Best Running Shorts Reviewed & Compared
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Running is a favorite exercise for many, no wonder it is the most practiced sport in the world. Every year, there are thousands of running events around the world and millions of people participate. In the US, about two million individuals spend at least thirty minutes per week running to keep fit. Whether you are in running as an expert, to stay fit or you are aiming for weight loss, then you are on the right path of staying healthy. Though running is primarily an aerobic exercise, it works most muscle groups of the body, increases your strength, tones up your body and builds up endurance.
Top 3 Picks
- MJ Soffe
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Our rating - Stretchy & soft
- Price: See Here
- Athmile
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Our rating - Absorbs moisture
- Price: See Here
- Riboom
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Our rating - Opening in-hems
- Price: See Here
Finding the right attire for running boils down to ensuring that you get a great workout experience with comfort and satisfying performance. Baggy attire can get on your way better results by minimizing your speed as it gets blown off by air, causing what experts call “air drag.” The wrong running fabric can also cause friction in between the legs, and the damage could be too much to keep you indoors for a while. The fabric of the shorts should absorb moisture, but the moisture should evaporate quickly leaving you cool but not wet.
For running, the only things that you need are a route, a good pair of shoes and the right attire. Therefore, a quality and comfortable pair of running shorts is a very critical factor. Running shorts can either be snuggly or loose fitting. A tight-fitting short compresses the thighs and the blood vessels involved, improving blood supply to the muscles.
The best shorts aid in your performance by making you focus on your strides without distractions of friction and discomfort. We have compiled a list of the best running shorts that you can find on the market, each with its specifications, pros and cons for you to make an informative decision.
10 Best Running Shorts
1. MJ Soffe
These shorts are also durable, machine washable, wrinkle resistant and stretchable. The waistband is elastic with a dolphin hem with tapping. For the pockets, it has an inside pocket sewn to the waist with enough room for small items. They do not have deep pockets, but why would you need to carry heavy during long-distance training?
The length is a short fit with 2.5 inches inseam. They are also loose enough to allow free circulation of air and prevent moisture accumulation, making it suitable for long distances and professional training. The inner lining provides enough support and comfort, hence, you will not need any inner wear.
Fabric is 100% nylon
2 to 2.25 inches inseam
Inside key pocket
Elastic waistband
Inside drawstring
Dolphin hem with taping
Quick to dry
Available in 19 colors
Sizes range between small and 2X big
Price/value
These are incredibly easy on the pocket and still very reliable and effective. These shorts are actually similar to those used by soldiers in the U.S military. Its features make it an ideal product for serious training.
Verdict
Soffe shorts are credible with fantastic features. They are short and allow dynamic movement and the fabric is only nylon, making it super soft, smooth and very quick to dry. The inner lining is comfortable and gives enough support.
Short
Loose fitting
Very affordable
Has a silky comfortable feeling
Slightly stretchy
Breathable and quick to dry
Inside pockets
Too short for those who do not like exposing their legs
2. Athmile
These running shorts have a back zip pocket on both sides for secure storage. Also, on the sides are reflective strips for higher visibility when running in the dark or low-light. The shorts come in sizes from small to extra-large and only come in black color.
The shorts have a close fit to the body but do no compress the body. The fabric is good at absorbing moisture and dries up quickly. They are easy to clean, maintain and suitable for machine wash.
Fabric is polyester and spandex
Stretchable
Waistband is elastic and adjustable
Two side pockets and one back zip pocket
Moisture wicking and quick dry
Suitable for machine wash
Size ranges from small to extra large
Price/Value
Athmile running shorts are fairly priced considering that they have most of the features of an ideal running short.
Verdict
This product is worth buying not just because of its price but also for its outstanding features. The fabric is moisture wicking, quick to dry and stretchable. They have convenient pockets on the sides and back for storage of energy bars or personal items. Also, on the sides are reflective strips, so you do not have to worry about running in low light. These shorts are comfortable to wear, quality and durable. For all these reasons, Athmile running shorts are worth owning.
