Shorts, skort or leggings? For UK padel, the best women's court bottoms depend on how you like your clothing to move, how much coverage you want and whether you need pockets that stay secure during play.
There isn't one correct padel uniform. The useful question is what will stay comfortable through side steps, lunges, quick changes of direction and the walk home.
Quick comparison: which women's padel bottoms suit you?
| Style | Best for | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Court shorts | A lighter, looser fit | Inner short, waist fit and secure pocket |
| Padel skort | A skirt look with built-in shorts | Waistband, inner short and accessible pockets |
| Cycling shorts | Close, fitted mid-thigh coverage | Waistband staying put and stretch |
| Leggings | Full-length coverage and cooler days | Squat comfort, fabric feel and side pockets |
Women's padel shorts: when you want a looser fit
Loose court shorts are a practical choice for players who prefer fabric that doesn't cling to the thigh. Movement matters more than labels: look for lateral stretch, a waistband that stays put and an inner construction you're happy to play in.
AP Club's Women's Court Short has a four-way-stretch outer, wicking built-in undershort, high side vents and a hidden phone pocket. Use the waist measurements on the product page to choose your size, rather than relying on the size letter alone.
Padel skort: a skirt silhouette with shorts underneath
A skort works if you like the look of a tennis-style skirt but want shorts underneath. The details that make a difference are pocket position, stretch and whether the undershort stays comfortable during sideways movements.
The AP Club Women's Padel Skort has a flared outer, built-in shorts, two side pockets and a supportive high-rise waistband. Its 240gsm recycled stretch fabric is designed for movement and quick drying. It's available in Black and Dusky Blue.
Fitted cycling shorts: less fabric around your legs
Some players want a streamlined fit rather than a loose short or skort. Fitted mid-thigh shorts can feel straightforward through quick starts, overheads and changes of direction, provided the waistband stays comfortable.
The AP Club Women's Padel Cycling Shorts use soft-stretch 260gsm fabric with a deep waistband and mid-thigh length. Compare the fit carefully if you're between sizes.
Padel leggings: full-length coverage for UK conditions
Leggings are a useful alternative for cooler sessions and players who simply prefer more coverage. Check whether the fabric stretches comfortably through a lunge, whether the waist stays secure and where you can keep essentials.
AP Club's Women's Padel Leggings use a 210gsm stretch fabric, a high-rise waistband and pockets on both legs. They're designed for the court and everyday wear around it.
What should you prioritise for padel?
- Movement: test a side lunge and reach overhead; the waistband and fabric should move with you.
- Fit: use measurements and the product size guide; a secure fit is more useful than guessing a usual size.
- Storage: a pocket is only helpful if its position works for what you carry.
- Conditions: choose the coverage and layering that suits your court, season and comfort.
- Personal style: choose something you'd happily wear before and after the booking, too.
Frequently asked questions
Do women have to wear a skort for padel?
No. Shorts, skorts, cycling shorts and leggings can all work. Comfort and freedom of movement are more important than following a particular look.
Are pockets important in padel clothing?
They can be, depending on how you play and what you carry. Check the actual garment construction rather than assuming every style has the same pockets.
What should I wear for my first padel session?
Start with comfortable activewear, footwear suited to your court surface and a breathable top. You do not need to buy an entirely new outfit before your first game. If you start playing regularly, choose pieces based on what you've noticed you need.
Ready to choose your court fit? Build a women's padel outfit · Shop women's padel clothing · Compare padel shorts.