17 Best Running Shorts for Women, According to Testers and Glowing Reviews

Listen, when you're doing something as hard as running, the last thing you want to be thinking about is a too-tight waistband or shorts that chafe. That's exactly why shoppers keep reaching for these lightweight, moisture-wicking shorts from Brooks: the exposed elastic waistband is stretchy, the flowy cut won't restrict your thighs or hips, and there's several hidden pockets for stowing your keys or ID. Hint: If you prefer a longer short, Brooks offers the Chaser short in 5- and 7-inch silhouettes, too.

"I live in the Brooks Chaser shorts!" Jones says. "The material is very lightweight and comfortable, without that annoying swishing sound when you step. These have absolutely been my go-to shorts for marathon training this summer."

• Size range: XS to XL
• Inseam Length: 3 inches
• Materials: Polyester, spandex
• Colors: 4
• Built-in liner: Yes

Glowing customer review: "I'm a collegiate track runner and these are by far my favorite training shorts. I love the waistband, material, and overall shape of these shorts!"

Let's get real: Strapping on a running belt or relying on an arm band to hold your essentials during a workout can be kiiind of a hassle. If you prefer to stay hands-free, opt for a pair of shorts with built-in pockets instead. Lucky for you, the Janji W's multi-short has an impressive seven- (yes, seven!!!) pocket system that's perfect for hands-free storage. As per the brand, they'll keep your belongings secure without bouncing—meaning you won't be distracted during your run. Gels, keys, gloves, earbuds, your phone? Consider them covered.

"These have been my go-to's for months now," says Ellen McAlpine, commerce editor. "I've run two half marathons in them and always wash them ASAP so I can wear them again for training."

• Size range: XS to XXL
• Inseam Length: 3 inches
  
• Materials: Nylon, polyester, spandex
  
• Colors: 4
  
• Built-in liner: Yes
  

Glowing customer review: "I am loving these shorts! They do not bunch up in the inner thigh area like other shorts. The pockets in the back are deep enough to secure my phone during a run."

Lululemon's Hotty Hot shorts have earned quite the following on TikTok, and IMO, they 100% deserve the hype. The high-rise cut is super flattering, while the sweat-wicking fabric claims to dry rapidly. There's also thoughtful features like an adjustable waistband, breathable mesh panels on the sides, and hidden zipper pockets, too. Most importantly, these shorts have built-in reflective strips to help increase visibility if you run on or near the road.

The Hotty Hot shorts come in both 2.5-inch and 4-inch inseams, but I'd def recommend the longer cut if you're prone to chafing—a lesson you don't want to learn the hard way.

• Size range: 0 to 20
• Inseam Length: 2.5 or 4 inches
• Materials: Polyester, elastane
• Colors: 18
• Built-in liner: Yes
  

Glowing customer review: "If you've been on the fence, just buy the shorts. So comfortable and the fit is perfection! The color is also really pretty. I will absolutely be purchasing more."

My fellow thick-thighed ladies, if there's one pair of running shorts you buy from this list, let it be these from Girlfriend Collective. Made from a four-way stretch fabric that moves with your body, they have a longer, 4.75-inch inseam that offers plenty of chafe protection. I'm obsessed with the supportive yet comfy fit that prevents them from riding up or shimmying down mid-run. Oh, and the best part? You can shop these shorts in sizes up to 6XL, offering the widest size range on our list.

• Size range: XXS to 6XL
• Inseam Length: 4.75 inches
  
• Materials: Recycled polyethylene terephthalate from water bottles, spandex
  
• Colors: 10
  
• Built-in liner: No
  

Glowing customer review: "I'm taller, athletic build, not much of a butt but some decent size thighs. I have a really hard time finding shorts that are comfortable, stay put, don't sag, and don't cut off my circulation, these are THE shorts."

If your TikTok feed is anything like mine, you've probably seen users singing the praises of these flowing running shorts more than a few times. And TBH, I understand why. The butterfly-cut silhouette almost looks like a tennis skirt from afar, but they have hidden spandex shorts underneath with a built-in phone pocket—making them equal parts sporty and chic. The wide, adjustable band sits right at your natural waist, so they're cute and *so* comfortable.

