Do your running shorts feel like they’re working against you instead of with you? Maybe they chafe, ride up, or just don’t let you move freely. Finding the perfect pair of running shorts can feel like a treasure hunt, and for many runners, it’s a frustrating one. You want something that feels light, stays put, and keeps you comfortable mile after mile, but the sheer variety can be overwhelming.
Choosing the right shorts isn’t just about looking good; it’s about feeling good and performing your best. We’ve all been there, wishing our shorts did a better job of wicking away sweat or preventing annoying distractions. This post is here to help you conquer that confusion.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand what makes a great running short and how to pick the pair that will make your runs more enjoyable. We’ll break down the key features and help you find your perfect match, so you can focus on the road ahead, not your gear.
Our Top 5 Running Shorts Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Running Shorts Detailed Reviews
1. Tyzrdnac Men’s 2 in 1 Athletic Quick Dry Shorts
Rating: 9.1/10
Tired of shorts that don’t keep up with your active lifestyle? The Tyzrdnac Men’s 2 in 1 Athletic Shorts are here to help you conquer your workouts and your day. These black shorts in a size medium offer a smart design that supports you through every move. They are made with a blend of polyester and spandex, giving you comfort and flexibility.
What We Like:
- 2 in 1 Design: The shorts feature a built-in liner that wicks away sweat and dries quickly, keeping you cool and comfortable. The outer layer is tough and resists wear, reducing chafing and looking good.
- Smart Pocket System: You get two layers of pockets. The inner pockets are hidden for your valuables, and the outer pockets are easy to reach for quick access to your phone or keys.
- Lots of Choices: With nine colors and five sizes available, you’ll easily find a pair that fits your style and needs. The classic look makes them versatile.
- Freedom to Move: These shorts have great stretch. They won’t lose their shape even with intense activity. The elastic waistband and adjustable drawstring let you get the perfect, comfortable fit.
- Wear Them Anywhere: From running and gym sessions to team sports or just lounging, these shorts are perfect for any activity. They keep you feeling free and fresh all day long.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the sweat-wicking is good, some may prefer even faster drying times for extreme heat.
- The “secretive” inner pockets might be a bit too snug for larger smartphones.
Overall, these Tyzrdnac shorts are a solid choice for anyone seeking comfort and performance in their athletic wear. They offer great value and functionality for a variety of activities.
2. BALENNZ Women’s 5 Pack Athletic Workout Shorts with Zipper Pockets Activewear Elastic Waist Gym Running Shorts
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready to move with the BALENNZ Women’s 5 Pack Athletic Workout Shorts! These shorts are designed for comfort and performance, whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or just enjoying a casual day out. The medium size offers a great fit for many women.
What We Like:
- The fabric is super light and breathable. It helps you stay cool and dry during your workouts.
- The high waistband stays put. It won’t slide down or roll up, even when you’re training hard.
- Zipper pockets are a lifesaver! You can safely store your phone, keys, or wallet.
- These shorts are perfect for almost any activity. Running, yoga, gym sessions, or just hanging out – they work for everything.
- You get a pack of five! This means you have plenty of options for changing and washing.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the fabric is good, some might prefer a slightly thicker material for extra support.
- The variety of colors is nice, but a wider range of bolder color choices could be a fun addition.
These BALENNZ shorts are a fantastic addition to any active wardrobe. They offer great comfort and practicality for all your daily adventures.
3. Kinglaman 4 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Workout Shorts with Liner
Rating: 9.5/10
Gear up for your next workout with the Kinglaman 4 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Workout Shorts. This set comes with two black, one blue, and one gray pair in a size Large. These shorts are designed to keep you comfortable and supported whether you’re running, hitting the gym, or just enjoying an active day.
What We Like:
- The 2-in-1 design is awesome! You get outer shorts with a built-in compression liner.
- The quick-dry fabric keeps you feeling fresh and dry, even during tough workouts.
- Lots of pockets! There’s a special one for your phone, two for your essentials, and a secure back zipper pocket for your money or keys.
