If you’ve ever heard of or experienced the pain and discomfort of saddle sores, then you know why a good pair of quality shorts are a must-have for any rider.
Whether practiced professionally or for recreation, cycling should have the dedicated gear to get the most out of the sport.
And with mountain biking, a good pair of quality shorts go a long way in ensuring comfort and function.
Now, with so many unique mountain biking shorts, each claiming to be better than the next, how do you settle on the best one for your kiddo?
Well, that’s where we come in. We’ve done the bulk of the work of rummaging through the best of the best mountain biking shorts before settling on this list.
Our criteria involved hours upon hours of testing these shorts for their sturdiness, comfort, effectiveness, and convenient features. The result? A reliable guide your boy can trust!
Let’s get right into it.
This is a good-looking pair of shorts; subtle and definitely not an eye-sore.
However, what we loved the most about them is that they are made of excellent Cordura material. Urban Cycling Apparel got it right with these cargo mountain biking shorts as they perform exceptionally well in rain, mud, and snow.
The Cordura material’s ability to wick moisture away keeps you dry as you pedal ahead. To ensure further comfort, these shorts feature a seamless under the panel that ensures the rider does not suffer the discomfort of rubbing as they ride.
They come with thin but firm padding on the bum area, whose comfort level is perfect for mountain riding. In addition, because the padding is antibacterial, the child can ride confidently for long hours without worrying about odors.
To secure them, they come with a strong waistband and belt loops; perfect in our opinion because the shorts are guaranteed to remain put on the child’s waist. Plus, the belt loops are an added securing measure if they want a more precise fit.
Knowing how important pockets are when riding, the manufacturers intelligently incorporated deep pockets that are secured by zippers to keep the rider’s valuables from falling out when riding.
Although there were few complaints of the pockets being tight, the double portion of depth and secure zippers is a sure pass in our checklist.
Another favorite of ours is that the pants come with Velcro straps located on the sides of the short’s legs to loosen or tighten the fit as one deems fit.
These pants, however, come with a disclaimer that they run large, so be sure to take that in when considering the size. Otherwise, you’ll end up with awkward-looking shorts.
That aside, these shorts riding shorts are a great riding companion for mountain bikers!.
This pair of mountain biking shorts for kids can withstand months and years of mistreatment by the riders, detergents, and the weather. Made from a 2-way stretcher polyester, we can vouch that Fox never went south on the design. We can equally guarantee you that this is the most durable MTB short for your kids.
Equally, these shorts also offer freedom of movement thanks to their great design. Unlike regular khaki or jeans shorts, these shorts will never restrict the legs from moving. There is no doubt your kid can make stunts when on their bike unhindered when rocking these shorts.
It further comes with a pair of pockets and another pair of cargo pockets; what else would a mountain biking kid wish more for. As long as there is space for extra junk and essentials, your kiddo is ready to roll.
If you thought we are exhausted reviewing the Fox Racing Boy’s short, you’re wrong; please pull your chair and take some a sip of water because it is about to go down.
It has proven technical performance for our testers both on and off the bike. We love the stretch Ripstop fabric that maximizes performance as the kids ride.
This great MTB short for kids has a Goggle strap-inspired low-profile waist adjustment system that ensures it fits perfectly to the waist. It further has the TruDri lined waistband that keeps sweat and moisture away from the body, thus maximizing comfort.
Besides, we have the extra small, small, and then a medium that can fit any kid. To us, it is a top-of-the-range mountain biking short for kids and youths. Did we even mention the Removable liner with dual-density chamois for improved saddle comfort? Yes, this makes it the most comfortable Kids’ MTB short.
Material- 90% polyester, 10% spandex construction.
The Youth Sprint shorts from Troy Lee Designs ooze everything that the youngest rider would want for off-road riding. So if you want your child to have an early start to ride, you might want to pay attention to the right gear.
To start with, these shorts are made with durable 600D polyester and 2-way stretch poly spandex. The stretchy fabric that runs across the quads and rear of the shorts not only ensures comfort but also guarantees abrasion resistance in case of a crash.
The length of the shorts is just perfect. They are just long enough to cover the leg when sitting and not leave a skin gap when worn with knee pads.
With two strategically placed front zipper pockets, not only is the child assured of the security of their favorite items, but they are also guaranteed easy and instant access to them.
