Best Triathlon Shorts for Men in 2023: Top Picks for Comfort and Performance

Triathlon shorts are a crucial piece of gear for any triathlete. They are designed to provide comfort and support for the athlete during the swim, bike, and run stages of the race. Triathlon shorts are specifically designed to be worn without underwear, which helps prevent chafing and reduces the risk of infection.

When it comes to selecting the best triathlon shorts for men in 2023, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important factors is the material used in the construction of the shorts. The material should be lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking to keep the athlete cool and dry during the race.

Another critical factor to consider is the fit of the shorts. The shorts should fit snugly without being too tight, which can restrict movement and lead to discomfort during the race. The shorts should also be designed to stay in place during the swim, bike, and run stages, which can help reduce the risk of chafing and irritation.

When shopping for triathlon shorts, it’s also important to consider the length of the shorts. Some athletes prefer shorter shorts, while others prefer longer shorts that provide more coverage. The length of the shorts can also impact the athlete’s range of motion, so it’s important to find a length that works well for your body type and preferred style of racing.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best triathlon shorts for men in 2023. We’ll examine the features and benefits of each pair of shorts and provide recommendations based on our testing and research. Whether you’re a seasoned triathlete or just starting out, we’ve got you covered with our top picks for the best triathlon shorts on the market.

Best Triathlon Shorts for Men

If you’re looking for the best triathlon shorts for men, you’ve come to the right place. Triathlon shorts are an essential piece of gear for any triathlete, offering comfort and support during the swim, bike, and run portions of the race. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this roundup of the best triathlon shorts for men in 2023. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!

Sparx Men’s Active Triathlon Short Tri Cycling Short Swim Bike Run Red X-Large

If you’re looking for a versatile pair of shorts that can keep up with you during triathlons, cycling, swimming, and running, then the Sparx Men’s Active Triathlon Short is worth considering.

Pros

• Made of Lycra Sport Fabric that is over-stretched and still regains its normal size and shape.
• Thinner padding allows easy swimming, running, and cycling and wicks away extra moisture from your body.
• Comes with side pockets that are perfect for storing gels or other small items.

Cons

• Some users may find the padding to be too thin for longer rides.
• The side pockets could be deeper for better storage.
• The inner thigh material may start to pill after prolonged use.

These shorts are made of a mix of fabrics with enhanced Lycra, which makes them comfortable, durable, and abrasion-resistant. The thinner padding is a plus for triathlons since it doesn’t cause moisture retention and allows for easy movement during swimming, running, and cycling. The shorts also come with side pockets that are perfect for storing gels or other small items.

However, some users may find the padding to be too thin for longer rides, and the side pockets could be deeper for better storage. Additionally, the inner thigh material may start to pill after prolonged use.

Overall, the Sparx Men’s Active Triathlon Short is a solid choice for anyone looking for a versatile pair of shorts that can handle triathlons, cycling, swimming, and running.

GHOST RACING Men’s Triathlon Shorts

If you’re looking for a comfortable and versatile pair of triathlon shorts, the GHOST RACING Men’s Triathlon Shorts are a great option.

Pros

• The leg pockets are a convenient feature that allows you to store nutrition or other small items during the race.
• The adjustable drawstring ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
• The shorts are suitable for various triathlon distances, from Sprint to 1/2 Ironman.

Cons

• The padding is minimal, which may not be enough for some athletes who prefer more cushioning.
• The shorts are made in China, which may be a concern for those who prefer domestically-made products.
• The sizing may run small, so it’s important to check the size chart before purchasing.

These triathlon shorts are made with a blend of polyester and spandex, which provides a comfortable and stretchy fit. The leg pockets are a unique feature that allows you to store nutrition or other small items during the race, which can be especially useful during longer distances. The adjustable drawstring ensures a secure and comfortable fit, so you can focus on your performance without any distractions.

While the padding is minimal, it may be enough for some athletes who prefer a more lightweight and streamlined design. However, those who prefer more cushioning may want to consider a different pair of shorts. Additionally, the shorts are made in China, which may be a concern for those who prefer domestically-made products. Finally, it’s important to check the size chart before purchasing, as the sizing may run small.

Overall, the GHOST RACING Men’s Triathlon Shorts are a solid choice for athletes who want a comfortable and versatile pair of shorts for various triathlon distances.

PEARL iZUMi Men’s 8.5″ SELECT Pursuit Tri Cycling Shorts

If you’re looking for a reliable pair of triathlon shorts, the PEARL iZUMi Men’s 8.5″ SELECT Pursuit Tri Cycling Shorts are a great choice.

Pros

• The shorts are made from a breathable compression fabric that provides excellent support during your triathlon.
• The reflective fabric adds an extra layer of safety during early morning or late night training sessions.
• The shorts dry quickly, so you won’t be sitting in wet shorts after the swim portion of your triathlon.

