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A great pair of running shorts lets you focus more on the miles and less on your threads. A breathable, comfortable, and unrestricted design enhances your stride.
Our favorites overall are the REI Swiftland 2-in-1 and the REI Swiftland for their comfortable liners, plethora of pockets, and versatility for running. If you want a comfortable pair that does it all at a great price, we like the Nike Tempo, a classic pair of running shorts available for less than some more premium options.
Since 2020, our team has tested more than 50 pairs of running shorts. For this review, we purchased and tested 10 of the most promising women's running shorts. We ran hundreds of miles across high alpine terrain, coastal bluffs, and high-octane road races, cross-training almost daily to find the optimal pair for your experience and budget.
Editor's note: We updated our women's running shorts review on June 25, 2026, to ensure our product lineup was up to date and to include more testing tales from our running team.
The REI Swiftland 2-in-1 is the most pocket-full short we have had the pleasure of testing. With five, yes, five, total pockets across its powerfully fast-drying body, this short shows up for long and short runs with gusto. The biker-short-style liner extends a bit longer than the flowy, traditional short, providing a chafe-resistant barrier between the thighs. The lateral portion of the liner has bilateral pockets large enough to hold a phone against the body without bouncing. These pockets, plus the rear zippered pocket and two waistband pockets, nearly dissolve the need for a hydration pack. High on comfort, high on function, the 2-in-1 short is an ideal option for long days on the trail or steamy workouts at your local track.
Not all runners are looking for a double-lined pair of running shorts. While the design is functional, some runners may be seeking a breezier, side-split style short, in which case they would not love the REI Swiftland 2-in-1 short. Moreover, these running shorts fall on the higher end of the price spectrum. While their performance makes the price very worthwhile in some cases, runners on a budget might find these cost prohibitive. Overall, the 2-in-1 shorts are the pair we recommend to the most people for the widest range of running situations. Their ability to wick away moisture, prevent inner-thigh discomfort, and carry the essentials makes them a running short ready to take on whatever you throw at them.
The lightweight materials of this hybrid running short help it transform into whatever style of apparel you need. Storage of long days on the trail? Check. Lightweight enough for speedy track workouts? Done. Comfortable enough for evening runs when getting out the door is the hard part? Absolutely. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The REI Swiftland is a quick-drying, breezy pair of running shorts that earned its place at the top of our list of the best running shorts available right now. They strike an impressive balance between rugged durability and everyday comfort, with a soft yet substantial fabric that handles sweat exceptionally well, especially during long efforts on hot trails. Even when temperatures climb, and the miles start to add up, they resist feeling heavy, clingy, or swampy. The thoughtful storage system only adds to their appeal. A secure zippered back pocket is large enough to comfortably fit a phone, while two waistband stash pockets keep nutrition close at hand without bouncing. There's even a liner-facing pocket for a key or card—one of those small but meaningful details that reminds you these shorts were designed by people who actually run.
While the Swiftland Shorts are high on technical features, they are not the most fashion-forward running shorts on the market. Despite their ample comfort, runners who want a stylish short that doesn't read as athletic after the workout might prefer more contoured, stylized options. If a tried-and-true running short that will fit the bill on most running occasions is what you're after, this moisture management machine is a strong contender to look into - especially since there are two inseam lengths and two waistband heights to choose from.
The Nike Tempo has remained a staple in women's running for decades because it makes getting out the door incredibly easy and affordable. The price point is approachable, the fit is familiar, and there's nothing complicated about this old-school pair of running shorts. They breathe well, feel secure without being restrictive, and simply work. For runners just beginning their journey, the Tempo offers great potential and appeal. The Tempo offers a low-risk entry into the world of running-specific gear and has introduced countless runners to the simple joy of slipping into a pair of shorts designed for movement rather than making do with non-technical gear.
The Nike Tempo's greatest strength is also what keeps it from competing with newer, more specialized designs. Compared to today's top-performing shorts, it lacks some of the thoughtful details that make long miles more comfortable. The fabric and liner aren't quite as refined, the overall fit isn't as effortless, and the lone internal pocket is only large enough for a key, card, or perhaps a single gel. Once you've experienced the comfort, storage options, and technical features of more modern running shorts, the Tempo can start to feel a bit dated. Even so, runners who need a single pair of technical shorts on a budget will find that the classic style Nike offers with the Tempo shows up day after day.