For a perfect fit, the shorts are constructed with a rubber waist that ensures flexibility and adjustability. One of our best qualities is that the waist adjusters feature Velcro incorporated into the body of the waistband so that the fit adjustments are quick and inconspicuous.
A TLD embossed snap button secures the shorts further so that the rider can pedal comfortably without worrying about the button getting hung up on their jersey. Plus, a zipper flap over the fly area works to keep mud and dirt out.
All in all, the two-way stretch ensures all-day comfortable riding, while the high-quality polyester material ensures durability.
So, if comfort and durability are key in your search for the perfect off-road riding short, then these shorts take the cake.
In a nutshell, the ZOIC Boy’s Ether Jr. are just a shrunken-down version of the trendy adult shorts.
The Ether Jr. Shorts were designed with the same dedication, quality, and precision, which is why these shorts topped our list.
The loose fit is great for riding over beaten roads. The rider can move with no restrictions and concentrate on the trail ahead.
The shorts exterior is constructed with dobby nylon, while its full lining is polyester and spandex. So what looks really good on the outside feels even better inside.
The inner fabric’s moisture-wicking properties ensure comfort. And the comfort is further assured with an adjustable waist which makes for a custom fit.
To ensure a perfect fit, it features a flat fronted waistband with snap and zip fly closure and Velcro side adjuster tabs. In addition, the elastic back waist further ensures that the fit is never too restricting.
With six tactically placed pockets (2 front hand pockets, 2 leg zip pockets, cell phone pockets, and a rear zip pocket), it is clear that these shorts were not made with sacrifice to convenience. Of course, the rider can stash their items in these pockets, but we found it exciting that there’s a dedicated media pocket within which one can trust their phone placement.
Available in sizes ranging from small to extra-extra-large, size is not a limitation to these pants. And with just about the best zippers we’ve seen in kids’ riding shorts, the Zoic Boys Ether Jr. Shorts are a winner in our books!
Between the high level of comfort and the lightweight nature of these pants, there’s very little not to like about these MTB shorts.
The craftsmanship of these shorts is very deliberate and stellar.
Two highly flexible materials were used to make these shorts, and an additional reflective strip works to enhance rider safety.
The exterior is super stretchy with just enough flex where need be and none where you don’t. And as for the interior, its breathability is exceptional as the high-quality fabric allows air in and draws moisture out in a way that leaves the rider fresh and cool.
The fit is true to size and is accurately baggy so that they are comfortable and free yet not too flappy when pedaling. Plus, young riders will love how these baggies are really lightweight. No interruptions from discomfort!
To snug up the shorts, there are built-in YKK zippers and Velcro features.
Another great addition is the belt loops if you borrow extra support for a more precise fit. In addition, elastic Lycra adorns the back part of the waistband. Its purpose is to ensure that it still doesn’t feel too tight, even with a snug fit.
The pocket number and configuration are amazing! Two front pockets and two other side leg pockets are just enough to carry essentials and leave enough room for extras.
We loved how the pockets are easily accessible even when riding. And the location of the low-profile pockets is further appealing as they are angled to the side of the leg rather than the front.
Best part? These look like regular shorts, so if your child is self-conscious about walking around in bike shorts, then they don’t need to be.
These shorts exceeded all our expectations! For their price, you won’t find a better pair.
When it comes to padded shorts, one thing is certain; the protection they offer is simply unmatchable!
Generously equipped with shock-absorbing EVA foam cushions on the rear, thigh, and tailbone area, the impact resistance of these shorts is top-notch! As a result, you can be sure that your child will be safe as they ride.
The soft feel of the pad is another kicker for us. The shorts are designed with a silk-like feel, so chaffing and skin irritation are unheard of. But, whether worn as a base or only layer, they still do their job.
Despite being close-fitting, the shorts won’t stick to the skin. And the waist size can be adjusted for ultimate hip protection.
With sweating as a concern for many cyclists, it is a relief that these shorts are still highly breathable. This is thanks to fabric featuring polyester and a mesh strip, which work together to ensure a clean, dry and odorless bum area despite the outside temperatures.
These padded shorts are easy to carry and can even be washed by hand. What more could you ask for in terms of convenience?
Plus, they can be used when biking and skiing, skating, or snowboarding. The choice is yours but tells you what; getting your child to take these shorts off will definitely be a hassle!
