Biker Shorts: Why Everyone's Obsessed with This Workout Essential

You know what's wild? I used to think biker shorts were strictly a cycling thing and nothing else. Like I'd see them hanging on the rack and just keep walking - not my thing. And then my friend rolls up to brunch in them with this massive blazer and I'm just staring like... okay wait what. So I caved and grabbed a pair. Three wears in and I was fully hooked. Indonesia's obsessed with them right now and tbh I totally see it.

What Makes Biker Shorts Different

So biker shorts are the tight ones that stop around mid-thigh - people grab them for gym days and outfit days. Moreover, the fabric stretches - spandex or polyester usually - so it goes wherever you go. Budget-wise, anywhere from 80,000 to 500,000 IDR depending on the brand. Additionally, you can find cheaper ones around 40,000 IDR but honestly the fit tells the difference.

From what I've seen, biker shorts took off in Indonesia over the past year. Furthermore, people style them with crop tops, oversized tees, blazers - like everything. Princess Diana had this whole thing with them back in the 80s - jogging outside the palace, paparazzi everywhere - and honestly that image never left.

The Stretchy Fabric Everyone Loves

Like when I first put on a good pair I was like whoa, these feel different from regular shorts. Most biker shorts use spandex blends that stretch in four directions. Which sounds technical until you bend down to tie your shoes and nothing rides up. Consequently, that's the magic right there.

I will say the compression thing is clutch for workouts. I mean regular shorts just hang there but biker shorts hold everything in place. However, they also wick sweat away which is huge for Indonesia's heat. In addition, the high waist gives you support without digging in.

All the Ways People Style These

So the thing about biker shorts is they don't stay in one lane - gym bag one day, street style the next. For the gym version? Sports bra, sneakers, done. Thus, this is your basic gym look.

Then there's the whole Princess Diana vibe thing - big sweatshirt, crew socks, chunky sneakers. Ngl this look is everywhere in Jakarta right now. Similarly, people throw them on with blazers and heels for something more dressed up.

The athleisure route is huge too. Therefore, throw on a crop top, add some slides, and you've got a coffee run outfit.

Sizing Can Be Tricky

Look I'm gonna be straight with you - finding the right size takes some trial. Most brands use standard sizing but the compression level changes everything. As a result, I'm about 165cm and wear a small, but some brands run tight so I go medium.

My advice? Check the length first. Therefore, biker shorts that are too short ride up and too long look odd. The sweet spot is mid-thigh.

Is Spending 250,000+ IDR Worth It

So here's where it gets real. You can grab biker shorts for 40,000-80,000 IDR at local markets in Indonesia. And how do they work? Sure. They'll get you through workouts.

But the quality gap is big. For instance, the cheap ones lose compression after a few washes. In contrast, mine are six months old - the Alo ones - and they still fit like new.

I mean if you're testing the trend, start with budget options. However, if you wear them often then invest in quality. Consequently, the 150,000-300,000 IDR range is where things get good - better compression, better hold.

Colors and Care Tips

Most brands stock basics like black, navy, and grey. But there are also fun colors now - hot pink, sage green, burgundy. Therefore, I'd say start with black because it goes with everything.

For care? Cold water wash, then hang them up to dry. Thus, if you throw them in the dryer the elastic goes weird and they get all baggy. Similarly, don't use fabric softener - it kills the moisture-wicking thing they've got going on.

My Take on These

Look I'm gonna be straight with you - biker shorts won me over and I didn't expect that. Like I went in thinking they'd feel too tight and too out there but nah. They move with you, they hold everything in, and I wear them way more than I thought I would.

Are they for everyone? I mean no. Some people prefer loose shorts or leggings and that's fine. But for hot climates like Indonesia? In conclusion, biker shorts are a game changer.

If you're on the fence go check out what people wear on social media. Similarly, try on a few pairs in stores to find your length. From what I've seen most people who try decent biker shorts end up buying more pairs.