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A great pair of running shorts wicks moisture, moves with your stride, and carries essentials without being distracting. Finding a comfortable pair makes all the difference in how long and how far you might go.
For men, our favorite is the Patagonia Strider Pro. At just 3.40 ounces, it is the lightest lined short we tested, yet its five-pocket system carries gels, a phone, and even a packable jacket without the need for a running vest. For women, our favorite is the REI Swiftland 2-in-1. This pocket-rich, simple pair of running shorts is perfect for all kinds of runs and runners.
If you are running on a budget, we like the Baleaf Running Athletic Shorts for men, with three zippered pockets and UPF 50+ sun protection at a fraction of the price of premium options. For women, we love the Nike Tempo. While not the most technical shorts, they are perfect for beginners or casual runners.
At GearLab, we have spent years testing over 50 pairs of running shorts, and this review brings you our top picks for both men and women. Our team of athletes and dedicated runners logged hundreds of miles in each pair across roads, trails, and gym floors, combining objective dry time testing and product measurements with real-world assessment to help you find the pair that fits your goals and budget.
Editor's Note: This review was updated on July 1, 2026, to reflect our latest round of testing, including new award winners for the men's lineup.
Who this is best for: The runner who has outgrown juggling keys in one pocket and a phone wedged awkwardly in a waistband. If your runs regularly stretch past an hour, or you like to carry nutrition, layers, and a phone without strapping on a vest, the Patagonia Strider Pro solves a problem most shorts do not even attempt. It is also an excellent pick for minimalist trail runners who want to ditch the pack on shorter efforts without sacrificing carry capacity.
Why we love it: Five pockets in a short that weighs 3.40 ounces sounds like a manufacturing trick, but the Strider Pro pulls it off. The four stretch envelope pockets compress flat when empty to avoid bunching, yet they expand to hold gels, gloves, and even a packable wind shell. The back zipper pocket fits a phone securely with a built-in key loop, and the DWR-treated recycled polyester shell beads water. We ran through a sudden afternoon storm outside Durango, and the shell was touch-dry within minutes of the rain stopping. The crepe knit brief liner with odor control remained comfortable across back-to-back long runs without a wash in between.
Should you buy it? Yes, if your budget allows, we love these shorts. However, runners who prefer a boxer brief liner for more thigh coverage may find the Strider Pro's brief cut leaves them wanting. If you rarely carry more than a key and a phone, a simpler short like the Brooks Dash Shorts or REI Swiftland Shorts will serve you well at a lower cost. But if on-body storage matters to you, no other shorts we tested come close to what the Strider Pro packs into its featherweight frame.
Who this is best for: The REI Swiftland 2-in-1 is designed for runners who want a single pair of shorts to tackle all of life's outdoor adventures in. The built-in biker brief feels secure on the speediest workouts, but the coverage of the traditional short layer offers everything a runner needs to tackle summer runs along sunny trails. Runners who want to travel light will appreciate the ample storage space these shorts offer. The biker-short layer helps secure items close to the body to reduce bounce, further cementing the Swiftland 2-in-1's strength as a do-it-all short.
Why we love it: Quite simply, we love the pockets. Instead of having to decide which shorts to pair with a bra and hydration pack, the Swiftland 2-in-1 keeps it simple. With bilateral phone pockets, a rear zippered pocket, and 2 waistband stash pockets, every essential has a designated location in these shorts. By taking the guesswork out of packing, you're free to focus on the miles that stretch out ahead of you.
Should you buy it? If you are seeking a simple pair of running shorts for all your runs, this is the option we recommend. Runners who aren't sold on the 2-in-1 design might prefer the more traditional REI Swiftland, which is made of the same materials but includes a standard brief liner. If you value storage, coverage, and overall versatility, the Swiftland 2-in-1 would be a great running short to consider.
The 2-in-1 shorts offer a versatility that we appreciate for adventures of all kinds.