If your child loves sports, then they will definitely love these cycling shorts!
The Zoic Men’s Ether MTB shorts can fit teenage boys with an inseam measurement of 12 inches.
They have a relaxed fit, so there’s sufficient movement on the go.
There’s plenty of room for snacks, tools, or a phone in the groovy pockets. More importantly, other than looking good, the pockets are easily accessible.
These shorts fit well as they are excellently designed with Velcro tabs to secure them, and with adjustable measures, the rider is assured of a custom fit. Not to mention, the back of the waist is elastic so that the fit is never too tight.
Although they do not come with a liner, the shorts are fully compatible with other Zoic liners. Therefore, you can feel free to purchase separately if need be.
Another thing we liked is that there are plenty of color options to choose from. So the rider can match their shorts to their bike and look rad while on it!
The only drawback to these pants, and it’s a major one, is that the zippers are rather too flimsy. It comes as a disappointment for such a solidly built gear that one has to be really careful not to exert too much force on the zippers. Otherwise, they will come apart after some use.
If you are gentle, though, you’ll have no qualms with these shorts.
Stretchy, adjustable, water-resistant, and extremely comfortable; is there anything more you would want from a pair of riding shorts?
These Wespornow mountain biking shorts look good and perform just as well.
These shorts are suited to mountain riding as they have a very robust polyester construction that will withstand the wear and tear of off-road riding.
The 4-way stretch of the fabric is a great inclusion for mountain riding as they allow comfortable and unhindered movement.
The breathability and comfort provided by the inner cushion is another reason why this is one of the best trail shorts. In addition, moisture is wicked away quickly, so the rider remains cool.
As far as fit goes, they feature exterior Velcro on both sides of the waist as well as a snap button just for this. The adjustability ensures a snug fit as long as you lie within the waist size (You can check their size chart to confirm your fit before buying).
Another thing to love about these shorts is the 6 deep-seated pockets they come with. Thus, the rider can store their belonging and zip up with the conveniently placed YKK zippers.
Not to mention, they also feature reflective strips to enhance rider safety in low-light settings!
One thing to note is that Wespornow does not come with chamois, so you will have to purchase a liner separately. However, if that kind of comfort is not a key consideration for you, this is a worthy consideration for your trial encounters.
With the best durability, comfort, and convenience, these shorts rank up there with the best MTB shorts.
The Santic Men’s mountain bike shorts prove that the best trails shorts don’t have to break your bank.
Made of a blend of polyester and Lycra, these shorts are durable, elastic, and highly breathable.
With great moisture-wicking abilities, these shorts are sure to keep you cool and comfortable throughout your ride. In addition, the material dries fast, so you can wash and wear it immediately.
One of our favorite features is that the shorts’ length offers reliable knee pad overlap. There’s also cushioning on the seat side of the shorts, made of 4D COOLMAX technology. The cushioning is thin and firm, so it looks anything but ridiculous on the wearer.
In addition, the shorts move as you do, which is quite convenient, but our favorite feature by far is how comfortable they are! You can be sure of no saddle sores even after hours of riding on rough trails!
Another favorite feature is the short's bagginess and non-binding lower end! We especially loved how they allow good airflow for a comfortable ride.
Like most shorts in our review, it features handy pockets for the storage of small items.
On the flip side, they are secured via a drawstring; however, the quality of the button is low, so most prefer tying a knot.
But that aside, the shorts are extremely soft to wear and are available in four colors so one can pick their favorite from.
This junior version of the top-selling adult Range Shorts from Louis Garneau are something kids can look forward to rocking all day on the trail. The Louis Garneau brand has distinguished itself, and on these shorts, they pressed the right buttons.
Its sew-in cushiony chamois makes the little rider comfortable while handling tough terrains or concentrating on the MTB trails. In addition, the sew-in inner shorts come with a Powerband that further completes the comfort equation.
It also comes with two open inside pockets where kids can stash their essentials and junk that they need on the trail or adventure.
This mountain biking short for kids and youths is made from Dura-X, Drytex, 2003, and Lightsens fabrics resistant to abrasion, stains, and water. Therefore, even if your kiddo rides their MTB on dirt trails, in the rain, or swampy places, cleaning the shorts will be easy.
It also comes in small sizes that can fit kids with different inseams, hips, and waists. But, that is not enough; the shorts also have an adjustable waist that has a drawstring to help reach a perfect fit for the kid.
