REASONS TO BUY
Simply designed
Affordable
Moisture-wicking
REASONS TO AVOID
Weird sizing
Fabric lacks stretch
Doesn't match competitors
Brooks Dash Shorts - Women's Review
Minimal storage and few comfort refinements keep this pair of shorts firmly in the category of straightforward running essentials
If simplicity is what you're after, the Dash is a decent short to check out.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
By Ally Arcuri ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ July 1, 2026
RELATED: The Best Running Shorts for Women
Our Verdict
The Brooks Dash is a lightweight, no-frills running short that focuses on doing the basics. Its airy fabric, micro-perforated construction, and quick-drying design make it especially appealing for hot-weather runs, speed workouts, and runners who prefer gear that fades into the background. The fit delivers a classic running-short experience without unnecessary features or premium pricing. However, the Dash runs noticeably small and offers less stretch than many modern competitors, creating a fit that can feel more restrictive than expected. While dependable and breathable, its limited storage and pared-back design make it best suited to runners who value simplicity above all else.
Our Analysis and Test Results
We appreciate the simplicity of a short like the Dash. It offers an easy to wear waistband with micro-holes for added breathability. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Likes
The Brooks Dash feels almost weightless on the run, making it an excellent choice for hot weather and harder efforts. If you're someone who notices every seam and ounce of fabric, you'll appreciate how little these shorts demand your attention.
The quick-drying fabric of the Brooks Dash wicks moisture and allows for plenty of airflow during steamy runs. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The thin, airy fabric allows heat to escape easily and dries quickly when you start to sweat. They perform especially well during summer runs and speed workouts when staying cool becomes a priority. Brooks added thoughtful micro-perforations across the upper body of the shorts to aid airflow. The polyester-blend fabric has enough give to move naturally with your stride without feeling restrictive, though it isn't silky-soft. Combined with the simple cut, the Dash delivers a classic running experience that doesn't overcomplicate things.
Even though this colorway shows moisture prominently, sweat evaporates quickly and doesn't retain sweaty smells. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Brooks incorporates antimicrobial treatment to help minimize odor buildup over time. While not miraculous, it's a thoughtful feature that frequent runners will appreciate. The Dash offers many of the features runners actually need without creeping into premium price territory. It's a practical option for those who want performance without sticker shock.
Dislikes
If you're someone who likes to carry a phone, multiple gels, keys, and half of your life in your shorts, the Dash will disappoint. The pocket situation is functional at best and forgettable at worst.
The material of the Dash isn't very flexible. This, combined with its incredibly small stash pocket, makes this pair of shorts a less enticing option when compared to some of the more popular pairs. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The simplicity that makes the Dash appealing can also make it feel less refined than competitors. There aren't many standout features or thoughtful extras to elevate the experience.
These are unmistakably running shorts. While comfortable enough for errands in a pinch, they don't transition as seamlessly into other areas of life. As mileage increases, some runners may begin to miss the comfort refinements and storage solutions offered by shorts with a few added features.
The Dash are one of the least complicated pairs of shorts on the market. If that sounds like what you're looking for, they are worth trying on. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Should You Buy the Brooks Dash?
If your ideal running shorts are lightweight, breathable, and refreshingly uncomplicated, the Brooks Dash is easy to recommend. It feels a bit like the reliable training partner who never forgets to show u. This pair of shorts is not flashy, but consistently good at the fundamentals. In an era when some gear comes with so many features that it requires an instruction manual, there's something refreshing about such simplicity. On the flip side, if you're logging serious long-run mileage, carrying lots of gear, or looking for the kind of thoughtful details that inspire gear-related devotion, you may eventually find yourself wanting more. The Dash doesn't quite earn any superlatives outside of being good at being basic, but it may just be one of the easiest shorts to reach for on an ordinary Tuesday, when all you really need is a pair of shorts that lets you get out the door and enjoy the run.
While the Dash shorts might not be our favorite, they offer a solid enough performance-to-price ratio. Credit: Ally Arcuri
What Other Running Shorts Should You Consider?
The running shorts market is flush with options that perform well for reasonable prices. Much like the Dash, the Nike Tempo is an uncomplicated take on a classic running short. Similarly, the Under Armour Fly By offers a traditional cut and to-be-expected performance at a relatively low price. Neither of these three basic style shorts is an apparel piece that you'll sing praises about, but all three show up reliably and do their job. For an even lower price, The Gym People High Waisted Running Shorts offer a Lululemon-dupe style fit and feel while performing decently well for short runs and workouts.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare Brooks Dash Shorts - Women's versus top competing products:
| Awards | |
|---|---|
| Price | $45 List Check REI (on sale!) |
Overall Score  |
|
| Star Rating | |
| Bottom Line | Minimal storage and few comfort refinements keep this pair of shorts firmly in the category of straightforward running essentials |
| Pros | Simply designed, affordable, moisture-wicking |
| Cons | Weird sizing, fabric lacks stretch, doesn't match competitors |
| Rating Categories | Brooks Dash |
| Overall Comfort (50%) | |
| Pockets (30%) | |
| Breathability & Moisture Control (20%) | |
| Specifications | Brooks Dash |
| Best for | Beginner |
| Liner Type | Brief |
| Pockets | 1 |
| Fits a Phone | No |
| Dry Time - Clothesline | 25 |
| Dry Time - Blow Dryer | 10 |
| Body Material | Polyester/spandex |
| Waistband Drawstring Placement | interior |
| Alternate Styles | 3" inseam, 2-in-1 available |
—Ally Arcuri
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