9.3.2024

The Best MTB Shorts

Comfort is key for any sport, but when it comes to MTB cycling the importance of freedom of movement, additional protection on the knees, and quick-drying fabric are must-have features. Luckily there are brands that understand what riders need, but which are the best MTB shorts to buy? GOREWEAR will help you discover the products that are more than just a pair of shorts for hitting the trails.

What Are The Different Types Of Bike Shorts?

The two main types of cycling shorts include close-fitting shorts, traditionally worn by road bikers, and baggy shorts, popular with MTB and trail riders. Both styles have benefits for the styles of riding, including:

Close Fitting Cycling Shorts:

  • Made with lycra for a full range of motion

  • Wind resistant

  • Aerodynamically efficient

  • Often contain a seat pad

  • Leg grippers to prevent bunching

Baggy Trail Riding Shorts:

  • Loose cut for trail riding

  • Extra room to allow for knee pads

  • Pockets for essentials, reducing the need for a backpack

  • Weatherproof to protect from the elements

  • Durable materials to protect against dust

Why Choose MTB shorts? Features, Fit And Functionality

MTB shorts are essential for anyone who loves to explore riding trails and wants a more casual design than traditional bib shorts or cycling shorts. In addition to practicality and durability, MTB shorts are stylish and come in a range of subtle colors to pair with  jerseys and shirts.

How MTB Shorts Should Fit

Unlike road bike shorts, MTB shorts are looser and have a higher waistband to sit snugly where a rider bends for effective performance. MTB shorts won’t always have a seat pad, but due to the rugged terrain, padded seat liners can be added to improve saddle comfort and are wearable underneath the shorts due to the extra room.

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Features Of MTB Shorts

MTB shorts boast several features similar to traditional cycling shorts but unique to riding on trails and uneven terrain.

  1. Taped seams at the sides of the waistband allow easy adjustment to provide additional protection against spray, mud, and debris.

  2. Spacious pockets that reduce the need for a backpack but are secure enough for a phone, keys and other essentials that need to hit the trails with you.

  3. Quick drying materials that help to prevent chafe and discomfort when riding on wet and muddy trails.

  4. Laser-cut air vents for temperature control to ensure comfort on warmer days.

Functionality To Aid Performance

As with all GOREWEAR clothing, the designs, fabrics and construction are all created by athletes, for athletes. Experiencing pain points in poorly designed cycling gear has allowed the team to create fully functional products with features that matter.

MTB shorts often have additional pockets to store essentials, in turn helping riders streamline through trails, keeping you focused on the terrain ahead.

Versatile fabrics, including CORDURA® nylon fabric for durability and robustness, with durable water-resistant treatment and taped seams on the back panel for more spray protection. 

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The Best Shorts For MTB Riding From GOREWEAR

Best All-Round MTB Shorts

FERNFLOW SHORTS - available for Men & Women

  • Description: Rugged and lightweight trail shorts with extra spray protection.

  • Material: MAIN: 73% Nylon (CORDURA®), 15% Polyamide, 12% Elastane PANEL: 63% Nylon, 26% Polyester, 11% Elastane POCKET LINING: 100% Polyester

  • Breathability: Highly breathable

  • Waterproof: N/A

  • Windproof: Although, GOREWEAR provide a pant version with WINDSTOPPER® protection

  • Size range: XXS - XL

Best Weatherproof Shorts

ENDURE GORE-TEX SHORTS - Unisex

  • Description: Wind- and waterproof unisex cycling shorts that are lightweight, packable and very breathable made for demanding weather conditions.

  • Material: 100% Polyamide

  • Breathability: Highly breathable

  • Waterproof: GORE-TEX PACLITE® PLUS

  • Windproof: 100% Windproof

  • Size range: S - XXXL

Best Outer Shorts for Layering

C3 TRAIL SHORTS - available for Men & Women

  • Description: Outer shorts, designed to be worn over a padded liner, to keep you cool and protected.

  • Material: 94% Polyamide, 6% Elastane MESH: 100% Polyester

  • Breathability: Highly breathable

  • Waterproof: N/A

  • Windproof: N/A

  • Size range: S- XXXL

Best MTB Shorts Alternative

PASSION PANTS - available for Men & Women

  • Description: Face all challenges of the trails in these durable, lightweight, and breathable pants.

  • Material: 89% Polyamide (recycled), 11% Elastane

  • Breathability:  Highly breathable

  • Waterproof: N/A

  • Windproof: N/A

  • Size range: S - XXXL

What To Wear With MTB Shorts?

MTB shorts have a more relaxed fit, but that doesn’t mean you have to go loose with your top. Cycling shirts, jackets, and vests are tailored to the type of riding you prefer. As long as you choose breathable fabrics that wick away sweat and offer protection in adverse weather, the cut and style are a personal choice.

Many of our MTB cyclists choose the ENDURE Jacket due to its waterproof fabric and over the helmet hood. However, check out the full selection of MTB clothing from GOREWEAR, which is specially designed for this type of riding.