For most of my life, I’ve worn bike shorts or slip shorts under my dresses and skirts. Hey — you never know when a rogue breeze or a klutzy stumble might reveal a little more than you intended. I think my insistence on this extra layer started when I was a teen in the ‘90s — or right after, actually. Skorts, which are skirts with shorts underneath or a skirt-in-front/shorts-in-back hybrid, were all the rage back then. While they eventually fell out of fashion, I still longed for the security, freedom and modesty they offered.
Needless to say, I’ve been thrilled to see that skorts have recently returned to trendiness in a major way. Especially big in athleisure, they’re everywhere these days in lots of comfy and cute styles. One thing I wasn’t prepared for with the Great Skort Renaissance, however, is that most are about as short as the skirt I had to wear for JV tennis in 1993 (read: very), and that’s a length and look I’m not quite as confident wearing over 30 years later.
I thought I might either have to summon the short-skirt self-assurance of my teens, or forfeit participating in the skort revival altogether, until I found this knee-length option from the brand Viodia on Amazon. I didn’t know there was a skort that came in this length, but now that I do, I’m finding reasons to wear it as often as possible.
Viodia Athletic Skort
- 20-inch knee length
- Comes in many colors
- UPF50+
- Some say fabric is a bit thin
Colorways: 21 | Sizes: XS-3XL | Fabric: 90% polyester, 10% spandex
Why I tried the Viodia Athletic Skort
With over 2,500 five-star reviews on Amazon, this skort has been highly praised for its soft fabric, flattering design and versatility for every activity level. When you take a peek at the details, the length is the eye-catcher, especially for those who want something more modest, like me. But I also love that there are built-in shorts and an inner drawstring to add more security and customization to the overall fit.
At 20 inches long, this skort sits high on the waist and hits just above the knee on most people, as opposed to just below the booty. At first, I thought this length might be a little awkward for athletic activities, but I find it easy and comfortable to move in. Plus, I’m never worried about showing more skin than I want to when I’m wearing it, especially if I suddenly find myself lunging after a ball on the court. Even the shorts underneath are a generous (but not too long) 7 inches.
My experience
But this skort definitely shouldn’t be limited to just activewear outfits. Because of its length, A-line silhouette, and the wide variety of colors and patterns in which it’s available, it can absolutely be dressed up a bit to run errands, go to brunch, or even wear to work. I’ll throw on a fitted top, an oversized denim jacket and cute shoes whenever I need an effortless outfit that still looks like a little effort was made.
Why I like it
I can carry so much
If “Thanks, it has pockets,” is your default response when someone compliments your dress, this skort is going to blow your pocket-loving mind.
Like many athletic skorts, this one has a pocket built into the shorts, but the shorts also have a second upside-down, elasticized pocket to hold balls if you’re wearing it for sports. The skirt itself has deep side pockets on each side seam, as well, and there’s even a zippered back pocket at the waist for a key or cards. If you’re keeping track, that’s as many, if not more, pockets than most pairs of jeans!
It offers sun safety
In addition to inherently covering more skin than shorter skirts, the material itself — a stretchy blend of polyester and spandex — has a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) of 50+, offering my skin much-needed damage defense. Whether I’m playing pickleball after work, before sundown or taking a walk to get coffee on a weekend morning, it’s nice to know not too much sun is sneaking through.
What to consider
Although many find the skort comfortable and flattering, some reviewers found that the material on top is a bit thin. While this isn't something that bothered me, it's important to keep this in mind if you like more support along your midsection.
Who is the Viodia Athletic Skort best for?
I’ve been practically living in the black version of the skort — arguably the most versatile color — but at $37 on Amazon, I’m planning to snag the red, army green and especially sassy leopard print versions, too. Therefore, this skort is great for anyone looking for a comfortable, versatile and/or modest bottom they can wear for both brunch dates and gym sessions.
New Balance Women's 574 Core Sneaker
This pick is a Shop TODAY Sneaker Awards winner.
$99.99
New Balance
$90.00
$99.95
Amazon
$99.95
Zappos
Anrabess Women's Coatigan
We love this cozy cardigan for layering during the colder months.
$39.99
$49.99
Amazon
Willit Yoga Capri Pants
Capri pants are trending again! We love this casual style.
$20.29
$28.99
Amazon
The Gym People Women's Lightweight Joggers
Our editors wear these joggers practically everywhere.
$22.99
$34.99
Amazon
Jessica Simpson Cargo Ankle Pants
We love how these cargo pants combine function and style.
$29.50
Walmart
Ododos High-Waist Tummy-Control Yoga Pants
These leggings have amassed over 14,000 five-star ratings.
$24.98
Amazon
Pavoi 14K Gold Convertible Link Earrings
These earrings can be worn three different ways.
$13.95
Amazon
Oofos Ooahh Recovery Slide
Treat your feet to these recovery slides after a tough workout.
$59.95
Amazon
Why trust Shop TODAY?
The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources and use our own personal experiences with the product and brand to make shopping easier for our readers.
Meet the author
Marci Robin is a Shop TODAY contributing writer with more than 20 years of experience in the editorial space.
The Flat Lay Co. Flat Lay Makeup Bag
The Flat Lay Co. Flat Lay Makeup Bag