Triathlon Shorts
Triathlon shorts from Zoot: the tri short is the lower half of your two-piece kit. You swim, ride and run in it without changing in transition, because the thin chamois does not get in the way in the water or on the run. Our current tri shorts come from the LTD line and have the Pro Carbon Tri chamois and two hip pockets. Your main choice is the leg length and, with the Exos, a compression fabric. Below you will find every length for women and men compared, how tri shorts differ from cycling shorts and answers to common questions.
What makes a good pair of triathlon shorts
- Chamois: the Pro Carbon Tri chamois is built for the low aero position on a tri bike. It spreads the pressure at the nose of the saddle and is so slim that you barely notice it when swimming and running.
- Fabric: Italian Shield fabric wicks moisture, dries quickly after the swim and offers UPF 50+ sun protection.
- Pockets: two hip pockets keep gels and bars within reach on the bike and on the run.
- Leg hem: an Italian gripper keeps the leg in place without cutting in.
- Seams and liner: flat Seamlink seams stretch with the fabric and reduce chafing. A modesty liner gives extra coverage.
Which leg length is right for you?
The length given is the inseam, measured from the crotch to the hem. Shorter shorts leave more leg free and feel lighter on the run. Longer shorts cover more of your thigh and feel more like classic cycling shorts. Which length you choose is mainly a matter of preference.
| Model | Inseam | Right for you if | In the shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| Women's LTD Tri Short 4" | 10 cm | you want as little fabric on your legs as possible on the run | Show 4" |
| Women's LTD Tri Short 6" | 15 cm | you are looking for an all-rounder for training and racing. It is our best-selling women's tri short. | Show 6" |
| Women's LTD Tri Short 8" | 20 cm | you prefer more of your thigh covered | Show 8" |
| Men's LTD Tri Short 7" | 18 cm | you prefer a shorter leg | Show 7" |
| Men's LTD Tri Short 9" | 23 cm | you prefer more of your thigh covered | Show 9" |
| LTD Exos Tri Short, women's 6", men's 8" | 15 cm / 20 cm | you like compression, especially for long training days and full-distance racing | Show Exos |
Women's and men's models have different cuts, and the women's models also have a wide, flat waistband. You will find them sorted by cut in women's tri shorts and men's tri shorts.
LTD or Exos?
Both have the same chamois, the same hip pockets and the same leg gripper. The difference is the fabric: LTD tri shorts are made from lightweight Shield fabric (80% polyester, 20% elastane). Exos tri shorts use a certified compression fabric (78% polyamide, 22% elastane) that supports your muscles. An embossed diamond pattern makes it more resistant to abrasion without losing stretch.
Tri shorts or cycling shorts?
- Chamois: tri shorts have a thin chamois that takes on very little water and does not get in the way on the run. Cycling shorts have a thicker pad for long hours in the saddle, which soaks up water in the swim and gets in the way on the run.
- Racing: in a triathlon you wear your tri shorts from start to finish.
- Brick sessions: for bike-run sessions, tri shorts are the right choice, because you go straight from the bike to the run without changing.
- Long rides: for bike training lasting several hours, cycling shorts or bib shorts with a thicker pad are more comfortable.
Build your two-piece kit
Pair your tri shorts with a women's tri top or a men's tri top and you have a two-piece kit. You can choose different sizes for top and shorts, and for toilet stops you only need to pull the shorts down. Many LTD designs come as both a top and shorts, so you can wear them in the same look. If you prefer a one-piece, you will find every model among our tri suits.
Fit and care
- Zoot tri shorts have a close race fit. The chamois should sit close to your body without bunching.
- If you are between sizes or would like less compression, choose the next size up.
- Rinse the shorts in fresh water after every swim, especially after chlorine or salt water.
- Wash them cold on a gentle cycle, inside out and without fabric softener, and let them dry in the air.
FAQ
Can you swim in tri shorts?
Yes. The fabric and chamois are made for swimming and dry quickly afterwards. The thin chamois takes on very little water.
Do you wear underwear under tri shorts?
No. The chamois is designed to sit directly on your skin. Underwear would rub and hold moisture.
Can you wear tri shorts under a wetsuit?
Yes. You wear your tri shorts and top under the wetsuit and take only the wetsuit off in transition.
Do the tri shorts have pockets?
Yes. All Zoot tri shorts have two hip pockets for gels and bars.
Are tri shorts suitable for long rides?
On race day they take you through to full distance. For pure bike training lasting several hours, cycling shorts with a thicker pad are more comfortable.
