Here's Why I'm Totally Rethinking This Latest Activewear Trend
Honestly, I thought my days of wearing bike shorts were over in high school. You see, I went to a Catholic all-girls' school where plaid skirts were the norm. Also commonplace? Wearing spandex shorts underneath so you could go about your day without worrying about flashing your underwear. So I had quite a few spandex bike shorts in my high school wardrobe, but I said good riddance to all of them when I packed my bags for college.
But 13 years after I graduated from high school, bike shorts are everywhere I look. I'm seeing them on Instagram and all over my favorite activewear sites. Friends have texted me, wellness editor that I am, to ask what the deal is with this bike-short resurgence.
Well, I can tell you from an activewear perspective why they're back in style—they're comfortable, they have great compression, and they're great for all different kinds of workouts, especially when it's hot out and you can't bear to wear leggings. Plus, a lot of us have been spending more and more time at home these days, and these shorts are just made for lounging in.
From a style angle, they are back in full force. Fashion girls are even wearing them with blazers and heels.Best Knockoff Luxury Clothing senior market editor Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour says "shorts are the new skirts" and that the trend isn't going anywhere (and isn't just for lounging at home).
Well, there you have it. I'm starting to come around to the trend, and if you are too, I've rounded up some worthy picks to try below.
1. Girlfriend Collective Smoke High-Rise Bike Short
We love Girlfriend's activewear pieces because not only are they well-made and comfortable, but they are also made from recycled water bottles. These shorts have 21% spandex and a UPF 45+ rating, meaning they can provide some protection against UV rays.
2. Outdoor Voices Techsweat Flex Shorts
3. Nike Air Bike Shorts
4. Athleta Ultimate 5" Short
5. Vaara Millie Half Short
6. Sweaty Betty Seamless High Waist Bike Shorts
7. Lululemon Fast and Free Short 10" Non-Reflective
8. Onzie High-Rise Bike Short
9. Alo Yoga High-Waist Lace-Up Glitter Short
10. Athleta Mesh Me Up 8" Short
11. Zella Live In High Waist Pocket Bike Shorts
12. Electric Rose Cali Biker Shorts
13. Lululemon Invigorate High-Rise Short 10"
14. Live the Process V Crossover Shorts
15. FP Movement Good Karma Bike Short
16. Adidas Originals Bike Shorts
With the classic Adidas stripes, these are inspired by '90s street style. The stretchy shorts are great for fitness classes and running errands.
Next up: The 25 Best High-Impact Sports Bras, According to Our Readers
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.
Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019. In addition to her work atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot). She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.
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