'WH' Editors Are Obsessed With These Biker Shorts

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Just like the right sneakers can impact your performance, different fabrics in your activewear can help or hinder your workouts. Imagine material that can speed recovery and improve blood flow throughout your bod. That's exactly what compression shorts and leggings do, and the effects are even more significant if you believe they work, according to a review of 183 compression garment studies in Sports Medicine.

"I recommend compression shorts to anybody that is going to be active or is involved in movement—whether you're walking, lifting, running," says Virginia-based trainer Almoni Ellis, CPT. "There are many different styles of compression shorts and there's a right fit for everyone. As long as you find a style that's comfortable for you, you can rock 'em out any time of the day." Compression shorts can keep up with your workouts and also last through WFH meetings, yoga, weekend errands, lunch dates...the list goes on.

Meet the experts: Almoni Ellis, CPT, is a NASM-certified personal trainer based in Virginia and founder of MoFit coaching programs.

Consider what you like (and dislike) in a pair of biker sports. If you hate when compression shorts ride up or you want to prevent chafing, you might want to go with a longer inseam and higher waist. And keep in mind your go-to sport. You’ll likely want a longer inseam, six inches or more, if you’re planning to bike. But for running, you might consider styles with a shorter inseam to let your quads flex.

Check out a preview of the best compression shorts here:

Next, you’ll want material that wicks away moisture and dries quickly. If you’re going from a workout to drinks and don’t have time to change, this will definitely come in clutch. (Avoid cotton because it is definitely not moisture-wicking.) Finally, you'll want to prioritize something with pockets...for obvious reasons!

Whether you want high-waisted, funky colors, or simple black, the following best compression shorts are beloved by trainers, Women's Health editors, and sweat enthusiasts all over the internet.

Biker Shorts

Need some spandex shorts ASAP? These from Amazon come highly-rated (more than 57,000 five-star reviews) and are available in over 40 colors and prints. Best of all, if you order them with Amazon Prime, they'll be on your doorstep in a jiffy!

Rave Review: "I own several pairs of these and love them. I wear them under dresses and skirts 1) to avoid chafing; 2) because they have pockets! I get compliments from everyone who sees me lifting up my dress to put something in the pockets. They are thick and sturdy and don't roll up! They hold up well in the wash and don't pull or anything."

High-Waisted Powersoft Bike Shorts

With an eight-inch inseam, these affordable compression shorts are perfect for anyone with long legs or who prefers an above-the-knee fit.

“Leggings were my go-to for workouts until I tried these. The material and high waist are perfect for constant cycling,” says Christy Webb, a CycleBar trainer in Chicago. “Wearing compression shorts allows increased freedom as I move, helps my sweat dry quickly, and makes me feel strong and confident.”

Webb isn't the only fitness pro on the Old Navy train, either. “I love these shorts because they have all the same benefits I look for in workout leggings—high-waisted, secure pockets, and great compression, so they stay put,” says Jacksonville-based STRIDE running coach Kaitlyn Michaelis. "And they’re very affordable.”

Salutation Stash Pocket II 7" Short

Athleta's seven-inch Salutation Stash Pocket II Shorts are everything for outdoor workouts or any time you're on-the-go and want to live that bag-free life. They've got a secure spot for your keys, phone, and credit card built right in.

“These shorts are where it’s at,” says former WH fitness and wellness editor Lauren Del Turco. “Perfect length, perfect amount of compression to make you feel locked in (but not suffocated), and POCKETS.” Win-win-win.

Method 5" Short Tight

Going for a run? Well, if you’re an avid runner or you want to step up your game, professional runner Allie Buchalski recommends Method’s Short Tight compression shorts.

“These hit perfect on my hips,” she says. “They cover just a bit of my tummy, look super flattering, AND stay in place–a huge win. My phone can also come along for the ride in the side pocket, without me worrying about it falling out!”

HeatGear Armour Bike Shorts

Sometimes compression shorts can be uncomfortable if they're too restricting, which is why the length of the inseam is important. For comfort, certified personal trainer and health coach Stephanie Thomas recommends the HeatGear Armour Bike Shorts.

