10 Best Running Shorts Reviewed & Tested
Ryan Sabin
Samantha Wolfgang
Shoes might be the main focus for runners, but shorts can have a major impact on efficiency and enjoyment. The perfect pair should feel like a second skin so you don’t have to worry about heat, moisture, or chaffing as you push yourself harder and faster.
We hope that our top 10 will keep you well ventilated while you run, and keep the sweat away so you don’t have to worry about those concerns.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 244 hrs of research
Quick-drying and breathable
Inside key pocket
2.25" inseam
100% nylon
Mesh brief liner
Total weight of only 2.5 ounces
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MJ Soffe Running Shorts -
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Asics Woven 7 -
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Asics Split 3-inch -
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Pearl Izumi Infinity -
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Under Armour Fly-By -
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Under Armour Launch -
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Brooks Chaser -
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Under Armour HeatGear Authentic Long -
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Skins A400 -
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Saucony Throttle
- Criteria Used for Evaluation
- Other Factors to Consider
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Sources
Best Running Shorts
1. MJ Soffe Running Shorts
Quick-drying and breathable
Inside key pocket
2.25" inseam
100% nylon
Mesh brief liner
Total weight of only 2.5 ounces
Length is a personal preference
MJ Soffe's Ranger V-notch for men is highly received and rated. They sport a 100% nylon brief liner with an inside key pocket and a 2.25-inch inseam. These will give you lots of room to move.
Read moreMaterials
These Soffe Rangers are made of 100% nylon with a weight of merely 2.5 ounces. The fabric is lightweight and will let you move as much as needed while running. Color options include 20 choices in both bold and subtle colors. Considering these are 100% nylon and loose-fitting, the breathability will keep you cool and dry from beginning to end.
Style
The fit is rated "as expected" so you should be able to find the right size by ordering your usual. The legs are only 2.5 inches and fit loose so you won't feel compressed. The V-notch at each leg seam allows maximum flexibility.
Cost and Value
These seem to be the go-to option for many athletes. They are built to last and most individuals end up buying multiple pairs for endless days of good clean workouts.
2. Asics Woven 7
Highly Breathable with anti-odor
Lightweight
Zippered back pocket
Elastic waistband with drawcord
Extremely comfortable
Reflective components
Some issues with durability
For the gentleman who prefers a longer inseam, the Asics woven 7-inch may be the perfect option for you. These will keep you cool and dry with the porous material. Other features include: zippered back pocket, reflective details, elastic waistband, and anti-odor brief liner.
Read moreMaterials
These are made from 100% polyester. The breathability is in the name! Woven fabric is lightweight and quick-drying, so you'll stay cool, dry, and comfortable no matter how long you workout.
Style
A few reviews claimed they ran a little small, so you may want to order up a size if planning on buying online. As for the 7-inch inseam, men seem to like the coverage.
Cost and Value
Reviews rave of the comfort of the shorts. They stretch and move with you as you run. The fabric is very lightweight and some reviews commented on the shorts feeling nearly disposable. The price is very affordable.
3. Asics Split 3-inch
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
Ready to hit it in the hot summers? Try the Asics split 3-inch in men's and women's styles. These are stretchy, flexible, and allow you to move easily while you are in motion.
Read moreMaterials
These Asics Split 3-inch are made from 89% polyester and 11% spandex for a stretchy, flexible feel.
Breathability
They breathe easily due to the mesh inserts down the sides. They also have quick-dry which helps keep sweat away. They size on the small side of with the length only measuring 3 inches. These are the perfect option for individuals who can't seem to get enough airflow.
Cost and Value
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. They can be pricey for what you get, but Asics is a very reputable brand.
4. Pearl Izumi Infinity
A side split provides enhanced movement
Internal key pocket & 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
The Pearl Izumi Infinity is low rise and very well ventilated, allowing you to move more freely with its side split, and has an inner compression that provides stability. These are available in two designs for men and women.
Read moreMaterials
The outer of these Pearl Izumi Infinity Split's are made with 100% polyester, while the mesh is 92% polyester and 8% elastane. The lining is 50% polyester and 50% Minerale polyester technology.
Breathability
Don't sweat it! These will help keep the sweat away while you run while their split side will allow air to easily pass through. You'll get a relaxed style fit that measures 4” inseam.
Cost and Value
The Pearl Izumi Infinity Split provides a highly comfortable product and is made with quality materials that are quite durable and last a long time. They can be priced on the higher end, but they are an investment that will last.
