Best Bike Shorts For Touring (2024 Updated)

When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

If you're planning a long-distance cycling trip, one of the most important pieces of gear you'll need is a good pair of bike shorts. However, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here are five key points to consider when looking for the best bike shorts for touring:

1. Comfort: When you're spending hours in the saddle, comfort is key. Look for shorts with a high-quality chamois that provides ample padding and support.

2. Durability: Touring can be tough on your gear, so you'll want shorts that are built to last. Look for high-quality materials and construction that can withstand the rigors of long-distance riding.

3. Fit: A good pair of bike shorts should fit snugly without being too tight. Look for shorts with a comfortable waistband and leg grippers that keep the shorts in place without digging in.

4. Breathability: When you're sweating on a long ride, you'll appreciate shorts that are breathable and wick away moisture. Look for materials like polyester or nylon that are designed to keep you cool and dry.

5. Style: While style might not be the most important factor, it's still worth considering. Look for shorts that fit your personal style and that you'll feel comfortable wearing for hours on end.

By keeping these key points in mind, you'll be able to find the best bike shorts for touring that meet your needs and help you enjoy your ride to the fullest.

10 Best Bike Shorts For Touring

1. Women's Terry Touring Cycling Shorts With 8 Inch Inseam And Padded Compression For Multi-Day Bike Rides, Size Xl, Black.

The Terry Touring Cycling Shorts for women are the perfect multi-day bottoms for outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, running, gardening, golf, and e-bike cruise travel. These shorts are designed with a wide waistband that features an elastic-free front yoke for superior comfort. The 8" inseam and flat seam construction help reduce the potential for chafing, ensuring you stay comfortable during long rides.

The shorts also feature a zippered pocket at the high right hip that is smartphone-friendly, allowing you to keep your device close by for easy access. The Terry Touring Cycling Shorts are made with a Flex Air Tour Padded Chamois, which is designed by Terry and made in Italy. This chamois provides the highest level of padding, soft wing technology, and perforated foam for breathability.

The Terry Touring Cycling Shorts are suitable for all kinds of workouts and outdoor activities. The shorts are made with moisture-wicking technology that helps keep you dry and comfortable during intense activities. The shorts are also fully featured, making them the best bottoms for touring.

At Terry, we stand by the products we sell and back them unconditionally. We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can be confident in your purchase. If for any reason you're not completely satisfied with your Terry Touring Cycling Shorts, please don't hesitate to contact us.

In conclusion, the Terry Touring Cycling Shorts for women are the perfect multi-day bottoms for outdoor activities. They are designed with a wide waistband, flat seam construction, and a zippered pocket for added convenience. The Flex Air Tour Padded Chamois provides the highest level of padding and breathability, making these shorts suitable for all kinds of workouts and outdoor activities. With our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can ride it, wear it, love it, or return it.

2. Terry Women's Gt Bike Short – 8.5" Inseam, Moderate Compression, All-Day Comfort, Black, M

The Terry Women's Grand Touring Bike Short is an essential cycling bottom designed with all-day comfort in mind. With an 8.5-inch inseam and moderate compression, this padded cycling short provides the perfect level of coverage and support for your outdoor adventures.

The waistband is elastic-free and bonded to reduce seaming against your front waist, ensuring maximum comfort during long rides. The leg bands are also designed without a high degree of restriction, using silicone chain grip on the inside of the leg hem to keep things gently in place.

The sculpted 8-panel fit with flat seam construction helps prevent chafing, while the innovative bonded hem at the front waist effectively removes the waistband for all-day comfort in the bike position. The higher rise fit is contoured to provide more coverage at the rear, ensuring excellent comfort and coverage for women of all shapes and sizes.

The Terry Women's Grand Touring Bike Short features a Flex Air Tour Chamois with the highest level of padding, soft wing technology, and perforated foam for breathability. This chamois provides all-day comfort and support for your cycling adventures.

In addition to cycling, these shorts are suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities, including touring, gravel riding, hiking, running, gardening, golf, ebike cruise travel, or other kinds of workouts and outdoor activities.

