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10 Best Tri Shorts 2026 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

MY KILOMETRE Mens Triathlon Shorts with Adjustable Drawstring Easy Reach Leg Pockets Chamois for Long-Distance Tri Race (Black-White Medium)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,384
Chamois Padding
Fit
Leg Grippers

Most important from
850 reviews

Chamois Padding
The legs do not ride up, and the padding strikes the right balance between comfort and functionality.
Fit
These shorts are half the price of name brands but just as comfortable, fitting true to size.
Leg Grippers
The grip on the legs is good and comfortable, and the side pockets are large and convenient.
Pockets
The mesh side pockets are perfect for holding nutrition, phone, and other essentials, making them practical for various activities.

The MY KILOMETRE Men's Triathlon Shorts are designed with a blend of 78% Regenerated Polyamide and 22% Xtra Life Lycra fibre, which makes them durable and chlorine resistant, suitable for both pool swims and outdoor use with UPF 50+ protection. The moderate compression helps with muscle support during long-distance races.

These shorts feature the MK TRI2.0 MULTI DENSITY CHAMOIS for enhanced comfort and performance, specifically designed to support the aero position on the bike and comfort during the run. The chamois padding is a significant strength, as it balances cushioning and flexibility well for long-distance triathlons. The shorts also come with accessible storage pockets on each side, providing easy access to nutrition during activities.

The ultra-thin and ultra-light elastic leg grippers ensure a snug fit without discomfort from silicone, making them ideal for extended wear. Additionally, the flat locked stitching minimizes chafing and follows the body's contours, enhancing comfort and durability. However, the requirement to hand wash the shorts might be seen as slightly inconvenient for those looking for low-maintenance gear. Despite this, the MY KILOMETRE Men's Triathlon Shorts offer a combination of comfort, functionality, and durability that makes them a strong choice for triathletes, especially those participating in longer events.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,384
Chamois Padding
Fit
Leg Grippers

Most important from
850 reviews

Chamois Padding
The legs do not ride up, and the padding strikes the right balance between comfort and functionality.
Fit
These shorts are half the price of name brands but just as comfortable, fitting true to size.
Leg Grippers
The grip on the legs is good and comfortable, and the side pockets are large and convenient.
Pockets
The mesh side pockets are perfect for holding nutrition, phone, and other essentials, making them practical for various activities.
#2

MY KILOMETRE Mens Triathlon Shorts with Adjustable Drawstring Easy Reach Leg Pockets Chamois for Long-Distance Tri Race (Black-red Medium)

Rating
10.0
Material
Chamois Padding
Fit

Most important from
850 reviews

Material
These shorts hold up exceptionally well, maintaining their quality and appearance despite heavy training and frequent washing.
Chamois Padding
Padding is firm and multi-density, offering decent comfort on the bike but may feel stiff during swimming or for those preferring softer cushioning.
Fit
The fit is precise, providing comfort and support with no chafing even during long rides or runs.
Leg Grippers
Compression can loosen after extended use in water and on the bike, which may affect the snugness around thighs and hips.
Pockets
Plenty of well-designed pockets offer convenient storage for energy gels, featuring ventilation to prevent water pooling during swims.

The MY KILOMETRE Men’s Triathlon Shorts are designed with high-performance features suited for long-distance tri races. Made from a durable blend of 80% polyamide and 20% Xtra Life Lycra, these shorts offer muscle compression, improved aerodynamics, and chlorine resistance, making them great for both pool swims and cycling. The UPF 50+ protection is a nice bonus for outdoor use. The chamois padding is multi-density and shaped specifically for the aero bike position, which should provide good comfort during cycling and the run, but might feel a bit firm if you prefer softer padding.

The adjustable drawstring helps secure the fit, while the wide, elastic leg grippers with silicone prints prevent the shorts from riding up, enhancing comfort during movement. Flat locked stitching minimizes chafing, which is essential for long races. One standout feature is the easy-to-access storage pockets on each leg, perfect for carrying nutrition without interrupting your ride or run. These shorts require hand washing, which might be less convenient for some. Also, the pull-on closure is simple but might not offer as tight a fit as zippered options. This product is well-suited for triathletes looking for durable, functional shorts with practical storage and a focus on comfort and performance.