Lightweight
Have pockets on the side and back
Absorbs moisture
Easy to dry
Inner mesh is comfortable and breathable
High-quality fabric
Stretchable
Suitable for machine wash
Color fades if washed in warm or hot water
Pockets may hang out on the sides
3. Arsuxeo
The shorts have two zip pockets on the back, and on both sides, there is a reflective brand logo for visibility. For the waistband, it is elastic and has a string for adjustment. Size ranges from S to XXL, but they run a bit small. For this reason, the manufacturer recommends that you pick one to two sizes bigger than your usual size.
Outer fabric is 92% polyester and 8% spandex
Inner layer is 100% polyester
Lightweight
Breathable and quick to dry
Has two zip pockets on the back side
Waistband is elastic and adjustable
Size ranges from S to XXL
Price/Value
These are reasonably priced for the features that they offer. The fabric is quality, absorbent and easy to dry; just what you need for cardio exercise like running.
Verdict
If you do not like a pair of shorts that reveals much of your legs, then Arsuxeo running shorts are worth considering. The inner layer is a bit longer than the outer layer and extends to just above the knees. The inner layer is also of a different appealing color, is breathable and absorbs most of the sweat preventing accumulation of moisture at the groin area. However, the inner layer is 100% polyester, and some users have reported an allergic reaction when using them. If you do not have any issues with polyester, then we highly recommend this product.
Inner layer is slightly longer and covers most of the thighs
Inner layer fits snugly
Effective in preventing chafing
Quick to dry
Quality material used
Have pockets for storage
Runs small in sizing
Inner fabric is itchy to some people
4. Time to Run
Outer fabric is 92% polyester and 8% spandex
Inner fabric is 100% polyester
Quick drying and water resistant
5.5 cm inseam
Waistband is elastic
Has a drawstring for adjustment
In-pocket for key storage
Six different colors
Size ranges from S to XXL
Price/Value
Time to Run shorts are in the lower price range of running shorts and yet are quality and durable. The fabric is both absorbent and quick to dry. The inner fabric is breathable and prevents accumulation of sweat at the groin area. Therefore, the shorts are a great buy.
Verdict
These shorts have all the features that you will need in a running short. The fabric is specially designed to allow ventilation, absorbs moisture quickly and dry fast. Moreover, the outer material is water resistant. The logo on the sides is made with reflective material, so you do not have to worry about visibility if you love jogging very early in the morning or late evening.
Comfortable inner liner
Has in-pockets for storage
Breathable
Outer layer is water resistant
Durable fabric
Tight on the thighs
5. Baleaf
The shorts have deep side pockets and a zip pocket on the central back for storage. On the side of the shorts there are reflective designs for visibility. The waistband is elastic but the drawstrings are a bit short, so we recommend that you should be sure of your measurements when buying.
Baleaf shorts are also lightweight, stretchable and allow a free range of motion. The length goes up to the level of the knees, thus suitable for cold weather and for those who do not like exposing so much of the legs.
Fabric is 95% polyester and 5% spandex
Has inner and outer fabric
Lightweight and stretchable
Two side pockets and one zip pocket on the back
Reflective elements on the sides
Five different colors to choose from
Size ranges from small to 2XL
Price/Value
Thet are slightly priced as compared to other running shorts, but then they stand out in terms of quality. The shorts have a good fit, built-in mesh lining and excellent functionality. Compared to other polyester inner-lined shorts, these are not irritating due to their distinctive design.
Verdict
If you are a bit conservative and you do not like exposing so much and still would like to rock your running shorts to the store after a run, then Baleaf’s running shorts are the product to reach for. They extend to the edge of the knee and have a great fit to allow free range of motion. In addition, the length is excellent for running in cold weather. They have convenient deep pockets large enough to store your phone or snacks. Moreover, the inner lining is well designed and has no complaints of irritation and chafing.
