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Sure, you could run in any old pair of shorts, but then you increase the risk of the dreaded chafing. A great pair of running shorts will wick away moisture, allowing you to move freely without irritation.
At GearLab, we have spent years testing over 50 pairs of running shorts, and this review brings you our top 10 picks. With countless miles and hours logged, our team of athletes and dedicated runners put each option through a gauntlet of rigorous in-lab and in-field tests to help you find the perfect pair no matter where you run.
For guys, our favorite pair is the Rabbit FKT 2.0 5". These shorts sport a comfortable, breathable fabric and six pockets for your phone, snacks, and other small items. As for the gals, we love the REI Co-op Swiftland 5" for their breathable, lightweight fabric that reduces chafing and remains comfortable even when wet.
If you're running on a budget, we like the Adidas Own the Run 5" for men and the REI Co-Op Active Pursuits for women. Both have plenty to offer, like a cooling liner and nifty pocket, at a reasonable price.
Editor's Note: On July 8, 2025, we completely changed how we recommend our award winners to make it easier to find the right product you.
Who this is best for: The Rabbit FKT 2.0 5" shorts are for serious runners who want premium comfort, excellent breathability, and exceptional storage. With six thoughtfully designed pockets—including a secure phone pocket with minimal bounce—they're perfect for long-distance runs, trail races, or everyday training when you need to carry fuel, keys, or your phone.
Why we love it: These high-performance men's running shorts combine a soft, moisture-wicking 87% polyester/13% spandex blend with a smooth mesh liner and flat seams for maximum comfort. “The liner feels incredibly breezy in stride,” said one tester. What really sets them apart is the six-pocket design, including four mesh hip pockets and a large rear pocket that held our big phone securely during test runs. This combo of comfort, breathability, and real utility made them a favorite in our lineup.
Should you buy it? If you're looking for the best men's running shorts and are willing to pay a bit more for top-tier performance, these are well worth it. They're versatile, comfortable, and practical over long miles. Runners on a budget might look elsewhere. Not into the 5-inch inseam? Rabbit also offers 3", 7", and 2-in-1 versions to suit different preferences.
Despite its lightweight construction, the Rabbit FKT 2.0 5" shorts have a great amount of storage.
Who this is best for: The REI Co-op Swiftland 5" shorts are a top pick for women runners who want lightweight, breathable gear with solid moisture management and a streamlined fit. Whether you're training in cool or warm weather, these shorts deliver reliable comfort. Runners who prioritize moisture wicking, a soft liner, and minimal bounce from pockets will especially appreciate this design.
Why we love it: With a gridded mesh pattern for airflow and a soft liner that stays comfortable even when wet, these high-performance women's running shorts impressed across the board. “Whether I was running in warm or cool weather, I felt comfortable in these smooth, lightweight shorts,” one tester noted. The wide, 3-inch waistband helps keep pocketed items stable, and the rear pocket—even if a bit small—offers secure storage for smaller essentials.
Should you buy it? If you're looking for the best women's running shorts for versatility, breathability, and secure fit, the REI Co-op Swiftland 5" should be at the top of your list. While the rear zippered pocket may not fit all phone sizes, the overall performance more than makes up for it.
The REI Swiftland is a do-it-all running short that offers comfort, moisture control, and functional-enough pockets for runs of all types.
Who this is best for: The Adidas Own the Run 5" shorts are a standout choice for budget-conscious runners looking for dependable performance without breaking the bank. They're ideal for short runs, gym workouts, and everyday wear. If you're just starting your running journey or looking for a few affordable pairs for midweek sessions, these are an excellent choice.
Why we love it: Despite their low price, the Adidas Own the Run shorts deliver features often found in more expensive models. Made from 100% polyester, they weigh just 4.1 ounces—making them the second-lightest in our test—and they dry quickly. “The liner is well-stitched and kept us cool during use,” noted one tester. A rear pocket accommodates most smartphones with minimal bounce, although it requires some effort to insert the phone. Overall, these shorts provide solid comfort and reasonable storage at a fraction of the price.