The Janji Pace is purpose-built for runners who take their training seriously. Everything about them is designed to support movement at speed, from the second-skin fit to the thoughtfully executed pocket system to the silicone gripper dots to keep the shorts from riding up. The multiple pockets keep phones (yes, plural!), nutrition, and essentials hugged close to the body without bouncing, allowing you to carry what you need without reaching for a belt or vest. Available in two inseam lengths, they offer a bit of customization depending on your coverage preferences, while the streamlined silhouette and secure fit create a true race-ready feel. These are high-octane shorts built to withstand the demands of daily running, whether that means tempo workouts, long runs, or back-to-back training days.
Biker shorts like the Janji Pace remain a matter of personal preference, and this style won't appeal to everyone. The compressive fit is part of what makes them perform so well, but runners who prefer a more relaxed feel may find them a bit snug, especially with between-sized bodies. In those cases, we'd recommend sizing up for a more forgiving fit. They're also one of the pricier options in the lineup, which can be difficult to justify if you're new to running or simply don't gravitate toward fitted shorts. But for runners who love the security, storage, and locked-in confidence that biker shorts provide, the Janji Pace delivers in a big way.
The Janji Pace shorts are a nice departure from more traditionally fitted options. They offer thoughtful details and a moderately compressive fit for the ultimate running experience. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Oiselle Roga earns its reputation as the yoga pants of running shorts by leaning fully into comfort without apology. From the moment you pull them on, they feel soft, familiar, and easy, making them an instant daily staple rather than a piece of performance gear you have to talk yourself into wearing. Available in three inseam options (1.75", 4", and 6"), they offer a rare level of customization for runners who care about coverage as much as comfort. The fit is relaxed but secure, anchored by Oiselle's signature wide waistband that sits smoothly without digging or shifting, much like your favorite yoga pants. For easy miles, recovery runs, warm-ups, or even full days of wear, the Roga has a way of disappearing on the body while still feeling supportive and looking pulled together.
Functionally, the design of the Roga shorts stays intentionally simple. A single rear zippered pocket provides secure storage that holds its shape well, making it just enough for most daily runs without overcomplicating the design. A phone can fit in this rear pocket without bouncing, but it doesn't feel particularly comfortable when pressed against the lower back. Moreover, the trade-off for all the comfort and softness of the textile is performance efficiency. The fabric dries more slowly than some of the lighter running shorts on the market, and the premium build comes with a higher price point that may give some runners pause. But for those who prioritize comfort above all else, especially on longer, easy days and high-mileage weeks, the Roga delivers one of the most lived-in, dependable feels in our entire running shorts lineup.
The Patagonia Trailfarer is a true all-terrain performer, built for runners and adventurers who prioritize versatility over traditional race-day design. One of its most impressive qualities is how quickly it dries, the fastest in our lineup this season, which makes it especially reliable for backpacking trips, long hikes, and mixed runs that include water crossings or sustained sweat. Once you start moving, the shorts essentially disappear, offering a light, unrestricted feel that works well across varied terrain. While the comfort isn't traditionally silky or soft in a next-to-skin sense, the lightweight construction prioritizes breathability and function over plushness. A single pocket with a snap closure adds just enough storage for essentials like a key or card, keeping things simple and streamlined without unnecessary bulk.
The tradeoffs of the Trailfarer come down to intent. The Trailfarer isn't a traditional running short, and runners who want a more structured, performance-focused feel may find the relaxed design a bit too loose for consistent road mileage or faster workouts. The baggier fit also means that any items in the pocket can bounce slightly during high-impact efforts, limiting its usefulness for running-specific storage. But for those who view their gear through a broader lens, where running, hiking, travel, and full-day outdoor use overlap, the Trailfarer delivers lightweight, fast-drying freedom for constant motion in the outdoors.