Lightweight and quick to dry
Inner mesh for ventilation
Additional mesh panels on the sides
Side and back pockets for storage
Reflective for visibility
Stretchable
Short drawstrings
Waistband is thick and a little tight
6. Riboom
They have an inner and outer layer. The inner layer has opening hems that allow full range of motion and suitable for running and exercises that need high-level flexibility. This product is lightweight, quick to dry and absorbs sweat very effectively, leaving you dry and comfortable.
The waistband is elastic and has a drawstring to adjust to your waist size.They are suitable for machine wash and are not susceptible to color fading. Riboom running shorts are available in five colors and sizes range from small to large.
Designed for women
Fabric is 96% polyester and 4% spandex
Has inner and outer layer
Inner layer has opening hems
Waistband is elastic with adjustable drawstrings
Fast drying and moisture wicking
Comes in five colors
Available as small, medium and large
Price/Value
Riboom running shorts are moderately priced and worth buying for the features that they offer. They are stylish, soft and comfortable to wear. They are also quick to dry and moisture wicking, therefore suitable for running.
Verdict
Riboom shorts are great for running and still very fashionable. You can actually use them for a run and later take a walk to the beach in them. They come in beautiful colors and have a unique design of the inner and outer layer. They are also soft and smooth on the skin. The fabric is a quick-dry type and efficiently absorbs moisture while preventing chafing.
Soft and comfortable to wear
Stretchable
Has a non-binding fit
Has opening in-hems to allow full range of motion
Fashionable design
Breathable
Fast drying
No pockets
7. Nike Lady
The waistband is elastic with adjustable drawstrings. For the pockets, Nike Lady shorts have an inbuilt key pocket, suitable for small items. The inner layer fits snugly while the outer layer is loose fitting.
Fabric is 100% polyester
Has an outer and inner layer
Inner layer is breathable
Mesh panels on the sides for extra ventilation
3.5 inches inseam
Has a wide array of colors
Pocket is small in size and internal
The logo on both sides is reflective
Adjustable waistband
Price/Value
Nike Lady shorts are reasonably priced, have quality lightweight fabric suitable for both beginners and experts. Its specifications are therefore worth the price.
Verdict
Nike Lady running shorts have for a long time been declared as the ‘queen of running shorts.’ They have outstanding features suitable for all shapes and sizes of women. Also, they have so many colors combinations, and their comfort is unrivaled. The fabric is soft, lightweight, very basic in shape and yet stylish. They allow a full range of motion and are suitable for long distances.
Many colors to choose
Lightweight fabric
Comfortable and stylish
Allows full range of motion
Breathable
Sizing is consistent
Fast in drying
Saggy on the groin area
8. Starter
The logo is strategically placed on the front and back for high visibility if you want to jog in dim light. Starter shorts come in three colors, and the sizes range from extra-small to extra-large. The waistband is a sturdy elastic band with drawstrings for adjustment.
Designed for women
Has inner and outer fabric
Outer fabric is 91% polyester and 9% spandex
Inner fabric is 100% polyester
Inner fabric is breathable has side mesh panels for extra ventilation
Has an elastic waistband with drawstrings for adjustment.
Available in three colors
Size ranges from XS to XL
Price/Value
This option is in the higher price range of the sampled shorts, but then they are fashionable and super comfortable. Though the inner lining is made of polyester, the shorts are specially designed with a smooth dri-star lining that is smooth, making it stand out from other polyester products. It is also well made for both long and short distances. For these reasons, the shorts are worth their price.
Verdict
Starter shorts are cool, fashionable and stylish. If you are into serious running, these are the shorts to go for as they are short enough with a 3” inseam and a non-binding fit. The shorts are breathable owing to the inner lining and side panel mesh which provide effective air circulation and prevent uncomfortable sweat accumulation. If you like jogging or running when it is still dark, the shorts have you covered. The logo on the front and back is reflective, making you visible to motorists.
