The 7 Best Running Shorts for Women

Best Overall Women's Running Short

REI Co-op Swiftland 5" - Women's

Inseam Length (Measured): 5.0 inches | Pockets: 3 gel pockets on waistband, 1 rear with zippered closure

We are enamored by the many qualities of the REI Co-op Swiftland 5". Most striking is the unique, gridded, extraordinarily stretchy mesh that makes up the body of the short. This short performed wonderfully on hot, humid, and wet runs. “I like the soft material, and that it didn't chafe, even when soaking wet,” our lead tester stated. The liner material is also extremely soft, stretchy, and breathable, adding comfort on runs that became downright uncomfortable otherwise. The wide waistband of this short sits at the top of the hip, stably carrying the load of the pockets while resisting shifting and bouncing.

We have very few criticisms when it comes to the Swiftland running shorts. While the width and cut of the waistband can comfortably carry your phone and snacks during runs, the rear phone pocket runs slightly smaller than necessary. Our main tester could easily fit an OtterBox-encased iPhone 12 mini but found that an iPhone 14 with a similar case stretched the pocket to its limit. Runners seeking a functional phone pocket above all else will love the depth of the bilateral pockets on the REI Co-op Swiftland 9". Those who like a shorter inseam will prefer other shorts in our lineup, but we loved the versatility of the moderate 5-inch inseam on the Swiftland. This high-performing pair of shorts will take you from the road to the trail to cross-training and beyond seamlessly, and we found ourselves reaching for them over and over again. We also loved the Lululemon Speed Up 4" for similar reasons, including its ample waistband, moisture control, and inseam length, and both options are in the same price range. The Brooks Chaser 5" is yet another short with a smooth waistband, a functional enough phone pocket, and a comfortably long inseam, and it falls in the same price bracket.

Best Bang for Your Buck

REI Co-op Active Pursuits - Women's

Inseam Length (Measured): 4.5 inches | Pockets: 1 with zippered closure on right side

The REI Co-op Active Pursuits is a budget-friendly buy offering nearly everything a runner could want from their running shorts. Long enough to protect from dreaded chaffing and lightweight enough for hot days, this pair of running shorts could be your next go-to piece of gear for all things fitness-related. Constructed mainly of recycled polyester, the 2-inch waistband lays flat against the skin while the soft and breathable liner provides the moisture-wicking technology that sweaty runners need. If a budget-friendly pair of do-it-all running shorts is what you're after, the Active Pursuits 4.5" comes with a wholehearted recommendation from our test team.

As is often the case, budget-friendly finds can't offer every feature our running-focused hearts desire. The REI Active Pursuits comes close, but there are still some things this pair is lacking. “I noticed they lack a phone pocket, which is a dealbreaker for some runners I know,” one tester stated. This is something to consider if you want to keep your phone on you as you run and don't plan to carry another tool to do the job. That said, this pair of shorts does offer something that other pairs don't: an ultra-secure zippered pocket on the lower right leg panel. This doesn't totally make up for the lack of a phone pocket, but we appreciate the comfort we find in knowing our car key is secured behind a zipper. If a phone-friendly pocket is non-negotiable for you, we recommend checking out the REI Co-op Swiftland 9" or the Janji Pace 7" for the plentiful storage and security they provide. If the comfort and versatility of the Active Pursuits are what piques your interest, we also won't hesitate to recommend the Vuori Clementine 4" 2.0. The Clementine offers an upgraded style profile with all of the versatility of the Active Pursuits but with a look more similar to the beloved Lululemon Speed Up 4".

A Highly Versatile Everyday Favorite

Lululemon Speed Up 4"

Inseam Length (Measured): 4 inches | Pockets: 2 front waistband for gels, 1 rear with zipper

Thanks to its comfort features and versatility, the Lululemon Speed Up 4" is a joy to run in. We tested the 4-inch inseam and found that these shorts can take you from the easiest daily runs to the longest race days and back with ease. The 4-inch waistband sits comfortably above the hips, providing security when the pockets are loaded with gear. The length and thickness of the polyester, nylon, lycra, and elastane body protected our inner thighs from chaffing as we ran, further adding to the Speed Up's versatility. “I really appreciate the longer inseam, which is great for other runners looking for chafe protection,” our lead reviewer remarked. Lululemon also offers a 2.5-inch inseam option in mid-rise and low-rise styles.

