Best Running Shorts for All Genders, According to Runners
The best running shorts prevent chafing and stay comfortable.
By Marnie Kunz, certified trainer and run coach
The best running shorts give you freedom and breathability without bunching up or sliding down when you run. For this piece, I went to the Brooklyn Running Company to learn more about what’s trending in running shorts. I also asked runners for their input on their favorite running shorts. This guide offers a rundown of some of the most popular and functional running shorts for men, women, and unisex styles, with insights into the length, features, pockets, and more.
“A lot of runners are coming in looking for high-waisted shorts with pockets,” says Mariel Feigen of the Brooklyn Running Company.
Mariel, herself a running coach and ultra runner, especially likes the brands Janji and the Girlfriend Collective. Other runners I spoke to recommended brands ranging from Lululemon to Tracksmith running shorts. Ultimately, the best running shorts for you depends on your preferences and training environment, but this guide will give you insights to help you find your perfect match. Also, check out the Runstreet Amazon Shop for the most up-to-date recs on our top tried and tested gear.
Related: 10 Summer Running Tips to Stay Motivated
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Best Running Shorts for Women
These are the top women’s running shorts for comfort, function, and style. As Mariel mentioned, high-waisted running shorts with pockets are in demand right now, and some features never go out of style, such as moisture-wicking and not riding up on the run. Pockets are helpful for carrying gels and essentials on long runs and trail runs. High-rise shorts are also a style statement that's popular at the moment, in keeping with the high-rise jeans trend.
Best Women’s Running Shorts - Biker Shorts Style
Biker shorts style bottoms are the best running shorts for those who want fitted shorts with lots of pocket space. With features like four-way stretch material, biker style shorts offer full range of motion for runners. Although they may look like biker shorts, these running shorts are designed for runners, with sweat-wicking and compression to offer support.
Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Short
These Lululemon running shorts are stylish and have lots of moisture-wicking abilities, with an Everlux fabric that dries quickly on hot and humid runs. They come in three lengths, so you can pick short, medium, or long to suit your tastes. They have a waistband pocket.
“I love these shorts because the fabric is breathable and soft. They are true to size, and the best part is they have compression,” says NYC runner Nancy.
Pros: Lightweight, comfortable, moisture-wicking fabric designed for heat and humidity. Different length options.
Cons: Some runners say the 4-inch inseam style can ride up during runs.
Sizes: 0 to 20
Waist: High
Pockets: 1
Inseam: 4, 6, or 8 inches
Related: 20 Tips for Running in Heat and Humidity
Athleta Ultimate Advantage Shorts
As a runner, I’ve found Athleta gear comfortable and high-quality, with plenty of functional features like pockets and compression. The Athleta Ultimate Advantage Shorts do not disappoint - they have versatile pockets for a smartphone or other essentials and supportive, soft fabric with compression and moisture-wicking. The grippers along the bottom hem keep the shorts in place, so you don’t have to worry about them riding up.
Pros: Comfortable, soft feel with compression, pockets, bottom hems do not ride up when you run.
Cons: Some runners say the shorts fit tight in the waist and along the grippers on the bottom hem, so try them on before buying to get the right size and size up if needed.
Sizes: XXS to XL
Waist: Natural/mid
Pockets: 2
Inseam: 5 inches
On Sprinter Shorts
On Sprinter shorts have the coveted high waist and multiple pockets that many women are looking for in a pair of running shorts. NYC runner Shelagh says they’re her favorite pair of running shorts. The wide waist, durable and soft fabric, moisture-wicking, and five pockets make these lightweight shorts a popular choice. There is also a built-in mesh belt for extra storage in the back.
Pros: Lightweight, high waist, wide waistband, compression, 5 pockets.
Cons: No zippered pockets.
Sizes: XS to XL
Waist: High
Pockets: 5
Inseam: 4.92 inches
Best Budget-Friendly Women’s Running Shorts
If you’re not ready to shell out a lot of cash for some running shorts, these are the best running shorts for less than $50.
BALEAF Women’s 5” Running Shorts
For a great deal on women’s running shorts, these Baleaf women’s running shorts are an Amazon favorite. These moisture-wicking women’s running shorts have a quick-dry liner, high waist, and zippered back pocket for storing must-haves on the run.
Pros: Lightweight, quick-drying, lined, zippered pocket, budget-friendly price
Cons: Some runners say the pockets hang past the length of the shorts, and sizing can be inconsistent.
Sizes: XS to 3X
Waist: High
Pockets: 4
Inseam: 5 inches
CRZ Yoga Women’s Lightweight Running Shorts
These lightweight, moisture-wicking running shorts have high-waisted and mid-waisted options so you can choose a shorter inseam or longer one depending on your personal preference. They have an elastic waistband, back zippered pocket, soft liner, and internal drawstring.
Pros: Lightweight, zippered back pocket, recycled materials, high waist.
Cons: Some runners say the shorts fit smaller than expected, so size up if you are between sizes.
Sizes: XXS to XL
Waist: Medium or High
Pockets: 1
Inseam: 2.5 inches (high-waisted), 4 inches (mid-waisted)
Best Women’s Running Shorts - Shorts Styles
These are the best running shorts for women looking for a traditional shorts style, with a looser fit in the legs area and lightweight fabric. These shorts all have liners for full coverage and support.
Tracksmith Session Shorts
Tracksmith’s most popular shorts, the Session Shorts, have a lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric and an anti-odor, antimicrobial liner. The hidden back zippered pocket and UV protection make these super light shorts perfect for running in hot weather and carrying essentials.
Pros: Lightweight, comfortable, moisture-wicking fabric designed for heat and humidity. Vintage look. Different length options.
Cons: According to some runners, the liner can bunch up during runs.
