Try before you train Cycling shorts

From pioneering sweat-wicking treatments to squat-proof waistbands… team Cosmo hopped on their bikes to test the best cycling shorts out there right now

FREE PEOPLE HAPPINESS RUNS BIKE SHORTS, £38 These look tiny but when you put them on, you’ll notice how soft and stretchy they are. The thick, ribbed fabric means no VPL, while the distressed finish gives them a retro fashion edge. Line up the waistband with the band of your briefs and these bad boys won’t budge an inch.

Natasha, fashion editor

GYM + COFFEE ALL-IN BIKE SHORTS IN BLACK, £45

I’m no cyclist, but I love sports gear, so I tested these shorts on my commute – basically a workout IMO. For comfort, the buttery-soft fabric gets a 10. I went for medium and they came up a little small, so I’d recommend sizing up. And the pockets? A big tick from me and my chunky phone.

Lia, beauty assistant

PANGAIA ACTIVEWEAR BIKE SHORTS 2.0, £50

On a long, leisurely cycle, these cute shorts kept me cool and comfortable. Pangaia is known for its colourful shades and I love the bright pink. Plus, these are ethically sourced – the nylon is made from natural castor oil and the 100% bio-based sweatwicking treatment is made from algae, the first of its kind.

Sophie, bookings editor

TALA SKINLUXE HIGHWAISTED CYCLING SHORTS, £40

These super-soft shorts are the most flattering workout gear I’ve worn. The real test came on the squat rack. As someone who is forever pulling up their leggings, I was thrilled that these stayed in place, with no see-through issues. I’ve worn them outside the gym, too.

Hanna, deputy beauty editor

LORNA JANE AMY PHONE POCKET BIKE SHORTS, £60

These shorts provide a comfortably tight fit around the thighs and waist – thanks to a thick, high waistband – but are stretchy enough to move around in. The sleek phone pockets are handy and the brand’s Nothing 2 See Here fabric promises trustworthy coverage.

Emily, junior entertainment and lifestyle writer

SWEATY BETTY POWER 9” CYCLING SHORTS, £60 You’ll find me in these shorts for the foreseeable. They’re supercomfy, flattering and I love having the snug pocket for my phone – I had no fears of it falling out during my morning yoga session. They held me in securely and stayed in place, thanks to the adjustable drawcord at the waist.

Jaime, digital design editor