12 Of The Best Running Shorts For Women To Wear This Summer, Tried And Tested By Us
© Adidas/Brooks/Sweaty Betty nullWith the sun finally poking its head through the clouds, it's time to invest in a pair of the best running shorts for women if you haven't already. From long shorts and biker shorts to loose and flowy shorts, ones to buy on a budget, and the ones to splash out on, this is our tried and tested round-up of the top picks available to buy online.
As woman&home's digital health editor, I spend much of my time in running kit. I run a couple of times a week before or after work, opting for shorts in the gym and during the warmer months. So, it's fair to say that I've sweat tested a fair few pairs in my time. Plus, as someone who also does other activities like strength training, spinning, and socializing in my shorts, alongside running, I know the value of a multi-purpose short that looks as good as it performs.
While a pick of the best workout leggings will see you through any season, a good pair of comfortable shorts is an essential in any runner's wardrobe. Here, I reveal the best running shorts for women, as tried and tested by me and a running specialist. All you need to do is pair them with your best running shoes and get going.
How we tested the best running shorts for womenAs mentioned, I own a few pairs of running shorts and I've put each of them through their paces over the last few years - taking them up to my longest distance outside of a race, 30km, alongside shorter running sessions, intervals, and other workouts. I also gathered a variety of pairs from across the market after enlisting the help of Anna Ward, a true specialist and marathon runner, to offer advice on choosing the best running shorts and some recommendations of her own.
When putting the best running shorts for women through the sweatiest of tests, I considered:
Our pick of the best running shorts for women overall had to tick all the feature requirements: supportive, comfortable, good storage solutions, and well-designed. The Brooks Chaser 7" Short ticked all these boxes and more, with various colors and lengths available to buy online.
The standout features are comfort and durability on longer runs. I tested the Brooks Chaser 7" Short during a half-marathon race and they immediately went into rotation for my training runs after this. They're so comfortable with new updates to the design offering a wider waistband, which naturally stretches around you as you move, with the option to tighten with a drawstring band. At 7" on the inseam, they're also longer than all but one of the options on our list, giving a little more coverage and support without chafing or riding up.
There are also an impressive five pockets on these shorts, including one larger secure pocket at the back to hold your mobile phone and a pocket at the front, specifically designed to carry keys with a cord to wrap around the key ring. They're also well-distributed through the shorts so you don't feel lopsided on the move with heavier items on one side. The pockets on the Brooks Chaser 7" Short are notably without zips but as the pockets hold your belongings close to the body with a small flap in the material over the top, they feel secure.
The advantage of 2-in-1 running shorts, like Nike's Flex Essential 2-in-1 Women's Running Shorts, is the compression offered by the biker short underneath. This presses against the skin and offers support without being too tight. The lightweight shorts over the top offer coverage and a stylish fit.
While they're only available in three darker, monotone colors (black, white, and grey), what these shorts lack in appearance they make up for in design. I tested the Nike Flex Essential 2-in-1 Women's Running Shorts over several runs, up to 18km, and found the material wicked away sweat well over the distance and left me feeling fresher than normal. The slits in the over shorts make free movement easy but the inner sides of the shorts don't ride up, which is important.
The highlight has to be the secret inner pocket in these shorts. Tucked discreetly in the material of the biker shorts, while still being easy to access, is a pocket large enough to hold essentials, including a standard-size mobile phone.
Considering that most of us wear our running shorts in the warmer months, breathability is another comfort consideration that shouldn't be undervalued. One of On Running's latest releases, the Essential Short, ticks all the boxes in this area as a lightweight, versatile pair that offers breathability without compromising on coverage and support.