“They’re not just for biking, but perfect for almost any workout! I love that they provide solid coverage so I can feel comfortable wearing them out,” she shares. “They’re smooth, stretchy, and extremely comfortable!”

Align Short 8"

Lululemon’s Align leggings have a cult following, and the same goes for the brand’s teched-out biker shorts. Hearst executive fashion director Kristen Saladino says she’s addicted to working out in them, calling them a go-to for Peloton rides.

“They lock you in and feel super breathable, too,” she shares. “I love them because I don’t have to adjust them while I’m working out and they don’t give me a wedgie or a camel toe.” Much like Lulu's Align leggings, they come in tons of colors and vary in lengths to accommodate various heights and fit preferences.

WH assistant social media editor Isabel McMahon also loves them. "They have become my go-to choice for summer yoga classes because of their amazing comfort and reliable high-rise fit," she says. "The fabric is incredibly smooth and soft, somewhat reminiscent of a buttery texture, while still allowing for breathability."

Booty Boost Active Bike Shorts

Though there are plenty of reasons to love compression shorts, this pair from Spanx is specifically crafted to give your booty a boost.

“These are the compression shorts I wear,” says Hearst fashion editor Ann Wang. “So far, this is the only pair I’ve tried that doesn’t make my thighs look like sausages, stays in place at the waist, and doesn’t ride up. Also, since I’m 5’3” and petite, I’ve found that the 4-inch length works better in proportion to my body.”

Pro Graphic Training Shorts

Nike Pro’s Dri-FIT 3" Graphic Training Shorts have so many colors and patterns, there's a variation for every personality. They're also Frayna's recommendation for runners. The shorts also range in sizes from XS-XXL, so they’re great for all body types.

“These shorts not only look good on, but they are made with very elastic fabric and have sweat-wicking ability to keep you dry during your workout. They are tight fitting and body hugging for added support,” she says.

Power Biker Shorts

These shorts are made with breathable fabric with a four-way stretch, perfect for any and all activities. (If you want to make a fashion statement, you can easily dress them up or down!) They're stylish anytime of the year, but they're particularly beneficial for hot weather because they're moisture-wicking.

These shorts are too new to have any reviews, but they're from WH editor-approved activewear brand EleVen by Venus Williams and are sure to impress.

High-Rise Bike Short

Have you ever encountered a Girlfriend Collective wearer that doesn’t burst with rave reviews about the brand? Me neither.

The label’s signature sustainable fabrics and inclusive sizes (from XXS to 6XL) keep Girlfriend atop many an activewear lover’s list—and their bike shorts live up to the hype. Take a quick scroll through the comments and you’ll be convinced quickly.

Rave Review: "These bike shorts stay in place! The fabric was thicker and less flexible than I was expecting, but I like it. I’ve enjoyed wearing these for many activities: running, hiking, indoor climbing, biking, and yoga."

High-Waisted Yoga Shorts

These shorts are for working out, yoga, and everything in between. Not only are they affordable, but they're also high-quality and come in 24 (!) different colors and patterns. With over 24,000 ratings and an average of 4.5 stars, reviewers adore these shorts because the thicker fabric means they are squat proof, the pockets are convenient for carrying belongings, and they're seriously comfy.

Rave Review: "These were exactly what I wanted. Workout shorts that weren’t biker shorts. They have a pocket for my phone and they are well-made. The material doesn’t ride up when walking or working out like some cheaper material does."

Seamless Shorts

If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok, you may have come across the SHEFIT Seamless Shorts. Having gone viral for the famous “butt scrunch,” Frayna also highlights this compression short for its “flattering tummy tuck waistband and high compression designed to be squat-proof.” Nice!

Real Me Crossover Bike Short

Aerie is known for its affordable activewear and viral v-shaped waistband leggings. The style is also conveniently available in short form. (Score!)