Cons

• The padding is minimal, so these shorts may not be the best choice for longer bike rides.
• The shorts are loose fitting in the center, which may not provide enough support for some athletes.
• The sizing can be a bit off, so make sure to check the sizing chart before purchasing.

These shorts are a great choice for triathletes who want a reliable pair of shorts that will keep them comfortable and supported throughout their race. The breathable compression fabric and reflective detailing make these shorts a practical choice for any triathlon.

The minimal padding may not be suitable for longer bike rides, but for shorter distances, these shorts are a great choice. The loose fit in the center may not provide enough support for some athletes, but for others, it may be a comfortable fit.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable pair of triathlon shorts that will keep you comfortable and supported throughout your race, the PEARL iZUMi Men’s 8.5″ SELECT Pursuit Tri Cycling Shorts are a great choice.

BEROY Triathlon Shorts for Men

If you’re looking for an affordable triathlon short with pockets, then the BEROY Triathlon Shorts for Men might be worth considering.

Pros

• These shorts come with two side pockets, which is a convenient feature for storing energy gels or other small items during a race.
• Made with 80% polyester and 20% spandex, these shorts offer a comfortable fit and good range of motion during all three triathlon disciplines.
• The low-rise design and pull-on closure make these shorts easy to put on and take off, even when wet.

Cons

• Some customers have reported issues with sizing, particularly with the length and inseam of the shorts.
• The waistband may twist after washing, which can be frustrating to fix.
• The padding may not be as comfortable as other triathlon shorts on the market.

Overall, if you’re on a budget and looking for triathlon shorts with pockets, the BEROY Triathlon Shorts for Men could be a good option. However, be aware of potential sizing and padding issues.

Zoot Men’s LTD 9-Inch Triathlon Shorts

If you’re searching for high-quality triathlon shorts, the Zoot Men’s LTD 9-Inch Triathlon Shorts are a great choice.

Pros

• The shorts are made from a fast-drying fabric that wicks away sweat, keeping you dry and comfortable during long races.
• The shorts have pockets, which are perfect for storing energy gels and other small items you may need during your race.
• The shorts are designed for men and offer a comfortable and secure fit.

Cons

• The shorts are on the pricier side compared to other triathlon shorts on the market.
• The shorts may not fit everyone perfectly, as they are designed with a specific body type in mind.
• The shorts may not be as durable as some other triathlon shorts on the market.

These shorts are a great choice for any triathlete looking for a comfortable and high-quality pair of shorts. The fast-drying fabric and pockets make them a practical choice for long races, and the comfortable fit ensures you’ll be able to focus on your performance without any distractions.

In terms of cons, the price may be a bit steep for some, but the quality of the shorts justifies the cost. Additionally, the shorts may not fit everyone perfectly, so it’s important to try them on before purchasing. Finally, while the shorts are durable, they may not last as long as some other triathlon shorts on the market.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality pair of triathlon shorts, the Zoot Men’s LTD 9-Inch Triathlon Shorts are definitely worth considering.

Sparx Elite Men Triathlon Short Tri Shorts Cycling Bike Swim Run Shorts

If you’re looking for a comfortable and durable pair of triathlon shorts, then the Sparx Elite Men Triathlon Short Tri Shorts Cycling Bike Swim Run Shorts are an excellent choice.

Pros

• Made from high-quality Lycra that provides excellent compression and support for your muscles.
• The shorts are lightweight and breathable, which makes them perfect for running, swimming, and cycling.
• The shorts are designed to wick away moisture from your body, which helps you stay dry and comfortable during your workout.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the pockets on the shorts are too small to be useful.
• The shorts may be a bit too tight for some users, especially if you have larger thighs.
• The shorts may not be as durable as some other brands on the market.

These triathlon shorts are made from high-quality Lycra that provides excellent compression and support for your muscles. The shorts are also lightweight and breathable, which makes them perfect for running, swimming, and cycling. Additionally, the shorts are designed to wick away moisture from your body, which helps you stay dry and comfortable during your workout.

One of the best things about these shorts is that they are made from a mix of fabrics, including Lycra Sport Fabric, which makes them stronger, more durable, and abrasion-resistant. This means that they won’t sag or bag over time, and they’ll retain their shape and size even after repeated use.

Overall, if you’re looking for a comfortable and durable pair of triathlon shorts that can help you perform at your best, then the Sparx Elite Men Triathlon Short Tri Shorts Cycling Bike Swim Run Shorts are an excellent choice.

Zoot Men’s Core 9-Inch Tri Shorts

If you’re looking for a pair of triathlon shorts that are comfortable and durable, the Zoot Men’s Core 9-Inch Tri Shorts might be worth considering.

Pros

• The shorts are made of high-quality materials that are designed to last.
• The drawstring closure ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
• The shorts have convenient hip pockets for storing small items.

Cons

• The leg grippers may be too loose for some users.
• The pad is more narrow than other triathlon shorts, which may be uncomfortable for some users.
• The shorts may be more expensive than other options on the market.