The Speed Up is an incredible pair of running shorts, but that doesn't mean we wouldn't tweak a few things to make it even more wonderful. We found that the rear phone pocket easily fits smartphones without their cases but felt stretched to the brink when loaded with a cased iPhone 14. Throughout our testing, we noticed that the Speed Up's textiles didn't dry as quickly as shorts with thinner fabrics, such as the highly moisture-wicking Janji 3" AFO Middle. The result is that the Speed Up scored slightly lower in our moisture control metric. Yet this lab-garnered data is at odds with how this versatile pair of shorts feels while running in them. When it comes to sweaty runs, the Speed Up never bunches or feels heavy when wet. So, despite being a bit slower to dry, the Speed Up is on our short list of running shorts when it comes to steamy runs.

Best High Performance with Full Coverage

Brooks Chaser 5" - Women's

Inseam Length (Measured): 5.3 inches | Pockets: 1 with loop for key, front 2 for gels

We really like the slightly thicker polyester and spandex material of the Brooks Chaser 5". “This bit of extra thickness makes for a short that felt non-restrictive and never clung or bunched when I was wearing them,” our tester noted. The material is slightly stretchy, which provides ample comfort, while the paneling across the rear allows air to flow without sacrificing modesty. With a 5-inch inseam, the Chaser shorts aren't much longer than many of the other traditionally styled shorts we ran in, but the thickness and shape provide more coverage than their breezy, paper-thin counterparts. The longer length and smooth material were an excellent barrier to chafing on longer runs. The longer cut is well done, offering a streamlined look for runners who want the legs of their shorts to cover their upper thighs.

We find the Brooks Chaser 5" to be slightly lacking in their pocket performance. This pair of shorts doesn't offer a phone pocket, an element we have grown to love in other shorts (because we all need good tunes and an emergency-ready device when venturing into the unknown). One pocket does offer a small loop for securing a car key, which is a thoughtful touch. The only other minor complaint we have about these otherwise stellar shorts is that the drawcord is somewhat useless. The thick waistband is slightly stretchy, but while comfortable, it can't provide the security you might want when bombing down technical trails. This never truly bothered us, but it is worth noting that a drawstring with upgraded functionality would have taken these shorts to the next level. For a similar fit and shape, we recommend the Lululemon Speed Up 4", which offers nearly the same amount of coverage with only slightly thinner materials and has the added bonus of a functional phone pocket.

An Excellent Chafe Resistant Option

REI Co-op Swiftland 9" - Women's

Inseam Length (Measured): 9.1 inches | Pockets: 2 bilateral side pockets, 2 bilateral hip pockets, 1 front gel pocket

The REI Co-Op Swiftland 9" is a biker-style short that provides solid chafe protection for runners seeking this characteristic. With secure and ample pockets, this pair of shorts allows you to haul your phone, nutrition, and keys without bouncing or otherwise degrading their comfort. Other biker shorts, like the Janji Pace 7", use compression to remain in place and prevent bouncing, but not these shorts. Our lead tester stated, “I appreciate that they don't rely on compression and stay in place even with loaded pockets,” which provides a comfortable and easy pair of running shorts for all running occasions.

Our list of gripes with the Swiftland 9" begins and ends with one thing: sweat. We found that the lighter color options, red included, showed more sweat than we preferred. This wasn't a dealbreaker since we spent most of our time running desolate trails while testing gear. These remote trail runs often include a quick pee portage or two, which were complicated by the fact that this pair of nylon and spandex shorts becomes incredibly difficult to pull up after the sweat begins to accumulate. Because of this, we tend to favor other options, like the REI Swiftland 5" and the Lululemon Speed Up 4" for long trail efforts. But when chafing is a top concern, the Swiftland 9" offers a reliable solution.

