I have to cast a vote for the "shorties." That could be because I am on the short side at 5'1. I was a happy, happy person when the shorter inseam shorts became available! I tucked up the legs of the longer short for years! Not the most comfortable but I just do not like tan lines down by the knees. So it's partly a vanity thing - I can admit that. When you are short to begin with, wearing long shorts, either on or off the bike, makes it look like there is no upper leg at all!

If it was truly uncomfortable or caused problems while riding, I'd stay with the longer shorts but as long as they are long enough to keep my skin from rubbing on the saddle, it works. I've never had problems with any shorts, long or short, riding up, as long as they were decent shorts and fit correctly to begin with. If they get old enough so that the elastic doesn't keep them down, then it's time to dispose of them.

Pedalfaster, you've got me confused when you say >>I think if 90% of the women who wear them could see a back view while they pedal they would give them up. The bend in the knee while cycling is just, uhm, not very flattering. <<
Don't you see the bend of the knee whether the shorts are long or short inseams?

It seems to boil down to individual preferences, as do so many things. It is fun to read other views!

annie