10 Best Running Shorts Reviewed & Tested
By Ryan Sabin
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Searching for Running shorts? Take a look at the best shorts of 2017, Pros & Cons and what to be aware of before buying them online or in a store.
You can run in a lot of different kinds of shorts, and some people give little thought to their shorts. Look no further than your local track or gym for evidence of this. But a good pair of running shorts can be an invaluable addition to any runner’s kit. If you’re at all serious about running (or being comfortable for that matter!) getting yourself outfitted for a decent pair is important.
No one is stopping you from running in baggy cargo ones, but then again perhaps they should. A nice sleek pair of running shorts can make an enormous impact on your experience. The difference is palpable.
Top 3 Picks
10 Best Running Shorts
1. The North Face Better Than Naked
These North Face Better Than Naked's are made of 100% polyester with a woven diamond ripstop. The panel is 100% polyester jacquard with FlashDry, and the Liner is 84% recycled polyester, 16% elastane-knit jersey with FlashDry™.
Breathability:
Its FlashDry technology allows you to breathe easily while keeping sweat away.
Fit:
These are the 7 inch shorts. They are not too long, or too short. They are fairly average in length.
Comfort/Quality:
Not only are they highly comfortable, but most users comment on the high durability of them as well. They come with lots of room for storage space to keep energy gels, some cash, car keys etc.
Extremely fast drying
Mesh patches for mobility and venting
Rear storage pocket
Stitch free on pressure points, increased lifespan
Lightweight 7-inch inseam
Inner drawcord
Reflective logo
Opening at back waistband
Built-in compressive liner short with pockets
Length is a preference
May be seen as pricey
2. Asics Everyday 5-inch
The Asics Everyday 5-inch running shorts are made with 91% polyester, and 9% spandex.
Breathability:
Rest assured you'll breathe easily while you run since they are highly breathable and offer odor protection.
Fit:
Although size and length of running shorts can be preferential, most runners like this 5-inch running short.
Comfort/Quality:
It's extremely comfortable made with quality materials that should last you a long time. It is lightweight, and made with 4-way stretch woven dobby fabric which also provides anti-static and a wicking finish. It has a relaxed fit that does well in hot temperatures due to its thin fabric materials.
Highly Breathable with anti-odor
Very Lightweight
Scalloped split allows more airflow
Zippered seam pocket
Elastic waistband with drawcord
Extremely comfortable
Comfortable fit
Reflective components
They can be seen as pricey
Length of shorts is a preference
3. Asics Split 3-inch
These Asics Split 3-inch are made from 89% polyester and 11% spandex for a stretchy, flexible run.
Breathability:
They breathe really easily due to the mesh inserts down the sides. It also has quick-dry which helps keep sweat away.
Fit:
They run on the small side of running shorts and the length is only 3 inches. They are the perfect for runners who can't seem to get enough airflow.
Comfort/Quality:
Most runners find these quite comfortable, and soft and liked the materials they were made with. The only downfall seems to be that the pocket may be a bit on the small size.
Very Lightweight
Quick drying
Back right hip pocket
Highly Breathable
Reflective components
Stretchy for comfort
Flatlock stitch construction enhances comfort
Pocket is shallow
Sizes may run small
4. Pearl Izumi Infinity Split
The outer of these Pearl Izumi Infinity Split's are made with 100% polyester, while the mesh is 92% polyester 8% elastane, and the lining is 50% polyester 50% Minerale polyester technology.
Breathability:
Don't sweat it! These will help keep the sweat away while you run, and their split side will allow ventilation to easily pass through.
Fit:
You'll get a relaxed style fit that measures 4” inseam.
Comfort/Quality:
The Pearl Izumi Infinity Split provides a highly comfortable run and is made with quality materials that are quite durable and last a long time.
Side split provides enhanced movement
Internal key pocket & a zippered compartment in the back
Lightweight & Highly breathable
Transfer Dry fabric keeps sweat away
Inner compression provides stability
Absorbs odor and dries quickly
Affordable
Sizes may vary (too small or too large)
Some may not like how it sits lower on the waist
5. Patagonia Strider
Patagonia Strider's are made from 100% polyester, and 50% of it is from recycled materials.
Breathability:
Its polyester mesh material allows for them to breathe easily while you run. It has 100% microdenier polyester crepe that keeps sweat away as well.
Fit:
Some prefer a short that is a bit smaller than this Patagonia strider, but overall most customers don't feel it is too short or too long.
Comfort/Quality:
It's highly comfortable and made with quality and even some recycled materials. Most runners appreciate that it doesn't cause chaffing.
