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10 Best Tri Shorts Women 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#2

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

Rating
10.0
Material
Chamois Padding
Fit

Most important from
60 reviews

Material
Fabric dries quickly and resists riding up or slipping down, maintaining a smooth fit on the thighs throughout activity.
Chamois Padding
The minimal chamois padding provides comfort without the usual bulk, making it easy to forget you're wearing them during long sessions.
Fit
Compression fit is strong but comfortable, perfectly supporting movement through swimming, biking, and running stages.
Leg Grippers
Fabric dries quickly and resists riding up or slipping down, maintaining a smooth fit on the thighs throughout activity.
Pockets
The absence of pockets is a notable downside for those wanting to carry small items during training or races.

The SLS3 Tri Shorts for Women are designed specifically for triathletes looking for a slim, athletic fit that supports performance. Made from a stretchy Nylon and Spandex blend, these shorts offer a second-skin feel that moves with you. The fabric’s flexibility and flatlock seams enhance comfort and reduce irritation during long races. The chamois padding here is thinner than typical cycling shorts, which helps prevent chafing and dries quickly — ideal for the transition from cycling to running.

An elastic waistband with a drawstring ensures the shorts stay in place, while the engineered single-layer leg grippers prevent the fabric from riding up without creating tightness or the 'sausage leg' effect. These features make the shorts comfortable for all three triathlon stages. However, the fit is quite compressive and tighter than regular workout shorts, so checking the size chart before buying is important to avoid discomfort. The shorts do not include pockets, which might be a downside if you want to carry small items during training or races.

These tri shorts provide a solid balance of comfort, performance, and style, particularly for women who want a close fit without sacrificing mobility or comfort on race day.

Rating
10.0
Material
Chamois Padding
Fit

Most important from
60 reviews

Material
Fabric dries quickly and resists riding up or slipping down, maintaining a smooth fit on the thighs throughout activity.
Chamois Padding
The minimal chamois padding provides comfort without the usual bulk, making it easy to forget you're wearing them during long sessions.
Fit
Compression fit is strong but comfortable, perfectly supporting movement through swimming, biking, and running stages.
Leg Grippers
Fabric dries quickly and resists riding up or slipping down, maintaining a smooth fit on the thighs throughout activity.
Pockets
The absence of pockets is a notable downside for those wanting to carry small items during training or races.
#3

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

Rating
10.0
Material
Chamois Padding
Fit

Most important from
60 reviews

Material
Material dries quickly and stretches well, accommodating different body types while maintaining a flattering fit.
Chamois Padding
Minimal chamois padding feels barely there, making the shorts comfortable for swimming, biking, and running without the usual bulk.
Fit
The shorts offer a sleek design with a higher waist and drawstring that provide a secure, comfortable fit without feeling bulky.
Pockets
The absence of pockets can be inconvenient for carrying small items during training or races.
Seam Construction
Flatlock seams and longer legs reduce irritation and chafing, enhancing overall comfort during triathlon segments.

The SLS3 Tri Shorts for Women are designed with an athletic, slim fit that compresses slightly to support muscles during triathlon activities. Made from a stretchy blend of nylon and spandex, they provide a snug fit that feels like a second skin, which helps with muscle support and movement. The elastic waistband with a drawstring helps keep the shorts securely in place, while the single-layer leg grippers prevent the shorts from riding up without feeling too tight or causing the 'sausage leg' effect some compression gear can have.

Comfort is a strong point here—the shorts have flatlock seams that reduce irritation and itchy feelings, and the legs are long enough to help stop chafing during running. The chamois padding is thinner than typical cycling shorts, which is good for preventing discomfort on the run and helps the shorts dry faster after swimming, but still offers enough cushioning for cycling segments. However, if you are used to thicker padding, you might notice the difference.

These tri shorts don’t have pockets, which some athletes might miss for carrying small items during training or races. Also, the shorts require hand washing, so care might be a bit more involved than regular sportswear. The product’s sizing runs tighter than casual leggings or yoga pants, so checking the size chart before buying is important to ensure a comfortable fit. They are best suited for women looking for performance-focused triathlon gear that balances comfort, style, and function without extra bulk, working well for swimming, biking, and running segments, especially for those who prefer lighter padding and a sleek, supportive fit.

Rating
10.0
Material
Chamois Padding
Fit

Most important from
60 reviews

Material
Material dries quickly and stretches well, accommodating different body types while maintaining a flattering fit.
Chamois Padding
Minimal chamois padding feels barely there, making the shorts comfortable for swimming, biking, and running without the usual bulk.
Fit
The shorts offer a sleek design with a higher waist and drawstring that provide a secure, comfortable fit without feeling bulky.
Pockets
The absence of pockets can be inconvenient for carrying small items during training or races.
Seam Construction
Flatlock seams and longer legs reduce irritation and chafing, enhancing overall comfort during triathlon segments.

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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