The rear pocket offers easy access and a quick snap closure so accessing essentials doesn't require much extra movement. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Product Comparison Table
We take our running shorts far and wide to ensure they undergo the most rigorous testing process. Credit: Ally Arcuri
How We Test
GearLab has an objective process that includes extensive research before moving into hands-on testing of a carefully selected lineup. Tests are broken down into measurable, repeatable metrics to ensure reliable testing. These running shorts were tested in a range of conditions. Each pair was tested side-by-side on the same 4-mile trail and then worn on runs that ranged from short rest-day runs on dirt roads to long, high-alpine missions. We wore each pair to the gym, yoga, and on backpacking missions to determine which could hold our coveted titles. We also included tests to assess drying times, weighed each model, and measured each nook and cranny to understand what each pair is made of. We stuffed our phones, keys, and ID cards into pockets and ran to see whether they stayed in place or bounced around uncomfortably.
To help you find the best running shorts for your experience and needs, we broke down our testing into three rating metrics:
Overall Comfort(50% of overall score weighting)
Pockets (30% weighting)
Breathability & Moisture Control (20% weighting)
We used these test results, combined with our years of running experience, to inform the scores and subsequent rankings for each pair of shorts in this review.
We have tested some of the best running shorts on the market and use our expertise to bring you the highest-quality, most honest information possible. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Why Trust GearLab
Our lead tester, Ally Arcuri, has become a mainstay at GearLab, focusing her efforts on all things running-related. She heads up our running shoe reviews, diving deep into the world of footwear to bring you the best the market has to offer. Ally is a competitive trail runner and cancer survivor based in Los Osos, CA. Ally is an enthusiastic PE and English teacher with a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology, a master's in Education, and a 200-hour registered yoga teacher certification. Ally runs over 1,000 miles annually, always outfitted in gear she is testing.
We test each pair of shorts rigorously to determine which ones are worth you spending your hard-earned money on. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Analysis and Test Results
We put our lineup of running shorts through testing, both on the run and in controlled experiments, to evaluate their performance. We tested for comfort during long and short runs, moisture control through timed line-dry assessments, and pocket functionality in real-world scenarios.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
The best value in the world of running shorts is typically the shorts that offer the most activity diversity, daily comfort, and a combination of features. To determine the best value for you, dial in your budget and the activities you'll be doing in your running apparel. Then you'll be able to decide whether a true running short with no-bounce storage is a good pick or if a more versatile option better suits your activity needs.
Running shorts like the Nike Tempo don't offer the most technical features, but they are accessibly-priced, which helps runners get out the door and running. In our eyes, that makes it a great value. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The REI Swiftland 2-in-1 is a solid value because it offers nearly every feature a runner could want. Instead of purchasing multiple pairs, the 2-in-1 offers great value for its do-it-all versatility, storage, and durability. Runners on a budget might find a simple, minimalist short like the Nike Tempo to be more up their alley. While they don't boast the most advanced specs, the Tempo shorts are a good choice for beginners because they get the job done without breaking the bank.
The right running shorts can make or break an experience on the trails (or roads). Determining what kind of shorts will best serve the running you do can help you focus on the miles ahead. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Overall Comfort
Even the shortest, most mellow runs can become unbearable if your shorts aren't comfortable. To evaluate overall comfort, we assessed the materials, how smoothly they lay against the skin, and the liners' efficacy and feel.
To evaluate the comfort of each pair of shorts, we tested them by running repeatedly across a wide range of conditions. Each pair was taken out day after day in heat, humidity, and even rain to understand how they performed under real-world stress. We also loaded the pockets with typical running essentials to assess how the shorts handled weight in motion—paying close attention to bounce, shifting, and overall security.
Running shorts can be an intimate piece of gear. We had to note every specific detail to ensure that our comfort recommendations are as close to being as universally beloved as possible Credit: Ally Arcuri
Throughout testing, we tracked how each design behaved on the body over time. That included noting which inner leg fabrics rode up, which liners shifted into uncomfortable positions, and which shorts truly disappeared once running began. After each outing, we also examined how the shorts interacted with the skin, looking for any signs of chafing, pressure points, or areas where seams or construction details created irritation during repeated stride cycles.
