Running shorts are a must-have for any runner who logs miles outdoors in the warmer weather. Choosing the right shorts can mean the difference between a comfortable, successful run and one that gets cut short due to chafing, discomfort, or wardrobe malfunctions.
Whether you prefer lightweight racing shorts or compression shorts, quality and comfort are top priority. Built-in briefs to avoid mid-run adjustments and pockets to stash on-the-run essentials are also features to consider. We reviewed the running shorts in our roundup based on fit and style, material, and special features like pockets or moisture-wicking properties.
Reviewed & Approved
The Lululemon Speed Up shorts are our best overall because they’re a comfortable, durable, high-performance pair of shorts. The C9 Champion 3.5-inch Premium Running Shorts are a comfortable and lightweight choice that’s budget-friendly.
Here are the best running shorts for women for every budget and preference, according to a running coach.
These high-performance women’s running shorts from Lululemon, a brand famous for their premium leggings, earn our top overall spot for their quality, features, and comfort. Designed with runners in mind, the shorts feature a lightweight waistband and continuous drawstring so they’ll stay in place without digging into your sides.
Best Overall
Lululemon Speed Up Mid-Rise Lined Short 4”
Comfortable
Lots of storage
Lightweight and stretchy
Great fit and function
May run small
White may be see-through
They’re made from Lululemon’s fast-drying, lightweight Swift material, which wicks away moisture, keeping you dry and cool. The four-way stretch fabric also makes them comfortable to run in and ensures they retain their shape, even after many trips through the washing machine.
The secure back pocket and the continuous gel pockets on the waistband provide plenty of flexible storage options. With a 4-inch inseam, they’re just the right length—not too short or too long. They come in women’s sizes 0 to 14 and in a variety of colors and patterns.
Price at time of publication: $90
Materials: Swift fabric and Lycra | Storage: Zippered back pocket and continuous waistband gel pocket | Care: Machine-washable
If you’re looking for comfortable, affordable shorts that work well for short or long runs, you can’t go wrong with this lightweight pair from Champion. With a 3.5-inch inseam, they’re not too short or too long and sit comfortably on the waist, with a wide, stretchy waistband to keep them in place. The zippered pocket in the back is ideal for securely stashing on-the-run essentials such as keys, sports gels, or cash.
Best Budget
C9 Champion 3.5” Knit Premium Running Shorts
Stay securely in place
Lightweight and comfortable
Budget-friendly
No pocket for large phone
White color is see-through
The inner brief has wicking fabric for enhanced comfort and chafing protection, and the stretchy fabric allows you to move with ease. Available in sizes 0 through 22, these shorts will quickly become a staple in your summer running clothes rotation.
Price at time of publication: $23
Materials: Polyester and spandex | Storage: Zippered pocket | Care: Machine wash and tumble dry
These high-quality shorts from Hylete feature a stellar design that’s both practical and flattering. Comfortable and well-made, they have a high-stretch waistband and four-way stretch fabric that moves with you while you run. The built-in no-show breathable mesh liner doesn’t ride up or limit your range of motion, even when you’re sprinting.
Best Design
Hylete Iris Short
Comfortable design
Lightweight and wicking
Variety of colors available
Good storage options
Pricier than some other options
May be too short for some women
The side zipper pockets keep your valuables secure while you’re out on a run and are big enough to fit most phones. These durable, high-performance shorts come in a range of neutral and fun colors and in sizes 0 through 14.
Price at time of publication: $58
Materials: Nylon, polyester, and spandex | Storage: Two side zippered pockets | Care: Machine wash cold and tumble dry low
Designed with sweaty runners in mind, these popular shorts from Athleta have a targeted mesh ventilation system that keeps you cool and comfortable. The soft, silky recycled polyester material is sustainable and lightweight, with exceptional wicking and water-repelling capabilities.