Rating
10.0
Material
Chamois Padding
Fit

Most important from
850 reviews

Material
These shorts hold up exceptionally well, maintaining their quality and appearance despite heavy training and frequent washing.
Chamois Padding
Padding is firm and multi-density, offering decent comfort on the bike but may feel stiff during swimming or for those preferring softer cushioning.
Fit
The fit is precise, providing comfort and support with no chafing even during long rides or runs.
Leg Grippers
Compression can loosen after extended use in water and on the bike, which may affect the snugness around thighs and hips.
Pockets
Plenty of well-designed pockets offer convenient storage for energy gels, featuring ventilation to prevent water pooling during swims.
#3

Zoot Men’s Core 9-Inch Tri Shorts, Quick Dry Performance Triathlon Shorts with Cycling Chamois Pad, Pockets & UPF 50+ Fabric - Jet Black - Large

Rating
10.0
Material
Chamois Padding
Fit

Most important from
171 reviews

Material
Quick-drying fabric keeps you comfortable from swim to bike to run, making them ideal for multi-stage triathlon use.
Chamois Padding
The chamois padding strikes a perfect balance between protection and minimal bulk, providing great support during cycling without hindering running or swimming.
Fit
The shorts deliver excellent comfort and a solid fit with no waist slipping, ensuring they stay securely in place throughout the race.
Leg Grippers
The leg grippers use high-quality elastane that effectively prevents the shorts from riding up without causing discomfort or bunching.

The Zoot Men’s Core 9-Inch Tri Shorts are designed specifically for triathletes looking for comfort and performance throughout all three race stages. Made with premium Italian fabric, these shorts dry quickly and offer excellent breathability, which helps you stay comfortable during long training sessions or races. The chamois padding is ultra-plush and targeted to provide good support during cycling without feeling bulky or uncomfortable during swimming or running. This means you can wear them through all parts of your triathlon without needing to change.

The shorts have a mid-rise fit with a secure but gentle leg gripper that keeps them in place without squeezing your legs, helping you avoid distractions or discomfort. Two hip pockets are practical for storing nutrition or small essentials, which is handy during long races or training. The seams are designed to move with your body and prevent chafing, contributing to comfort. Some triathletes might find the 9-inch inseam a bit long if they prefer a shorter leg length. Also, the minimalist design might feel plain to those wanting more color options or flashy styles.

Made in the USA or imported, and machine washable, these shorts combine durability with easy care. If you're looking for a reliable, comfortable, and race-ready triathlon short that balances support and quick drying, the Zoot Core 9” is a solid choice.

Rating
10.0
Material
Chamois Padding
Fit

Most important from
171 reviews

Material
Quick-drying fabric keeps you comfortable from swim to bike to run, making them ideal for multi-stage triathlon use.
Chamois Padding
The chamois padding strikes a perfect balance between protection and minimal bulk, providing great support during cycling without hindering running or swimming.
Fit
The shorts deliver excellent comfort and a solid fit with no waist slipping, ensuring they stay securely in place throughout the race.
Leg Grippers
The leg grippers use high-quality elastane that effectively prevents the shorts from riding up without causing discomfort or bunching.

Buying Guide for the Best Tri Shorts

When it comes to choosing the right tri-shorts, it's important to consider several key factors to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Tri-shorts are a crucial piece of gear for triathletes, providing comfort and performance across swimming, cycling, and running. The right pair can make a significant difference in your overall experience and performance. Here are the key specifications to consider when selecting tri-shorts and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.
MaterialThe material of tri-shorts is important because it affects comfort, durability, and performance. Most tri-shorts are made from a blend of synthetic fabrics like nylon, polyester, and spandex. These materials are chosen for their moisture-wicking properties, stretchability, and quick-drying capabilities. When choosing tri-shorts, look for materials that offer a good balance of compression and flexibility. If you prioritize comfort during long races, opt for softer, more breathable fabrics. For those who need more support, look for materials with higher compression.
Chamois PaddingChamois padding is the cushioning in the seat area of the tri-shorts, providing 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 not provide as much comfort on the bike. Consider your primary discomfort points and the length of your races when choosing the right level of padding.
FitThe fit of tri-shorts is crucial for comfort and performance. A good fit should be snug but not too tight, allowing for a full range of motion without causing chafing. Tri-shorts come in various lengths, from short to long. Shorter lengths may be more comfortable for running, while longer lengths can provide more coverage and support during cycling. Try on different sizes and lengths to see what feels best for your body type and the specific demands of your races.
Leg GrippersLeg grippers are the bands at the bottom of the shorts' legs that help keep them in place. They prevent the shorts from riding up during activities. Good leg grippers should be comfortable and effective without being too tight. Silicone grippers are common and provide a secure fit. If you find that leg grippers are too tight or cause discomfort, look for tri-shorts with wider or softer grippers.
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 tri-shorts have side pockets, while others have rear pockets. Consider what you need to carry and how accessible you need those items to be during your race. If you prefer to carry minimal items, fewer or smaller pockets may be sufficient. For longer races where you need more nutrition, look for tri-shorts with larger or multiple pockets.
Seam ConstructionThe construction of the seams in tri-shorts can affect both comfort and durability. Flatlock seams are common in high-quality tri-shorts because they lie flat against the skin, reducing the risk of chafing. Look for tri-shorts with minimal seams in high-friction areas to enhance comfort. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to chafing, prioritize tri-shorts with flatlock seams or seamless construction.

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