I tested this pick of the best women's running shorts on a 5km and an 18km run on two of the warmer days so far in May and found them to be equally suitable for both distances. The liner is made from a majority-polyester material, and unlike some of the 2-in-1 shorts on this list, it hugs snugly like a pair of briefs and so offers a greater range of movement. The outer short is also made from polyester, which is a notably lightweight material and famous for its sweat-wicking properties, with minimal slits down either side of the short to allow for additional airflow and a full range of movement. Also of note, I found, was the waistband and in-built drawstring cord, which feels light and unrestrictive against the stomach during running.
The only downside of these shorts, I found, is the pockets. There is one on either side of the shorts and a secret mesh pocket on the inside of the right pocket. While they are much deeper than you'd expect them to be, making it easy to carry your phone and other essentials on the move, and there is some extra support from the material, they don't zip up. The secret pocket is large enough for keys and small essentials but not wide enough to fit a standard-size mobile phone.
This could be a dealbreaker for some, given that your belongings may be less secure than in other options like the Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity 9" Cycling Shorts or Under Armour SpeedPocket Performance shorts, but it's not so much of an issue if you normally wear a belt or vest of some kind.
Biker shorts are one of the most popular styles out there for running, whether it's a 5k or a marathon. The form-fitting material hugs the upper legs and waist, preventing chafing. Our pick of the bunch for running is the Sweaty Betty 6 Inch Power Shorts, which is hardly a surprise, considering how much we're fans of the Sweaty Betty Power leggings.
Anna Ward, a personal trainer and specialist running coach, also puts these among her favorites. "The Sweaty Betty Power shorts are perfect for longer runs as they have lots of built-in storage," says Ward. "They're also made of soft material, are high-waisted, and are six inches in length on the inseam, which isn't too long and I've found they prevent chafing well."
Ward, who is also the studio manager of Instate Fitness Wandsworth, loves them so much, she has two pairs. "I find a cycling short is usually the best to prevent chafing," she adds. "However, for faster and shorter runs, I prefer a free-flowing short that doesn't make me feel as restricted so I can speed and lengthen my stride."
I also own a pair of these shorts myself and I agree with the expert opinion. The Sweaty Betty Power Shorts are comfortable to wear for good distances (I normally wear my bright blue pair for longer runs too), don't chafe, and the pocket is useful for keeping essentials - although I wear a running vest as I don't like the lopsided feeling. The only downside to them, which is only a temporary problem, is that sweat does show through the brighter colors on the first couple of wears.
As noted, pockets are one of the most useful features of running shorts. Under Armour's Speedpocket Performance wins the title of the best for this particular feature thanks to the quick-drying, sweat-resistant fabric these shorts (including the pockets) are made out of, meaning belongings come out on the other side of your run almost as dry as you put them in.
This is where the Under Armour Speedpocket Performance differs from many of the others. While the pockets in both of the Sweaty Betty Power Shorts on this list make them a great option, as noted, I did find that my phone came out of the side pocket glistening with sweat after my run. This wasn't the case with these shorts. Instead, my phone and keys fit snugly and securely into the front waistband pocket, much like they would in a belt.
Otherwise, these shorts tested well on medium-length runs, up to about 18km, and during my stint of running 30 minutes a day. I found the flat-lay stitching and short inner brief prevented them from riding up or chafing, which was a plus, but they did feel shorter than some of the others. If you're looking for shorts with great pockets and a little more coverage, the Nike Flex Essential 2-in-1 Women's Running Shorts may be your top choice.
Running shorts don't have to break the budget - and Decathlon's Kalenji Run Dry Running Shorts prove that. If you've just started learning how to start running or just signed up for your first race, opting for a versatile pair of running shorts on the cheaper end of the price spectrum could be the way forward. Sitting under $15 / £10 and available to buy online, these shorts from Decathlon are made of high-quality, majority-polyester material, and are moisture-wicking and sweat resistant.