Do not restrict movement
Comfortable and fashionable
Fits well, not too loose and not snugging
Suitable for machine wash
Side mesh panel for extra ventilation
Built-in panty
Moisture-wicking
Leg openings are a bit large
No pockets
9. HDE
Compared to other running shorts, HDE shorts can withstand washing in hot water, have 30% more strength when wet, and are less likely to wear off. The shorts are perfectly made for running with an inseam of 2.5” and dolphin hems. Because they allow a full range of motion, these shorts can be used for flexibility sports including yoga and pilates.
The waistband is elastic but not so tight and has drawstrings for adjustment. This is an advantage for individuals who find that elastic waistbands dig into their waists causing redness and uncomfortable itching.
Fabric is 100% cotton
Waistband is plain material with a drawstring
2.5” inseam
Color contrast trimming on the edges
Breathable and soft
Elasticized waistband
Absorbs moisture
Available in nine different colors
Sizes range from XS to XXL
Price/Value
They are incredibly easy on the pocket and still have excellent features. They are 100% cotton and worth buying if you are allergic to polyester or nylon. They are also durable and have no hard and fast rules on maintenance.
Verdict
This product is totally worth considering if you have friction and irritation issues. They are 100% cotton and have a non-binding elastic waistband. Cotton fabric rarely causes sensitivities hence used in medical products and recommended for people with skin allergies. It is also super absorbent and keeps your skin warm by trapping warmth. The drawback is that they take a while to dry. The shorts are also short enough with a 2.5” inseam and allow full range of movement.
Hypoallergenic
Comfortable and easily stretches
Absorbent
Prevent heat loss from the body
Durable
Can withstand washing in hot water
Stylish
Soft and stretchy
Do not dry up quickly
No pockets
10. Adidas M10
They have three reflective and fashionable stripes on both sides and of all the selected women’s running shorts, these have the highest reflective ability.
Fabric is 100% polyester with an inner lining
Have an elastic waistband with an adjustable drawcord
Inseam is about 3”
Have an inner pocket for small items
Moisture wicking
Quick dry and lightweight
Available in more than fifteen colors
Size ranges from XS to XL
Price/Value
These shorts are reasonably priced considering that they are specially woven with 100% polyester and have an inner mesh layer that makes them breathable. The fabric is good at absorbing moisture and is quick to dry. They are also worth considering for their unique style and high visibility pattern.
Verdict
Adidas women shorts are suitable for beginners and professional athletes. They are quality, durable, do not cause chafing and never ride up when running. The waistband is comfortable and not so binding. The stripes on the side are highly reflective and make you easily visible when training in low light. Most importantly, they are absorbent and quick to dry.
Moisture wicking and quick dry
Inner breathable mesh
Has a key pocket
Comfortable and non-binding fit
Highly reflective
Adjustable waistband
No spandex thus not so stretchable
Criteria for Evaluation
Product reviews and ratings
We considered both ratings and reviews of products available on various online platforms and considered the ten best that outdid the rest. We chose products that had a star rating of not less than four out of five.
We also went down to the reviews to get a qualitative insight of each product. We were careful to only consider reviews and ratings from only filtered and verified customers. From user reviews, we also able to analyze pros and cons of each product, so you can be sure of what kind of a product you will be investing in.
Sex suitability
Sex shorts have a special cut either for men or women. Women’s shorts are designed to fit the waist and have more room to comfortably fit the hips, and have shorter inseams. Men’s shorts are designed to have more room at the groin area and have longer inseams. For these reasons, we chose running shorts for both sexes.
Durability
We included brands with durable and high-quality fabrics that will serve you for a long duration. However, for your shorts to serve you satisfactorily, you have to do your part of maintaining them well. Wash them after every use, do not store them wet, do not expose them to heat and hang to dry under the shade.
Comfort
Comfort is critical when participating in any physical activity. When you are comfortable with no chafing and shorts that get on your way by riding up your thighs, you will be able to focus on strides and pace, for your best performances. Therefore, we chose shorts that are comfortable and easy to wear. We also included shorts made with different types of fabrics for you to choose the most comfortable for you, depending on your likes and preferences.