• Size range: XXS to XL
• Inseam Length: Not listed
  
• Materials: Nylon, spandex
  
• Colors: 27
  
• Built-in liner: Yes
  

Glowing customer review: "Genuinely this has to be one of the best purchases I’ve ever bought. These shorts are so flattering and fit me so nicely! They’re super soft and comfortable and the pockets come in super handy!"

I've been wearing Nike athletic shorts since middle school, and the heritage brand is still one of my go-tos when it comes to activewear. These light-as-air shorts are touted for their iconic silhouette, silky fabric, and seriously durable construction. And thanks to the moisture-wicking material, this mid-rise pair is an especially great option for warmer weather.

"The lightweight, breathable fabric feels like nada against my skin, which is perfect for my mid-summer 5Ks,"says Deanna Pai, freelance writer. She also loves how they have a tiny pocket that's just big enough for her keys—no belt bag needed.

• Size range: XS to XXL
• Length: 3 inches
• Material: Polyester, spandex
• Colors: 13
• Built-in liner: Yes

Glowing customer review: "As a long-distance runner, these shorts can't be beaten when it comes to comfort!"

Having clean outfits on hand for your daily runs requires two things: a rotation of affordable workout clothes and doing LOTS of laundry. While I can't help you with the second part, I can help you stock your closet with these under-$20 running shorts. The seamless construction is chafe-resistant, and they come in three-, four-, five-, or eight-inch silhouettes depending on your preference. As per the brand, the four-way stretch fabric is designed to move with you as you run, stretch, and even squat, and there's tons of trendy colorways to choose from.

• Size range: XS to XXL
• Inseam Length: 3, 4, 5, or 8 inches
• Materials: Polyester, spandex
• Colors: 15
• Built-in liner: No

Glowing customer review: "I am obsessed with these! I went and bought 3 more pairs in different colors... They don't roll down at the top or roll up at the thigh, they totally stay in place."

If you prefer to take the scenic route, there's a high chance you'll love these trail-friendly workout shorts from Abercrobie's activewear line. They offer ample coverage in the form of a high-rise silhouette, a built-in spandex liner, and lightweight, dry-fit construction that resists snagging. The waistband is even adjustable, so you don't have to worry about them sliding down mid-hike.

"I love the cut of these high-rise shorts, especially if I’m going to be hiking or running on a trail," says Samantha Jones, commerce editor. "Since they’re high-rise, I feel way more confident wearing them with just a sports bra or strappy tank."

• Size range: XXS to XXL
• Inseam Length: 3 inches
  
• Materials: Polyester, elastane
• Colors: 1
  
• Built-in liner: Yes
  

Glowing customer review: "I own about six pairs of these shorts and they're my favorite. They are perfect for hot summers. Very comfortable and I like the shorts underneath for extra coverage."

Calling all short-torso girlies: If you're sick of high-rise bottoms that nearly touch your sports bra, these mid-rise running shorts might be the answer to your activewear woes. Athleta's Mesh Racer shorts are designed to sit comfortably below your natural waist, and they even have a zipper pocket to keep your AirPods, keys, or gels secure. The loose construction and adjustable waistband also helps keep these shorts from feeling too constricting, letting you stride out or stretch with ease.

• Size range: XXS to 3X
• Inseam Length: 4 inches
• Materials: Recycled polyester, elastane
• Colors: 4
• Built-in liner: Yes
  

Glowing customer review: "These are perfection for my body type (athletic but not curvy). They are a looser fit which I love, and the waist sits perfectly mid-rise. Will be running in these for miles and miles."

Chafing can be a serious problem for runners, and longer shorts can help minimize that dreaded thigh rub. These CRZ Yoga bike shorts have the longest inseam on this list at eight inches, allowing you to run, walk, cycle, and lift without worrying about chafing. Trust me: Your thighs will thank you. On your rest days, you can even style them with crew socks and a sweatshirt à la Lady Di.