Best for Comfort
Athleta Mesh Racer Run Shorts
Lightweight and comfortable
Water-repellent
Stays in place
Good ventilation
Pocket may not hold large phones
Limited color choices
The no-slip waistband ensures that they won’t slip down or ride up, so you can stay focused on your workout. The secure zippered pocket and hidden key pocket are ideal for carrying your phone and other essentials when running. The mid-rise shorts have a 4-inch inseam and come in sizes 00 through 18.
Price at time of publication: $49
Materials: Recycled polyester | Storage: Zippered pocket and hidden key pocket | Care: Machine wash and dry
If you prefer your running shirts to have built-in briefs for support, coverage, and protection from chafing, these Nike Dry Tempo Shorts are an affordable and high-quality choice. Nike’s Dri-FIT technology wicks sweat away and the shorts’ mesh panels increase ventilation and cooling.
Best 2-in-1
Nike Women’s Tempo Running Shorts
Comfortable built-in liner
Comfortable fit
Good ventilation and wicking
Affordable
Lighter color options may be see-through
Not much storage
The easy fit and curved hems allow for a wide range of motion, and the soft fabric adds to the overall comfort. Available in sizes 0 through 18, they come in several color options and are so budget-friendly, you may want to stock up.
Price at time of publication: $32
Materials: Recycled polyester and polyester | Storage: Interior stash pocket | Care: Machine wash and tumble dry
Available in a wide range of sizes from XXS to 6XL, these comfy shorts from Girlfriend Collective are flattering and well-designed for runners of all shapes and sizes. With a compressive fit that helps them stay in place, they’re ideal for avoiding chafing and peek-a-boo incidents while running. The back pocket is perfect for stashing a credit card, cash, or keys.
Best Plus-Size
Girlfriend Collective High-Rise Run Short
Wide range of sizes
Comfy, flattering fit
Made from recycled water bottles
Stylish
Only one small pocket
Can’t put in the dryer
They’re also very stylish and come in several colors, so they can easily work their way into your casual wear wardrobe. Even better, they’re made from recycled post-consumer water bottles, so you can feel good about helping to eliminate waste from the environment.
Price at time of publication: $48
Materials: RPET and Spandex | Storage: Small back pocket | Care: Machine wash and air dry
You won’t have to worry about your shorts riding up, bunching, or sliding down when you’re wearing these extremely popular compression shorts from Baleaf. The lightweight, stretchy, and breathable fabric allows for excellent range of motion and the wide, high-rise waistband enhances the shorts’ overall comfort. They’re available in sizes extra-small to 3XL and come in a short 5-inch and long 8-inch length, so you can choose how much coverage you want.
Best Compression
Baleaf Women’s High Waist Running Shorts
Affordable
Don’t slide down or bunch
Many color options
Roomy side pockets
High-rise waistband may not work for petite women
Run small
For your on-the-run essentials, two roomy side pockets offer plenty of space and the compression prevents them from bouncing. With such an affordable price, you may want to stock up and get them in several of the 40+ color options.
Price at time of publication: $27
Materials: Polyester/Spandex | Storage: Two side pockets and hidden waistband pocket | Care: Machine-washable
While these highly-rated shorts from Tracksmith perform well for any type of run, they’re especially good for speedwork and sprinting. They have a 3-inch inseam and a split on the outer part of the leg, allowing for excellent range of motion.
Best for Sprinting
Tracksmith Twilight Split Shorts
Great for track running
Comfortable fit
Quick-drying
Durable and versatile
Only go up to size 10
Can’t put in the dryer
Unlike other split shorts, this pair isn’t too long, bulky, or stiff. Ultra-lightweight and comfortable, they’re made of a moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabric that feels soft and smooth against your skin.
Despite its streamlined design, the shorts still fit in three stretchy internal back pockets for sports gels and other essentials. Available in women’s sizes 0 to 10 and in several gorgeous colors, these durable shorts will quickly become a go-to staple for avid runners.