Should you buy it? If you're after the best value in running shorts, the Adidas Own the Run 5" should be on your shortlist. While their breathability and versatility don't quite match premium options, they perform well for the price. Be aware that the side pockets are less secure and prone to bouncing or spilling during runs, making them better suited for small items. Still, for the cost of one premium pair, you can buy two of these, making them a smart pick for everyday training or gym use.
With a bit of effort, the Adidas Own the Run 5" shorts hold a phone with minimal movement
Who this is best for: The REI Co-Op Active Pursuits shorts are perfect for runners seeking a comfortable, no-frills running short at a budget-friendly price. Ideal for short daily jogs, longer runs with a hydration vest, or even casual errands, these shorts offer solid performance in a classic, minimalist design. If you're new to running or simply want an affordable and reliable pair for everyday use, this is a top value pick.
Why we love it: Despite the low price, the Active Pursuits shorts scored well across nearly all performance metrics. The ultra-breathable liner and soft waistband with drawcord deliver lasting comfort without chafing, even on long runs. One zippered pocket on the right side offers enough room for a key or gel, making it a practical choice for runners who travel light. With modern colorways and a straightforward fit, these shorts combine functionality and subtle style better than any other low-cost option in our lineup.
Should you buy it? If you're looking for the best women's running shorts under budget, these offers unbeatable value. However, its limited pocket space may be a dealbreaker for some.
Though it lacks a functional phone pocket, the wallet-friendly Active Pursuits by REI offers the rest of the high-tech features of more expensive options.
Who this is best for: The Patagonia Strider Pro 5" shorts are an excellent choice for runners who prioritize top-tier performance, breathability, and comfort during long runs. Ideal for trail runners, marathoners, and athletes who value lightweight gear, these shorts are best suited for those who don't rely on large phone storage in the rear pocket.
Why we love it: The Strider Pro 5" continues to impress with its ultra-light, breathable fabric and barely-there feel. “The top-of-the-market quality and performance of this model remains unquestioned,” one tester shared. Despite the rear pocket now being too small for many modern smartphones, the well-executed hip pockets made it easy to carry smaller essentials, and we didn't mind using a hydration belt for our phone when needed. The body's stretchy polyester-spandex blend and wide sidecuts at the leg openings make these shorts a favorite for runs of any distance.
Should you buy it?If you're willing to invest in premium running gear, these are well worth the investment. Yes, the recent design update brought a smaller rear pocket and some complaints about thinner material, but the performance and comfort are still outstanding. Long-time users may notice the changes, but new buyers will likely be thrilled. For those who want the same feel in a longer fit, the Strider Pro also comes in a 7-inch version. High-performing, featherlight, and built for endurance, these shorts remain one of the best in the category.
The novel overlapping design of the closures on the Patagonia Strider Pro 5" shorts helps to keep items secure as well as easily accessible on the go.
Who this is best for: The Lululemon Speed Up 4" is a top pick for women runners and fitness enthusiasts seeking versatile, stylish, and ultra-comfortable running shorts. With multiple inseam options and a supportive high-rise waistband, it caters to a wide range of body types and preferences. Whether you're logging miles, hitting the gym, or heading out on a casual run, the Speed Up delivers dependable performance.
Why we love it: These shorts offer all-day comfort thanks to a tall, stay-put waistband and a silky-smooth liner that “feels nearly invisible during movement,” according to one tester. The 4-inch inseam worked beautifully with the snug waistband to prevent shifting—even when the pockets were loaded with small essentials. The breathable legs help reduce ride-up and allow solid airflow. With thoughtful design elements that prevent chafing and a sleek silhouette, the Speed Up is one of the most flattering and functional women's running shorts in our lineup.
Should you buy it? If comfort and versatility are at the top of your list, the Lululemon Speed Up 4" is an excellent investment. While it isn't the most moisture-wicking short we tested—thanks to the thicker waistband—it still performed impressively in most conditions. Overall, the Speed Up delivers premium performance and comfort in a sleek, go-anywhere design.