Best Transition from Run to Town

Vuori Clementine 4" 2.0

Inseam Length (Measured): 4.0 inches | Pockets: 1 with zippered closure on front left panel

The Vuori Clementine 4" 2.0 tops our list as a style-focused running short. These shorts are styled in a way that loosely mimics a true split-leg track short. While they have seams up the sides, the tapered cut is what allows for a comfortable range of motion while running. The liner is thin and breathable, with an almost perforated fabric that keeps things breezy on warm runs. The liner works in conjunction with the Clementine's functional exterior drawstring to stay in place while in motion. While this short didn't score the highest in moisture control, its overall construction feels breezy when worn. This, combined with its contemporary cut and detailing, makes the Clementine a functional and fashion-forward piece of running gear to add to your closet.

With great style comes great responsibility, and the Clementine 2.0 almost hits the mark. Our biggest issue is with the pocket. A small pocket featuring a zippered closure sits on the left side panel. This pocket is suitable for a single gel or car key, but even heftier key fobs can feel a bit bouncy while running. The look of the pocket adds a nice element of style, though it lacks the functionality necessary for serious running. Because of its less-than-robust capacity, we recommend the Clementine for daily runs when the need for toting gear is minimal. For truly epic pockets, the REI Co-Op Swiftland 9" reigns supreme. The Janji Pace 7" is another biker-style short that fits similarly to the Swiftland and features seriously secure pockets of all shapes and sizes. If the versatility of the Clementine speaks to you, but you want a more running-centered short, the Lululemon Speed Up 4" is a great option to consider. With modern colorways and a tapered cut similar to the Clementine, the Speed Up is a more tech-focused option offering prime versatility and function.

Best for Race Day

Janji 3" AFO Middle - Women's

Inseam Length (Measured): 2.3 inches | Pockets: 1 in front with low capacity, 1 rear with larger stretchy capacity

The Janji 3" AFO Middle is close to being a perfect running short in many ways. Its lightweight and breezy polyester and elastane body provides ample breathability and a quick drying time, making this short a great choice for pace-pushing race days. The cut of the legs allows for a full range of motion, and the thin but functional waistband ensures that these shorts stay in place. On the slightly shorter side, the elements of the AFO Middle culminate in creating a piece of gear that you won't need to fiddle with as you toe the start line.

As previously mentioned, the Janji 3" AFO Middle is nearly perfect, save for a few details — namely, the oddly placed directly-in-the-middle front pocket. “It may be functional, but I found the positioning unusual and slightly uncomfortable,” one tester said. Otherwise, the rear cut of the liner of this short is slightly narrow. “I never had any comfort issues while running, but I noticed that the fit of the liner was narrower than some others I tested,” our tester noted. Runners shopping for a more minimalistic style of racing shorts will enjoy running in the Janji AFO Middle. Runners who want a thicker waistband with comparable moisture control will want to take a look at the REI Co-Op Swiftland 5", the REI Co-Op Active Pursuits, and the Rabbit Feelin' Fine 4".

Compare Products

Compare select up to 5 products to compare

	Score	Product	Price
	89	REI Co-op Swiftland 5" - Women's Best Overall Women's Running Short	$60
	81	Lululemon Speed Up 4" A Highly Versatile Everyday Favorite	$68
	79	REI Co-op Active Pursuits - Women's Best Bang for Your Buck	$40
	78	Brooks Chaser 5" - Women's Best High Performance with Full Coverage	$64
	78	Rabbit Feelin' Fine 4"	$62
	73	Janji Pace 7" - Women's	$78
	72	REI Co-op Swiftland 9" - Women's An Excellent Chafe Resistant Option	$55
	71	Vuori Clementine 4" 2.0 Best Transition from Run to Town	$58
	70	Janji 3" AFO Middle - Women's Best for Race Day	$64
	65	On Running Shorts 3" - Women's	$80
	60	Under Armour Fly By 3"	$30
	57	Blooming Jelly Quick-Dry	$27
	56	Nike Tempo	$32
	55	Baleaf 7" 2-in-1 - Women's	$38
	40	Adidas Pacer Training 3-Stripes High-Rise	$30

How We Test Running Shorts for Women

GearLab has a rigorous and objective process that includes extensive research before moving into hands-on testing of the carefully selected lineup. Tests are broken down into measurable and repeatable metrics to create a reliable testing process. 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 the pockets and ran with them to see if they held these items in place or if they bounced around uncomfortably. We used these test results, combined with our years of running experience, to inform each pair of shorts' scores and subsequent rankings in this review.