Terry stands behind the quality of their products and offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If for any reason you're not completely satisfied with your Terry purchase, please do not hesitate to contact them.

Overall, the Terry Women's Grand Touring Bike Short is an excellent choice for women who want to stay comfortable and supported during their outdoor adventures. With its innovative design and high-quality materials, this cycling bottom is sure to become a favorite in your activewear wardrobe.

3. Women's Terry Touring Cycling Shorts With 10" Inseam And Compression Padding – Black, Large.

The Terry Touring Cycling Shorts/Long for women is a high-quality and versatile product suitable for various outdoor activities. Designed with a 10-inch inseam, this short is perfect for full coverage and taller riders. It is also available in 5-inch and 8-inch inseam options and plus sizes to cater to different preferences.

The shorts boast a precision fit with a contoured waistband that ensures maximum comfort for the wearer. It also features a side zip pocket that allows you to keep your essentials close by. The Terry leg grippers hold the shorts firmly in place, preventing them from riding up during your ride.

One of the most important features of the Terry Touring Cycling Shorts/Long is the Fleet Air Padded Chamois. This seamless chamois is made with 4-way stretch Elastic Interface Technology and multi-level foam padding, perforated for ventilation and breathability. The result is a comfortable and irritation-free experience for the rider, even during long rides.

These shorts are perfect for various outdoor activities, including cycling, e-bike cruise travel, peloton, studio spin classes, or other kinds of workouts. They are designed to cater to the needs of women who enjoy staying active and exploring the outdoors.

Terry stands behind its products and offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, you can return it. Terry takes pride in the quality of its products and backs them unconditionally.

In conclusion, the Terry Touring Cycling Shorts/Long is an exceptional product that is perfect for any woman who loves to stay active and explore the outdoors. With its precision fit, contoured waistband, side zip pocket, Terry leg grippers, and Fleet Air Padded Chamois, it offers maximum comfort and performance during your rides.

4. Aero Tech Men's Gel Touring Usa Padded Shorts With Innovative Mesh Pockets (Medium, Charcoal)

The Aero Tech Men's Gel Touring USA Padded Shorts are a top-of-the-line product designed to provide long-distance comfort and durability. These shorts feature a high-density gel chamois pad that provides support for up to 6+ hours in the saddle. The smooth single fabric face of the pad reduces friction and chafing, ensuring that riders can focus on their ride without discomfort.

Made with high-quality materials, these shorts are built to last multiple riding seasons. The anti-chafe and durable crotch fabric, along with the premium thread, ensure that the shorts can withstand even the toughest rides. The shorts also come with innovative features, including large mesh side storage pockets that provide ample space for riders to store their essentials. The drawstring elastic waistband ensures a secure and comfortable fit, while the soft silicone leg gripper keeps the shorts in place during long rides. Additionally, the 3M reflective accents provide high visibility in low-light conditions, making them ideal for night riding.

These shorts come in 28 color options, including black, yellow, royal blue, safety yellow, teal, red, and charcoal. The extended size range includes big and tall options, making these shorts accessible to all riders. The Aero Tech Men's Gel Touring USA Padded Shorts are perfect for cyclists who are looking for a comfortable and durable product that will last them for multiple riding seasons. With their high-quality materials and innovative features, these shorts are a must-have for any serious cyclist.

5. Sponeed Men's Bike Shorts Padded Race Fit Bicycle Bottoms Cycling Short Racing Fit Us Medium Grey

Sponeed Men's Bike Shorts Padded Race Fit Bicycle Bottoms Cycling Short Racing Fit US Medium Grey are a must-have for any cyclist. These shorts offer both comfort and performance, making them suitable for all levels of cyclists, including road biking and mountain biking. The shorts are available in US sizes, and customers are advised to check the size chart in the product description with their weight, height, and waist measurements. It is recommended to go up one size if a more loose fit is preferred.

The shorts are made of high-quality fabric, featuring a four-way performance stretch and a moisture-wicking feature. The 6-panel anatomic design provides superior comfort, and the flat seam fabric with just the right amount of stretch feels ultra-soft and smooth against the skin. The sublimation print never fades out, ensuring the shorts' longevity.

