The Best Running Shorts for Every Type of Runner

• Inseam: 5 inches (Multiple Inseam Lengths Available)
• Materials: Body: 100% polyester stretch ripstop with a DWR finish

These shorts jam a ton of performance and style into an ultralight package. The design is thoughtful, with polyester stretch ripstop fabric used for most of the shorts and some mesh over the thighs, all of which drapes comfortably and with style — even with four mesh pockets on the hips. We also appreciate the HeiQ Pure odor treatment across the briefs, as this allowed us to log more miles in-between washes without worry. Our tester did caution, however, that the pockets felt a little too shallow for secure phone storage, so it may be best to pair these shorts with a running belt or other pack.

• Inseam: 5 inches
• Materials: Exterior: 88% Polyamide, 12% Elastane / Lining: 72% Polyamide, 28% Elastane

When purchasing any running apparel from Satisfy, you can expect two things: sky-high quality…and premium pricing. For example, these TechSilk running shorts can be excellent options for warmer jogs, thanks to the shell’s ability to help reduce heat absorption while also protecting your thighs from harmful UV rays. Convenient storage features like a key-ready S-biner in the waistband and sweatproof phone pocket keep your essentials secure, too. But all that tech does come at a cost. If you can afford the $20o tag, we highly recommend these bottoms. Trust us, after testing these shorts through multiple routes, you’re bound to find a way to save for your next pair.

• Inseam: 5 inches
• Materials: 95% polyester, 5% Spandex

Building an arsenal of trusty running shorts is a great way to keep that motivation to stick with training, but higher price tags can easily thwart this approach. Thankfully, these athletic shorts from Baleaf can be ordered multiple times over without coming near the singular price of others in this list. We admire the range of motion created through the polyester-Spandex shell, and the available pocket space provides plenty of storage opportunities, too. If you desire a more snug brief liner, though, these may not be the best option. Some athletes have noted a loose, sagging fit, which can potentially lead to changing and readjustments when out on the road.

• Inseam: 3 inches
• Materials: AFO: 88% recycled polyester, 12% Elastane / Liner: 94% polyester, 6% Spandex

Made from Janji’s ultra-light AFO stretch woven fabric and featuring a moisture-wicking brief liner, these shorts are super breathable thanks to a deep split up the side for venting and boosted mobility. A zippered pocket in the back can hold keys or a phone — but you really have to cram it in. Our tester noted that larger smartphones may be best kept in a running belt or arm sleeve, as the storage compartment is just too shallow to properly fit a typical device. Plus, given the limited coverage across, we recommend saving these bottoms for warmer excursions — or at least pairing them with a set of tights more suitable for winter running.

• Inseam: 3 inches
• Materials: Body: 85% polyester, 15% Elastane / Liner: 91% polyester, 9% Spandex with Polygiene

Split shorts are that timeless silhouette you probably associate with your high school’s track team. Well, that look has plenty of benefits after graduation, too, and we really enjoy pacing through our routes with the Twilight Split Short from Tracksmith. The deep hip slits allow for excellent breathability and range of motion, which pairs nicely to the smooth, cozy fabric that sits ever so gently across your skin. Just don’t expect to carry a lot of gear within these shorts — the interior drop-in pockets aren’t suitable for larger essentials. It may be best to save these bottoms for race day, where carrying your phone and keys is more of an afterthought.

• Inseam: 3 inches
• Materials: Shell: Hybrid Lite, 88/12 micro polyester/Spandex / Liner: 100% polyester

Looking to stand out from the crowd when it comes to your typical running get-up? Consider these vibrant, fun shorts from Boa. There’s no shortage of unique designs, with everything from fruits and animals to jort-like prints across the collection. From a performance perspective, we really enjoy the range of motion and flexibility of the lightweight stretch fabric. The half side split also adds to the mobility of these training shorts, allowing you to pick up or slow down the pace with ease. More reserved styles may want to forgo these shorts, however, as there aren’t as many basic colorways across the collection.

• Inseam: 5 inches (Multiple Inseam Lengths Available)
  
• Materials: Body: 89% polyester, 11% Spandex / Liner: 88% polyester, 10% Spandex, 2% polyester mesh

For sun-filled days, you want a short that’s light and breathable with enough comfort to keep you pacing toward your goal. The Sherpa lineup from Brooks has been a go-to staple for us in these situations, most notably due to the cozy brief liner and flat waistband that eliminates any chafing or irritation when out on a route. We also enjoy the pocket system that allows for a variety of storage options, but our tester found that it may be best to forgo carrying a phone in training. When stored in the zippered pocket, they felt the shorts would slide down their frame mid-stride, creating the need to readjust from time to time.

• Inseam: 7 inches
• Materials: 100% recycled polyester

The High Stride Short is made from 100 percent recycled polyester for a functional profile that’s as versatile as it is stylish. A compression shorts liner adds support, while a convenient back pocket can house your smartphone or wallet. We like these bottoms for everything from light-intensity runs, to taking in a Zoom meeting (or three). Just be sure to pay close attention to the size chart. Some reviewers say sizing can run small, so consider ordering a larger cut if you want a roomier fit.

