A decent pair of cycling shorts can upgrade your riding tremendously. From breathable fabrics to cushioned pads, the benefits they can bring are definitely worth it for the avid cyclist.
As beneficial as they are, they don't have to cost you hundreds. There are plenty of options out there that have useful features without costing you too much.
So, here are our best picks for cheap cycling shorts. Choices are based on value, analysis of user reviews and in-depth research.
Best cheap cycling shorts to buy in 2024
Sundried Men's Pro Collection Bib Shorts
Sundried has a longstanding approach of offering affordable cycling and triathlon kit while still prioritising decent quality and features. These bib shorts, from their Pro Collection, are designed for extended use on the bike, with a breathable and wicking fabric to maintain a level of dryness and comfort.
To make your cycling experience more comfortable, there's a gel pad to provide some cushioning when riding. There are also silicone grippers in the legs to make sure that the legs don't ride up, while a mesh back and straps is included to aid ventilation and keep you cool.
Endura Xtract Lite Bib Short
Buy for women from Endura (£69.99).
The Xtract Lite Bib Short from Endura is designed to keep you cool in warmer weather. The women's bib shorts have a UPF50 treatment for the fabric to help protect you against UV rays, along with a pad that's said to regulate your temperature.
The men's bib shorts have similar features, as well as a water-expelling foam that provides improved drying and air permeability.
Endura 6-Panel Short II
Endura's 6-Panel Short II uses a lightweight 190g nylon fabric and comes with silicone leg grippers and a stretch antibacterial pad. Like the name suggests, the shorts are designed with six panels of Lycra that are shaped to fit your body's position when cycling.
Altura Tempo Women's Cycling Undershorts
Undershorts are a great choice if you're looking for practical cycling clothing without committing to the full look. The Tempo undershorts from Altura provide some memory foam cushioning in strategic areas, and an elastic waistband and bonded hem to secure the shorts in place.
Dhb Aeron Bib Shorts
Updated from the 2019 dhb Aeron Bib Shorts, the new version has an upgraded seat pad that the brand suggests will provide over seven hours of comfort. The bib's upper has a mesh back panel, too, for ventilation purposes.
The bib shorts' fabrics are designed to match your exertion, with moisture wicking properties that are said to draw sweat to the outer surface. Carbon fibre is used in the straps to help provide cooling and increased wicking, as well as plenty of support.
Altura Endurance Men's Cycling Bib Shorts
Altura collaborated with ultra endurance cyclists, including Mark Beaumont, to produce the Endurance Cycling Bib Shorts. To provide the comfort needed for long rides, the shorts use an 11mm-thick Italian Elastic Interface foam pad that balances stretch, comfort and breathability.
The panels promise to be abrasion-resistant and the bib straps and bonded front hem are designed to help keep the shorts in place while a steady stream of air flows through. Reflective cuffs also bring a level of reassurance when cycling in the dark.
Northwave Active Bib Shorts
Described as a sort-of happy medium between being too hot or too cold, the Northwave Active Bib Shorts could be a versatile companion for cycling in varied weather.
This versatility is said to be achieved by using two separate fabrics that preserve the warmth you generate while still being breathable enough to allow for airflow. The brand says the shorts are also flexible enough for fluid pedal strokes.
Van Rysel RC500 Men's Shorts
Decathlon's in-house cycling brand Van Rysel has a reputation for affordable kit and, through many tests, we've found most of it offers decent performance too.
With mesh straps and a high-density foam pad, the RC500 cycling shorts are designed to provide a comfortable fit for riders. They also have a pocket on the outside of the thigh that's said to be easily accessible when on your bike.
Looking for more cycling gear? We scour the web to find all the best kit for cycling and triathlon training. See our favourite cheap cycling shoes, cycling jerseys and cycling helmets for anyone on a budget. Or grab a new bike cleaning kit or cycling water bottle.