These shorts are not only comfortable and durable but also easy to maintain. They can be washed under 100 degrees F, either by hand or machine (in a mesh laundry bag when washing in the machine). It is not recommended to brush or bleach the shorts.

The Sponeed Men's Bike Shorts come with silicone leg grippers that keep the shorts in place, and a 5D gel pad in key areas for added comfort. The quick-dry and breathable feature of the shorts allows the cyclist to feel more comfortable during their ride.

These shorts are not only practical but also stylish. They are available in a sleek grey color and come in an individual nice package, making them a perfect gift for any cyclist.

Sponeed is a reputable brand that believes in providing top-level quality and good design cycling clothing, along with excellent customer service. They also accept custom bike wear orders, such as club uniforms, bicycle gloves, and cycling helmets. If there are any size issues with the shorts, customers can contact Sponeed for a suitable replacement promptly.

In conclusion, Sponeed Men's Bike Shorts Padded Race Fit Bicycle Bottoms Cycling Short Racing Fit US Medium Grey are an excellent choice for any cyclist. They provide the perfect balance between comfort, performance, and durability, making them an ideal investment for any avid cyclist.

6. Ally Padded Mtb Shorts – Baggy, Green, Large With 6 Pockets

The Ally Mens Mountain Bike Shorts are designed to provide the ultimate comfort and protection for mountain biking enthusiasts. The improved padded bike shorts offer a comfortable ride with a removable 3D coolmax gel padded underwear inside that enhances your riding experience.

Made from highly durable material, these mountain bike shorts for men are water repellent, providing vital protection when muddy water splashes onto you during your ride. The quick-drying and lightweight material of the mtb shorts is highly breathable, drawing sweat away from your skin and allowing you to stay cool throughout your ride.

The biker shorts with pockets feature six pockets in total, including two slant pockets and four zipper pockets, that securely store your items such as a 5.5" mobile phone, keys, cards, and more. The zipper pockets ensure that your items remain safe and secure, even during the most intense rides.

The bicycle shorts for men are designed with two adjustment hook and loop fasteners on the sides, allowing you to easily adjust the waist for a comfortable fit. The loose-fit design of the shorts ensures maximum mobility and flexibility, making them perfect for any terrain.

The Ally Mens Mountain Bike Shorts are available in a stylish green color and in a large size. These padded MTB shorts are perfect for any biker who wants to enjoy a comfortable and safe ride without compromising on style. Whether you're an experienced mountain biker or a beginner, these shorts are a must-have for any biking enthusiast.

7. Terry Women's Plus Cycling Shorts – Padded Compression – 9" Inseam – Black, 2x

The Terry Women's Touring Bike Short/Plus is a top-of-the-line cycling short designed specifically for endurance riding. Featuring an increased level of multi-density foam, this short offers superior comfort and support for long-distance rides.

The shorts are seamlessly molded with all-way stretch, center padding, and unpadded wings that improve freedom of movement without bunching or bulk. Designed by Terry and made in Italy using Elastic Interface Technology, these shorts are both stylish and functional.

The Terry Women's Touring Bike Short/Plus features eight panels, a wide waistband with an elastic-free front yoke, and flat-seam construction for a comfortable and secure fit. The side-zip pocket at the hip provides a convenient place to store small items during your ride.

This short is made from compression, super wicking T-Dry nylon/polyester/spandex, which is our quickest dry fabric. The Flex Air Tour chamois provides additional padding for longer distance riding, while the gentle woven leg gripper keeps the shorts in place during your ride. Small perforations expedite air flow to aid in wicking moisture and increasing breathability on long hot rides.

At Terry, we stand behind all of our products and offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If for any reason you're not completely satisfied with your Terry purchase, please do not hesitate to contact us. With the Terry Women's Touring Bike Short/Plus, you can ride it, wear it, and love it, or return it.

8. Women's Terry Touring Cycling Shorts – 5" Inseam, Padded, Moisture-Wicking, Black, M

The Terry Touring Cycling Short/Short is a high-performance compression bottom designed specifically for women who love endurance riding. With an increased level of multi-density foam, these shorts offer superior comfort and support, making them perfect for multi-day cycling tours.