The Lululemon Speed Up 4" short is a versatile favorite due to its comfort, flattering fit, and do-it-all attitude. We ran this short ragged during backpacking trips, trail runs, track workouts, and gym sessions. Through it all, we still reach for this short on most occasions.
Who this is best for: The Janji AFO Middle 5" shorts are best for runners who crave featherlight gear and unrestricted movement. Ideal for race day, tempo runs, or hot-weather training, these shorts cater to athletes who prioritize minimal weight, breathability, and freedom of motion. If you're chasing personal bests or logging fast miles, this model is designed to help you feel light, fast, and focused.
Why we love it: At just 4.3 ounces, the AFO Middle 5" is among the lightest running shorts we've tested. “I love that they don't restrict movement at all and feel incredibly airy,” said one lead tester. The liner's rounded seam design prevents chafing while providing subtle support, and the breathable waistband adds stretch without losing its shape. A rear pocket fits most phones with minimal bounce, making this short both performance-driven and functional. The combination of a polyester/elastane blend, smart construction, and supreme comfort makes these shorts feel built for speed.
Should you buy it? If you want the best lightweight running shorts for speedwork or racing, the Janji AFO Middle 5" is a top-tier pick. The unusual placement of the key pocket at the front of the pelvis might not work for everyone, and the fabric—while excellent at moisture-wicking—can take longer to dry once it becomes saturated. Still, these are minor trade-offs for a short that excels in freedom and comfort.
While the Janji AFO Middle 5" is geared more towards short-distance, high-pace runs, it still has enough storage for the essentials.
Who this is best for: The Janji AFO Middle 5" shorts are ideal for runners seeking ultralightweight, breathable running shorts with zero restriction. Designed for race day, fast tempo efforts, and hot-weather training, they're best suited for athletes who want to feel as unburdened as possible while moving. If you're focused on performance and love the feel of gear that practically disappears on the run, this short hits the mark.
Why we love it: Weighing just 4.3 ounces, the AFO Middle 5" is one of the lightest and airiest shorts in our test. “I love that they don't restrict movement at all and feel incredibly airy,” one lead tester shared. The rounded seam liner offers soft support without chafing, and the breathable waistband delivers a secure yet flexible fit. A rear pocket can carry most phones with minimal bounce, and the featherweight polyester/elastane blend delivers speed-driven comfort that made these a favorite for hard efforts.
Should you buy it? If you're after the best lightweight running shorts for peak performance, the Janji AFO Middle 5" is an excellent choice. The only downsides are a front-positioned key pocket that might not suit everyone and slower drying times once saturated with sweat. Still, these are small trade-offs for a short that excels at comfort, weight, and mobility.
The Janji 3" AFO Middle is an ultra-breathable, quick-drying short with a perforated waistband and well-cut legs that provide a full range of motion, making it perfect for hot, high-intensity runs or summer races.
Who this is best for: The REI Co-op Swiftland 5" shorts are best for runners tackling long distances, warm-weather routes, or humid conditions where breathability and comfort are key. Designed with a tall, yoga-style 2-inch waistband, these shorts are especially well-suited for runners who prefer a snug fit without relying heavily on a drawstring. If you often find yourself overheating or want running shorts that transition well from workout to casual wear, the Swiftland 5" is a top contender.
Why we love it: At just 4.6 ounces (men's medium), the Swiftland 5" shorts are among the lightest in our test lineup. The unique gridded mesh fabric, a nylon-spandex blend, provides excellent airflow and moisture control. “The breathable fabric and smooth waistband kept me comfortable even on the hottest days,” one tester said. The subtle lattice weave also gives the shorts a stylish, versatile look, helping them perform well beyond the trail or track. The tall waistband adds to the secure, flattering fit.
Should you buy it?If you prioritize breathability and comfort for hot-weather runs, the REI Co-op Swiftland 5" shorts are a fantastic pick. While the rear and hip pockets are less functional than those found on some models, the overall in-run feel and temperature regulation make up for it. Please note that the rear pocket may not accommodate larger phones easily.