Brand reputation
We put into consideration brands with an outstanding reputation for durable, high-quality and yet, stylish products. The chosen brands are well known and as a result, have the best sales in the market backed by positive reviews, ratings and feedback from trainers and professional athletes. One of the brands has even been used for training by the military.
Factors to Consider Before Making Your Purchase
Fabric
When running or participating in any other physical activity, you will have to deal with sweat as it is a healthy way that the body uses to cool down. Wearing the wrong fabric can irritate and make you cold by retaining moisture. However, there are fabrics that are technologically advanced and designed to conceal sweat, and make you feel cool and dry at the same time.
Most moisture-wicking fabrics have polyester and are designed in a way to force moisture out through specially woven gaps which make them highly permeable. When compared to cotton, polyester retains only 0.4% of moisture while cotton holds up to 7%. Though the cotton fabric is commendable for being a powerful moisture absorber, it retains excessive humidity. However, if you like to cool down very fast during your workouts and you also want a fabric that feels good against your skin, cotton would be the type to go for.
Nylon is famous for its lightweight, smoothness and quick-dry properties. Nylon is also popular for its durability. Though polyester is also durable, it is not as durable as nylon. Nylon is made using long lasting and smooth fiber, making it a sustainable and a comfortable choice.
Some brands may include a mesh layer in the shorts to provide air spaces for breathability. Mesh in the fabric is beneficial in that it gives a good stretch and free air circulation especially on areas that sweat and heat accumulates.
Some brands incorporated spandex into the main fabric, to achieve elasticity. Spandex is known for its unmatched ability to stretch and recover without sagging. Wearing fabric that has spandex in it will allow you to move comfortably in a full range of motion. Elastic shorts with spandex also give a tight fit and reduce muscle and tissue jiggling. Research has shown that compressed-fit activewear promotes blood supply and also enhances recovery after exercise.
Most synthetic fabrics provide a suitable environment for microbial activity, and so, activewear companies are now incorporating treated fiber additions to ward off bacteria, fungi and molds.
For men, most of the shorts have a supportive liner on the groin area to provide comfort and a secure fit.
Pockets
Pockets are a matter of preference but they are essential for security and to store things like your phone, keys, ID or snack bars. Most of the pockets are sewn on the sides, inside, and others have a back-zip pocket. If you prefer a short with pockets, look for one that has pockets that are large enough for the kind of storage that you need, especially for the phone. However, if you are in a competitive race, keep the pockets free to prevent the shorts from swinging around.
Fit
There are two primary fits for running shorts; the compression fit and the loose fit. The compression fit is a snug fit that is warm and provides maximum muscle support. Compression fit shorts are similar to cycling shorts, just that it they are not padded. Though they have a tight fitting, they are highly flexible and allow a full range of motion.
The loose-fitting shorts are a more popular style as they allow a better range of motion and are eased as opposed to the compressed fit ones.
Visibility
A research study conducted by a team from the Queensland University of Technology showed that highly reflective workout gear is more effective than we think. Therefore, if you like jogging or running when it is still dark, we recommend that you choose a running short with reflective strips for the purpose of visibility and safety. Most of the strip designs are strategically put on the sides for better visibility. The strips are not only visible but also give a fashionable appeal.
Liner
An extra lining at the groin is essential, especially for men’s shorts. A liner provides support, prevents chafing and allows freedom of movement. Liners vary in length and fabric used. When buying a short, look for one with a liner that absorbs moisture, dries quickly and does not have seams to prevent friction. Others liners are also designed to keep odor away.
Length
Running shorts come in short and long length. Shorts with a lower length provide adequate airflow, and you can maximize on movement when running in them. The short length shorts are lightweight, and entirely non-restrictive when moving. For these reasons, long distance runners prefer the short length running shorts.
Longer running shorts extend up to the level of the knee and are preferred for short distance runs. The secret to getting utmost comfort when buying an extended length short is to ensure that you purchase one that has fabric that is moisture wicking and breathable.