Some materials are softer than others. Each brand makes shorts that feel different, so it is important to decide what comfort priorities top your list of needs. Shown here is the Under Armour Fly By short, an affordable “swishy” option. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Design and Materials
From a design perspective, the running shorts generally fall into a few clear structural categories, each built around different priorities for movement, storage, and coverage. On one end of the spectrum are traditional running shorts. These typically feature built-in brief-style liners anchored at the waistband, paired with lightweight, often slightly “swishy” outer fabrics that prioritize airflow and minimal weight. Many of these designs also include subtle side slits or splits at the leg openings to promote freer stride turnover, especially when picking up the pace. Without these splits, shorts can feel more restrictive through the stride cycle, particularly during faster efforts that demand more knee drive and range of motion.
A biker short-style running short fits closely to the body, moving with you as you stride. Credit: Ally Arcuri
At the other end are biker-style shorts, which prioritize a close, second-skin fit and often feature more advanced pocket systems. These designs move with the body and stay securely in place, making them especially effective for carrying phones and nutrition without bounce. However, they are also more compressive by nature, which some runners may find restrictive around the lower abdomen or hips. In many cases, sizing up can help reduce that locked-in sensation while preserving performance benefits. Hybrid designs sit between these two categories, blending the coverage of a traditional short with the secure fit and storage capabilities of a biker short.
Shorts like the Trailfarer do not include a liner, giving you the freedom to choose which undergarment style works best for your excursion. Credit: Ally Arcuri
A smaller subset of shorts opts to forgo a liner entirely. These linerless designs can feel exceptionally light and free-moving, but they shift the responsibility for the base layer onto the runner, introducing another layer of personal preference in underwear choice and comfort. While this approach can work well for some athletes, it also changes how the shorts behave in motion, often resulting in slightly more fabric movement during activity.
The inseam length you prefer is totally up to you. Some runners like the security of a longer short while others like the freeing feel of their legs moving against the air. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Across all categories, inseam length plays a significant role in both feel and performance. Most options offer multiple inseam lengths to accommodate different preferences, typically ranging from very short, race-oriented cuts around 1.75 inches to longer options approaching 6–7 inches, more commonly found in biker-style silhouettes. Shorter inseams tend to enhance airflow and create a lighter, faster feel, while longer inseams can help reduce inner-thigh friction and increase coverage. Ultimately, inseam choice comes down to individual preference and intended use, with no single correct length—only what best supports comfort and performance for the runner.
Some running shorts are meant to feel comfortable when worn, like the Vuori Halo; others are designed for heavy, sweaty use. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Material choices across the lineup reflect the same split between performance precision and versatile durability. Most of the running-specific options rely on nylon or polyester-dominant blends with varying levels of spandex for stretch, balancing lightweight feel with enough structure to handle repeated stride impact. Technical additions like recycled fibers, odor-control treatments, and moisture-wicking finishes are found in several higher-end options, enhancing long-term comfort and recovery between wears. Meanwhile, the more versatile shorts tend to favor slightly heavier or more robust weaves that prioritize fast drying, abrasion resistance, and consistent comfort across mixed conditions. Across both categories, the overall trend favors quick-drying synthetics engineered to manage sweat efficiently while maintaining shape and durability over time.
The width and softness of a waistband like this rank highly for comfort. It scores a bit lower in the moisture control metric due to its thick softness. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Waistband Comfort
Each pair was tested extensively across various runs, yoga classes, and cross-training sessions. We found that our favorite options offer thick, lay-flat waistbands that stayed in place without being overly compressive. We also considered the feel of the drawstring (when present) and the shorts' fit at the waist. A lot of shifting or pinching in this area equated to a lower score. If the drawstring was useful without needing to be incredibly taut, the shorts scored higher in this metric.
The REI Swiftland line offers mid and high-rise options that feel comfortable and weightless on brutal, uphill runs. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Best and Worst for Comfort
The Oiselle Roga is a standout running short for comfort, because it is designed to fit like a yoga pant but perform like a running short. This multi-purpose personality allows the wide and thick waistband to settle across the hips in a way that feels like an exhalation. The waistband nestles the liner in place, keeping it comfortable at varying paces. The soft polyester and spandex leg openings feature lay-flat hems that allow motion without demanding attention.