Fast Drying
Highly Breathable
Reflective logo
Durable water repellent treatment
Drop-in pocket on back hip
Chafe-free comfort
Elastic waist with drawcord
Drawcord is on the short side
Some prefer the 5 inch over the 7inch
Can be seen as expensive
6. Nike Aeroswift
The fabric of the body is made with Dri-FIT 100% polyester. The front lining is made with Dri-FIT 84% recycled polyester and 16% spandex. Finally, the mesh lining consists of Dri-FIT 89% polyester and 11% spandex.
Breathability:
The Nike Aeroswift 5" running shorts are highly breathable. They have a fast-drying fabric that won't stick to you from sweat and a mesh waistband for added breathability in hotter weather.
Fit:
It does appear that the sizes run small and a bit on the tighter size so make sure you look at the measurements to ensure getting an accurate size.
Comfort/Quality:
These are an extremely comfortable pair of running shorts that are made with quality materials. The Dri-Fit material will keep them from sticking to you, thus preventing chafing and other uncomfortableness.
Flat, bonded hem allows for great comfort
Very lightweight
Waistband with internal drawcord design
Made with two layers of laser perforated elastic to increase airflow
Nike Flex fabric allows for stretchy flexibility
Dri-FIT Technology keeps sweat away
Reflective components allows others to see you easily
Sizes run small and tight
May be seen as expensive
7. Brooks Running Racey
The fabric is made with 84% polyester and 16% Spandex, while the liner is made of 90% polyester and 10% Spandex.
Breathability:
The Brooks running Racey is a highly breathable running short. It keeps sweat away while you run. Its lightweight and stretchy material offer you good ventilation while you run.
Fit:
Perfect for running on a hot summer day. These 3.5 inches and fit quite comfortably.
Comfort/Quality:
They are extremely comfortable, lightweight running shorts that allow great movement while you run.
Very Lightweight & stretchy
2 pockets for storage
Keeps sweat away
Front petal hem splits for easy movement
Highly Breathable
May be seen as expensive
8. North Face Voracious
The main fabric consists of 85% polyester and 15% elastane, while the panels are 100% polyester.
Breathability:
North Face Voracious is a highly breathable running short. It has mesh inserts on inner and outer legs that provide great breathability.
Fit:
It seems to fit just like it should with no complaints of size issues running too big or too small.
Comfort/Quality:
Voracious will provide you with great comfort and quality materials with this running short. You'll be able to move easily while you run.
Mesh inserts on inner and outer legs provide great breathability
Back zip pocket for storage
Reflective components allow others to see you easily
Inner boxer briefs adds support
Compression lessens the impact of vibration while you run
May be seen as expensive
9. Skins A400
These are made of 76% Nylon and 24% Spandex.
Breathability:
They don't offer a lot of breathability as they are designed to compress against the skin and help prevent injury. They do offer moisture wick management to help keep sweat away though.
Fit:
They are inconclusive reports about sizing (too small or too large). Just make sure you check the measurements before you purchase.
Comfort/Quality:
With only the mention of the waistband rolling downward, which could be due to purchasing the wrong size, they are quite comfortable. There were a few reports of the durability of them not seeming to last as long as other running shorts.
Design is slimming
400 key fitting points allow for maximum compression
Improves oxygen delivery to muscles
Lightweight, quick drying
Provides 50+ UV protection
Memory MX Fabric has a superior high-stretch yarn
Good in hot and cold temperatures
Flat A-seams reduce chafing
Keeps sweat away with moisture wick
Reflective logos
Waistband tends to sag downward
Fabric is not as durable as some would like
Sizing may vary
10. Saucony Run Lux III
The Saucony Run Lux III is made from 100% Polyester materials.
Breathability:
It offers a high amount of breathability with its mesh ventilation panels.
Fit:
Some users have stated that the sizing runs small so you'll just want to make sure you look at the measurements before making your purchase.
Comfort/Quality:
There were no complaints of comfort in using these running shorts. Most found them quite durable as well.
Stylish and functional
Made from Recycled polyester
Reflective trim
Mesh ventilation panels
Back zippered storage pocket
Brief liner adds support
Not too many color choices
Sizes may run small
Could use additional storage
There are some pretty obvious anatomical differences between men and women, and because of this we recommend buying gender specific shorts whenever possible. Unisex can of course be an option, but in many cases this will end up with a passable fit that is okay but doesn’t make anyone particularly happy.