5. Under Armour Fly-By
Highly Breathable
Reflective logo
Multiple pockets
Anti-odor technology
Built-in liner
3-inch seam
The material may melt in the dryer - consider using low heat
Some durability issues - be gentle on fabric
These Under Armour Fly-By's have it all: strategic mesh, second-skin feel, multiple pockets, and reflective details.
Read moreMaterials
UA's Fly-By's are made of 100% polyester material that wicks away moisture. Side panels are made of breathable mesh that moves excess heat away from the body. The materials are equipped with anti-odor technology that prevents the growth of odor-causing microbes.
Breathability
The polyester material allows air and heat to move away from the skin. The mesh side panels increase air movement. These details keep runners cool and dry and odor-free. They have a next-to-skin feel without compressing the legs too much. The lightweight woven fabric moves easily with each step. The waistband is wide and enveloped in fabric to stay in place without constricting. The shaped hem gives better coverage without being bulky or puffy. They contain a built-in brief as well. The inseam measures 3 inches for women who like a shorter running short for more freedom of movement.
Cost and Value
With the right combination of materials and shaping, the will fit comfortably. Reviews state the Fly-By shorts are awesome for avid runners and an added benefit is how affordable they are. A couple people warned of using low heat when drying, as high heat may melt the fabric.
6. Under Armour Launch
Designed for comfort
Very lightweight
Compact and out of the way pocket for convenience
Form-fitting to the wearer
Sizing is small and tight
Fitted wear may be uncomfortable
The UnderArmor Launch is perfect for movement, no matter what the distance. These are so lightweight and heat-efficient that you will barely notice them.
Read moreMaterials
The Under Armour Launch is made from 100% polyester. They are designed with lightweight materials to prevent heat from building up during runs. The Launch also contains a mesh line to allow for more air flow.
Style
The UA Launch has been said to run a bit small. If ordering online it may be wise to size up. Otherwise, the form-fitting design is definitely what is best for runners - less material to weigh you down and hold you back.
Cost and Value
These are very comfortable. The form fit means runners can go farther and harder without suffering from problems, like chaffing. Many exercisers recommend investing in a pair of these over cheaper options that wear out more easily. Under Armour Launch will be just as comfortable every time you put them on.
7. Brooks Chaser
Lightweight & stretchy
2 pockets for storage
Keeps sweat away
Highly Breathable
Treated pocket to wick away moisture from phone/keys
7-inch inseam
Slimming waistband
Waistband can be snug for some people
Race to the finish in these Brooks Women's Chaser 7-inch. These are highly breathable with the perfect amount of Spandex stretch!
Read moreMaterials
The fabric is made with 84% polyester and 16% Spandex. One out of the two pockets has a sweat-resistant treatment for your phone, keys, or card. The Brooks Chaser is made of breathable polyester plus a little spandex for comfort.
Style
Perfect for a hot summer day, this 7-inch inseam fit is quite comfortable and provides coverage.
Cost and Value
They are extremely comfortable, lightweight running shorts that allow great movement while you run. They are, however, a bit on the pricier side.
8. Under Armour HeatGear Authentic Long
Compression
7-inch inseam
4-way stretch
Seamless front
Ultra-tight, second-skin fit
Materials will wick moisture and prevent odor
Wide waistband
Polyester/elastane blend
The inner seams in the back of the shorts can be awkward
The Under Armour HeatGear Authentic has a 7-inch inseam and uses compression. It features a wide waistband with hidden pocket, anti-odor treatment, and a seamless front for superior comfort.
Read moreMaterials
The fabric consists of 87% polyester and 13% elastane. The HeatGear shorts are structured with four-way stretch to move with you on every step. The material blend wicks sweat and dries fast. The treated fabric also prevents odor and odor-causing microbes. UA polyester/elastane fabric moves air and heat away from the skin, dries quick, and prevents odor.
Style
These use compression, so they are ultra-tight with a second-skin fit. The compression increases muscle power and decreases any possible recovery time. The 7-inch inseam gives lots of coverage. The wide waistband stays in place without constricting.
Cost and Value
The HeatGear compression model has a four-way stretch that moves comfortably wide waistband to hold them in place without feeling like you're being squeezed. They have a high-quality feel and durability and they are designed to prevent chafing and fit comfortably.
9. Skins A400
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
The fabric is not as durable as some would like
Sizing may vary
If you struggle with sore muscles post-exercise or race, giving a high-quality pair of compression gear a try may be the answer. The Skins A400 will help your body increase blood flow to muscles, aiding performance and minimizing repercussions after.
