What to expect from bamboo training shorts
Short answer: Training shorts with bamboo viscose are soft, light and comfortable in movement. Because they are worn actively and washed often, the elastane, the leg edges and the fabric at the inner thighs show use first.
What bamboo does in training shorts
In training shorts, bamboo viscose is usually blended with elastane, so the fabric can stretch and follow your movements. The viscose gives a soft, cool surface and moves moisture away from the skin. That makes the shorts comfortable for yoga, pilates, walks and strength training. In very hard sessions with heavy sweating, viscose can hold moisture slightly longer than pure synthetic fabrics, so they dry a little more slowly.
Fit and leg edges
Training shorts need to stay put when you bend, lift and run. The leg edges and the waistband take care of that. Over time they can lose some of their grip, especially if the shorts are dried hot or washed with fabric softener. If the leg edges start to roll up, that is a sign the elastane is getting tired. See bamboo training shorts for women.
Washing after use
Sweat and skin oils settle in the fibres, so wash the shorts after every session. Do not leave them rolled up and damp in a bag, as that can cause odour that is hard to remove. Hang them up until you can wash them. Wash inside out at 30 to 40 degrees with a mild detergent. Fabric softener should be avoided, as it weakens the elastane and can trap odour.
Drying
Air dry training shorts flat or hanging. They dry quickly, because they are small and thin. Tumble dryers and radiators make elastane stiff and cause it to lose strength. The viscose can also shrink a little if exposed to high heat. Avoid direct sunlight on dark colours, so they do not fade.
Wear at the inner thighs and seat
Where the thighs rub together, and where you sit on a mat or a bench, the fabric wears most. Small bobbles can appear there over time, and the fabric can become thinner. That is normal for soft training fabrics. Rough surfaces and hook and loop fastenings on gym equipment add to the wear. With several pairs in rotation, the wear is spread out and each pair lasts longer.
Lifespan and when to replace them
How long training shorts last depends on how often you train and how they are cared for. When the fabric turns see-through at the seat, or the leg edges and waistband no longer hold, it is time for a new pair. Many brands make training wear with bamboo, including CCDK and Moodies, and the care label on your own pair is always the best place to start.
Frequently asked questions
Can bamboo training shorts be used for running
Yes, especially for easy runs. On long, hard runs with a lot of sweat, pure synthetic fabrics may dry a little faster.
Why do the leg edges roll up
It suggests the elastane has tired or the size is too large. Avoid heat and fabric softener to protect the elastane.
Can I use fabric softener
No. Softener weakens the elastane and can trap odour in training clothes.