• Inseam: 7.5 inches
• Materials: All Over Stretch Weave: 88% nylon, 12% Spandex

As an everyday running short, it doesn’t get any better than the All Overs. The cut is flattering and a bit structured — some split and otherwise lightweight shorts can be a bit blousey — while still being lightweight and unrestrictive. There isn’t a liner to speak of, so comfort might be an issue on longer runs, but they’re otherwise flawless with four-way stretch and water-repellant, moisture-wicking All Over Stretch Weave Fabric. Plus, the wide assortment of available colors can be great for finding the ideal aesthetic to match your personality.

• Inseam: 8.7 inches
• Materials: Body: 100% polyester / Lining: 71% Polyamide, 29% Elastane

Boasting exceptional support in a 2-in-1 design, the Hybrid shorts from On Running allow you pick and choose your ensemble thanks to a modular design that’s pairable with other On bottoms. The ultralight exterior shell practically disappears on the body when out on the road, yet doesn’t flap around during intense strides. While the liner can be somewhat tight — pay close attention to the sizing and, maybe, size up if needed — these are more than ready to provide the support you need for high-octane performance.

• Inseam: N/A
• Materials: 89% polyester, 11% Spandex

Okay, so these bottoms may stretch the definition of “running shorts,” but we were so impressed with these half tights, we deemed them worthy of inclusion. The level of compression across this silhouette is the perfect blend of support and comfort, and the Flyvent waistband sat nicely across our hips for increased ventilation. Plus, the AeroSwift Half-Length Tights also come with a built-in liner for even more support where needed most. While we wouldn’t suggest wearing these outside of training scenarios — unless you’re confident enough to pull off the tight compression look — these can be an excellent option for those locked-in workouts where performance and speed are at the forefront of your psyche.

• Inseam: 5 inches (Other Inseam Lengths Available)
• Materials: 91% polyester, 9% Spandex

Seriously, good luck wearing out these workhorse shorts. Available in practically any color imaginable, the Luka Short features four-way stretch and antimicrobial tech to keep you mobile and stink-free. Laser-cut vents add a touch of breathability, and you can opt for lined or linerless profiles, depending on your desired support. Best of all, these durable running shorts can withstand even the hungriest of dryers, according to one reviewer, meaning you can log tons of miles before these runners give out. If you do opt for the lined version, though, don’t expect a snug compression-like fit like you’d find in other shorts in this roundup.

• Inseam: 5 inches
• Materials: Body: 100% polyester / Lining: 85% Nylon, 15% Elastane

No mile is worth it if you’re not comfortable in every stride. Featuring Saxx’s BallPark pouch for premium support and security, we thoroughly enjoyed every step when donning these impressive running shorts. The semi-compression fit is taut enough while still delivering comfort, and the exterior breathes well for all-around coziness. Don’t expect to tote all your belongings in these shorts, though. There aren’t any pockets, which makes carrying your phone, keys and other essentials a bit of a hassle.

• Inseam: 5 inches (Multiple Inseam Lengths Available)
• Materials: 86% polyester, 14% Spandex

If you want just one style of short to get you through your running sessions as well as your days in the weight room, the Interval Short from Ten Thousand delivers exceptional versatility. Multiple inseam lengths are available — along with lined and linerless options — but we prefer the shorter 5-inch model for running disciplines. With multiple pockets for easy storage and a cling-free, ultra-wicking shell, these running shorts are just waiting at the gate to help you find that top speed. But like other shorts in this list, you may want to forgo carrying your phone. The zippered pocket doesn’t accommodate larger devices, and the looser compartment can allow for your essentials to jostle against your thigh mid-stride.

• Inseam: 5 inches
• Materials: Body: 71% Polyamide micro, 29% Elastane / Liner: 85% polyamide micro, 15% Elastane

Trail running can expose you to a lot more muck than, say, road running, so you need apparel that’s ready for the twists and turns ahead. These outdoor-ready shorts from Tracksmith became a quick favorite of ours thanks to their quick-drying, UV-protective shell. We paced along with these bottoms on both clear and brisk days, and were surprised to find the shell did well in terms of both breathability and wind resistance — on particularly windy mornings, we didn’t feel much wind reach through the lightweight fabric. You also have a sewn-in elastic belt across the waistband which is great for tucking in a shirt or running jacket when conditions turn for the worse, but on more tepid jaunts, it may be a little overengineered.

• Inseam: 7.5 inches
• Materials: 46% recycled polyester, 44% polyester, 10% Elastane

If you're looking for a short that does everything, and with style, this pair checks all the boxes. The Kore Short features anti-odor, moisture-wicking, quick drying, four-way stretch fabric made from recycled content. A plethora of colorways guarantee you'll find a style that works for you. And the relaxed fit with a boxer brief liner maintains flexibility and comfort as you stack your miles. It’s clear, however, that these bottoms are made for less intense training judging from the pocket construction. The compartments are very baggy, which gives plenty of opportunity for your keys and phone to exit their intended storage when pacing toward your finish line.