Mountain biking is one sport that requires particular attention to comfort, abrasion resistance, and durability. But it’s no secret that finding the right mountain biking shorts can be challenging.
So how does the best mountain biking short look like to us?
Also known as baggies, mountain biking shorts are designed to be baggy. However, as compared to the tighter-fitting road bike shorts, these shorts prioritize free movement and comfort.
Of course, you still don’t want the shorts to be too flappy, but essentially, you want them to be unrestrictive.
Two basic rules guide the determination of size.
As far as size goes, the shorts should fit well when riding rather than just when you are standing in them. In terms of length, the longer the shorts, the better the protection against scrapes and scuffs.
Beyond finding the right fit, you also want to consider adjustability.
You want the pants to grow with your child and move from bike to bike, especially if you are spending a good amount of money on them.
Adjustable waistbands ensure this. Further, the shorts can feature Velcro straps on the waist and/or leg for more adjustability, while some shorts have belt loops in place of waist adjusters.
Note that when the Velcro straps are located inside, they look neater, but they can chaff the rider’s skin. However, when located on the short’s exterior, they tend to catch on the jersey and pass foliage.
So it’s all about personal preference, but adjustability is a great feature to have on riding shorts.
Mountain biking shorts are known for their comfort, and some of the best ones include chamois.
A long ride can be extremely uncomfortable if you are sore from continuous contact with the saddle. So with constant friction and heat generation, padding is important to enhance comfort and reduce friction and ensure a smooth ride.
The padding is usually strategically placed in the crotch area rather than all through the short’s interior for the shorts to not look and feel awkward. More importantly, because the shorts pull backwards when you sit upright, the chamois should be placed at the rear.
You can buy shell shorts and padded liner shorts separately or get mountain bike shorts with removable pads.
But all in all, to get the most out of the ride, the comfort offered by padding is a great addition.
Like we’ve mentioned above, more time spent on the saddle means more contact time between the bum and the saddle. And when pedaling, one is bound to sweat, so airflow is a prime necessity for cycling shorts.
The best shorts entail breathable material integrated into the liner. The padding wicks moisture/ perspiration away from the skin and regulates body heat.
If you are cycling through poor road conditions or particularly humid areas, you definitely want to ensure that the pants are water repellent and breathable.
Shorts can also feature a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating applied to the fabric to repel water.
Remember that you might need to refresh the coating as it tends to get worn out with wear and after a couple of washes.
The type of material used to make shorts will dictate how strong they are. The friction could eat through your shorts fast if they are not made of high-quality material.
The fabric of mountain biking shorts is usually tougher to endure the scuffs and scrapes from low-hanging branches, as well as the overall toughness of beaten trails. The interior is, however, meant to be soft to avoid irritation and chafing of the skin.
Aside from that, the material should generally be easy to wash and quick-drying to combat the elements.
How are the pants secured? Most shorts will have either a zipper system or Velcro closure, both of which are highly secure.
Beyond that, you also want to consider the quality of the zippers. The means of securing the shorts should be sturdy enough to prevent the waist from accidentally opening and exposing skin.
Take note that if the shorts have deeps pockets, then zippers aren’t really necessary and are more of a nice-to-have feature.
With Velcro, you might want to opt for interior or exterior location based on whether you prefer skin chafing over the possibility of the jersey getting caught up on the straps or vice versa.
These include pockets for storage of items such as keys, a phone, or small change. You want at least two pockets to store your items, especially for short rides, but you also want to check whether they are well secured (such as with zippers) or roomy enough (deeper pockets).
Some shorts may even feature reflective patches to add on to your safety measures.
Lastly, if looking stylish is important to you, you don’t have to worry, as many mountain bike shorts offer just that! These shorts will comfortably and comfortably take you through both the trails and the streets.
Many mountain biking enthusiasts agree that dedicated cycling shorts are a must-have. Besides, mountain biking shorts for kids must be comfortable, functional, and durable.
And with so many available options, we can also agree that the best mountain biking shorts are relative to one’s needs. For instance, one person may prefer comfort over water resistance.
So what does it all boil down to? Choose your highest priority and use it to select appropriate riding shorts for your kid.
Of course, a good place to start is with our listed options.
We hope one of these MTB shorts will become your kid’s favorite mountain bike shorts.
Happy riding!
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