My experience with these shorts, wearing them on several 10km runs, was hugely positive. Price doesn't mean everything when it comes to workout clothing, as I've learned through the years, but material does. I found these to be lightweight and breathable, which makes sense considering these are specifically designed for warmer weather. They sit slightly tighter than some of the other loose-fit shorts on the list but they don't chafe, and they sit snugly around my hips with a thick, supportive waistband. Although they don't allow for as much free movement as other shorts on this list because of the tighter fit, which feels slightly stiff initially, they also don't ride up.
In many ways, Decathlon's Kalenji Run Dry Running Shorts are similar to the On Running Essential Shorts - but the material doesn't feel quite so premium. So if you'd otherwise opt for the On Running shorts but can't afford the $70/£60 price tag, these are a great backup.
Longer running shorts are a great choice for anyone who wants a little more security in their workout kit and with 9 inches on the inseam, the Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity Cycling Shorts are one of the best pairs around. The high-waisted design, with its adjustable waist and unique compression technology in the fabric, makes them a great pick for any sport where you want a little more support and lightweight body coverage, whether that be on a long run, sprints, or a bike ride.
As these shorts are biker style and a little longer than most, I was concerned they'd ride up as I was running - but this wasn't the case. Even on my 18km run, I found the shorts stayed in place both around the legs and waist. To secure them, there's a handy drawstring in the waistband that you can tighten and loosen as you like. I'd avoid pulling them up too high though as the seam through the middle increases the chance of accidental camel toe. While they initially feel very tight, after the first few wears it's almost as if the material molds into your body shape and they become much more comfortable.
The pockets on these Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity 9" Cycling Shorts are a huge plus point as well. There are two in total: one in the waistband and another down the leg, both of which are large enough to store a phone of any size, your keys, and other essentials. The pocket in the back also has a zip.
What you might wear while running on a treadmill may differ slightly from what you'd wear running outside. For example, you may want shorts that are also suitable for gym activities generally, if you're going from strength training to a quick run on the treadmill, and features like pockets may not be such a priority. GymShark's 2-in-1 Running Shorts are the perfect pair for the gym environment, featuring a smooth inner biker short with a shorter, lightweight short over the top.
I tried and tested these running shorts both in the gym and out on the roads and found they really excelled in an indoor environment. The upper short is a couple of inches shorter than the biker short underneath, meaning it doesn't get in the way while you're lifting weights. It also provides just enough coverage if you'd otherwise be concerned about modesty with a traditional biker short like the Sweaty Betty Power Shorts. A padded-out waistband and drawstring cord offer extra support with these too, holding them in place.
The GymShark 2-in-1 running shorts could easily rival the Nike Flex Essential 2-in-1 Women's Running Shorts, our top pick of 2-in-1 running shorts generally, but these are a little less versatile and more suitable for indoor running and general gym use due to the complete lack of pockets. Also, if you are a regular GymShark shopper - a fan of the best gym leggings with pockets for instance - it's worth sizing down with these, otherwise, you may find the inner short is a little loose and it could ride up during your run.
Having endorsed several world-famous runners over the years, it's perhaps no surprise that Nike is one of the most established running brands out there. Available online and in-store, they offer an impressive range of expertly engineered fitness clothing - including running shorts, naturally.
In many ways, the Nike One Women's Dri-FIT High-Waisted 8cm shorts are similar to the Nike Flex Essential 2-in-1 Women's Running Shorts, our choice for the best 2-in-1 shorts. They both have useful pockets, tucked away in the compression biker shorts under the top layer short. However, there is one key difference that gives them a top spot across the range of Nike women's running shorts: the smooth, sleek, ultra-soft fabric of the top later short. The woven material feels comfortable while also being sweat-wicking and fast-drying. These shorts are also a little more breathable, with the top layer a little looser than the other Nike shorts on this list.
Not everyone will like high-waisted running shorts though. If you'd prefer a low-rise pair, the Adidas Marathon 20 shorts could be a good option. Also, I found a Medium size was a comfortable fit for me, but I can imagine that those who are between sizes and opt for a smaller size could struggle with the tighter waistband in this area.