The Swiftland offers a thick and secure waistband that maintains its comfort during motion. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The REI Swiftland 2-in-1 and the REI Swiftland are both incredibly comfortable running shorts designed to feel lightweight yet rugged. Both are constructed with recycled nylon and spandex, which breathe and stretch as you do. The original Swiftland waistband (available in mid-rise or high-rise) anchors the liner, which is breathable, subtle, and wide enough in the rear to stay put without bunching. The 2-in-1's biker-short-style liner also stays in place but offers the added benefit of on-skin contact between the thighs for a physical, chafe-resistant barrier.
Runners looking for a short that moves seamlessly with their bodies will like the second-skin like fit of the Janji Pace. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Much like the Swiftland 2-in-1, the Janji Pace offers a skin-like ride that remains comfortable during hard efforts and steamy conditions. With 32% spandex (and 68% nylon), the added stretch allows the Pace shorts to move with you instead of against you.
The Vuori Halo Performance Short 2.0 is not a highly ranked running short, but it offers rarely paralleled comfort, especially in the waistband. Credit: Ally Arcuri
While not a high-scoring technical running short, the Vuori Halo Performance Shorts 2.0 offer pajama-like comfort for fitness outings. The wide waistband features an exterior drawstring, allowing the fit to feel customizable. The 89% recycled Polyester, 11% elastane blend is buttery soft against the skin, and the wider leg openings allow for freedom of movement. Without a liner, these shorts tend to ride up, which is why they don't score as well for overall running performance.
Shorts like the Brooks Dash and Under Armour Fly By (pictured here) don't offer the tech-focused feel of more premium options, but they succeed in getting you running without breaking the bank. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Brooks Dash and Under Armour Fly By are two of our lowest scorers when it comes to comfort. While both shorts perform well and cost less than the more premium options, they feel a bit stiffer to the touch. The Dash offers a fast-feeling fit, but the leg openings aren't as stretchy and mobile as we would like. We found this inhibition of motion to be more pronounced when trying to execute high knees or bike rides. The Fly By shorts offer a really thin, airy liner, but the shorts' body isn't designed to feel aerodynamic. While the comfort may not be ideal for long runs, both the Dash and the Fly By deliver enough comfort for short runs, especially for runners on a budget
Large, secure gear pockets are ideal for keeping essentials close, like this zipper pocket on the Swiftland 2-in-1. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Pockets
Carrying everything you need for a long run in your shorts isn't usually an option, which is where hydration vests or belts come in clutch. However, having a few well-placed pockets for essentials can be valuable. We saw significant variation across the lineup, not only in the number and types of pockets on offer but also in how well those available performed in use.
We tested each pocket's depth, volume, and bounce-fighting capabilities to determine which shorts are best for short, minimal gear-hauling runs and which can comfortably hold our phones, keys, and some nutrition. Our favorite pockets excel at minimizing bounce and reducing how much you notice the items you're carrying. They achieve this by either securing the items snugly against your body or positioning them in low-motion areas, such as the lower back or hips. The very best pockets combine both features, providing a bounce-free running experience while toting everything you need.
Wide pockets that run horizontally across the back panel of the shorts (like the Swiftland shown here) can typically accommodate most smartphones with cases. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Best and Worst Pockets
Across the lineup, the REI Swiftland 2-in-1, Janji Pace, and REI Swiftland stand out because their pocket systems are designed for real running movement rather than simple storage. The Swiftland 2-in-1 leads in sheer utility, combining multiple secure storage zones, including liner-integrated phone pockets and waistband stash compartments, that distribute weight evenly and keep essentials locked close to the body to minimize bounce. The Janji Pace takes a more streamlined yet equally impressive approach, with exceptionally stable, body-hugging pockets that eliminate bounce and make carrying a phone or nutrition feel almost effortless, even at faster paces.
For comfortably carrying a phone, we find that biker-style shorts with lateral thigh pockets are superior, like this one on the REI Swiftland 2-in-1. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Meanwhile, the original-style Swiftland delivers a highly functional, no-fuss system with a secure zippered rear pocket and well-placed waistband storage, prioritizing reliability and ease of access. Rear-placed pockets that hold phones work well, but we found the sensation of a rigid phone case against our lower backs a bit grating after a few miles. We prefer the spandex-style, lateral leg-hugging phone pockets.
