Chafing, wedgies, material bunching—we’ve all experienced at least one of these annoyances while running in a pair of ill-fitting shorts. Although these aggravations might seem minor, they’re not what you want to be focused on when you’re setting out for a training run or toeing the start line.
Chafing can put an end to your run and result in longer-term skin irritation, while wedgies and bunched-up material is just an old-fashioned hassle. The good news: We selected a slew of promising shorts, tested the heck out of them, and picked out the most worthy of the bunch.
These shorts stay in place during your tempo runs and long outings, have no-pinch waistbands, and depending on the style, they’re either light and airy or provide just the right amount of compression.
Keep reading for our tips on finding a pair that you’ll especially love from our 10 runner-approved recommendations.
Best Running Shorts
The Expert: If we don’t count my brief middle school JV cross-country career, I started really running in college. I was an avid road runner with some track workouts sprinkled in, then switched the trail running when I moved west.
Since then, running has been a constant in my backcountry life, from alpine trails to the desert and everything in between. I am also a professional gear tester and writer. For the past decade, I have tested outdoor gear and apparel in four-season conditions around the country and written about my testing in a wide variety of publications.
Features to Consider
You’ll find shorts on our list in all lengths, fits, and flavors—but the best style is truly the one that feels best on you.
Inseams: Longer inseams (generally, 7 to 9 inches for men and 4 to 8 inches for women) provide more coverage, which can be beneficial if you’re hitting the trails, want sun protection, or just prefer a modest cut. Shorter inseams (around 3 inches and sometimes even shorter for women) and spandex are great for speed workouts, race day, and runs when you want to feel fast and flash a little thigh.
Interior Liners: Keep in mind that many running shorts include underwear. Built-in briefs or compression liners can help simplify your workout wardrobe, while making your runs much more comfortable (and chafe-free). In addition, some shorts include extra support features, like Saxx’s BallPark Pouch featured in its Hightail running shorts, which keeps sensitive body parts from jostling around and rubbing against your thighs as you run.
Pockets: Zipper pockets and hidden pouches make it much easier to carry the essentials—especially if you’re heading out for a long run. Most pockets are large enough to stash your house key and some cash, but pay attention to size if you want more space for a phone, wallet, and fuel (or if you’re the type who pockets those random found-on-the-run treasures).
Find The Right Material
We won’t stop you from running in your favorite all-cotton bottoms, but be wary that the fabric gets heavy when wet, dries slow, and can cause chafing. Plus, 100-percent cotton shorts will most likely do some serious shrinking in your dryer. Some better options are technical fabrics that blend various materials—like polyester, elastane, spandex, and nylon.
If you want shorts that really wick sweat fast, choose a mix with a higher percentage of nylon. Or if extra stretchiness is a must-have, seek out more spandex. Synthetic fabrics with open weaves or larger fibers will also breathe better on humid runs, and some even have antimicrobial properties for combatting bacteria and odor.
Still, if you’re a die-hard for the comfort of cotton, try a 50-50 blend that pairs it with a second, more sweat-friendly material, like polyester. You’ll still get some of that cottony softness but with added durability and even UV ray protection.
How We Selected
To make the selections for this article update, I drew on my own experience running and and gear testing. I also drew on previous versions of this article written by former RW staffer Michael Charboneau and contributor Emily Shiffer, which considered input from the RW wear testers and gear team.
Our wear testers are a diverse group of runners with all levels of ability and who wear all different sizes. They take to the road, trails, and treadmills before circling back with their evaluations. The gear team tests running shorts throughout the year (yes, even on cold winter days) and takes field notes on comfort, fit, and features.
At a minimum, a pair of shorts must allow for good range of motion, wick away sweat, and not cause wedgies to earn our recommendation. Ideally, they should also accommodate storage needs, look good, and make us feel our best.
These are the best running shorts right now for men and women.
Pros
- Moisture-wicking and odor-resistant
- Soft, comfortable, and stretchy
Cons
- Some runners might want more storage
Key Specs
| Inseam | 5 in. (M), 2.5 in. (W) |
|---|---|
| Size Range | XL–2XL (M), XS–XL (W) |
| Pockets | 1 |
| Built-in Liner | Yes |
The Session has kept its place on this list through several rounds of testing. It’s beloved for its buttery soft, lightweight stretch knit fabric (a nylon-elastane blend) that is as cozy as cotton. Yet it still packs a performance punch; the sweat-wicking, odor-resisting material allows you to wear them a couple of times before having to throw them in the wash.
An internal drawstring provides adjustability, and a back pocket (outfitted with a zipper on the men’s) offers modest storage. The fit and fabric is comfortable and “clings in all the right places,” according to one tester. After runners asked for more options, Tracksmith debuted a 7-inch version for men and the Session Speed, a more minimal, race-ready option.