To help you find the best running shorts for your experience and needs, we broke down our testing into five rating metrics:

• Comfort (25% of overall score weighting)

• Waistband and Liner Fit(25% of weighting)

• Pocket Functionality (20% of weighting)

• Moisture Control(20% of weighting)

• Style and Versatility (10% of weighting)

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, a small town near San Luis Obispo. Ally is an enthusiastic PE teacher with a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology, a master's in Education, and a 200-hour registered yoga teacher. Ally runs over 1,000 miles annually, nearly always outfitted in gear she is testing.

Our other tester, Jackie Kearney, spent over a decade running track competitively, including a competitive college career with several NCAA All-American performances. After many years and miles, she knows what to look for in a running short, both in function and form. After college, she moved to the San Juan mountains of Colorado, where she has since transitioned into longer trail runs to supplement her winter passion for ski touring and ski patrolling. Jackie puts down hundreds of running miles annually and has worn dozens and dozens of women's running shorts over the years.

Analysis and Test Results

We put our lineup of running shorts through rigorous testing, both on the run and in controlled experiments, to evaluate their performance. Each pair was tested for comfort during long and short runs, moisture control through timed line-dry assessments, and pocket functionality in real-world scenarios. By comparing each pair across key metrics, we identified the top performers. Our evaluations focused on comfort, waistband liner and fit, pocket usability, moisture management, style, and versatility. To push these shorts to their limits, we paired them with our favorite running gear and assessed their performance during distance runs and races.

What's the Best Value?

The design and construction nuances of running shorts may seem subtle, but small details can significantly impact performance. One less subtle factor, however, is the price. Running shorts range from budget-friendly options to premium products with top-tier features. We do not evaluate the price of each pair as we test. Instead, we survey pricetags after the testing has been done to ensure an unbiased, head-to-head competition. The most expensive option isn't always the best value for performance features, so we parsed out which shorts offer the highest performance with the smallest impact on your wallet.

Comfort

Even the shortest, most mellow runs can become unbearable if your shorts aren't comfortable. To evaluate waistband and liner comfort, we assessed the materials and how smoothly they lay against the skin. We also considered the feel of the drawstring, when present, and the fit of the shorts 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. A great liner should be so comfortable it feels invisible and stays put during motion. A poorly designed liner can be impossible to overlook due to constantly tugging and readjusting for comfort. Each pair was tested extensively across various runs, yoga classes, and cross-training sessions. We found that our favorite options either had a thick spandex waistband that felt secure sitting at or above the hips.

The REI Co-Op Swiftland struck an impressive balance between a secure high-waisted feel and lightweight breathability with the continuation of its liner material onto the waistband. Its drawstring helped provide security without needing to be tied too tight, adding to its overall comfort. While this metric doesn't center around breathability, the breathability of the liner certainly adds to this short's overall liner comfort.

The Lululemon Speed Up stands at the top of the competition with a lightweight liner and smooth elastic edges that we barely noticed were there. Seriously, we never had to adjust the rear portion of the liner during runs. The ultra-soft mesh liner of the Swiftland and, similarly, the Vuori Clementine 4" and the REI Active Pursuits scored equally well in this metric.

Liners that dug into our waists or seams that did not stretch adequately scored fewer points here. The Janji AFO Middle 3" is a stellar short in many ways, but its thinner waistband and speed-based countenance brought its score down ever so slightly. We were also not impressed by waistbands that were thick and bunched, like the Blooming Jelly Women's Quick-Dry Running Shorts or that fell loosely with no drawstring, like the Baleaf 7" 2-in-1, though both pairs had other qualities to enjoy.

Waistband and Liner Fit

The comfort of a pair of shorts goes beyond the fabric that touches the skin. Do they stay in place? Can we put our shorts on and forget about them, or must we adjust them during our run to ensure they sit properly at the waist and don't bunch or ride up? Is there any pinching, chafing, or other irritation? These are the questions we think about when we set out to examine each pair of shorts, and we find manufacturers take many different strategies to try and address these concerns and optimize fit.