Little stash pockets, like the one shown here on the Nike Tempo, don't hold a lot, but they can keep a car key or gel safe when you are running without a pack of belt. Credit: Ally Arcuri
It isn't really a surprise that three of the more simplistically designed shorts scored the lowest in the pockets metric. The ease of their simplicity and corresponding price points mean that these shorts do not have time to get fancy. Instead, both the Brooks Dash and the Nike Tempo feature a small stash pocket embedded in the right rear of the waistband. While neither pocket has a closure, the snug waistband keeps a car key relatively secure.
We dried each pair of shorts on a line, flat in the sun, in a dryer, and with a blow dryer to ensure we came away with a complete picture of how they wick away moisture. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Breathability and Moisture Control
Sweating during a run feels great, but staying drenched does not. This is why we take moisture control for running gear so seriously. To evaluate moisture-wicking performance, we carefully tested each pair's ability to keep us dry during runs. Then, we conducted numerous timed-drying comparisons, soaking each pair and observing how quickly it dried. We tested drying times using various methods: line drying, measuring moisture levels at five-minute intervals in the dryer, and timing how quickly a small section of each pair dried using a hair dryer.
Best and Worst for Breathability and Moisture Control
The Patagonia Trailfarer is a complete stud when it comes to wicking moisture and drying quickly, which helped secure its standing as an ideal multi-sport short. Since the entire short is single-lined, 90% polyester, 10% spandex, it dried far more quickly than most of the other shorts we tested in every moisture-control test. Moreover, the Trailfarer never accumulated moisture or heat during activities, making it a great choice for backcountry days where encountering water is likely.
Not one but two layers of ultra-breathable fabric come together to create a breezy, moisture-wicking experience in the Swiftland 2-in-1. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The REI Swiftland options (standard and the 2-in-1) outperformed the other lined running shorts for moisture control and breathability. While the 2-in-1 dried slightly slower than the standard version in our tests due to its extra fabric, both pairs offer thin, airy breathability that is as moisture-wicking as it is durable. While our in-lab tests highlighted the differences between the two, we are happy to report that during high-intensity trail runs, both Swiftland iterations were equally adept at wicking moisture and preventing an unseemly swampy situation.
The Gym People High-Waisted Shorts are not the most moisture-wicking shorts on the market. This pair of shorts offers stomach-cradling comfort above technical performance. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The shorts that scored lowest are, incidentally, among the highest-scoring for soft, smooth comfort. The Gym People High Waisted Running Shorts and the Oiselle Roga both offer thick, plush waistbands that simply hold moisture longer than thinner, less luxurious textiles. We did not find either to be horrible at confronting sweaty situations, but they do absorb and hold more than more tech-centric options. In the same vein, the Vuori Halo Performance Shorts 2.0 and all of their glorious comfort were slightly slower to dry than more technical fabrics. Ultimately, all three of these shorts are highly functional, useful pieces of gear that may not be as well-suited for ultra-sweaty, long-distance days as some of their more technical counterparts.
Choosing the right pair of running shorts will help you go the distance with a keener eye for comfort. Credit: Ally Arcuri
How to Choose the Best Women's Running Shorts for You
We have compiled five key buying considerations, including size, budget, and features, to help you narrow down your next pair of running shorts.
The world of running shorts can feel overwhelming. Let us help you determine exactly what kind of shorts might make you the happiest runner you can be. Credit: Ally Arcuri
What Inseam Length is Right?
Finding the ideal inseam length is ultimately a matter of personal preference, though different running styles tend to pair more naturally with different lengths. Longer inseams are often better suited for extended trail runs, where added coverage can protect against the elements and help reduce the likelihood of long-distance chafing. They also offer enough room to comfortably accommodate compression shorts underneath for runners who prefer that added layer of support.
Shorter inseams, on the other hand, tend to excel in road running and shorter, faster efforts where freedom of movement and breathability take priority. With less fabric overall, they can also enhance airflow and moisture management—an advantage during hot, high-intensity sessions. While both options are fully capable depending on the runner and the conditions, the best choice comes down to how and where you plan to use them most often.
Traditional running shorts include brief liners to help reduce friction and keep shorts in place. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Is a Liner Important?