Who this is best for: The Baleaf Running Athletic Shorts are a smart pick for experienced runners who want a dedicated backup pair or a beater short for muddy trail days when they would rather not risk their best gear. They are also great for runners who are just getting started and do not want to spend a premium on figuring out what they like. At this price, buying two or three pairs to rotate through a training week is realistic.
Why we love it: Secure pockets at a budget price is a rare combination, and the Baleaf delivers it better than shorts costing two to three times as much. Every pocket zips shut, so a phone, keys, and a gel stay locked down from the first stride to the last. UPF 50+ is a thoughtful inclusion, offering real sun protection for runners who train outdoors. The mesh brief liner handles the basics, and the overall construction held up across weeks of regular use without loose threads or blown seams.
Should you buy it? The Baleaf is honest about what it is. The elastic waistband is narrower than that of higher-scoring shorts and tends to fold over once sweat builds up during runs longer than an hour. The 100% polyester fabric is smooth but not as soft or breathable as the recycled-blend fabrics. For getting started, stocking a gym drawer, or keeping a reliable pair in the rotation without overthinking the price, the Baleaf is a solid entry point.
Who this is best for: The Nike Tempo is a budget-friendly running short built for beginners. This is the pair of shorts for runners who are ready to buy a dedicated pair but don't want to overspend. The Tempo shorts feel like true running shorts and perform well across the board without feeling overly complicated.
Why we love it: The act of running is simple, but gear can oftentimes feel overly complex. We appreciate the simplicity of the Tempo running shorts. These shorts are easy to reach for when a quick evening jog is on the horizon. While they feel comfortable and dry well on longer, more challenging efforts, the ease of use and relative comfort make the Tempo shorts a compelling daily runner.
Should you buy it? If you are in need of a running short to get you started, the Tempo shorts are likely a solid choice for you to consider. They keep things streamlined and simple and are available for much less than many of the most technical, “fancy” options. Runners who are ready to up the ante on their training might outgrow the basic nature of the Tempo shorts, but runners in need of a simple short that doesn't drain their bank account will find success here.
While not a leader in terms of technical performance, the Tempo shorts are an affordable and simple option built for new runners to find their stride in.
Who this is best for: The Vuori Kore Short is built for people who value fabric quality, a polished look, and comfort across activities over peak running performance. They are perfect for the runner who wants one pair of shorts that covers a gym session in the morning, a few easy miles at lunch, and errands in the afternoon without changing. If you are not training for a race and want shorts that feel great everywhere, the Kore is the answer.
Why we love it: The 10% elastane fabric blend produces the softest hand feel in our lineup, with a four-way stretch that moves naturally whether you are lunging at the gym, jogging a neighborhood loop, or sitting through brunch. The 7-inch inseam and classic-fit silhouette do not scream “running short,” which is exactly the point. The boxer brief liner provides steady support through lower-intensity activity, and Vuori offers the Kore in both 5-inch and 7-inch inseams with lined and unlined options, so you can dial in the combination that suits your preferences.
Should you buy it? Yes! if your goal is a casual multi-purpose short you can run in. At 6.50 ounces, it is heavy, and the fabric absorbs water rather than shedding it, and the slash and back pockets have no zipper closures for secure carry at pace. If your primary use is running, the Patagonia Strider Pro or REI Swiftland Shorts will serve you better. But if you want shorts you will wear more than any other pair you own, across more activities than any dedicated running shorts can handle, the Kore earns that spot in your drawer.
Who this is best for: The REI Swiftland are a standout short when it comes to versatility. These fast-drying shorts are ready to tackle long hikes, short track workouts, and gym days. It's the pair for those who want one pair of high-performing running shorts. We have been running in the Swiftland shorts for years and appreciate how they show up ready to wick moisture, carry necessary items, and handle the demands of serious running.