- These shorts are super lightweight and breathable, so you’ll stay cool.
- They are perfect for all kinds of sports and activities.
What Could Be Improved:
- The compression liner might feel a bit too tight for some people.
- While the pockets are great, the phone pocket might not fit larger smartphones securely.
Overall, these Kinglaman shorts offer great value and functionality for any active guy. They are a solid choice for comfort and performance during your workouts.
4. NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts 7″/ 5″/ 9″ Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball Tennis Hiking Exercise Black L
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready for your next workout or outdoor adventure with the NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts. These shorts are designed for comfort and performance, keeping you cool and dry no matter what you’re doing. Whether you’re hitting the gym, playing tennis, or hiking, these shorts will help you move freely and stay comfortable all day long.
What We Like:
- These shorts are super lightweight and breathable. They feel great and help you stay cool.
- The fabric dries really fast, so you won’t feel sticky.
- They are made from a strong material that stretches well, giving you plenty of room to move.
- Cool, breathable holes on the sides add a stylish touch.
- The waistband is soft and stretchy, and you can adjust it with a drawstring for a perfect fit.
- Flat seams mean no rubbing or chafing, making them extra comfy.
- Reflective strips on the front and back help you be seen in low light.
- Three zippered pockets are perfect for carrying your phone, keys, or wallet safely.
- The fabric protects you from the sun with UPF 50+.
- These shorts are great for many activities like tennis, soccer, and travel.
What Could Be Improved:
- The shorts do not have belt loops.
These NORTHYARD shorts are a fantastic choice for anyone who loves to stay active. They offer a great mix of comfort, durability, and style.
5. CRZ YOGA Womens High Waisted Running Shorts Mesh Liner 3” Dolphin Quick Dry for Athletic Gym Track Workout with Zip Pocket Black Small
Rating: 9.4/10
Looking for shorts that keep up with your active life? The CRZ YOGA Women’s High Waisted Running Shorts are here to help! These shorts are made for running and feel super soft and light, like wearing nothing at all. They dry fast, so you won’t feel sticky after a tough workout. The stretchy fabric moves with you and stays quiet, so you can focus on your run. Plus, they have a handy zip pocket for your phone and a comfy mesh liner.
What We Like:
- Feathery-Fit Soft Fabric: These shorts are incredibly soft and feel light. They are also quick to dry, which is great for sweaty workouts.
- High Rise Design: The high waist offers a secure and comfortable fit that stays in place.
- Built-in Mesh Liner: The mesh liner helps prevent chafing and keeps you comfortable during long runs.
- Zipper Pocket: A secure pocket is perfect for storing your keys, phone, or other small items.
- Dolphin Hem: The stylish dolphin hem allows for a full range of motion and comfortable movement.
- Quick Dry: The fabric dries quickly, keeping you cool and comfortable.
What Could Be Improved:
- Inseam Length: At 3 inches, the inseam might be a bit short for some people who prefer more coverage.
- Limited Color Options: While available in black, more color choices would be a nice addition.
These CRZ YOGA shorts are a solid choice for any athlete. They offer comfort and functionality for your workouts.
Choosing the Best Running Shorts: Your Go-To Guide
Running shorts are a runner’s best friend. They help you stay cool and comfortable on your runs. But with so many options, how do you pick the right pair? This guide will help you find the perfect shorts for your next adventure.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for running shorts, keep these important features in mind.
Comfort and Fit
Good shorts feel like a second skin. They shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. You need room to move freely. Look for shorts with an elastic waistband and a drawstring. This helps you adjust the fit.
Length
Shorts come in different lengths. Shorter shorts (2-4 inches) are great for speed and warm weather. Longer shorts (5-7 inches) offer more coverage and can be good for cooler days or if you prefer more modesty.
Pockets
Pockets are super handy! Some shorts have small pockets for keys or a gel. Others have larger pockets for your phone. Think about what you usually carry on your runs.
Ventilation and Breathability
You want shorts that let air flow. This keeps you cool and dry. Look for mesh panels or lightweight fabrics that breathe well.