New Balance may have been making waves in the lifestyle fashion sector over the past year but the brand is a top pick for runners year-round. New Balance's Q Speed Fuel Short makes our pick for the best running shorts thanks to their sleek appearance, handy pocket, and anti-chafing design.
"For tempo and interval sessions, the New Balance Q Speed Fuel Shorts are perfect," says Ward. "They're lightweight with a secret pocket to carry a gel or my house key and are so freeing to run in. I barely feel like I'm wearing them. They sit perfectly on my waist with a built-in liner, so I don't have to wear separate briefs." These shorts also have a pull cord in the waistband so you can tighten or loosen them as required.
"I have these in three colors," she adds, and with exciting colorway options like Ghost Pepper, Black and White, and Vibrant Violet, why wouldn't you?
Adidas are another fan favorite when it comes to running and often among the picks for best high-impact sports bras. With so many choices out there, we gathered a good collection to test. Choosing a top pick among them all was difficult but the Adidas Marathon 20 running shorts came out on top for several reasons, all to do with material and design.
Firstly, I found these shorts to be incredibly lightweight even given the snug liner, which is made of a breathable mesh material. On a run of 8km, I barely noticed they were there, which is a first for shorts on this list. They didn't ride up, get stuck, or chafe either, so I imagine they'd be a top pick in warmer weather too. Testing these shorts in grey in the rain though, I did find the water marked the material easily, leading me to believe that sweat would as well on longer runs.
Unlike many of the picks on our list and most running shorts generally these days, the Marathon 20 Running Shorts are low-rise. It makes them a great choice for anyone who doesn't want the pressure around the middle but it's something to bare in mind if you prefer the support of a high-rise short.
You might think of Lululemon as home to yoga or Pilates clothing and the best sports bras, but the brand has majorly upped its running game in the last couple of years and its selection of shorts are favorites among both beginner and elite runners around the world. There are so many different styles to choose from but the Lululemon Hotty Hot High-Rise Lined Short made the top pick of the bunch thanks to their lightweight and quick-drying material, unique inner liner, and great range of colors.
"Lululemon Hotty Hot High-Rise Lined Shorts are fun and colorful, feel very soft on the skin, and are suitable for all types of running. I've worn them for speed sessions and longer-distance runs," says running specialist Ward, who owns three pairs of these particular shorts in various colors. "I like the drawstring in the waistband, which stops movement around the waist and the built-in secret pockets are always a winner," she adds. They also come in two variations - high-rise (as pictured) and low-rise - for those looking for less pressure over the stomach.
However, they are shorter than many of the other shorts on the list at 2.5 inches on the inseam. If you're looking for a pair a little longer down the legs, opt for the Brooks Chaser 7" Short, our top pick of the best running shorts for women overall, or if you don't mind a biker style, the Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity 9" Shorts.
How to find the best running shorts for youIt's entirely a personal preference from a comfort and style point of view as to whether you wear leggings or shorts. "I would always say to clients and friends, where what you find comfortable," says Ward. "The worst possible thing is being uncomfortable when running, so make this a priority as chafe isn't fun, nor is hitching up your bottoms."
It also depends on how much you sweat and warm up while you run, which again is completely personal. "I find running in leggings very restrictive and uncomfortable and therefore find it noticeably impacts my running," says the personal trainer. "I would rather wear shorts as I feel more comfortable and lightweight. I am quite a hot and sweaty runner too, so I like to wear as little weight in clothing as possible. Because shorts are more lightweight, they may make you feel a bit freer and faster. It's a tiny difference in added weight but if psychologically makes you feel speedier, then why not?"
'Die Hard' Lululemon Shoppers Are Trading Their $70 Running Shorts For These $24 Amazon Lookalikes That 'Don't Ride Up'
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With the weather getting better and warmer every day, we're gearing up to get back into our sporty mode — and our old athleisure clothes aren't going to cut it. We're looking to do some spring cleaning with our sporty wardrobe, including finding the perfect shorts to make us look and feel great.