The open mesh stitching of the REI Co-op Swiftland 5" is a major draw of this short, providing great breathability as well as stretch.
Who this is best for: The REI Co-op Swiftland 9" is a top choice for runners looking for a chafe-resistant, biker-style short with excellent pocket functionality and all-day comfort. Its 9-inch inseam and moderate compression make it ideal for distance runners, trail runners, and anyone who wants more coverage and storage without the squeeze of high-compression gear. If you're carrying gear—phones, fuel, keys, even dog accessories—this short will keep everything stable and secure.
Why we love it: Unlike tighter options, the Swiftland 9" offers gentle compression, a high-rise waistband, and a functional drawcord that keeps it comfortably in place. Even when loaded with items in both side pockets, the fit stayed put with minimal bounce—"gear rode close to the body," one tester noted, “which really cut down on trail-time jostling.” The design provides freedom of movement while offering secure storage for longer adventures.
Should you buy it? If you're searching for a longer, storage-friendly running short with comfort-first compression, the REI Co-op Swiftland 9" is a strong pick. That said, moisture control is a drawback. Sweat showed early on, especially in the “shaded sumac” color, and pulling them back up after mid-run stops wasn't easy.
For runners in search of a biker-style short, the REI Swiftland 9" stands out as an excellent choice. With its thoughtfully designed pockets, reliable comfort, and modestly long length that is perfect for resisting chaffing, it’s our top recommendation for this style.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
How We Tested
Over the last four years, GearLab has bought and tested over 50 pairs of running shorts from different manufacturers. These shorts range in style from spandex-based biker shorts to paper-thin race-ready options. Our reviews represent extensive field testing across both gender categories, with our team putting each pair through the rigors in varied terrains and run types.
We rigorously test and review the top products on the market, including innovative offerings from emerging brands. Our team independently purchases all products—there are no sponsored deals.
From over two dozen pairs, we meticulously narrow down our favorites through:
Hours of research
Hands-on evaluation
Lab testing (e.g., in-depth dry time)
Real-world assessment
We combine objective data with subjective user impressions to provide a comprehensive and unbiased comparison of each product.
Why Trust GearLab
Our testing team is composed of seasoned athletes who know the value of a solid pair of running shorts. In recognition of the diverse needs of runners from different types, we enlist the expertise and insights of reviewers from both genders to create individualized lineups comprising a full range of top-selling shorts.
Our lead tester for men's running shorts is Craig D'Innocente, a lifetime athlete and runner who grew up playing soccer throughout high school and college and carried running with him as a preferred extracurricular activity well into his post-graduate years. He currently travels to various parts of the country as a seasonal worker, most recently serving as a Botany Technician for the Willamette National Forest in Oregon, where forest trails proved fertile ground for running shorts testing. Craig aims to bring a scientific viewpoint to his gear testing, helping to create objective protocols to ensure his final product assessments are based as much on data points as on his individual experience in use.
The men's team also includes passionate runner and all-around mountain athlete, Matthew Richardson, who shares a similar background in both the sciences and in forestry, having both studied environmental biology and GIS (Geospatial Information Systems) and worked as a forestry technician in his earlier years. He now applies those refined data-driven skills to the world of computer mapping, working and playing out of Durango, Colorado. Matthew serves as one of GearLab's running experts across several categories, applying his expertise to running apparel assessments and taking a lead role on our men's trail running shoes review.
Our testers logged hundreds of miles across varied terrains to ensure accurate testing.
Our lead tester, Ally Arcuri, is a cornerstone of GearLab's running content, dedicating her expertise to the women's half of our running shoe reviews and exploring the latest in performance footwear. A competitive trail runner and cancer survivor, Ally resides in Los Osos, CA, near San Luis Obispo. Alongside her impressive running credentials—logging over 1,000 miles annually in test gear—she brings a rich background as a PE teacher with a bachelor's in Kinesiology, a master's in Education, and certification as a 200-hour registered yoga teacher.