Benefits of Wearing Running Shorts
Running shorts do more than make you look good. The right pair made with the right material can increase comfort and better your performance. They are made of light material, have less friction and reduce air resistance. Better still, they are short in length and therefore, your skin gets plenty of Vitamin D. That being said, other benefits of running shorts include:
Prevent friction
Running shorts have an extra layer at the groin area for comfort and to prevent chafing. The fabric in between the legs is also specially made to prevent rubbing of the thighs.
Free air circulation
Running shorts have fabric that is breathable and allows free entry of air and escape of moisture. The loose-fitting shorts are even better as they allow free flow of air and prevent accumulation of moisture, especially in between the legs.
Convenience
Running shorts are easy to wear, comfortable, have convenient pockets to store your personal items and even better, energy snacks for a long-distance run. Because running shorts fit perfectly on the underneath, they do not run up your thighs.
Absorb sweat
Running is a cardio exercise, and you are prone to sweating. Most running shorts are made with material that absorbs moisture and releases it fast to the outside by evaporation. The fabric is specially woven to allow moisture to escape to the atmosphere. The moisture-wicking property ensures that you remain dry but still cool, when running.
Reduce air resistance
Running shorts, especially the compressed fit ones, reduce air drag by reducing wind resistance. Air drag refers to the force or air resistance caused by wind and consequently causes deceleration when running. Traditional baggy and long shorts or pants can contribute to air drag significantly. Running shorts come in their short and specific fitting cut which give you the chance to focus on your strides and pace, with no clothes and wind getting on your way.
Increase range of motion and comfort
Running shorts are built to allow non-restricted leg movement thus maximize on your stride by increasing freedom of movement. They are also cut to provide comfort, and though they do not have extra padding like skinsuits, they have an additional liner that provides support and prevents chafing when running.
General maintenance tips
As a general rule, do not leave your running shorts wet with sweat. Preferably, clean them after every use.
- Wash with similar colors
- Wash colored running shorts in cold temperatures
- For polyester fabric, a warm wash cycle with low-heat setting is ideal
- Spandex is quite sensitive to heat, so should be washed in cold water, avoid ironing and dry cleaning
- Nylon shorts are machine washable and can be washed with either cold or warm water with low heat setting
- Cotton shorts can be machine washed and ironed
FAQs
How are running shorts different from any other type of shorts?
Running shorts are made explicitly for runners, with a design that allows smooth leg movements to prevent any friction between the legs. They are also specially made in length, and most do not go beyond the mid-thigh while the longest ones do not go beyond the knee joint. For better flexibility, they do not have paddings like cycling and swimming shorts, but they have an extra lining for support and comfort.
What is the difference between men’s and women’s running shorts?
The difference is that men’s running shorts have a slightly longer inseam and have an inner liner at the groin area for comfort and to prevent chafing. On the other hand, women’s running shorts are specifically designed to fit a female body with special cuts to fit the waist and hips. They also have shorter inseams and less room at the groin area. Unisex shorts combine both features for men’s and women’s shorts, and they do not offer specific features for each sex.
Should I put on innerwear together with running shorts?
For men, wearing inner wear is not necessary as men’s running shorts have an extra liner for support and moisture absorption. Wearing underwear will cause discomfort due to extra and unnecessary fabric. A jockstrap is also not necessary when in running shorts.
Between a compression fit and a loose fit short, which one is better?
Compression fit shorts fit snugly, keep the muscles warm and firm, and have a positive effect in reducing recovery time after exercise. However, they are a bit revealing, and the fabric tends to deteriorate in quality after frequent use.
Loose fit shorts allow a better range of motion, thus make a considerable difference in performance, especially in competitive races. Other than the extra range of motion, these shorts also allow free air circulation and do not allow moisture to accumulate.
What should I consider when buying a running short?
The most important factor to consider is the material used to make the short. It should be light, breathable and quick to dry. The fabric should wick moisture but should not retain it. If buying a men’s short, we recommend that you get one that has an additional liner for support and comfort.
What do you mean by inseam?
Inseam refers to the measurement from the crotch area to the hem.