Crafted from a tri-blended fabric, these shorts are designed to keep you dry and comfortable all day. The fabric is moisture-wicking, meaning it quickly absorbs sweat and allows it to evaporate, keeping you feeling fresh and dry, even on the hottest days.

Featuring a 5 inch inseam, these shorts are perfect for women who prefer a shorter length. The wide waistband with elastic-free front yoke provides superior comfort, while the flat seam construction ensures that there is no irritation or chafing during long rides.

The Terry Touring Cycling Short/Short comes equipped with a zippered pocket at the high right hip, making it smartphone-friendly. The Flex Air Tour chamois adds additional padding for longer distance riding, while the gentle woven leg gripper keeps the shorts in place without causing any discomfort.

The compressive nylon/polyester/spandex fabric of these shorts is quick-drying, making them perfect for both indoor and outdoor active recreations. They are suitable for a wide range of activities, including long distance cycling, touring, cruise e-bike travel, mountain biking, fishing, trail hiking, running, gardening, golf, or any other kind of sporting outdoor activity.

At Terry, we stand behind the quality of our products, and we want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. That's why we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If for any reason you're not completely satisfied with your Terry Touring Cycling Short/Short, please don't hesitate to contact us. Ride it. Wear it. Love it, or Return it. We want you to be completely happy with your purchase.

9. Men's Gel Touring Bib Shorts – Made In Usa (Xx-Large, Black)

The Men's Gel Touring Bib Shorts are a high-quality cycling apparel item that promises both comfort and functionality for long rides and cycling tours. Made in the USA, these bib shorts come in a black color and are available in XX-Large size.

Featuring a Gel Touring Chamois, these bib shorts are designed to offer superior comfort and support during prolonged cycling. The multi-density pad is made with high-quality materials that conform to the shape of the rider's body, providing cushioning and reducing pressure points. The chamois is also breathable, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying, ensuring that the rider stays cool and dry throughout the ride.

The Gel Touring Bib Shorts also feature innovative mesh side pockets that provide convenient storage for small items such as energy gels, keys, or a phone. These pockets are designed to be easily accessible and secure, so the rider can focus on the ride without worrying about losing their belongings.

To ensure a secure fit, the Gel Touring Bib Shorts come with silicone leg grippers that prevent the shorts from riding up during the ride. These grippers are designed to be comfortable and non-restrictive, so the rider can move freely and without discomfort.

Safety is also a top priority with the Gel Touring Bib Shorts, which feature 3M reflective safety accents that increase visibility in low-light conditions. These accents are strategically placed to ensure that the rider is visible from all angles, reducing the risk of accidents and increasing overall safety.

One of the most significant advantages of the Gel Touring Bib Shorts is the extended sizing options that are available. These bib shorts come in sizes ranging from X-Small to 5X-Large, and tall sizes and standard cycling shorts are also available. This ensures that riders of all shapes and sizes can find a comfortable and well-fitting pair of bib shorts that meet their specific needs.

In conclusion, the Men's Gel Touring Bib Shorts are a top-of-the-line cycling apparel item that offer superior comfort, functionality, and safety for long rides and cycling tours. With their innovative features and extended sizing options, these bib shorts are a must-have for any serious cyclist looking for a reliable and comfortable pair of bib shorts.

10. Hiauspor Men's Mountain Bike Shorts Stretch Mtb Shorts Quick Dry With Zipper Pocket (Green, Large)

The Hiauspor Men's Mountain Bike Shorts are a versatile and durable choice for any outdoor enthusiast. Featuring an adjustable waist design with elastic, belt loops, and hook and loop fastener adjustment tabs, these shorts provide a comfortable and secure fit. The double snaps at the waist and strong hook and loop fastener ensure that the shorts won't come undone during intense activity.

The shorts also come equipped with five deep pockets, all with quality zippers, providing ample space for storing essentials. The zippers are easy to open and close and won't get stuck or break, ensuring that your belongings remain safe and secure.

Made from a 4-way stretch fabric, these shorts offer excellent mobility and maximum freedom of movement. They are resistant to abrasions, tears, and scuffs, making them ideal for rough and tumble outdoor activities. The reinforced crotch seams provide added durability, ensuring that the shorts will last through even the most challenging terrain.