Jackie Kearney brings over a decade of experience in high-profile track running to her role on the running shorts testing team, having scored several NCAA All-American performances during a competitive college career. After logging many miles over many years, she now knows exactly what makes a well-functioning running short. Post-college, her path took her into the San Juan mountains of Colorado, where she soon transitioned into longer trail runs to support her growing passion for winter sports. Today, she remains an active runner to maintain fitness and prepare for a busy season of ski patrolling and ski touring once the snow arrives.
The full shorts selection drying on clothesline for our drying time test
Credit: Craig D'Innocente
How to Select the Right Running Short for Your Needs
A running short is much more than a small pair of shorts intended for athletic use. Many features distinguish a high-performance running short from a broader athletic short, including a breathable and supportive liner and pockets built to prevent bouncing during runs. Before making a new purchase, it is important to consider the type of liner, inseam length, waistband width and type, material, and pocket utility.
Most shorts designed specifically for runners will also be divided along gender lines to accommodate various differences in body shapes and needs. Manufacturers commonly release similar models to both markets, although women's shorts tend to have shorter inseams and often come with fewer pockets. However, very often, the core components and important features are similar. There are numerous running short choices on the market, sold at many different price points and with unique performance distinctions. Although there are a set of key considerations worth evaluating no matter which direction you may choose to go, as with any clothing purchase, we recommend trying on each item before making a final decision to ensure a proper fit and style.
Both made of breathable fabrics, the men's and women's REI Swiftland offer nuanced gender-based fit and cut options.
Men's Running Shorts
Our final scores in our men's running shorts review are based on a variety of tests and in-use evaluations. The following chart illustrates the cumulative results of those findings for every pair we tested.
Women's Running Shorts
Our women's testing team puts a full lineup of women's models through the same rigorous testing regime, capturing the all-important female perspective to ensure our results reflect their specific needs. The chart below shows the final scores for all women's running shorts under the current evaluation.
How Much Coverage Do You Want?
Although not always readily apparent to those who are not immersed in the sport, there is a wide variety of running short design choices, with different features meant to serve different needs. The unique benefits of a running short's cut are not always immediately apparent but can nevertheless play a large role in comfort and performance. These include inseam length, leg opening width, and the inclusion (or lack thereof) of a sidecut.
We measured the inseam, leg opening, and waistband width of each pair of shorts we tested to ensure we capture the full picture.
Credit: Craig D'Innocente
The first thing most shoppers will likely notice is how long or short the legs of a pair of shorts hang on the body. Many newbies to the sport may be surprised at how short some inseams can be, potentially leaving a newer runner feeling a bit exposed. However, there are good reasons why these mini-lengths are so common. Shorter inseams are prevalent among designs meant for long-distance runs, given the unparalleled breathability and freedom of movement they provide. However, there is no question they fall short on coverage for those who prefer a bit less exposed skin and deliver a less impressive performance when moving in cooler temperatures, through inclement weather, or on rough trails in the backcountry. Longer inseams offer the inverse, with valuable coverage to protect the legs in rough terrain and better cold weather performance. For this reason, you are more likely to see the shorter styles on long-distance road runners and on race days than you are on a trail run or at the gym.
Longer shorts can be a great choice for running in early mornings or shoulder seasons and can help protect legs from the scrapes and scratches of vegetation along the trail.
Credit: Craig D'Innocente
It is also important to note that inseams across the board are generally shorter on running shorts than everyday shorts for both genders, but these run even shorter on women's models. For example, mid-level performance shorts meant for women often sport inseams so short they are only seen on marathon designs for men. This level of exposure may not be for everyone. The good news is that many manufacturers now make the same models in different lengths. So, if you love the design in other ways but want a bit more coverage down the leg, you may well have several options to choose from.
Not every runner will be comfortable with having much of their legs exposed. While the benefits of a short inseam and deep sidecut may be valuable to some, others will be happy to accept a little less freedom of movement for the additional coverage.
