Choosing the best triathlon shorts involves considering personal needs and materials. Multi-panel shorts fit better than single-panel ones, and the length should be comfortable for cycling. Moisture-wicking materials are important for comfort and regulating body temperature.
Triathlon shorts are a crucial piece of triathlon equipment, and a triathlete will spend the majority of their race in them. Choosing the best triathlon shorts means examining your personal needs and taking materials into account. Since everyone’s body is different, a pair of shorts that work wonderfully for one person may be extremely uncomfortable for another, but the general guidelines are the same: choose triathlon shorts that aren’t too bulky in the seat, that are high cut in the butt for cycling, and that are made of multiple panels of material instead of just one or two.
If a pair of tri shorts is made of multiple panels that are stitched together, that pair will likely fit more comfortably than a pair that only uses one or two panels of material. The different panels allow the tri shorts to mold to the body more effectively, eliminating any baggy spots that could cause discomfort. When choosing a pair of multi-panel tri shorts, be sure to note the location and volume of the seams. Seams located at or near where your buttocks will rest on a bike seat can cause discomfort, and raised seams at the height of shorts can cause hot spots and blisters.
The length of the shorts largely depends on your preference and the style of the moment. Many triathlon shorts span the entire thigh and stop somewhere just above the knee, while others are much shorter. The back length should be long enough to reach above the lower back, providing more comfort and coverage when bending over a bike. The front of the shorts should be quite low to avoid bulging when folded.
One of the most important considerations when choosing triathlon shorts is the material. Cotton will absorb moisture and won’t dry quickly, which means you’ll be wearing shorts that are heavy and may cause discomfort. Look for moisture-wicking materials that transfer moisture away from the body to improve comfort and help regulate body temperature. As the body perspires, these materials will transfer moisture away from the body, ensuring that you do not have hot spots from friction and that your body temperature does not drop significantly in cold conditions.
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