Which tri shorts do you wear and why?

I have tried most of the brands and my favorites are the de Soto one-piece power tri-suit and the de Soto tri shorts. I prefer the power lycra for running but both work great on the bike. There isn't a lot of difference (IMHO) between other brands and the non-power shorts, I don't have much trouble with things chaffing. Decide if you like (or are allergic to) leg grippers, and the leg length you prefer, and find a great deal...

The reason I don't wear the power shorts is that I find the waist too high.

All tri shorts are appropriate for swimming. The smaller pad dries quickly and doesn't get water-logged.

sandy

Edited by sandysandy 2004-06-23 8:38 PM

I wear Orca that I got from trisports.com. mostly price and function was the selling point for me. Has the pad is inexpensive its perfect I dont wear them during run and bike training but I often wear them for swimming simply because I dont have a regular speedo style swim suit its either the tri shorts or baggies.

As you can tell from the answers it is a personal preference thing...Tri shorts, with their light padding, are easy to run in and I do wear them for brick workouts (it is uncomfortable to run in standard cycling shorts). I have several one and two piece outfits. My favorite shorts are the 2004 Zoot tri shorts....the material is soft and comfortable. I am short (5'1") and I like the shorter version because I feel less constricted.

I bought my first tri wear at one of the online stores (try sportsbasement.com...they often have last years models at a significant discount)...and until you know what you like, you can get a decent pair without breaking the bank.

Love this thread....I also have questions. I am new to the sport and am looking for a tri-suit....but, as a woman, will need a little support up top, if you know what i mean.

I have absolutely no idea what to look for...i'm about 5'8''...around 135 lbs....but i have fairly long legs. my inseam is 31-32.

any suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated.

I have two pair of the zoot 8" tri short. I love them because they have side mesh pockets. I swim, bike, and run in them without any problems. As a training pant, I think the pocket makes them very versatile.

I just started wearing a pair of DeSoto Power Shorts.  Love 'em!  They have a longer (7" I think) inseam than the regular shorts and a side mesh pocket which is perfect for a cell phone (my tool kit on a long ride).  

I have the Pearl Izumi tri-shorts.  I like the style of them, with the contrasting stitching.  But more than that, my reasoning was that the primary place you need tri-shorts to work well is on the bike, so I got mine from a bike clothing manufacturer.  I also have the Pearl Izumi tri-shirt.  I'm looking into sponsorship...

I just wear an old pair of Louis Garneau cycling shorts. I ordered some tri shorts but haven't received them yet!?!