Credit: Jacqueline Kearney
Other important performance considerations when it comes to the cut of your shorts include leg opening width and crotch depth. Both of these measurements impact how you move in the shorts. Crotches that are cut too shallow and fit particularly close to the groin can feel restricting, while skinny leg openings can prove uncomfortable for those with larger thighs. Sidecuts are a particularly important design feature of a dedicated running short. When added, this cut enhances leg mobility by creating a wider leg opening to free your stride. These are commonly found on higher-performance shorts meant for runners who are comfortable sacrificing some coverage to maximize their range of motion. But it is important to note a large sidecut is going to be a little more revealing than even just a shorter inseam, exposing a bit more of the thigh each time the leg panels open and the cut expands. This may not be the right design style for everyone and should be evaluated based on your desires.
During a lunge or other leg movements, the sidecut of a short expands to allow extra mobility.
Credit: Craig D'Innocente
Which Design Features Are Important To You?
Most running-specific shorts come with some sort of liner (although unlined versions do exist). A liner is an integral feature because it offers interior support around the groin (similar to what underwear might offer) and critical chafing protection. It is an added layer of fabric that sits between your body and the fabric of the shorts, so breathability is key here. This is why many liners are designed with mesh fabric or, in the case of women's shorts, a bit of cotton to ensure good airflow.
Liner seams play a crucial role, providing support by gripping the leg to keep the liner securely in place, but they can also cause chafing if poorly designed or constructed. Shorter brief-style liners will have seams that sit inside the crease at your groin, where they could become irritating to the skin if they begin rubbing and absorbing moisture. Longer liner designs lay between the legs, positioned where the thighs may touch and otherwise rub against each other. Here, the seams are meant to grip the thighs and hold the liner in place as the body moves. In both cases, extra care is often taken by manufacturers to produce rounded or flat seams that hold their places well without introducing any unintended risk of chafing. Strong, well-planned stitching can make a big difference in reinforcing the strength of the liner's grip and chafing control.
Flat seams and a smooth finish are things to look out for when choosing between liners, as seen on the ON Lightweight 7" shorts.
Credit: Craig D'Innocente
Several liner styles exist, with the most common being the brief liner. Longer short-style liners are another style frequently used, with legs that extend farther down to the upper or mid-thigh. These liners are more common in women's shorts to accommodate for the increased risk of thigh chafe, as experienced by many female runners. You will also find compression shorts/tights designs on the market, both of which prevent chafing alone and can be combined with unlined shorts if you prefer. Compression options have pros and cons, with some runners loving the amplified support, coverage, and blood circulation. However, others see the increased heat accumulation and a more revealing fit as a reason to avoid them (or at least combine them with another unlined pair up top). Shorts with liners provide a nice middle ground between tights and briefs, with a modest fit, secure comfort during movement, and solid chafing protection.
Longer, tight-short-style liners offer maximum coverage and support, although they can also hamper breathability and moisture control. Shown here is the longer liner of the women's On Running Shorts.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Waistbands are among the most important fitting mechanisms available on running shorts. They are usually combined with a drawstring to offer a wider range of fits, even if a perfectly fitting waistband could prevent the need for a drawstring closure altogether. Although not uncommon, shorts with an internally positioned drawstring can end up chafing on the waistline when tied and knotted during a run. It is rare to find a short without a drawstring, as this is among the easiest and sometimes necessary fit adjustment tools, but these options do exist.
Among the widest waistbands we tested was on the REI Co-op Swiftland, sitting right above the hip bone and holding its position easily, even when we got moving and picked up speed.
Credit: Jacqueline Kearney
Waistbands vary widely in width and construction, with recent trends favoring wider designs. While the average men's shorts feature a 1.25-inch waistband, some in our lineup measured 1.63 inches, with a few exceeding 2 inches. For women's shorts, the average waistband width is notably broader at 2.7 inches. These larger, yoga-style waistbands offer an incredibly secure fit that can be ideal for long runs. However, that fit does not come without its own cost. The extra material used to create these expanded waistbands can hold more heat in addition to absorbing sweat during exertion, which can create discomfort when tackling longer runs. Some waistband designs integrate mesh into the wider-cut waistbands to try and alleviate these drawbacks and take advantage of the best of both worlds.