These shorts are not just for mountain biking, they are versatile and usable for a range of outdoor activities. Whether you're road cycling, hiking, traveling, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, these shorts are a reliable and functional choice. They offer great performance and are a great value for your money.

Overall, the Hiauspor Men's Mountain Bike Shorts are a high-quality choice for anyone looking for durable and versatile outdoor shorts. They offer excellent stretch and mobility, multiple pockets with quality zippers, and reinforced seams for added durability. These shorts are a great investment for any outdoor enthusiast.

Best Bike Shorts For Touring FAQs

Are padded bike shorts necessary for touring, and if so, what type of padding is best?

Padded bike shorts are highly recommended for touring as it provides additional comfort and reduces the risk of chafing and soreness. The type of padding that works best depends on personal preferences and the duration of the ride. Gel padding is often preferred for its shock-absorbing properties, while foam padding is more breathable and lightweight. Some bike shorts also come with multi-density padding that offers varying levels of support for different areas of the body. It is essential to choose bike shorts with a good quality chamois, which is the padded insert that sits between the body and the bike seat. A well-designed chamois should be anatomically shaped, moisture-wicking, and have a seamless construction to prevent friction. Overall, investing in a pair of padded bike shorts can make a significant difference in the comfort and enjoyment of a long-distance tour.

How do I choose the right size and fit for my bike shorts for touring?

Choosing the right size and fit for your bike shorts is crucial for your comfort and performance during touring. Firstly, measure your waist and hips to determine your size according to the manufacturer's sizing chart. Make sure to also consider the length of the shorts, as longer inseams provide more coverage and protection from chafing. Look for a snug fit that is not too tight, as this can restrict movement and cause discomfort. It's also important to consider the padding or chamois in the shorts and ensure it is positioned correctly for your anatomy. Try on different brands and styles to find a pair that suits your body shape and preferences. Don't be afraid to invest in high-quality shorts, as they will provide better durability and comfort in the long run.

What are some recommended brands or specific models of bike shorts for touring?

There are several brands of bike shorts that are recommended for touring, including Pearl Izumi, Castelli, Gore, and Assos. These brands offer a variety of models with different features, such as chamois padding, moisture-wicking materials, and compression technology. Some specific models that are popular for touring include the Pearl Izumi Quest, Castelli Free Aero Race, Gore C5, and Assos T.Equipe Evo. It is important to choose bike shorts that are comfortable and fit well, as you will be spending long hours in them while touring. Look for shorts with a good chamois padding that will provide support and prevent chafing, and consider the length and fit of the shorts to ensure they are appropriate for your body type and riding style. Ultimately, the best bike shorts for touring will vary based on personal preference and individual needs, so it may be helpful to try on several different brands and models before making a purchase.

What are the best materials for bike shorts for touring?

The best materials for bike shorts for touring are those that are breathable, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying. These materials will keep the rider comfortable and dry during long rides. Some of the most popular materials for bike shorts for touring include nylon, polyester, and spandex. Nylon is durable and resistant to abrasion, while polyester is lightweight and breathable. Spandex is stretchy, making it ideal for form-fitting shorts that move with the rider. Additionally, some bike shorts for touring may also have additional features such as padding or chamois to provide extra comfort and support to the rider. Ultimately, the best material for bike shorts for touring will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the rider.

What features should I look for in bike shorts for long-distance touring?

When choosing bike shorts for long-distance touring, there are several features you should consider. Firstly, look for shorts with a high-quality chamois or padding to provide comfort during extended periods of sitting. Secondly, opt for shorts with a snug fit to reduce chafing and irritation. Thirdly, consider the material – look for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you cool and dry. Fourthly, look for shorts with multiple pockets for storing small items like snacks or a phone. Finally, consider the overall durability of the shorts – long-distance touring can be tough on gear, so choose a pair that can withstand the rigours of the road. By considering these factors, you'll be able to find a pair of bike shorts that will provide comfort and support during your long-distance tour.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Sharing is caring!

Leave a Comment