Whether I'm going on a run in my neighbourhood or starting my day off by walking to get a cup of coffee, when I get dressed, the only thing I want to wear is a pair of bike shorts [1]. From an aesthetic standpoint, the idea of wearing a simple long-sleeved tee with biker shorts, an oversize sweatshirt that comes down to almost my knee, or even a blazer over bike shorts [2] all sound like a stylish and comfortable dream. But the real reason I can't stop reaching for them is because they're the perfect option for warm-weather workouts.
I love the feeling of wearing a compression legging for interval training [3], but when it's warm outside, those leggings become unbearably hot. Shorts are obviously great to run in, but they can bunch easily and typically come with laughable pockets that hold a stick of gum at best. Bike shorts are the perfect answer because they offer the snugness of a tight, and best of all, they don't chafe (as someone who played volleyball for decades in itty-bitty spandex shorts, inner-thigh chafing is a huge no-no for me).
Whether you're looking to pick up a pair of bike shorts for running [4] or lounging around in, Old Navy has the best options for all of your activities. See our top picks.
Old Navy Plus-Size Compression Bermuda Shorts
The Plus-Size Compression Bermuda Shorts [6] ($23) are made of 15-percent spandex, making them super stretchy. We love the jet-black colour because you can wear these with anything in your closet — even when you're not working out.
Old Navy High-Waisted Elevate Compression Bermudas
These High-Waisted Elevate Compression Bermudas [7] ($12, originally $20) are made of 12-percent spandex and are a great no-fuss pair of shorts. We'll wear these during our indoor Pilates classes.
Old Navy High-Waisted Elevate Compression Bermuda Shorts
These High-Waisted Elevate Compression Bermuda Shorts [8] ($18, originally $20) have an eight-inch inseam, which, depending on how tall you are, will hit a few inches above the knee. They also come in petite and tall sizes.
Old Navy High-Waisted Side-Pocket Elevate Compression Shorts
I'm the type of person who lives for a good pair of workout shorts with pockets. I want to stash a few items so that I can be completely hands-free. The High-Waisted Side-Pocket Elevate Compression Shorts [9] ($18, originally $20) have side pockets at the hips and have a five-inch inseam, so they're definitely shorter than the other options.