While we adore Lululemon, the price can be steep. But so many "die-hard" fans have been screaming throughout the rooftops about these lookalikes on Amazon, and they're on rare sale!
GYM PEOPLE
THE GYM PEOPLE Womens High Waisted Running Shorts $23.99, originally $26.99 on Amazon.ComThe GYM PEOPLE Women's High Waisted Running Shorts are a chic high-waisted athleisure staple that is both super-stretchy and perfect for all types of physical activity. For extra comfort and stability, there is a built-in, double-layered liner, with one inner layer for extra coverage and an outer layer for better movement. And each layer is made with moisture-wicking fabric, so there is no chafing in sight! If it's possible to fall more in love with these: there are deep pockets and a tummy control design.
Now, shoppers have been going bananas over these shorts, specifically, those who converted from Lululemon to these affordable lookalikes!
With over 6,000 reviews on Amazon with a 4.4 rating, these have become an instant favorite. One shopper said they're "literally the best," saying, "I am a die hard lululemon follower but want to find something cheaper while I spend a few months losing a few pounds and these shorts hit the mark perfectly!! They are true to size and the high waist band makes them very comfortable and flattering. Definitely buying in more colors. For reference, I am 5'6" 180lbs. I typically wear a large or an XL in athletic shorts and ordered an XL in these and they are perfect!"
Related story This $15 Kourtney Kardashian-Approved Face Mask Is 'Intensely Plumping,' Shoppers Swear They 'Looked Younger in Days'Another shopper added, "I ordered these on a whim to take on a trip and when they arrived, I felt like I had found the holy grail of athletic shorts! These are just the right length, they are roomy in the thighs, they don't ride up in the back, and they are extremely flattering. I'm so happy to have found these, and can't wait to order more!"
Before you go, check out these Ina Garten-Approved holiday gift ideas:
Bermuda Shorts Are Back, And They're Officially Celebrity Approved
A little demure, a lot cool.
© Provided by Instyle Getty ImagesCome summer, the usual suspects come around: denim cutoffs, sundresses, crop tops, you get it. But stylish folks everywhere have embraced an unexpected It item this season: Bermuda Shorts. That's right, stars like Irina Shayk, Gwyneth Paltrow, and supermodel sisters Bella and Gigi Hadid have been spotted sporting the traditionally preppy summer wardrobe staple. Others, like Regina King and Suki Waterhouse, have opted for a more elevated take on the trend, sporting coordinated Bermuda shorts and suit outfits to red-carpet events, fashion shows, and morning shows.
Intrigued? Same. So, what exactly are Bermuda shorts? These longer shorts, also known as walking shorts or dress shorts, are technically classified as short trousers with at least a 5" inseam, and are often styled with an un-cuffed hem that falls no less than 1" above the knee. Considered "semi-casual" attire (depending on the material, of course), Bermuda shorts have been worn by men and women for decades, everywhere from city sidewalks to the island seashores after which they are named.
While the style may sound a bit prescriptive, the truth is that Bermuda shorts are actually one of the more versatile pieces available for warm-weather dressing, no matter the occasion. Plus, this year, ripped denim, wide-leg, and suiting shorts are dominating the market, which makes the outfit possibilities nearly infinite. Keep it casual like Gigi in distressed knee-length jean shorts, or go full glam like Waterhouse in a summery white Bermuda shorts suit. The choice is yours — no island-hopping necessary.
