Tri shorts vs Cycling shorts

Tri shorts are meant to swim and run in, as well as bike, so they are ideal race shorts (don't have to change after the swim). They are similar to swim jammers except they have a thin, usually fleece pad for bike padding. Bike shorts have much more padding and are hence more comfortable to bike in. However, I would not suggest swimming or running in them, so they are not ideal race shorts, unless you are changing in the transition.

For training, cycling shorts are the way to go. Performance has some relatively cheap ones that are pretty good.

Thanks for th info James. I think based on what you said I'll stick with the cycling shorts. Thanks again.

I did three sprint triathlons in cycling shorts last years and was quite comfortable in them.  I did buy a pair of tri shorts but so far have only used them for swimming! The main differences between the two types of shorts are the padding, which is thinner and that they are cut lower around the waist.  I prefer my cycling shorts!  Of course, I have been a cyclist for a very long time and just may be biased.