Silicone band grippers use a continuous strip of silicone around the entire inner hem, giving you a very secure hold that keeps your shorts from riding up—even during hard efforts or on sweaty rides. They're a great choice if you're racing, doing intense training, or just hate the feeling of your shorts shifting around mid-ride.
The tradeoff is that the band can feel tight or restrictive on larger or more muscular thighs, and it may leave temporary marks on your skin after a long ride. If you've had issues with shorts riding up in the past, this gripper type is worth considering for its reliable grip.
Go with silicone band grippers if security is your top priority and you want a short that stays put no matter what. If comfort on bigger thighs matters more, or you prefer a less noticeable feel, silicone dot grippers are usually the safer bet.