“I love the crossover waistband because it’s so cute and different from the usual horizontal waistband,” shares Vanessa Liu, a former Equinox trainer and personal trainer. “The crossover waistband creates a V at the waist and is slimming and flattering, no matter your body type. Many of my clients who have different body types have worn this, and it’s incredibly flattering on all of them.”

Ultra High Rise Elation Short

The best compression shorts do it all. You can run, bike, practice yoga or even weight-lift in them. Enter the Ultra High Rise Elation Short from Athleta.

“These shorts are super comfortable and I love that they are high-waisted! The material is very good quality and I love that they have a little pocket,” says Lauren Sheu, an RRCA certified running coach and owner and founder of Running for Wellness. Talk about a runaway hit.

Red Kiss Shapewear Shorts

Like all clothes, it’s fun to play around with colors and patterns—and compression shorts are a great way to make working out vibrant. Valerie Orsoni, Fitness Expert and Founder & CEO of LiliWarrior.com, recommends her Red Kiss Shapewear Shorts.

This eco-friendly option provides a pop of color while the smoothing compressive fabric won't show panty lines underneath. Whether going for a grocery run or working out, these biker shorts are perfect for brightening your day.

Level Up Shorts

These shorts—available in four cute colors—have a super flattering V-cut and a high waistband. With the longer length, you can trust that these shorts will stay put. A reviewer says their Joja shorts are super comfortable, stretchy, and smooth. I love to see it!

Rave Review: "I am loving my Joja sets more than imaginable! I'm waiting to see what else they come out with because I know I’ll be back for more. I bought the seamless in every color and wishing there were more!"

How Our Team Chose The Best Compression Shorts

For the past two years, Women’s Health editors, including editorial assistant Addison Aloian and commerce editor Neha Tandon researched the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated compression shorts. Our team consulted Virginia-based trainer Almoni Ellis, CPT, Christy Webb, a CycleBar trainer in Chicago, professional runner Allie Buchalski, certified personal trainer and health coach Stephanie Thomas, Vanessa Liu, a former Equinox trainer and personal trainer, Lauren Sheu, an RRCA certified running coach and owner and founder of Running for Wellness, and Valerie Orsoni, Fitness Expert and Founder & CEO of LiliWarrior.com, and then evaluated thousands of customer reviews and ratings to narrow down the best 16 items for a wide range of needs and preferences. Additional reporting from Laura Lajiness Kaupke and Georgia Davis was also included.

What do compression shorts do?

It's all in the name, says Ellis. Compression shorts compress your legs, which increase blood flow throughout the body, especially the legs.

Plus, they help you become more aerodynamic as you move. "If you're running in yoga pants or pants that are long in flare, you won't feel as fluid compared to running in compression shorts," she says.

Do you wear underwear under compression shorts?

It's a personal preference, Ellis says. There's no real hard-and-fast rule on it. Whether you wear underwear under your compression shorts is up to you and how you'll be most comfortable when you exercise, whether you're running, power lifting, or doing yoga.

Do compression shorts help with chafing?

Yup, compression shorts can help with chafing. When Ellis wears long tights, she experiences chafing, but it helps a lot to wear her compression shorts under, because then her tights won't rub the area as much, she says.

Similarly if you experience skin-to-skin chafing with short inseams, slipping into a pair of longer shorts can provide a barrier and minimize irritation.

Is it okay to wear compression shorts all day?

That isn't ideal. You probably don't want to wear them all day or sleep in them, Ellis says. "Give your body time just to relax," she says. With added compression, the shorts are tight and it's important that you give your bod and ~lady parts~ time to breathe after wearing them.

Still, you do you. "I do believe that you should wear them if you feel comfortable," Almoni says.

What are the side effects of compression shorts?

It *might* be possible to get a yeast infection if you wear tight shorts for too long, especially if you're sweating a lot in that area, Ellis says. "It's important to get air flow and not be compressed for such a long time," she adds.

One other con that comes along with compression shorts is that the material can ride up if they don't fit properly. Other than that, there aren't many downsides to wearing compression shorts.

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