• Size range: XS to XXL
• Inseam Length: 3, 4, 6, or 8 inches
• Materials: Polyester, spandex
• Colors: 44
• Built-in liner: No

Glowing customer review: "I run all my half marathons in these!! Super true to size and don’t ride up. Comfy enough to wear around the house too."

We love the vintage-inspired aesthetic of these flowy running shorts. But since looks aren't everything, we were pumped that this pair also boasts an ultra-breathable mesh construction, an adjustable waistband, and roomy leg holes for plenty of mobility.

"I know they’re expensive, but damn, if these Tracksmith shorts aren’t comfortable," says Jones. "The drawstring keeps them in place while you jog, and the mesh fabric is super breathable and lightweight even on the hottest days. I’m also a big fan of the vintage-inspired details, TBH."

• Size range: XS to XL
  
• Length: 4 inches
  
• Materials: Polyester, spandex
  
• Colors: 3
  
• Built-in liner: Yes
  

Glowing customer review: "I purchased my first pair of these shorts over a year ago and they have been the only shorts I run in ever since! They are comfortable and one of the only running shorts I have found that do not move or ride up when running!"

"You might not expect Aritzia to drop such incredible workout gear, but I love these shorts," says Ellen McAlpine, commerce editor. "The brief liner doesn't ride up while I'm running and the high-rise fit makes them easy to pair with longline sports bras. Plus, they look super cute when I'm cross-training at the gym!"

Built-in zippered pockets? Doesn't ride up? Ridiculously comfy and stylish? Check, check, and check.

• Size range: 00 to 12
• Length: 4 inches
• Materials: Polyester, elastane
• Colors: 3
• Built-in liner: Yes

Glowing customer review: "My new favorite running short as someone with bigger thighs and a smaller waist. They are perfect and don't ride up or give me a wedgie. "

"Obsessed is an understatement when I think about these Vuori shorts that have legit become an everyday staple in my wardrobe," says Siena Gagliano, associate editor.

"I am a stickler about athleisure shorts—I really dislike a lining in most instances, and a waistband that digs into me is a dealbreaker," she adds. "These shorts don't have a lining (which some may not be a fan of, but I personally love) and have the most comfortable, thick waistband ever. I've worn these several times in the past few weeks, and every time I've put them on, I've gotten a compliment—no joke."

• Size range: XXS to XXL
• Inseam Length: 3 inches
• Materials: Recycled polyester, polyester, elastane
• Colors: 3
• Built-in liner: No

Glowing customer review: "By far my favorite shorts in my closet. I love that they don’t have built-in underwear. They are the most comfortable shorts I have ever put on."

For some seriously fire gym selfies, look no further than Pepper's ribbed bike shorts. The ultra-soft construction and eye-catching ribbed texture offers plenty of chafe protection with its five-inch inseam. And because everyone loves a *matching set moment*, prepared to rake in the compliments when you pair these shorts with their coordinating bra tank or sports bra.

"These are my go-to bike shorts for all my summer workouts!" says Nashia Baker, commerce editor. "I love to wear them with a matching bra tank and an oversized button down for a cute and casual look."

• Size range: XXS to XL
• Length: 5 inches
  
• Materials: Nylon, elastane
  
• Colors: 3
  
• Built-in liner: No
  

Glowing customer review: "I have never really been a fan of bike shorts until now. These are such good quality. The ribbed material is very flattering and with the matching top, it's the cutest set."

Having shorts that constantly bunch up while you run is simply the worst, which is why Mia Lardiere, emerging platforms director, recommends these shorts from Bandit Running. They have a curved hem design that allows for better range of motion, plus a four-inch inseam to help minimize chafing.

"I have muscular thighs and the airy cut of these doesn't try to compete with my legs by rolling up or bunching," Lardiere says. "They're extremely lightweight and move with me. They have two hidden pockets for fuel as well."

• Size range: XS to XL
• Inseam Length: 4 inches
  
• Materials: Nylon, lycra
  
• Colors: 1
  
• Built-in liner: Yes