Cycling shorts (also known as bike shorts, bicycling shorts or knicks) are short, skin-tight legwear designed to improve comfort and efficiency while cycling. They:

Historically, cycling shorts were made of knit black wool, which hides oil and grease stains, with a chamois leather patch inside the shorts in the crotch area, which reduces chafing from the bicycle saddle. Modern cycling shorts are often made of spandex (Lycra) with a synthetic chamois lining and are produced in a variety of shapes and styles to suit the needs of different riders. For example, the patterns used for the chamois on women's cycling shorts tend to be quite different from those used for men's.^{[unreliable source?][not in citation given]} The hem of each leg is usually lined with elastic and/or silicone that clings to the skin, keeping it in a fixed position.

Cycling shorts are designed to be worn alone with no undergarments, or as an undergarment. Shorts made from several panels (or cuts of fabric) fit better, but cost more.