Pros
- Four waistband pockets for storing gels on a long run
- Lightweight and breathable
Cons
- Waistband infinity string is quite short for knotting
Key Specs
| Inseam | 5 in. (M), 3 in. (W) |
|---|---|
| Size Range | S–XL (M), XS–XL (W) |
| Pockets | 4 |
| Built-in Liner | Yes |
Available with a 4-inch inseam for men and a 3-inch for women, the AFO-Vent Multi Short has four waistband pockets, making it the ideal bottom for runners who hate running belts. The shorts are made of the brand’s Air Flat Out fabric, a nylon-based material that is lightweight, micro-perforated for breathability, and has a four-way stretch.
A high split hem gives you room to move, though some runners might want more coverage. In that case, men should choose the 7-inch Multi Short that sports a 2-in-1 design and less aggressive split hem.
Baleaf Laureate 5-Inch 2-in-1 Shorts
Pros
- Zippered back pocket
- Flatlock seams to reduce chafing
Cons
- Tall runners might prefer a longer inseam
Key Specs
| Inseam | 5 in. (M) |
|---|---|
| Size Range | S—3XL (M) |
| Pockets | 3 |
| Built-in Liner | Yes |
These affordable men’s shorts from Baleaf come in a wide range of sizes (and colors), and include several features typically found on more expensive pairs. They’re made from a polyester-spandex blend for durability and good freedom of movement, and the drawcord waistband helps you dial in a snug fit. On the back of the waistband, there’s a zippered back pocket that’s perfect for storing a phone or keys while you run. Prefer your shorts without a liner? Baleaf makes an unlined version as well.
Under Armour Fly-By 2.0
Pros
- Lots of features for the price
Cons
- Some runners might want more storage
Key Specs
| Inseam | 3 in. (W) |
|---|---|
| Size Range | XS–2XL (W) |
| Pockets | 1 |
| Built-in Liner | Yes |
The Fly-By 2.0 shorts have everything a runner needs at a price that won’t break the bank: an internal drawstring in the waistband, mesh panels on the side splits for ventilation, and a hidden pocket for key storage. They have a 3-inch inseam and come in several colors, including royal blue, aqua, red, purple, and pink.
Thicker-thighed women might want to size up as the leg openings run a little narrow. “The shorts were breezy for summer runs, though I would advise those who are a bit more curvy to notch up a size so you’re getting the full breezy effect!” said a tester.
Nike Flex Stride 7-Inch
Nike Flex Stride 7-Inch
Pros
- Wide range of sizes
Cons
- Long liner adds weight
Key Specs
| Inseam | 7 in. (M) |
|---|---|
| Size Range | XS–4XL (M) |
| Pockets | 4 |
| Built-in Liner | Yes |
Charboneau owns an earlier version of these shorts (sans liner), and they’ve been in his running rotation for years. The latest iteration comes with an updated woven fabric for extra breathability in high-sweat areas at the back of waist, and a long liner cuts down on irritation and chafing.
A split hem at the sides adds flexibility and improves airflow, too. A zippered pocket at the rear holds your phone, and a drop-in pocket in the waistband offers stable storage for small items. For slightly less coverage, opt for the 5-inch model instead.
Ten Thousand Session Short
Pros
- Comfortable boxer-brief liner
- Perforated waistband
Cons
- Pocket positions cause phone to bounce or rest awkwardly on outer hip
Key Specs
| Inseam | 5 or 7 in. (M) |
|---|---|
| Size Range | XS–2XL (M) |
| Pockets | 3 |
| Built-in Liner | Optional |
Ten Thousand’s Session is available in a 5- or 7-inch inseam and has a perforated waistband for breathability and side pockets big enough to store a phone. But the real draw of these bottoms is the boxer-brief liner. “It fits snug but doesn’t cling to your thighs or restrict any movement,” a tester said. “And it somehow manages to not overheat, which is usually the case with tight- or compression-like liners in shorts.” The generous leg openings provide a free-moving fit without encumbering your stride.
Nike Eclipse
Nike Eclipse
Pros
- Wide range of sizes
Cons
- Thin fabric isn’t very supportive
| Inseam | 3 or 5 in. (W) |
|---|---|
| Size Range | XS–2XL (W) |
| Pockets | 2 |
| Built-in Liner | Yes |
These 3-inch Nike shorts have a wider waistband that can be folded over and cinched thanks to an adjustable drawstring, something we see less and less these days. They also have plenty of storage: two hidden internal pockets on the front and back waistbands, plus a zippered pocket on the outer left hip. They’re eco-friendly, too, made up of a thin stretch-woven fabric that uses at least 75-percent recycled polyester fibers. For more coverage, choose the 5-inch Eclipse.
Patagonia Trailfarer 4.5
Pros
- Lightweight and breathable
- Four-way stretch for maximum range of motion
Cons
- Only one pocket
Key Specs
| Inseam | 4.5 in. (W) |
|---|---|
| Size Range | XS-XXL (W) |
| Pockets | 1 |
| Built-in Liner | No |
Built with a slightly longer inseam than other Patagonia running shorts, the Trailfarer 4.5-inch offers more coverage without feeling constricting. These shorts are made primarily with recycled polyester (plus 10% spandex for stretch), and have a four-way stretch that provides full range of motion without losing their shape.