Read moreMaterials
These are made of 76% Nylon and 24% Spandex. They don't offer a lot of breathabilities as they are designed to compress against the skin and help prevent injury. They do offer moisture-wick management to help keep sweat away.
Style
There are inconclusive reports about sizing (too small or too large). Just make sure you check the measurements before you purchase.
Cost and Value
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 options. They are priced on the higher end of the spectrum.
10. Saucony Throttle
Mesh ventilation both inside and out maximizes air flow
Mesh liner also supportive and reduces moisture
Extremely comfortable
Long-standing durability
Compression lining may be less than optimal
Some had issues with the dye in the yellow shorts running
Saucony is a brand that has been providing for athletes since the earliest days of the industry. Their Throttle model is another example of that longstanding quality. Throttle is stylish athletic wear that provides comfort and support for any situation.
Read moreMaterials
The Saucony Throttle is made of 100% polyester. Both the internal compression lining and specialized panels on the outside of the shorts are constructed with VENTLITE mesh for optimal air-flow while running.
Style
Using a tight 5.5 inch inseam and a slim design, the Saucony Throttle were crafted to fit almost seamlessly to the needs of a runner.
Cost and Value
The mesh lining of the Saucony Throttle keeps you cool, dry and improves overall support. Some have had issues with the mesh, claiming that it is too loose to really qualify as “compression lining”, but still say that the benefits outweigh this drawback. The Saucony Throttle have noteworthy endurance, not wearing out even after repeated use and washing, making these shorts well worth the higher than average cost.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Materials The materials make the shorts--in a literal way!
Different materials will have different perks and flaws. You want to make sure that the materials your choice is made from fit your needs and have functions that you'll find useful. Most of the options we've included on this list are made of materials that will benefit athletes, with features like excellent moisture-wicking and breathability.
Breathability The materials that a pair of shorts are made of can help with breathability, but the design can also increase the ventilation that they'll have.
Another important factor we looked at when picking the right pair, is breathability. Those that wick moisture is definitely preferable as sweat-soaked shorts are not only uncomfortable but can also lead to unpleasant chafing. Side slits, mesh construction, and moisture-wicking liners are just some of the features that can also help with this.
Style Are you looking for a certain style? Do you like shorts that are snugger 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 the 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 workout to achieve your goals.
V-Notch
The V-Notch 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 fitting, 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.
There are some unisex options, but some individuals may prefer gender-specific ones. Unisex options are cut and designed for a more general fit but you can anticipate a more specific fit when buying "Men's" and "Women's" sizes. Men's sizes will typically feature longer inseams and a wider cut through the legs where women's sizes are more likely to have a more narrow fit with tapered legs. If you feel one size will fit you better than another, don't be afraid to shop across the whole range of sizing.
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 as to eliminate the use of a jockstrap.
Some runners prefer more pockets for storage. There are many different types of gear that offer pockets. Some have a pocket 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.
Comfort Comfort is key when it comes to running and having the right pair of shorts will make your run a lot more pleasant.
In our top ten, we prioritized comfortability as we here at RunnerClick are aware of how a pair of uncomfortable pair of shorts can ruin a good run. The length is a personal preference. Do you like them to be short, long, medium? We’ve gone through and found out the size of each for you, and now it’s just up to you, to pick the perfect pair!
Other Factors to Consider
Value There is no underestimating value. There is a wide range of options on the market that come in a variety of forms, designs, and styles. They also come in a wide range of prices. Sometimes, investing more in a pair is a good idea if you are an active athlete that will wear them hard. Often, these options will provide durability and versatility with fabrics that will be less irritating to your skin and body. That being said, you do not always have to spend more to get a quality pair. But if you have a very strict budget to adhere to, buying a lesser brand or quality in order to keep costs down may provide initial benefit upfront, but in the long term, you will most likely find yourself investing in multiple pairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
There’s typically not a need to wear underwear with running since they usually provide a liner. So, No you are not meant to wear underwear when you run.
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. Some people like the breathability and flexibility a shorter inseam gives them, while others prefer more coverage and warmth from a longer length.
They are quite similar. The only difference is the that the v-notch seam stops a 1/2 inch from the bottom and features an upside down v shape, whereas the split leg is not sewn together at all, the entire length of the leg. Instead, a split leg has an overlapping front panel.
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.
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 workout late at night. This way others will see you more easily, but again it’s a preference.
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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