The Criteria We Used For Our Evaluation Of the Best Running Shorts
Comfort
There’s nothing worse than trying to achieve your goals and running in an uncomfortable pair of shorts. We’ve gone through this top 10 list to discover just how comfortable they are.
Breathability
Hoping that our top 10 well keep you well ventilated while you run, and keep the sweat away so you don’t have to worry about those concerns.
Fit
Do you like them to be short, long, medium? It’s definitely a personal preference. We’ve gone through and found out the size of each of these shorts for you.
Quality
Let’s make sure that are made with quality materials. Are they soft, will they cause chafing? Are they made to last a long time?
Support
Men typically need additional support while they run. We will let you know which ones provide a good amount of support so that you can choose wisely.
Other Important Factors To Consider When Selecting The Best Running Shorts
Style Preference
Are you looking for a certain style? Do you like shorts that are more snug or do you prefer a looser fit? It all depends on your style preference. The 3 main styles are Compression, Split and V-Notch. They come in different sizes for your preference as well.
Compression
These fit tight and snug. They are warmer and can provide a good amount of muscle support. Of all the styles these are the best to resist chafing. The stretchy material allows you to move more easily.
Compression shorts vary in length depending on whether it’s for men or women. Women’s shorts are usually shorter than men’s, whereas men’s shorts fall somewhere between mid-thigh to knee length. The tightness is a personal preference that some runners prefer, especially when trying to nurse an injury.
Split
These are quite similar to the V-Notch shorts in that they do have an upside down cutout in a shape of a V, but where it is placed is different. The Split shorts are loose fitting, and the cutout is at the bottom. This style is seen more for performance and tends to offer the best range of movement, and flexibility while you run to achieve your goals.
V-Notch
The V-Notch short is the most popular choice. They were clever with the name as it’s due to the upside down v-shaped cutout on the outer leg seams. The advantages of the v-shaped cutout are that it allows the runner to have a greater flexibility and movement than if the seams had been stitched together. They are loose fitted, with women’s styles running a bit shorter in length, but men’s styles also running a bit on the shorter side to allow for better movement while you run.
Gender differences
There are some unisex shorts, but most runners prefer gender specific ones. They aren’t determined by gender due to color, but more by the cut.
Men’s Running Shorts
These are obviously made and designed specifically for men. Typically, you’ll find a longer inseam and it has a built-in liner that supports groin area. This is to help prevent uncomfortable runs that could cause chafing.
Women’s Running Shorts
If you are looking for women’s running shorts they are tailored to fit a woman’s body. In fact, typically the cut will fit the female’s waist, hips and thighs better than a males. This will provide a more comfortable run.
Unisex Shorts
What about shorts that are cut and designed for both men and women? They are not tailored to fit specific support or fit of each individual body, therefore it’s said they won’t provide the same type of comfort and protection as specified gender shorts.
Liner
Runners, toss your underwear to the side because you don’t need it. Built-in liners assist in keeping sweat away and in return will keep you well ventilated, comfortable and reduce chafing. Of course, for men liners are made so to eliminate the use of a jockstrap.
Pockets
Some runners prefer more pockets for storage than other runners. There are many different types of running shorts that offer pockets. Some have a pockets sewn into the front waistband, while others have back pockets or open waistband pockets. It just all depends on how much or little storage you are looking for.
FAQ
Photo Credit: Flickr – istolethetv
Q. Do you wear underwear with the shorts?
A. There’s typically not a need to wear underwear with running shorts since they usually provide a liner. So, No you are not meant to wear underwear when you run.
Q. How do I choose which length is best for me?
A. They range in length from as short as 1″ and going to 7 inches. It really just comes down to what you prefer in length while you run.
Q. How are a pair of split leg shorts different from a pair of v-notch shorts?
A. They are quite similar. The only difference is the that the v-notch seam stops a 1/2 inch from the bottom and features a upside down v shape, where as the split leg is not sewn together at all, the entire length of the leg. Instead, a split leg has an overlapping front panel.
Q. What type of fabric are they typically made of?
A. Most are made from synthetic or natural fibers. This includes synthetic fibers such as: polyester, spandex blend or a nylon blend, and a natural fiber such as cotton.
Q. Is it necessary to have running shorts that provide visibility?
A. It’s definitely a great idea to have a pair that will work great in low lit areas and provide some reflectivity, or if you like to run late at night. This way others will see you more easily, but again it’s a preference.
Here are some sources we used while conducting our Research:
Sources
- , How to Choose a Pair of Running Shorts, Marathon training articles,
- , How to Buy Running Shorts, Outdoor website,
- , Photo Credit,
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