consider how the grippers feel during movement and ensure they provide a secure fit without restricting circulation.
PocketsPockets in tri-shorts can be very useful for carrying nutrition, keys, or other small items during a race. The number, size, and placement of pockets can vary. Some shorts have side pockets, while others have rear pockets. If you need to carry gels or other items, look for shorts with secure, easy-to-access pockets. Consider your race strategy and what you need to carry to determine the best pocket configuration for you.
Seam ConstructionThe construction of the seams in tri-shorts affects both comfort and durability. Flatlock seams are ideal as they lie flat against the skin and reduce the risk of chafing. Look for shorts with minimal seams in high-friction areas. If you are prone to chafing, prioritize shorts with flatlock seams and smooth construction. Consider the quality of the stitching and how it feels against your skin during movement.

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