Bella Hadid © Provided by Instyle Getty ImagesIf there's just one person who can take singular credit for bringing Bermuda shorts back, it's Bella Hadid. The supermodel has been sporting the style regularly since early 2022, trying everything from structured suiting shorts to lightweight breezy bottoms. We must admit, however, that her super casual street style outfit pairing light khaki Bermuda shorts with a simple white tank, undone black collared shirts, and black leather accessories is an A+ in our book. SHOP SIMILAR: FRAME Bermuda Shorts, $138 (Orig. $304)
Gigi Hadid © Provided by Instyle Getty ImagesWhile the basic outfit elements are similar to her sister's, Gigi's look is all about the ease of wearing Bermuda shorts at any time. Pairing the distressed denim style with a navy blue tank top, striped Oxford, and matching baseball cap manages to be cute but not complicated, perfect for running weekend errands in town or grabbing one last ice cream cone before leaving the boardwalk. SHOP SIMILAR: GAP Bermuda Shorts, $62
Regina King © Provided by Instyle Getty ImagesKing is always one to watch, so we were delighted to see her sporting Bermuda shorts. Clad in head-to-toe Louis Vuitton, the Oscar winner's outfit is clearly an elevated take on the trend pairing oversized and cuffed drop-crotch shorts with a black and white striped shirt under a sleek tuxedo jacket. The designer duds are obviously outfit goals, but we'd just as soon recreate the look with more affordable separates, and an eye-catching mini bag, of course. SHOP SIMILAR: Jil Sander Bermuda Shorts, $1,600
Suki Waterhouse © Provided by Instyle Getty ImagesClad in a bright white double-breasted blazer with satin lapels, a cream-colored camisole, and distressed white denim Bermuda shorts, Waterhouse looks every bit the rock star she plays on screen. Her glittery, hot pink Givenchy knee-high boots are simply the icing on top of the cake that is this delicious, daring outfit.SHOP SIMILAR: 7 For All Mankind Shorts, $185
Irina Shayk © Provided by Instyle Getty ImagesThe model created a much more traditional suiting look by combining similarly colored separates with slightly distressed Bermuda shorts. Paired with a plain black tee and luxe overcoat, Shayk's shorts are neatly belted at the waist, which helps to give the outfit more gravitas. Notably, her Fidan Novruzova Havvas boots are the perfect height, hitting just below the knee. SHOP SIMILAR: Levi's 501 '90s Shorts, $70
Gwyneth Paltrow © Provided by Instyle Getty ImagesThe Goop guru leaned into the relaxed casual vibe of summer by styling her oversize tie-waist Bermuda shorts with a pristine white collared shirt and sporty sneakers. The elevated athletic look seems simple, that is until zooming in on her accessories: skater-inspired shoes by Roger Vivier and a Hermès Evelyne Bag in classic orange. Versatile, indeed.SHOP SIMILAR: Moncler Shorts, $590
Jurnee Smollett © Provided by Instyle Getty ImagesStylist Alexandra Mandelkorn is responsible for this strong-shouldered look worn by Smollett last September in N.Y.C. The vibrantly colored Alexandre Vauthier suit and matching knit top harken back to the boxy fits of the '80s, but it's the Bermuda shorts and sleek accessories that make this look thoroughly modern. SHOP SIMILAR: H&M Linen-Blend Bermuda Shorts, $25
Sadie Sink © Provided by Instyle Getty ImagesThe Stranger Things star has been a fan of Bermuda shorts since at least 2018, when she donned a sparkly Chanel set to the brand's Métiers d'art show. More recently, Sink was spotted en route to The Today Show in an outfit that included an array of luxury labels such as Saint Laurent Bermuda shorts, a double-breasted Isabel Marant suit jacket, and chunky Proenza Schuler loafers. SHOP SIMILAR: Banana Republic Italian Wool Bermuda Shorts, $95
Michelle Yeoh © Provided by Instyle Getty ImagesThe Oscar winner chose a lilac Bermuda shorts suit for the BAFTA tea party during awards season. Styled with a plain white T-shirt and silver stiletto heels, Yeoh's outfit was elegant enough for the occasion, and the light color makes the suit easy to rewear come spring. SHOP SIMILAR: H&M Dressy Bermuda Shorts, $15
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