Bike shorts have faded in popularity—this is the athletic trend that fashion enthusiasts are embracing instead.
Legging-style bike shorts have been my favorite comfortable choice for summer wear for years. I always enjoy stumbling upon those nostalgic images of Princess Diana sporting oversized sweatshirts with bike shorts that periodically resurface online. However, I have to admit that I wore them too frequently during their peak popularity, and now, like many, I've developed bike-shorts fatigue. Thankfully, there's a new alternative: athletic shorts, like basketball and running shorts. They are just as cozy as bike shorts but provide more styling options for a refined look. Just a few scrolls through Instagram, and I can spot influencers sporting athletic shorts, and celebrities are embracing the trend as well. Recently, Emily Ratajkowski was seen in a long red pair (inspired by Adam Sandler) combined with flats, while Zoë Kravitz dressed up a pair with kitten heels and a Saint Laurent leather bag for a night out in New York. In conclusion, it seems we are bidding farewell to the bike-short trend for the time being, with athletic shorts now emerging as the new favorite sporty short style. Keep scrolling for styling ideas and to shop my top picks for athletic shorts currently available.
**Athletic Shorts Inspiration**
(Image credit: Splash News)
**Style Tip:** Ratajkowski was recently spotted in NYC wearing basketball shorts with ballet flats, showcasing one of the many creative ways to style athletic shorts.
**Style Tip:** Longer athletic shorts combined with heels create an unexpected and playful contrast.
(Image credit: Backgrid)
**Style Tip:** Kravitz was seen in NYC with her T-shirt tucked into her athletic shorts, paired with open-toe kitten heels. Tucking in your shirt always adds a touch of elegance to your look.
**Style Tip:** Opting for a monochromatic scheme is always a smart choice in my opinion.
**Style Tip:** Adding pointed-toe heels and a handbag can elevate your athletic shorts for a more polished appearance.
**Style Tip:** For a modest beach look, longline shorts worn with a bikini top or full bathing suit are ideal.
**Shop Athletic Shorts:**
**Reformation**
Martin Shorts
Chocolate brown remains a staple.
**Lululemon**
Relaxed-Fit Mesh Training Short
These breathable and stylish mesh basketball shorts are everywhere and are quite chic.
**Nike**
Crossover Dri-Fit Performance Basketball Shorts
I’m a fan of shorts that sit just above the knee.
**Conner Ives**
Ssense Exclusive Blue Lace Basketball Shorts
Yes, pretty athletic shorts do exist.
**BDG**
Star Player Athletic Shorts
I didn’t expect to like mustard yellow so much.
**Nike**
Essential Dri-Fit Mesh Basketball Shorts
This reminds me of the EmRata outfit.
**EDIKTED**
Nikki Stripe Nylon Shorts
Bright colors are perfect for summer.
**Nike**
Sportswear Phoenix French Terry Drawstring Shorts
A relaxed pair of shorts for everyday outings.
**Polo Ralph Lauren**
Logo Satin Rally Shorts
This Ralph Lauren style has a collegiate feel.
**Sporty & Rich**
Serif Logo Graphic Gym Shorts
Perfect for a simple look.
**Nike**
Sportswear Street Track Shorts
Pink and navy blue make a fantastic color combination.
**Peloton**
High Rise 3-Inch Run Shorts
**FP Movement**
When in Venice Mesh Shorts
These would look great in photos.
Longline shorts will always have an it-girl appeal to me.
**Nike**
Sportswear Phoenix Fleece Shorts
Basic fleece shorts for the win.
**Adidas**
Firebird Recycled Polyester Shorts
I appreciate eco-friendly clothing.
**Nike**
Tempo Dry Fit Shorts
These give off Baywatch vibes.
**Varley**
Barnes High Rise Shorts
I'd wear these to play tennis or go out to dinner.
**Lovers and Friends**
Adina Shorts
For those who prefer shorter shorts.
**FP Movement**
Roll With It Shorts
I never thought I'd want navy running shorts again, but here we are.
**Sporty & Rich**
NY '94 Gym Shorts
White shorts have never looked better.
**Alo**
Motivate Track Shorts
More neon colors to consider.
**Nike**
Satin Graphic Shorts
Simple and chic all together.
**Reformation**
Martin Shorts
These buttery-yellow shorts would look stunning with kitten heels.
**Superdown**
Demia Track Shorts
Perfect for errands or actual runs.
**Splits59**
Megan Woven Nylon Run Shorts
I didn’t realize I needed baby-blue running shorts until I discovered these.
**Adidas**
Select Mesh Shorts
Sometimes, a basic black pair of shorts is just right.
**Gapfit**
High Rise Running Shorts
These would look fantastic with an orange football jersey—perfection.
**Gap**
Mid Rise Runaround Shorts
This rich green is versatile for styling
Other articles
Bike shorts have faded in popularity—this is the athletic trend that fashion enthusiasts are embracing instead.
I’ve come across the trend of shorts that celebrities and influencers are opting for instead of bike shorts. Check out how they style them and find where to purchase them here.