Many running shorts include a built-in liner to improve support, reduce friction, and ultimately enhance comfort during movement. While some runners choose to wear underwear, most rely on the liner alone, and the general advantage is fewer layers, leading to less adjustment and distraction while running. If you're unsure whether liner-based shorts are right for you, consider your tendency toward chafing and whether you typically notice shifting or movement in your shorts during runs. For some runners, even athletic skivvies can cause huge drama during repetitive movement. This is where liners come in handy since they are anchored to the short body and move far less.
A long liner like the one pictured here can go a long way in preventing runners from chaffing during their long training runs. Credit: Ally Arcuri
A well-designed liner can be one of the most stabilizing features in a running short, helping the outer layer stay secure through longer or more intense efforts. However, not all liners are created equal, and materials and seam construction play a significant role in overall comfort. Some liners incorporate targeted cotton panels for added softness and breathability, while others rely entirely on synthetic polyester blends for a more streamlined, performance-focused feel.
The thick waistband with a smooth drawstring can help the fit stay comfortable and work with your movement rather than against it. Credit: Ally Arcuri
What About the Waistband?
Waistbands are among the most important aspects of a comfortable, functional pair of running shorts. The way the waistband interacts with the liner can spell comfort or disaster. When looking at shorts, it is important to consider the waistband's size and fit to assess their potential comfort and performance. A wider waistband typically offers a more secure fit, though thinner waistbands can also perform really well when designed effectively. Some of the highest-scoring shorts feature wider waistbands that offer a bit more coverage and security, but what works best for you will always depend on how you like your shorts to fit. Thicker waistbands tend to sit higher up on the torso, while narrower ones sit lower, providing a more race-ready fit.
We found that bigger waistbands coalesce more seamlessly with liners to keep shorts in place during runs. Credit: Ally Arcuri
What Pockets Do You Need?
While running shorts typically prioritize performance over features like pockets, some runners need pockets for ultimate running success. If you want to carry small extras such as energy gels or keys, look for pockets oriented within the waistband or small zippered pockets on the side panels. These small pockets will better secure your belongings than larger ones and prevent your accouterments from bouncing while running.
Even when keeping things simple, a small zippered pocket can provide just enough space for a car key. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Many contemporary running shorts feature phone pockets on the rear waistband, which are usually adequate for securing phones. Biker-style shorts have proven to be the best for phone toting because they allow the phone's weight to sit flush against the lateral thigh. The closer the gear is to the body, the less it bounces.
All of the running shorts we tested are made of synthetic materials to help them wick moisture and stay fresh during high-output activities like running. Credit: Ally Arcuri
What Material is Best?
All the shorts in our review are made of synthetic materials. Most feature polyester blends, prized for their high-performance qualities in breathability, and often provide moisture-wicking and quick-drying benefits. While the natural appeal of cotton is tempting, it can lead to chafing and retain moisture, hindering comfort and performance. A small patch of cotton is included in the crotch of some shorts, a much-appreciated feature for runners prone to yeast infections.
The shorts we tested aren't the only awesome options on the market. As serious runners, we know of a few other pairs that handle the changing demands of a training schedule with ease. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Other Notable Running Shorts for Women
The world of running shorts is bigger than you think. Below are some other popular options that didn't make the cut for testing this go-around, but might be compelling to you.
REI Active Pursuits Shorts — We appreciate the high-performing simplicity and approachable price tag of these durable running shorts. With a breezy liner, a non-pinchy waistband, and a small pocket for a gel or key, these comfortable shorts are worth a look.
Brooks Chaser 2.0 — We love these shorts for their thicker fabric, which offers more coverage for middle-aged runners. We love the added coverage and comfort (cotton liner instead of polyester), and have been impressed by their long-term durability.
The right running gear can make every run feel like it fills your body with joy. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Conclusion
Whether you're a casual runner clocking a few miles or a dedicated athlete racking up the distance, a comfortable and reliable pair of running shorts can make all the difference. When deciding on the right pair, consider the metrics that matter most to you, whether that's fit, breathability, storage, or style. After countless miles of testing, our insights can help guide you toward the perfect pair, helping you enjoy every step and stride for many miles to come.