To evaluate fit, we assessed how all the components of the shorts worked together or how they fell short. We observed their performance during movement, focusing on how well they stayed in place and, when they did stay in place, how comfortably the contact points felt after many miles. We paid close attention to the cut, identifying features that could cause chafing and noting when chafing occurred. We measured the relevant panels of each pair of shorts for accuracy, ensuring that they met the manufacturer's statements. We measured the inseam length, waistband width and height, leg opening diameter, and liner width, then averaged these figures to determine a “comfort standard.”

Shorts with waistbands between the 3-inch and 4-inch range scored the best in waistband comfort. All three REI offerings, the Swiftland 5", the Active Pursuits, and the Swiftland 9", scored at the top of the heap here. The Lululemon Speed Up 4" was another standout in this metric, though it is worth mentioning that we tested the higher-waisted model instead of the low-rise option. The On Running Shorts 3" provide a three-inch high waistband, which, paired with a biker shorts-style liner, offers a comfortable and secure fit.

Two other pairs of running shorts impressed us in the fit metric. While their fit specs are varied when looked at through a proverbial microscope, both the Vuori Clementine 4" and the Rabbit Feelin' Fine 4" impressed us by offering smooth-feeling, unencumbered, thoughtfully-designed and executed fit features. The liners of both of these shorts measured between 2.25 inches and 2.5 inches at the narrowest point, a design sweet spot for comfort. The comfy liners, combined with their 13-inch diameter leg openings and smooth recycled polyester bodies, meant both pairs scored well above average in the waistband and liner fit metric.

While the Nike Tempo running short didn't impress us across the board, its versatile fit allows it to be an honorable mention in the fit metric. While lacking bells and whistles in the form of tech-focused features, the Tempo offered middle-ground measurements, often hitting the standard of what our testers found to be comfortable. With a leg opening diameter of 12.75 inches, a moderate 2.5-inch wide liner, and a slightly under 3mm thick waistband, this pair of running shorts hit the comfort mark for basic daily running.

Pocket Functionality

Carrying everything you need for a long run in your shorts isn't an option, which is where hydration vests or belts come in clutch, but having a few well-placed pockets for essentials can be valuable. We saw significant variation across our test lineup, not only in terms of the number and type of pockets on offer but also with 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.

The Janji Pace 7" is far and away the highest scorer in this metric. This short not only offers an impressive five pockets, but its compressive nature ensures that items ride close to the body. Similarly, the REI Co-Op Swiftland 9" offers full-sized, snug pockets for liberated hands while running.

The REI Swiftland 5" is among our top performers overall, scoring well in this metric, too, thanks to its highly stretchy and functional pockets. While rear waistband phone pockets are a bit difficult to access mid-run, stretchy fabrics help this situation immensely. Pockets like those on the Baleaf 7" 2-in-1 shorts are less appealing for runs. While they offer plenty of storage, the baggy fit allows items to bounce excessively during activity. That said, we appreciated their soft comfort and generous pocket space for leisurely weekend dog walks. When it comes to pocket options, having too many is still preferable to none, like with the liner-less Adidas Pacer Training 3-Stripes High-Rise shorts, which lack pockets entirely.

Moisture Control

Sweating during a run feels great, but staying drenched in it does not. This is why we take moisture control so seriously when it comes to running gear. 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 they 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.

The gridded material of the REI Swiftland 5" wicks moisture quickly. While the waistband retains moisture for a bit longer, the legs stay breezy and fresh during runs of all lengths. The Janji AFO Middle 3" is another standout in this metric. Its back-to-basics design, intelligent structure, and ultra-light polyester and elastane-blend fabric make it a top pick for race day. This material is noticeably lighter than most of the other options in our lineup, with a size small weighing in at a mere 3 ounces.

The 100% polyester body of the Adidas Pacer Training shorts weighs a bit less and wicks moisture well, though they lack the technical elements of the Janji AFO Middle and REI Swiftland. Similarly, the Under Armour Fly By 3" is 100% polyester, which makes it lightweight and breezy. But, when put through our series of nuance-determining tests, shorts with blended textiles fared slightly better.

Style and Versatility

Style and versatility are two highly subjective submetrics, so we weighted this total metric slightly less than the others. However, we still considered how well each option transitions from a run to the gym to yoga to everyday wear. We evaluated their alignment with current industry trends, the variety of color options available, and the presence of any unique patterns and details.