Why we love it: We appreciate the various comfort and fit options available. The Swiftland line offers high- and mid-rise options, as well as multiple inseam lengths. This variety helps ensure that runners find a fit that feels ideal. We also love their comfort. The 73% recycled nylon and 27% spandex blend on the leg openings doesn't ride up as readily as softer fabric blends and, ultimately, feels like it disappears against the legs during movement. The built-in brief liners are wide enough to stay put without constant adjusting, which is a huge plus.
Should you buy it? Runners in need of one pair of running shorts ready to tackle any running-adjacent adventure will appreciate what the Swiftland shorts offer. The rear pocket is large enough to hold a phone, though the sensation of a phone pressed into the lower back became tiresome on longer efforts. If you like the sound of the Swiftland but know that carrying your phone comfortably is crucial, we recommend the lateral-pocketed REI Swiftland 2-in-1. The 2-in-1 features a biker-short liner that helps keep items close to the body during runs.
The quick-drying, versatile Swiftland by REI is an easy choice for high-alpine runs. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Who this is best for: Runners who train through summer heat, live in warm climates, or simply run hot. If you have ever finished a run with shorts so saturated they felt like they gained a pound, the REI Swiftland Shorts address that problem directly. They are also a strong pick for long-distance runners who want a thoughtful pocket layout without having to carry a vest or belt.
Why we love it: The O2Grid recycled nylon and spandex blend is engineered to move air, and we felt the difference immediately on hot afternoon runs. Outseam vents amplify that airflow, and the wide SwiftFit waistband uses the same O2Grid fabric to manage moisture right where sweat collects first. The pockets are designed for what runners typically carry: a back zipper holds a phone, two waistband stash pockets each fit a gel or a card, and a key loop keeps keys from rattling. The boxer brief mesh liner provides solid coverage and breathes well enough to keep pace with the rest of the construction.
Should you buy it? If you run in hotter weather, we think these are the go-to pair. For runners whose primary enemy is heat, the Swiftland's breathability advantage is meaningful enough to build a summer rotation around, even though some runners might seek more pockets.
Who this is best for: The Janji Pace shorts are an ideal pick for runners seeking a running short to get them through serious running. With ample pockets that ride close to the body to minimize bounce, gripper dots to keep leg openings secure, and a moderately compressive fit, these shorts are built to withstand the demands of long-distance running.
Why we love it: We appreciate the second-skin-like fit of the Pace shorts. We sized up during testing to prevent an overly compressive fit and were thrilled by how well these shorts performed. Silicone dots adorn the inner leg openings, helping secure them to the thighs. In motion, this translates into a chafe-resistant fit that rarely needs fiddling with. Moreover, the pockets ride close to the body, allowing gear, even as heavy as a durably encased iPhone, to stay comfortably put during long efforts.
Should you buy it? While on the pricier side, runners seeking a distance-ready short might find the Pace to be a good value. This pair of shorts is ready for runs of all kinds, often letting you run without a pack thanks to its plentiful pockets. If you like the idea of this short but want something with a little bit more coverage, the REI Swiftland 2-in-1 offers similar features in a dual-layered design. Otherwise, bike-style lovers will find the Pace to be nearly perfect.
The Janji Pace shorts are a streamlined biker-style short with thoughtful details that perform well on bodies ready to pick up the pace. Credit: Ally Arcuri
How We Tested
Over the last four years, GearLab has bought and tested over 60 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 genders, with our team putting each pair through varied terrain, climates, and running conditions.
We researched and tested the top products on the market. We purchase 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
Real-world assessment
We considered 3 test metrics:
Overall comfort
Moisture control and breathability
Pockets
We combine objective data with subjective user impressions to provide a comprehensive, unbiased comparison of each product.
There are so many shorts and price ranges to choose from. Credit: Ally Arcuri
We tested versatile running shorts like the Vuori Halo. Credit: Ally Arcuri
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, 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.
Lead tester Matthew Richardson in the Patagonia Strider Pro.
Our lead tester for men's running shorts is a 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.