Price at time of publication: $62
Materials: Polyester and spandex | Storage: Three back internal pockets | Care: Machine wash warm and hang dry
With a wide, stretchy waistband and an adjustable drawcord, these Athleta shorts stay put, so you won’t be tugging and pulling on them as you’re running. Whether you’re running long, short, or on the trails, the split short design allows for an excellent range of motion.
Best No-Slip
Athleta Run With It 3.5” Shorts
Lightweight
Quick-drying
Don’t ride up or fall down
Wide range of sizes
Not a lot of color options
Only one pocket
The lightweight, stretchy fabric is soft, smooth, and feels comfortable against your skin, while the shorts’ targeted ventilation and quick-drying fabric keep you cool and dry.
A back zippered pocket keeps your cash, credit cards, and other small items secure. Available in women’s sizes 00 to 26W, these shorts are an ideal choice for women seeking a flattering, reliable staple for their warm-weather running wardrobe.
Price at time of publication: $59
Materials: Recycled polyester and spandex | Storage: Back zippered pocket | Care: Machine wash and dry
Marathon runners need shorts with exceptional comfort and good storage options for all their on-the-run essentials. With a streamlined, relaxed design and a wide, elastic waistband, these New Balance Impact shorts will keep you feeling comfortable and confident as you’re logging serious mileage.
Best for Marathons
New Balance Impact Run Shorts
Comfortable for distance running
Excellent wicking and ventilation
Lightweight and flattering fit
Good storage options
Limited color options
Not available in plus sizes
The back-zip pocket can fit most phones and the two small pockets in the front are ideal for your long-run fuel. The internal brief liner provides additional comfort and support, while the moisture-wicking fabric and vented sides keep you cool and dry.
These distance-ready shorts are available in women’s sizes XS to 2XL.
Materials: Polyester and spandex | Storage: Two pockets in front and zippered pocket in back | Care: Machine wash and tumble dry
If you prefer long shorts, you’ll love the coverage and comfort you get with these Lululemon 10-inch shorts. Made of stretchy, breathable fabric, they move with you as you run and keep you protected from painful chafing. The high-rise waistband and continuous drawcord help keep your shorts in place, so you don’t have to pull them up mid-run.
Best Long
Lululemon Fast and Free Shorts
Good coverage
Stylish
Comfortable
Plenty of storage
Limited color options
More expensive than some other choices
If you prefer to run with your phone, there’s plenty of space to hold it in the deep, drop-in pockets. The five small waistband pockets are perfect for storing essentials, like your money, keys, or credit cards.
The shorts come in women’s sizes 0 through 14 and, if you prefer a little bit shorter, they’re also available in a 6-inch length. For women who also enjoy cycling, they also work well as bike shorts.
Price at time of publication: $68
Materials: Nylon and Lycra elastane | Storage: Two side pockets and five waistband pockets | Care: Machine wash and tumble dry
If you wish you could wear your favorite pair of leggings all summer-long, you’ll love the feel and comfort of these shorts from Outdoor Voices. They work for all shapes and sizes, but petite women in particular prefer the streamlined style, flattering cut, and 2.5-inch length.
Best Petite
Outdoor Voices Hudson 2.5" Shorts
Flattering cut
Sleek and streamlined
Comfortable
Good for petite women
Length may be too short for some
Pocket not big enough for phone
Made with lightweight, buttery-soft fabric, they also have excellent wicking capabilities and are quick-drying. The comfortable knit waistband keeps them secure and the built-in brief liner offers additional protection and comfort.
Available in sizes XS to XXXL, these shorts also have a hidden zippered pocket for small items, like keys or credit cards.
Materials: Recycled polyester fabric and spandex | Storage: Hidden zippered pocket | Care: Machine wash cold and tumble dry low
For distance runners, Under Armour’s Speed Pocket shorts are perfect for keeping them comfy and chafe-free. With an expandable, water-resistant waistband pocket and a zippered pocket in the back, they also have plenty of space to stash essentials for long runs or distance races.