The integrated mesh on the waistband of the Janji AFO Middle maintains great airflow as well as a snug fit.
Credit: Craig D'Innocente
What Will You Need to Carry?
Pockets are not always the first thing that springs to mind when thinking about purchasing running shorts, but they can prove to be a very necessary feature for some runners. On longer runs, storage becomes a necessity to carry things like nutrition, energy gels, and water. On most outdoor runs, people will likely want to have at least a few essentials on them, like keys, identification, and a phone. Of course, all storage needs could be met by a secondary piece of gear like a running vest, belt, or backpack. However, many of us appreciate the simplicity of a short that inherently comes with good storage, as it makes gearing up for a run that much simpler. Women's models tend to have less storage, following the same broader trends in women's fashion (can you feel our female testers rolling their eyes at this? Just give us pockets already!). For either gender, good pockets are going to be easily accessible and properly sized for their intended items. They will also restrain contents firmly, keeping them from moving or bouncing in stride.
The inclusion of a zipper closure goes a long way for providing security.
Credit: Craig D'Innocente
There are many different styles of pockets incorporated into running shorts, including hip, rear, hand, and keyhole pockets. Each style is generally intended for a specific class of item and performs best when used accordingly. For example, rear pockets are often reserved for phones or larger items, protecting the contents with a zipper closure and placed against the tailbone to prevent movement during running. Hip pockets usually rely on elastic for security and are sized for nutrition, like bars and gels or key rings. Keyhole pockets are small openings where one can slide single keys and/or identification or credit cards, and they are usually hidden on the interior of the short. Finally, standard hip pockets are found on more versatile shorts and are capable of holding more stuff, but typically with lower security. When shopping, you will be best served if you consider what items you usually bring on a run and seek a short that can accommodate your storage needs based on its pocket lineup.
A rear pocket large enough to hold a current-day Smartphone is among the premium features favored by novice and expert runners alike for the convenience, stability, and protection it offers.
Why Does Fabric and Stitching Matter?
While most running shorts stick to some kind of synthetic fabric, there is a great deal of variety when you get into the specific composition of materials brought together to make the fabrics used in the shorts. Synthetics are typically chosen for active wear due to their lighter weights, wicking properties, sheer feel, and elasticity. Common fabrics include polyester, spandex/elastane, and nylon. Polyester makes up the lion's share of a fabric blend, with some shorts eschewing alternate fabric combinations altogether to go with full polyester knits instead. Each of these individual materials has its own properties, with its own unique combination of benefits.
Synthetic fabrics excel at wicking away moisture, making them uniquely suited for the demands of runners.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Spandex is commonly used in elastic applications, offering excellent stretch but sacrificing some breathability. Nylon, while less stretchy than spandex, is softer, smoother, lighter, and more durable. It also has great moisture-wicking capabilities and better breathability, even though it may also lack the same support or shape retention. Polyester is highly versatile, with properties varying based on its manufacturing and blends; it is known for its quick-drying and moisture-wicking abilities, but it may also retain odors and have limited breathability.
The body of the REI Swiftland Shorts is made of a unique, super-breathable nylon-spandex mesh weave. In contrast, the liner inside is made of a poly-spandex blend for improved support.
Credit: Craig D'Innocente
Manufacturers invest a great deal of energy in engineering blended fabrics that maximize the best traits of these materials for athletic use. Be sure to take a closer look at the tags on any pairs you are considering, in addition to giving them a pull to feel the stretch and having a closer look at the liners and waistbands. It can be helpful to take note of the fabric compositions on some of your favorite athletic gear already at home to better understand your fabric preferences before adding anything more to your collection.
The Rabbit FKT 2.0 5" short has a few different poly-spandex fabric panels, including a stretchy ripstop in the legs and a diamond-mesh fabric behind the pockets and in the liner.