The Vuori Clementine 2.0 is an easy favorite in this metric. Its contemporary colorways, external drawstring, and pocket detailing make it a stylish option for running or running errands. The Lululemon Speed Up 4" is another stylish favorite because of its slightly tapered fit and large waistband. Runners seeking a budget buy with a side of style will also be satisfied with the REI Active Pursuits due to their easy and unintrusive fit and style.

While all of the shorts mentioned above deliver function with an eye toward fashion, the REI Swiftland quickly became our go-to choice for just about any run, proving to be an exceptionally versatile pair of shorts for trails, paved paths, and gym workouts. We found ourselves reaching for them as soon as they were clean. While their design leans heavily into a runner-focused aesthetic, that's a natural trade-off when prioritizing running performance -— we're more than okay with that. The flip side of this is style-focused shorts that don't offer as much tech in terms of fabrics and fit. We found this true with the trendy, high-waisted Blooming Jelly Quick-Dry shorts.

It is worth noting that most of the running shorts we tested come in varying inseam lengths and colorway options. Some even offer alternate styles within the same shorts line, such as the high or low-rise options of the Lululemon Speed Ups or the 2-in-1 version of the Brooks Chaser 5". So, if you like what you see but wish there was a slightly longer or shorter version, there is a good chance such an option exists. You will also find a broad range of color options available, from standard neutrals to bright, bold colors and fun, eye-catching patterns. However, it is important to remember that most manufacturers update their offerings on a seasonal basis, if not more often. So, many of the color options available at the time of publication may very well change by the time you are exploring options. Some retailers may still offer back stock from last season's releases, while others will wait for new shipments and carry only the most recent colorways and patterns.

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.

What Inseam Length is Right?

Finding the ideal inseam length is largely a personal choice, but certain running styles are best suited to certain short lengths. For longer trail runs, a longer short will help protect against the elements better and tend to prevent long-distance-induced thigh chaffing. Longer inseams can also accommodate compression shorts underneath if you like to run with them. For road and short trail runs, a shorter inseam provides more maneuverability and breathability for intense running. Shorter inseams also tend to be made of a bit less fabric, which can improve their moisture control — an important element when considering hot, fast-paced jaunts.

Is a Liner Important?

Many running shorts have a built-in liner for improved support, less friction when running, and, ultimately, comfort. While some runners may like to wear underwear beneath the liners, most don't. The way we see it, the fewer articles of clothing worn, the less you'll need to adjust while trying to hit your paces. If you do not know whether to buy shorts with liners, consider how prone you are to chafing and whether you notice your shorts moving while running or jogging. We love the way a well-cut liner can secure shorts, allowing them to remain comfortable during difficult or long runs. It's important to consider the material and seams in short liners to determine if comfort could become a concern. Some liners offer specifically-placed cotton for comfort and breathability, while others are comprised of polyester alone.

What About the Waistband?

Waistbands are one of the most important aspects of a comfortable and functional running short. 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, large waistband typically offers a more secure fit, although thinner waistbands can also perform really well when designed effectively. Some of our highest-scoring shorts are built with wider waistbands that provide 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.

What to Look for in Pockets?

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 secure belongings better than larger pockets and prevent your accouterments from bouncing while running.

Many contemporary running shorts offer phone pockets on the rear portion of the waistband, most of which adequately secure 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 body. The closer the gear is to the body, the less it bounces.

What Material is Best?

All of the shorts in our review are crafted from synthetic materials designed to enhance performance. Most feature polyester blends, prized for their high-performance qualities. These fabrics excel in breathability and often provide moisture-wicking and quick-drying benefits. While the natural appeal of cotton is tempting, we highly recommend you proceed with caution — it can lead to chafing and retain moisture, which may hinder comfort and performance. There is one caveat when it comes to cotton: sometimes, a small patch is included in the crotch of some shorts, a much-appreciated comfort for female runners who are prone to yeast infections.

Conclusion

Whether you're a casual runner clocking casual miles or a dedicated athlete racking up dozens of miles a week, a comfortable and reliable pair of running shorts can make all the difference in your run experience. Great running shorts combine several key features, but the best choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences and priorities. 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, we hope our insights will guide you toward the perfect pair, helping you enjoy every step and stride for many miles to come.