Legging Shorts: What They Are Called and Why People Wear Shorts Over Leggings

What are legging shorts called, and why do people wear shorts over leggings? This guide explains biker shorts and legging shorts, why athletes layer leggings under shorts, and how to style them.

What are legging shorts called?

Legging shorts are usually called biker shorts or bike shorts. They are fitted like leggings but end at mid thigh. Shop women's shorts.

Why do people wear shorts over leggings?

Wearing shorts over leggings adds coverage, pockets and a layered sporty look. It is popular for running and team sports, and with people who prefer extra coverage at the gym.

Why do athletes wear leggings under shorts?

Leggings under shorts keep muscles warm, reduce chafing and protect skin, especially in cold weather or on rough surfaces.

What to wear with legging shorts

• Gym: a sports bra or crop tank. See workout sets.
• Casual: an oversized tee or sweatshirt and sneakers.
• Summer: a matching top for a shorts set.

Leggings vs shorts for workouts

Leggings are better for floor work and cooler days, while biker shorts are cooler for HIIT and hot weather. Read our squat proof leggings guide for tips on choosing gym leggings.

Best workout shorts for women

The best gym shorts stay in place, do not ride up and pass the squat test. Biker shorts with a high waistband are a favourite for training, while looser shorts suit running. Shop women's shorts.

Booty shorts, biker shorts and spandex shorts

What are booty shorts? Booty shorts are short, fitted shorts, often with a ruched or scrunch back that lifts. Scrunch butt shorts and butt lifting shorts use the same seam as scrunch leggings. Biker shorts for women have a longer inseam, usually 5 to 8 inches, while spandex shorts and yoga shorts are shorter. Shop women's shorts.

Gym shorts and athletic shorts for women

Good gym shorts and workout shorts for women should not ride up. High waisted biker shorts, seamless shorts and long biker shorts stay in place for squats, and spandex running shorts are light for cardio. Athletic shorts with pockets and biker shorts with pockets hold your phone or keys.

Shorts with leggings and legging shorts outfits

Legging shorts are simply short leggings. For outfits with leggings and shorts, some people wear loose shorts over leggings, but a single pair of biker shorts with an oversized tee or matching sports bra is simpler and cooler in summer.

Ladies gym shorts by color and style

Black booty shorts and black biker shorts are the most versatile ladies gym shorts. Red biker shorts and white biker shorts make a statement. High waist biker shorts stay in place for squats, and sexy booty shorts with a scrunch back are a summer favourite.

Biker shorts inseam guide and more styles

Biker shorts come in a 3 inch, 4 inch, 5 inch, 7 inch or 8 inch inseam. A 4 or 5 inch inseam is the most popular for the gym, while 8 inch biker shorts give more coverage. Women's running shorts with a liner, 2 in 1 running shorts and weightlifting shorts are made for training, and gym shorts with zipper pockets keep keys safe. Colors to try: brown, blue, light blue, gray and yellow biker shorts. Cheeky booty shorts, elastic waist shorts and seamless boyshorts are other popular styles.

Shapewear shorts and sculpting shorts

Seamless shapewear shorts and butt lifting shapewear shorts smooth under dresses. Bum sculpting shorts and seamless sculpt shorts work for the gym, and seamless butt lifter shorts combine lift with comfort.