The full shorts selection drying on clothesline for our drying time test Credit: Craig D'Innocente
How to Select the Best Running Shorts for You
Running shorts are 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, supportive liner and pockets designed to prevent bouncing during runs. Before making a new purchase, it is important to consider the type of liner, inseam length, waistband width, type, material, and pocket utility.
Both made of breathable fabrics, the men's and women's REI Swiftland offer nuanced gender-based fit and cut options.
Most shorts designed specifically for runners are also divided by gender to accommodate differences in body shapes and needs. Manufacturers commonly release similar models for both markets, though women's shorts tend to have shorter inseams and fewer pockets. However, the core components and important features are very often similar. There are numerous running shorts on the market, available at many price points and with unique performance features. Although there are key considerations worth evaluating no matter which direction you choose, as with any clothing purchase, we recommend trying on each item before making a final decision to ensure a proper fit and style.
We've tested more than 20 men's running shorts over the years, including the Brooks Dash 2-in-1 Shorts. Credit: Matthew Richardson
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.
Key Metric Scores of Men's Running Shorts
Product
Comfort
Pockets
Breathability & Moisture Control
Patagonia Strider Pro
8.5
8.5
8.5
REI Swiftland Shorts
8
8
8
Janji AFO Middle
8.5
8.5
6.5
Brooks Dash 2-in-1 Shorts
8
7
7.5
Brooks Dash Shorts
8
7.5
6
Patagonia Trailfarer
7.5
8.5
5.5
Baleaf Running Athletic Shorts
6.5
6.5
8
REI Active Pursuits Shorts
7
7
7
NorthYard Workout Running Shorts
6
6
8
Vuori Kore Short
7
6
6.5
We run long distances, over varied terrain, and in different climates to score and rank running shorts. Credit: Ally Arcuri
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.
Key Metric Scores of Women's Running Shorts
Product
Comfort
Pockets
Breathability & Moisture Control
REI Swiftland 2-in-1
8.5
10
8.5
REI Swiftland
8.5
8.5
9
Janji Pace
8
9
8
Patagonia Trailfarer
7.5
6.5
10
Oiselle Roga
9
7
6.5
Nike Tempo
7
5
7.5
Brooks Dash
6.5
5
8
Vuori Halo Performance Shorts 2.0
10
3
6
Under Armour Fly By
6
5.5
7.5
The Gym People High Waisted Running Shorts
6.5
7
5
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
How Much Coverage Do You Want?
There are a wide variety of running shorts with different features. The unique benefits of a running shorts cuts are not always apparent, but can play a large role in comfort and performance. These include inseam length, leg opening width, and the inclusion (or lack) 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 will notice is the length of the shorts' legs. New runners may be surprised by how short some inseams can be, leaving them feeling a bit exposed. However, there are good reasons why these shorter lengths are so common. Shorter inseams are common in designs meant for long-distance runs, given the unparalleled breathability and freedom of movement they offer. 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 provide valuable coverage to protect 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 are generally shorter on running shorts than on everyday shorts for both genders, and they run even shorter on women's shorts. 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 but want a bit more coverage down the leg, there are often multiple lengths to choose from.
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 a liner (not all). A liner is an integral feature because it provides interior support around the groin (similar to underwear) and critical chafing protection. It is an added layer of fabric that sits between your body and the shorts' fabric, so breathability is key. This is why many liners are made of mesh fabric or, for 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. Shorter brief-style liners have seams that sit inside the crease at your groin, where they can become irritating if they rub and absorb moisture. Longer liner designs lie between the legs, positioned where the thighs may touch and rub against each other. The seams are meant to grip the thighs and hold the liner in place. In both cases, manufacturers often take extra care to produce rounded or flat seams that hold their place well without introducing any unintended risk of chafing. Strong, well-planned stitching can make a big difference in reinforcing 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 also used, with legs that extend farther down the thigh. These liners are more common in women's shorts to address the increased risk of thigh chafe. You will also find compression shorts/tights, which prevent chafing on their own and can be combined with unlined shorts if you prefer. Shorts with liners provide a nice middle ground between tights and briefs, with a modest fit, secure comfort during movement, and solid chafing protection.