They are highly wicking and have a lightweight waistband that stays put without pinching. The only thing we’d love to see is either a zippered pocket or an internal pocket, as these have just one rear snap-closure pocket for a gel or bar.
SmartWool Intraknit Active Lined Short
SmartWool Intraknit Active Lined Short
Pros
- Chafe-resistant, seamless liners
- 5-inch compression shorts don’t ride up
Cons
- Some people report these running small. Consider sizing up if you’re between sizes
Key Specs
| Inseam | 5 in. (W) |
|---|---|
| Size Range | XS-XL (W) |
| Pockets | 2 |
| Built-in Liner | Yes |
Smartwool extended its standard merino liner briefs into sleek, seamless compression shorts for extra chafe prevention. The liner shorts are built using the “Intraknit” construction, meaning they’re nearly seamless, but still body-mapped for maximum durability and breathability. This also reduces material scraps and makes the manufacturing process more sustainable.
The waistband is smooth and wide to prevent tightness and discomfort, and the over-top shorts are so light and airy they feel like nothing as you move down the trail. The liner is made with a blend of merino and tencel for next-to-skin wicking and comfort, and they don’t ride up your legs no matter how much movement you test them with.
REI Co-op Swiftland 7
Pros
- Durable, abrasion-resistant material
- Waistband doesn’t slide
Cons
- Liner might not feel tight enough for some runners
Key Specs
| Inseam | 7 in. (M) |
|---|---|
| Size Range | XS-3XL (W) |
| Pockets | 3 |
| Built-in Liner | Yes |
Made with 27-percent spandex (compared to 10 to 15-percent in many models), these running shorts have more durability and structure than others in our testing lineup. They have the wicking and four-way stretch that keeps us dry and comfortable without impeding our range of motion, and feature a nylon / spandex liner that breathes well and isn’t too tight.
The 7-inch inseam is a great middle-ground for this men’s style, offering enough coverage without feeling like too much material. Three convenient pockets round out these durable shorts, and they can handle season after season (and plenty of washes) without stretching or fading.
What Makes a Great Pair of Running Shorts, According to Michael Charboneau and Emily Shiffer
RW: What weather do you consider to be shorts weather?
M.C.: Once the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, I start to think about maybe wearing pants. But in cold weather the more important thing is to keep my core warm. In other words, I’d put on a long-sleeve baselayer and/or a jacket before I put on pants.
E.S.: Hot and humid. Living in Pennsylvania, I don’t love having to throw on pants over shorts to hit the gym (which I do out of necessity). But once summer comes, and the air is thick (yes, Pennsylvania is humid!), my philosophy is: The less fabric, the better.
RW: What’s one must-have feature or criteria you have when shopping for running shorts?
M.C.: A drawcord waistband. To me, there’s nothing worse than poorly fitting shorts that slip down as you run. Elastic waistbands can fit well, but nothing beats the locked-in fit of a drawcord. I think it’s even more essential if you plan on carrying anything in your shorts pockets. Without a drawcord, the added weight will just make your shorts slip down even faster.
E.S.: I am constantly in pursuit of the perfect running short, and I don’t think I’ve found it yet. I always have my iPhone with me because I stream Spotify when I run. If my phone doesn’t fit in the shorts, I throw on my FlipBelt. But shorts with a pocket big enough to store that (as well as an apartment key or car key), like the Nathan Front Runner, would be the one feature that would sell me on any pair.
RW: We all like a deal, but when is it worth it to invest in a pair of shorts over $50?
M.C.: One of my favorite aspects of running is that it doesn’t require much gear—so don’t overcomplicate it by buying a bunch of stuff. Start with the gym shorts that are already in your drawer, and pay attention to how they perform as you run. If they work fine for you, great. If not, take note of what you need—maybe a drawstring or more (or fewer) pockets—and use that to guide your shopping.
You might find that an under-$50 pair of shorts will get you what you need, or you might opt for a more expensive pair because it has better materials or other key features. The important thing is to be smart about what you buy: Invest in quality gear that meets your needs, and you can focus on running instead of getting distracted by uncomfortable clothing.
Maggie Slepian is a full-time freelance writer in the outdoor industry and has tested gear professionally for almost ten years—she is an avid backpacker, trail runner, bikepacker, and horseback rider and has thru-hiked thousands of miles on the Appalachian, Colorado, and Ouachita trails, along with backcountry travel on terrain including coastal trails, the desert, and high alpine peaks. Maggie has written for New York Magazine, Huffington Post, REI, and Outside. She is a columnist with Backpacker Magazine and is the co-founder of BackpackingRoutes.com. Contact her at MaggieSlepian.com.