Built-in Liner
Many running shorts have a built-in liner. This is like underwear. It can add support and prevent chafing. Some liners are made of soft, moisture-wicking material.
Important Materials
The fabric of your running shorts makes a big difference.
- Polyester: This is a very common material. It’s durable and dries quickly. It’s also good at wicking away sweat.
- Nylon: Nylon is strong and lightweight. It resists wrinkles and is also good for wicking moisture.
- Spandex (or Elastane): This is what makes shorts stretchy. It gives you freedom of movement. You’ll often see it mixed with polyester or nylon.
- Mesh: Mesh is a net-like fabric. It’s used for ventilation. You’ll often find it in the side panels or liners of shorts.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a pair of shorts great or not so great?
What Makes Shorts Better:
- Strong Seams: Well-made seams last longer. They also help prevent chafing.
- Moisture-Wicking: Fabrics that pull sweat away from your skin keep you dry and comfortable.
- Flatlock Seams: These are seams that lie flat against your skin. They reduce irritation.
- Reflective Elements: If you run in the dark, reflective strips help cars see you.
What Makes Shorts Worse:
- Chafing: Rough seams or fabrics can rub against your skin and cause pain.
- Poor Ventilation: Shorts that don’t breathe will make you feel hot and sticky.
- Lack of Stretch: If shorts don’t stretch, they can restrict your movement.
- Cheap Zippers or Drawstrings: These can break easily and make the shorts unusable.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do people actually use and feel about their running shorts?
Everyday Running
For most runners, everyday shorts need to be comfortable and durable. They should handle sweat well and not cause irritation during long runs. Breathability is key on warm days.
Trail Running
Trail runners might want shorts with a bit more length for protection from bushes and branches. Pockets are also important for carrying snacks or a small first-aid kit. Durability is a must.
Gym Workouts
For gym sessions, versatility is good. Shorts that are comfortable for running on a treadmill can also work for weightlifting or other exercises. A bit of stretch is always a plus.
Racing
Race day calls for lightweight, aerodynamic shorts. Often, these are the shortest styles with minimal features to reduce weight and drag. They should wick sweat extremely well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best length for running shorts?
A: The best length depends on your preference and the weather. Shorter shorts (2-4 inches) are good for speed and heat. Longer shorts (5-7 inches) offer more coverage.
Q: Should running shorts have a liner?
A: Many runners prefer shorts with a built-in liner. It adds support and helps prevent chafing. If you prefer to wear your own underwear, you can choose shorts without a liner.
Q: How do I prevent chafing from my running shorts?
A: Look for shorts with flatlock seams and moisture-wicking fabrics. Wearing anti-chafing balm on sensitive areas can also help. Make sure your shorts fit well and aren’t too tight or too loose.
Q: What material is best for running shorts?
A: Polyester and nylon blends are excellent choices. They are lightweight, durable, and wick away sweat. Spandex adds stretch for better movement.
Q: Can I wear regular gym shorts for running?
A: While you can, dedicated running shorts are usually better. Running shorts are designed to be lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking, which improves comfort and performance.
Q: How do I wash my running shorts?
A: Most running shorts can be machine washed in cold water. It’s best to avoid fabric softener, as it can reduce the moisture-wicking properties of the fabric. Always check the care label.
Q: What are “split shorts”?
A: Split shorts have a seam that runs up the side of the leg, creating a split. This allows for maximum range of motion and is popular among sprinters and competitive runners.
Q: Do I need reflective elements on my shorts?
A: If you plan to run in low-light conditions (early morning or evening), reflective elements are very important. They make you more visible to drivers and help keep you safe.
Q: How important are pockets on running shorts?
A: Pockets are very useful for carrying essentials like keys, cards, or energy gels. Some shorts have small zippered pockets for extra security.
Q: When should I replace my running shorts?
A: You should replace your running shorts when they start to show signs of wear, like thinning fabric, stretched-out waistbands, or seams coming undone. If they no longer feel comfortable or supportive, it’s time for a new pair.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.