Shorts like the REI Swiftland 2-in-1 split the difference between longer, biker-style shorts and more traditionally designed options. With a wide, flat waistband and two breathable layers, this short style is designed for optimal comfort. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Waistbands are among the most important fitting mechanisms 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 chafe the waistline when tied and knotted during a run. It is rare to find shorts without a drawstring, as this is among the easiest and sometimes necessary fit adjustment tools, but they do exist.
Breaking away from the popular wide-waisted style, the Patagonia Trailfarer offers a thinner waistband that all but disappears when in motion. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Waistbands vary widely in width and construction, with recent trends favoring wider designs. Larger, yoga-style waistbands offer an incredibly secure fit that can be ideal for long runs. However, that fit comes at a cost. The extra material used to create these expanded waistbands can hold more heat and absorb sweat during exertion, which can lead to discomfort when tackling longer runs. Some waistband designs integrate mesh into the wider-cut waistbands to try to alleviate these drawbacks and take advantage of the best of both worlds.
Other performance considerations include leg opening width and crotch depth. These measurements impact mobility in the shorts. Crotches that are cut too shallow and fit close to the groin can feel restricting, while skinny leg openings can prove uncomfortable for larger thighs.
Sidecuts are an important design feature of a dedicated running short. 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 range of motion. However, a large sidecut is going to be a little more revealing than just a shorter inseam, exposing a bit more of the thigh each time the leg panels open and the cut expands.
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 can be a very necessary feature for some runners. On longer runs, storage becomes necessary to carry items such as nutrition, phone, and water. On most outdoor runs, people will want at least a few essentials, like keys, identification, and a phone. Of course, storage could be met by a running vest, belt, or backpack. However, many of us appreciate shorts with good storage. Women's models tend to have less storage, mirroring broader trends in women's fashion. For either gender, good pockets are easily accessible and properly sized, 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 pocket styles on running shorts, including hip, rear, hand, and keyhole pockets. Each style is intended for a specific item and performs best when used accordingly. For example, rear pockets are often reserved for phones or larger items, protecting their contents with a zipper closure and placing them against the tailbone to prevent movement during running. Hip pockets usually use elastic for security and are sized for items 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. Finally, standard hip pockets are found on more versatile shorts and can hold more stuff, but typically with lower security. You should consider which items you usually bring on a run and seek shorts to accommodate them.
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.
Does Fabric and Stitching Matter?
While most running shorts use synthetic fabric, there is a wide variety of materials used to make them. 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 in favor of full polyester knits. Each of these materials has its own properties and unique 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 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 of the shorts' body will also significantly impact the comfort and overall feel. Construction refers not only to 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 through full-body panels, the liner/or around 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 and your personal thermoregulation are also key factors in selecting the right shorts. Sweat and heat can quickly become problematic if you run in a hot climate or tend to run hot. If your apparel is not breathable, this can turn from mildly uncomfortable to downright painful. Manufacturers take various measures to mitigate such complaints. Mesh is a common material that allows air and body heat to pass through your shorts. 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 runners need. A pair of saturated shorts can become weighty, soggy, and even sag if the same wicking material isn't also designed to shed moisture at a similar rate. The absorption can not only create an uncomfortable drag while running but also cause significant chafing. Certain materials wick better than others, with spandex performing noticeably worse at moisture control than materials with a more heavily polyester-based composition. Of course, there is some overlap with breathability; shorts that incorporate features to maintain solid airflow will also be better at removing moisture from the skin's surface. You'll want to consider material combinations and design choices to assess if shorts will be breezy, wicking, and cool enough to meet your needs and maintain comfort.
Shorts without DWR can saturate very quickly. Credit: Craig D'Innocente
Conclusion
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 market's leading options, ensuring you find the best running shorts for your needs and preferences. Whether you're a beginner getting acquainted with the sport or an experienced marathoner, our lineup has something for everyone.