Sizes: XS to XL
Waist: Natural/mid
Pockets: 1
Inseam: 2.5 inches, 3.25 inches
Janji W’s High-Rise Cadence Short
These ultra-light Janji shorts are a new and improved version of a Janji favorite. The high waist and slightly longer inseam allow for more coverage. At the same time, the extra lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric keeps you cool on the run.
Pros: Very lightweight fabric, high waist, two interior pockets, eco-friendly materials including 88 percent recycled polyester.
Cons: Pockets do not have zippers.
Sizes: XS to XXL
Waist: High
Pockets: 3
Inseam: 4 inches
Girlfriend Collective Black Trail Shorts
If you’re looking for eco-friendly, lightweight running shorts, the Girlfriend Collective specializes in clothing made from recycled materials. These lightweight running shorts have a high waist, zippered back pocket, a water-resistant, moisture-wicking outer short, and built-in compression shorts. They come in a wide range of sizes to suit all body types.
Pros: Lightweight, zippered back pocket, recycled materials, high waist.
Cons: Some runners say the compression shorts underneath ride up and have little compression.
Sizes: XS to 6XL
Waist: High
Pockets: 1
Inseam: 2 inches (small) to 3 inches (6XL)
Best Running Shorts for Men
These are the best running shorts for men. If you’re seeking comfortable, functional shorts to stay cool on warm runs, check out these options:
Nike Flex Stride Men’s Running Shorts
If you need a comfortable and functional pair of running shorts, these Nike men’s running shorts fit the bill. The shorts are breathable, lightweight, moisture-wicking, and have a soft liner. With a zippered pocket at the back, side pockets, and a liner pocket, there are plenty of options for keeping your ID and essentials.
Pros: 5 pockets including one zippered pocket, liner, enhanced breathability
Cons: The sizing runs small, so size up if in doubt.
Sizes: S to XXL
Waist: Natural/mid
Pockets: 5
Inseam: 5 inches or 7 inches
Janji Men’s 5” AFO Middle Short
These ultra-light Janji men’s running shorts have a fast, moisture-drying fabric and a moisture-wicking brief liner to keep you comfortable even on the hottest runs. The zippered back pocket keeps valuables secure on the go.
Pros: Comfortable, moisture-wicking, medium-length, zippered pocket.
Cons: Some runners report the liner is too tight or bunches up while running.
Sizes: S to XL
Waist: Natural/mid
Pockets: 1
Inseam: 5 inches
Tracksmith Van Cortlandt Shorts
These Tracksmith shorts are built for speed, with lightweight, moisture-wicking material and a classic running short style. The shorts and liner have a mesh antimicrobial fabric and a pocket below the waistband for stowing essentials.
Pros: Lightweight, sleek, moisture-wicking, short but not too short
Cons: The liner can bunch up during runs, according to some runners.
Sizes: XS to XL
Waist: Natural/mid
Pockets: 1
Inseam: 4 inches
Best Budget-Friendly Men’s Running Shorts
If you’re not ready to splurge on running shorts, these budget-friendly options will keep you running comfortably without breaking your price constraints.
Men’s New Balance Accelerate 7” Running Shorts
New Balance is a longtime staple in the running world, and the Men’s Accelerate Running Shorts offer a popular and budget-friendly option for shorts. The moisture-wicking, lightweight shorts have a brief liner, a 7-inch inseam, and a handy waist pocket.
Pros: Lightweight, durable, moisture-wicking, good quality for a budget-friendly price
Cons: The liner bothers some runners who say it doesn’t fit right.
Sizes: XS to XXL
Waist: Middle
Pockets: 1
Inseam: 7 inches
Under Armour Launch SW 7”
These Under Armour men’s running shorts are some of the best running shorts for under $50. They’re moisture-wicking with a mesh liner for breathability and have mesh side panels for enhanced ventilation. The shorts have an inside mesh pocket on the right side.
Pros: Moisture-wicking, full coverage, ventilation, liner, budget-friendly price
Cons: Some runners report the shorts run small.
Sizes: XS to XXL
Waist: Middle
Pockets: 1
Inseam: 7 inches
Best Gender-Neutral Running Shorts
Most running shorts are designated men’s or women’s, but some shorts come in unisex or gender-neutral styles. Men’s running shorts tend to be longer and looser with more pockets. Women’s shorts are often more fitted and tight, and gender-neutral styles tend to be between the two, with longer inseams than women’s shorts and a looser fit. Here are our picks for the best running shorts for gender-neutral runners or those seeking a gender-less style:
TomboyX Summit Shorts
TomboyX offers gender-less clothing that includes the popular Summit Shorts. The shorts have a built-in liner that’s anti-odor, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying. With two side-seam pockets and a medium length, these running shorts have a lot to like.
Pros: Moisture-wicking, two pockets, medium coverage.
Cons: The waistband does not have a drawstring, which can make the shorts sag if they are too big.
Sizes: XS to 6X
Waist: Natural/mid
Pockets: 2
Inseam: 4 inches XS to 3 inches 6X
Title Nine Original Anti-Run Shorts
These gender-neutral Title Nine running shorts feature a 5-inch or 7-inch inseam, an elastic waist with drawstring, three pockets including one zippered pocket, and a soft, comfortable fit.
Pros: Comfortable, functional, zippered pocket, choice of inseam length
Cons: Some runners say the side pockets bulge.
Sizes: XS to XL
Waist: Natural/mid
Pockets: 2
Inseam: 5 inches or 7 inches
I hope this roundup helps you find the best running shorts for you to enjoy many miles of cool running ahead. If you need a training plan to help you crush your running goals, head to our Training Center. Happy running to you!
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Marnie Kunz is a NASM-certified trainer and USATF- and RRCA-certified running coach, Brooklyn resident, Akita mom, and the founder of Runstreet.