Credit: Craig D'Innocente
The construction and stitching on the body of your shorts will also significantly impact the comfort and overall feel of the pair once worn. Construction here refers to not only the different fabric panels and component sections used to build the shorts but also to how each part is joined together. Stitching and seams can be a large source of chafing once you get moving, so it is common for manufacturers to utilize smooth or rounded stitches to ensure an easy-glide finish against the skin. It is also common to incorporate mesh in some capacity, whether that be full panels for the body or within the liner and/or surrounding the waistband. Shorts with mesh are excellent choices for runners who tend to overheat or anyone running in a warmer climate.
Stitching, seams, and drawstrings can all be sources of chafing, particularly once you start sweating and the materials begin to absorb sweat.
Credit: Jacqueline Kearney
How Hot Do You Run?
Environmental considerations (i.e., where will you be running?) and individual runners' personal thermoregulation are also key factors in selecting the right shorts. Breathability is not something you may have at the front of your mind when you browse options, but it can become a major factor in how you feel once you take off for your first run in whatever pair you select. Sweat and heat can quickly become problematic if you are running in a hot climate or if you tend to run hot. If your apparel is not breathable, this can turn from mildly uncomfortable to downright painful. From overheating to chafing, without airflow, you will feel the consequences. Manufacturers take various measures in the design process to mitigate such complaints. Mesh is a common strategy used to allow air and body heat to pass through the material of your shorts. It can take many forms and is used everywhere, from the waistband and liner to the body of the shorts themselves, utilizing varying sizes and techniques. Another way to increase breathability is to incorporate a brief liner rather than a longer version. The smaller-sized liner is designed to provide support using a limited amount of additional material, thereby reducing the potential for heat retention.
Mesh panels like this one on the rear of the On Lightweight 7" keep the shorts light and make sure there is airflow through the shorts.
Credit: Craig D'Innocente
Manufacturers take a similar approach to combat moisture retention. While moisture wicking is a feature many runners greatly appreciate, it isn't everything a runner needs. A pair of saturated shorts can become quite weighty, soggy, and even sag if that same wicking material isn't equally designed to shed moisture at a fairly similar rate. The absorption can not only create an uncomfortable drag while running, but it can also present a big chafing problem, and all such issues will slow you down. Certain materials wick better than others, with spandex performing noticeably worse in terms of moisture control than materials with a more heavily polyester-based composition. Of course, there is some overlap with breathability in design that should also be considered, as a short that incorporates features to maintain solid airflow will also be better at removing moisture from the skin's surface, regardless of the fabric. You'll want to consider both material combinations and design choices to assess if a product will be breezy, wicking, and cool enough to satisfy your needs and maintain comfort.
We tested moisture control with a few different methods, including in-use testing as well as blowdryer and clothesline drying time tests.
Credit: Craig D'Innocente
How Long Will They Last?
Durability and care are also important things to consider when purchasing and using running shorts. The thin fabric and lightweight construction of most running shorts mean they will not withstand machine drying as well, and some may even suggest hand washing and air drying. Some shorts may even feature a durable water repellent, or DWR for short. This is a fabric treatment commonly used in wet-weather gear, such as rain or ski jackets. Its purpose is to enhance the water-repellency of your garment. However, it does not last forever and may need reapplication over time to ensure continued performance. Be sure to read the care instructions for any pair of shorts you purchase to prevent unwanted wear and tear. This is also among the reasons many runners have several pairs of everyday shorts that they use for average training runs, and add more high-performance options to their rotation for longer efforts and race days. It's worth considering the intended purpose before making a final selection among all the options.
Shorts without DWR can saturate very quickly.
Credit: Craig D'Innocente
Conclusion
Running is a fundamental human activity, enjoyed by athletes of all levels. The right pair of running shorts can significantly enhance your experience, transforming a simple workout into something more. We've compiled extensive information to help you navigate the leading options on the market, ensuring you find the best running shorts to suit your needs and preferences. Whether you're a beginner getting acquainted with the sport or an experienced marathoner, our lineup has something for everyone. We're confident your next pair of shorts will be a high-quality asset for all your upcoming runs.