These triathlon shorts are designed to provide comfort and support during even the toughest races. The high-quality materials ensure that they will last for years to come, making them a great investment for serious athletes.

The drawstring closure ensures that the shorts stay securely in place, even during intense workouts. The hip pockets are a convenient feature that allows users to store small items, such as energy gels or keys.

However, some users may find that the leg grippers are too loose, which can be a problem during races. Additionally, the pad is more narrow than other triathlon shorts, which may be uncomfortable for some users. Finally, the shorts may be more expensive than other options on the market, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious athletes.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality pair of triathlon shorts that are designed to last, the Zoot Men’s Core 9-Inch Tri Shorts are definitely worth considering.

Zoot Men’s Core 7-Inch Tri Shorts

If you’re looking for a comfortable and durable triathlon short, the Zoot Men’s Core 7-Inch Tri Shorts are worth considering.

Pros

• The thin chamois provides adequate padding without adding bulk.
• The shorts have a good compression feel and dry quickly.
• The 2” leg gripping bands keep the shorts from crawling up.

Cons

• The sizing tends to run small for Zoots.
• The padding may feel light compared to bike bibs.
• The shorts don’t have a drawstring, which may be a con for some.

These triathlon shorts are designed with a mid-rise style and a 7-inch inseam for a comfortable fit. The pull-on closure makes them easy to put on and take off, and the hip pockets provide convenient storage for small items.

The Zoot Men’s Core 7-Inch Tri Shorts are made of high-quality materials that are built to last. They’re also hand wash only, so keep that in mind when caring for them.

Overall, if you’re looking for a comfortable and functional triathlon short, the Zoot Men’s Core 7-Inch Tri Shorts are a solid choice. They provide adequate padding without adding bulk, and the compression feel and leg gripping bands make them a great option for both biking and running.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best triathlon shorts for men, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some tips to help you find the right pair for your needs.

Material

One of the most important things to consider when choosing triathlon shorts is the material they are made from. Look for shorts that are made from moisture-wicking fabric, which will help keep you dry and comfortable during your race. Materials such as spandex and polyester are often used in triathlon shorts because they are lightweight and stretchy, allowing for a full range of motion.

Padding

Another important factor to consider is padding. Triathlon shorts often come with a chamois pad, which is designed to provide extra cushioning and support during the bike portion of the race. Look for shorts with a high-quality chamois pad that is thick enough to provide adequate cushioning, but not so thick that it feels bulky or uncomfortable.

Fit

The fit of your triathlon shorts is also crucial. Look for shorts that fit snugly but not too tight, as this can restrict your movement and cause discomfort. Make sure the waistband is comfortable and secure, and that the leg grippers keep the shorts in place without digging into your skin.

Other Features

Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you. Some triathlon shorts come with pockets for storing energy gels or other small items, while others may have reflective detailing for increased visibility during early-morning or late-night races. Think about what features are most important to you and look for shorts that meet your needs.

By considering these factors and taking the time to find the right pair of triathlon shorts, you can ensure that you are comfortable and supported throughout your race.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated men’s triathlon shorts for comfort and performance in 2023?

The top-rated men’s triathlon shorts for comfort and performance in 2023 include the Zoot Ultra Tri Short, 2XU Men’s Perform Tri Short, and the Orca Core Tri Short. These shorts are designed with high-quality materials and advanced features that provide excellent comfort and performance during a triathlon race.

How do I choose the right size for men’s triathlon shorts to ensure a proper fit?

To choose the right size for men’s triathlon shorts, it is essential to take accurate measurements of your waist, hips, and inseam. You can refer to the sizing charts provided by the manufacturer to find the perfect fit. It is recommended to try on the shorts before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.

Can you recommend durable triathlon shorts for men that endure long-distance races?

Yes, the Castelli Free Tri Short, Roka Men’s Elite Aero II Tri Short, and the De Soto Men’s Riviera Tri Short are some of the most durable triathlon shorts for men that can endure long-distance races. These shorts are made with high-quality materials and advanced features that provide excellent durability and comfort.

What features should I look for in men’s tri shorts to prevent chafing during a race?

To prevent chafing during a race, it is essential to look for men’s tri shorts that have flatlock seams, anti-friction panels, and moisture-wicking fabrics. These features help to reduce friction and irritation, keeping you comfortable throughout the race.

Are there any specific brands of triathlon shorts that are preferred by male athletes this year?

Yes, some of the specific brands of triathlon shorts that are preferred by male athletes this year include Zoot, 2XU, Orca, Castelli, Roka, and De Soto. These brands are known for their high-quality materials, advanced features, and excellent performance.

What are the differences in padding between men’s triathlon shorts and cycling shorts?

The padding in men’s triathlon shorts is designed to provide comfort during all three stages of a triathlon race, while the padding in cycling shorts is designed specifically for cycling. Triathlon shorts have thinner padding that dries quickly and does not interfere with running or swimming, while cycling shorts have thicker padding for longer rides.