Best for Long Distance Runs
Under Armour Women’s Qualifier Speedpocket Shorts
Water-resistant pocket fits even large phones
Comfortable, stretchy material
Anti-odor technology
Fast-drying
Limited color options
Runs small
The comfortable, breathable fabric and four-way stretch construction allows for excellent mobility in every direction. Available in women’s sizes 0 through 16, they also feature UA’s anti-odor technology and outstanding wicking capability to keep you feeling fresh and dry. Although the color options are limited, these shorts are a good wardrobe staple for runners.
Price at time of publication: $45
Materials: Polyester and elastane | Storage: Expandable, water-resistant waistband pocket and back zippered pocket | Care: Machine wash and tumble dry
What to Look for in Running Shorts for Women
Style
Some women’s running shorts are skin-tight, while others feature a looser fit and a split-style that allows for great range of motion. Shorts may have a built-in brief for more coverage and support. Women’s running shorts come in many different lengths, from 3- to 10-inch options, so you can choose the one that suits you best.
Final Verdict
For a comfortable, high-performance, and durable pair of shorts, you can’t go wrong with the versatile Lululemon Speed Up shorts (view at Lululemon). They’re lightweight and breathable, but still provide the coverage and support you need on the run. Made from material that’s moisture-wicking and quick-drying, they’ll keep you cool and comfortable, no matter how far you’re running.
Material
Shorts that are made from synthetic materials—such as polyester, nylon, or spandex—will provide the most comfort and optimal performance on the run. In addition to allowing for excellent mobility, those fabrics are very breathable and moisture-wicking. Runners should avoid shorts made of cotton because they’re not quick-drying and can lead to chafing and discomfort.
Storage
Many runners like storage options in their shorts so they can carry their phone and stash other running essentials. For hands-free running, compression shorts with side pockets are ideal, since there should be plenty of space for even large phones and there’s little risk of bouncing. Pockets that are secured with a zipper are perfect for carrying valuables such as keys, cash, or credit cards.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
As an avid runner, running coach, certified personal trainer, and fitness writer, Christine Luff has researched and tested lots of running gear and attire. She knows that the right pair of running shorts can make the difference between a mediocre run and a fantastic one.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are shorter shorts better for running?
- Short length is really a matter of personal preference for runners. Some prefer split-style shorts and shorter inseams for speed workouts and racing since they offer a good range of motion and flexibility. However, longer compression shorts are also beneficial for runners who’ve had issues with chafing when running.
- Can you wear bike shorts for running?
- Compression shorts that are worn for biking can also be used for all types of running, from sprinting to long distance. They’re usually lightweight, stretchy, and moisture-wicking, which are all beneficial features for runners and can help prevent issues such as thigh rubbing and irritation. Just avoid running in bike shorts with built-in padding, as those would be too bulky and uncomfortable.
- Why do women’s running shorts have liners?
- Some women’s running shorts have liners to provide additional support and coverage. Since the liner is built-in, it moves with the shorts and helps them stay put and also reduces your risk of chafing on the run. Wearing shorts with built-in briefs eliminates the need for underwear, helping to simplify your running wardrobe.
Short length is really a matter of personal preference for runners. Some prefer split-style shorts and shorter inseams for speed workouts and racing since they offer a good range of motion and flexibility. However, longer compression shorts are also beneficial for runners who’ve had issues with chafing when running.
Compression shorts that are worn for biking can also be used for all types of running, from sprinting to long distance. They’re usually lightweight, stretchy, and moisture-wicking, which are all beneficial features for runners and can help prevent issues such as thigh rubbing and irritation. Just avoid running in bike shorts with built-in padding, as those would be too bulky and uncomfortable.
Some women’s running shorts have liners to provide additional support and coverage. Since the liner is built-in, it moves with the shorts and helps them stay put and also reduces your risk of chafing on the run. Wearing shorts with built-in briefs eliminates the need for underwear, helping to simplify your running wardrobe.
