There's been a (quasi-controversial) resurgence of leggings as "real pants" in the past few years, forcing us to ask ourselves whether or not the body-con bottoms are a truly viable option to wear outside of the gym. With the right styling, the right attitude, and the right pair, our vote is yes, but as summer rolls around, we're wondering the same about leggings' not-as-long counterpart — the bike short.
When you think of bike shorts, the first word to pop into your head probably isn't "on-trend," but like leggings, bike shorts are no longer just for the gym. Bike shorts are a thing again (thank you, Kim Kardashian-West), and they're even easier to style than leggings. The key is to grab a pair with some length — it's more fashion-forward. And, since the shorts don't go all the way down to your ankles (obviously; 'tis the nature of shorts), it makes navigating shoe selection so much easier. Leggings and heels? Most likely no. Bike shorts and heels? Kind of rad. Wear with a bomber, a leather jacket, or with an oversized T-shirt, and you're good to go.
Ahead, find our picks for taking this stretchy trend for a spin. Are you bold enough to try it out?
Not your average black bike shorts. The knit makes for a short that's a tiny bit fancier.
Laain Stretch-knit Jacquard Cycling Shorts, $160 $72, available at The Outnet.
The length is as chic as the subtle detailing.
Rein Maze Cycle Shorts, $155.74, available at At Mayfair.
This plain black pair has a zipper pocket in the back. Perfect for if you’re on the go.
Athleta Velocity Short, $49 $39.99, available at Athleta.
Not too sure you’re sold on this trend? I recommend trying these. They’re well-priced — and solid black, which makes them easy to style.
Boohoo Maria Mesh Insert Cycling Shorts, $10, available at Boohoo.
Loving this cranberry pair. Think of them with an all-gray outfit.
Lululemon Leader of the Pack Short II, $128, available at Lululemon.
Wanda Nylon makes a rad light-gray pair.
Wanda Nylon Legging Shorts, $162.44, available at Farfetch.
The mesh panels make for an on-trend choice.
Adidas by Stella McCartney Cycling Short, $130, available at Yoox.
It’s hard not to be into the pink bands at the bottom.
Zoot Ultra Cycle Team Shorts, $125 $74.73, available at REI.
This Ivy Park pair is on the shorter side, but the clean black band and charcoal keep it polished.
Ivy Park Low-Rise Biker Shorts, $35, available at Topshop.
Thanks to Vetements, the Champion logo is ultra-cool right now.
Champion Women's Bike Shorts, $30 $21, available at Bealls.
The dipped waistband means moms-to-be can rock these, too.
Pearl Izumi Select In-R-Cool Bike Shorts, $49.95, available at Sierra Trading Post.
A super-long leg tempers the otherwise sporty vibe.
Nike Pro 11" Vixen Shorts, $40 $29.97, available at Nike.
Just enough retro.
Fila Plus Size Strength Fitted Bermuda Workout Shorts, $36 $21.60, available at Kohls.
All-black looks good with subtle New Balance branding.
New Balance Accelerate Fitted Short, $39.99, available at New Balance.
A black-on-black pattern adds dimension.
H&M Knee-Length Sports Tights, $19.99, available at H&M.
The caging definitely adds edge.
Chromat Double Stripe Biker Short, $113, available at Spring.
If you’re going to try a crazy pattern outside the gym, go for something dark to anchor your outfit.
We Are Handsome The Score Performance Mesh Bike Shorts, $96, available at We Are Handsome.
We're feeling the colorblocking on this pair.
Sweaty Betty Heat Tri Shorts, $125, available at Sweaty Betty.
X marks the spot.
First Base Run On Short, $50.83, available at First Base.
Throw a pop of color into your look.
First Base Champ Work Out Short, $25.42, available at First Base.
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