Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out on a fitness journey, the idea of wearing running shorts can sometimes feel daunting. As a result, many women choose to wear leggings instead, which cover more skin and can help to make runners feel less self-conscious.
There’s also the fact that many runners worry about chafing, which can occur when skin rubs against skin, causing redness and rawness. Wearing tight fitting leggings, rather than shorts, can seem like a way to avoid this, especially over long distances or in hot weather.
That said, contemporary running shorts are designed to up your running game, combining qualities of moisture-wicking (drawing sweat away from the body) and increased mobility. Thanks to a variety of leg-lengths, many also offer confidence-boosting coverage without hindering performance.
Before taking a look at some of the best running shorts available, let’s get acquainted with the three styles you’ll usually find to choose from.
Split shorts
Anyone who’s ever watched or participated in a marathon will be familiar with this style of short, which features an inverted ‘V’ shaped split on the side, to provide an additional range of motion.
They’re generally made from a lightweight material and feature a lined inner that mimics the shape of underwear.
Bike shorts
Don’t be confused by the name – this style of shorts is essentially the same as what you might see cyclists wearing but tend to be slightly longer.
Bonuses? Less risk of chafing and, thanks to the tighter fit, a compression effect, which is said to contribute to better blood flow and faster recovery.
2-in-1s
As the name suggests, this style of running shorts combines the looser style of the split shorts on the outer, with the closer fit of the bike shorts, concealed beneath the outer layer. Again, the ‘bicycle style’ layer provides additional coverage, compression, and anti-chafing.
Of course, there’s no ‘one size fits all’ approach to running shorts. Just as you may need to choose your running shoes on the basis of your running style and how much support you need, you’ll also need to choose your apparel according to when and where you run.
Comfort, of course, is key – as is style, since feeling good in your shorts is more likely to get you out for a run, as well as encouraging you to stay out for longer.
It’s also worth noting that the style of shorts you choose may depend on how, and how far, you run. For instance, split shorts might very well be adequate for a short run, but if you’re running for a longer distance, running in warm weather, or have issues with chafing, a pair of bicycle or 2-in-1 shorts might be a better option.
With all of this in mind, let’s take a look at some of our top picks for running shorts. For ease, we’ll cover these in the same order as the styles we outlined above.
Split shorts
1. Nike Aeroswift running shorts
Available in sizes from XS (UK 4 -6) to XL (UK 20 -22), these Nike shorts come in an eye-catching lime green and feature the distinctive Nike tick in black.
Made from a lightweight, moisture wicking fabric, which has been crafted from recycled plastic bottles, they also have a drawstring waistband and a concealed pocket.
2. Hoka Glide 4” shorts
The three different colourways, each with a stylish contrast feature, are just the start of what makes these shorts special. They also have a smooth and flattering waistband, as well as a comfortably loose fit, which allows for maximum movement. Additionally, they have built in pants, a discreet zip pocket, and a mesh storage system in the back.
3. Asics Road 3.5 inch shorts
The deep split on these shorts provides excellent freedom of movement on your run, as does the lightweight, breathable construction. They also have a broad, supportive waistband and multiple pockets, so you can take your phone and keys on the road with you.
Available in red, pink, and black, these shorts tick the sustainability box too – they’re made from at least 50% recycled materials.
4. Adidas Marathon 20 running shorts
This is a classic design with the unmistakable three-stripe adidas logo. Some may worry that the style is shorter than they’re comfortable with, but rest assured that the built-in brief provides ample coverage while you’re on the move.
As well as featuring a key pocket, they’re made entirely from recycled polyester – and customers seem to love them, too, since they’ve scored an impressive 4.6 stars in reviews.
Bike shorts
5. Sweaty Betty Power 9” cycling shorts
With a choice of longer length (inner seam ranges from 4” to 9”) and Sweaty Betty’s renowned ‘bum sculpting’ technology, these shorts are ideal for those who are self-conscious about running, and about wearing running apparel.
Super-comfy, and featuring a side pocket that’s the perfect size for a phone, plus a zip pocket at the back for keys and cards, they’re available in multiple sizes, colours and, as previously mentioned, lengths.
6. Gym + Coffee Relentless 8” Bike Short
These shorts don’t have as much storage, or as many pockets, as some of the others on the market, but they stay in place during a run and do great things in terms of flattering the form, which can only help in terms of making people feel confident about lacing on their trainers and hitting the pavement.
For those who find themselves overwhelmed by too many choices, it may also be reassuring that these shorts are only available in two colours, both dark – black and obsidian.
7. Fatal Attraction 6” Bike Short
4.8* reviews from customers…not a bad place to start! But there’s more, of course – not least the colour options (navy, black, and marine) and the sizing range (XS to XL). There’s also the silhouette-enhancing design, complete with high compression fabric to aid post-run recovery.
Additionally, a tech-forward waistband also provides extra support in the midsection, making runners feel more secure, confident and supported.
8. Wunder Train High-Rise Short 6”
Available in various colours and prints, including green, navy, taupe, and black leopard, these bike-style shorts are available in sizes 0-20 and in lengths 2-8 inches. They’re made from an ultra-breathable, rapid-drying fabric, and the internal drawstring waist ensures that you can adjust the fit to your level of comfort and mobility.
A concealed waistband pocket provides room for cards and keys too.
2-in-1s
9. RC 2-in-1 short 3in
Made from 86% recycled polyester, these shorts are part of New Balance’s Maraton range and consist of a lightweight outer and with a seamfree, super-comfy liner, which stay nicely in place, thanks to their thick ribbed hem.
The liner, of course, protects you from chafing. Meanwhile, there are pockets on the inner shorts, as well as a zippered pocket at the back of the outer waistband – and the shorts are designed with a midrise fit, so that they sit comfortably while you’re running.
10. Sweaty Betty Tempo Run Shorts
Sweat-wicking and ultra lightweight, these shorts come in a range of colours, which is great for those who like a little mood-lifter before the running endorphins even kick in.
While the outer layer features a high hem to allow maximum movement, the inner layer provides coverage and support, as well as a phone pocket. There’s an additional zippered pocket at the back of the waistband for your keys.
The curved design detail over the back of the shorts is a nice touch too!
11. Stance Work it Out Short
Made from 95% recycled nylon and employing innovative FreshTek™ fabric, which is both moisture-wicking and antimicrobial, these shorts are about as 2-in-1 as you can get, since the inner lining is completely detachable.
Yes, this means that these shorts essentially combine all three of the styles that we’ve detailed here – split shorts, bicycle shorts, and 2-in-1 shorts! Genius, right?
A few things to note: the storage compartment on the outer shorts doesn’t have a zipper, but there are drop-in pockets on the inner shorts. Additionally, the inner cycling-style shorts are a tad shorter than some wearers might prefer, but they’re still comfortable and supportive, staying in place on the move.
12. Mid Rise Drawstring Contrast Mesh 2-in-1 Flowy Running Shorts 3''
So many colours! Cactus Flower? Cilantro? Hot Sauce? They’re all rather gorgeous, but great colours won’t atone for shabbiness in the technical stakes – and, luckily, this is something you won’t need to worry about with these Halara shorts.
They’ve got a 4.6 rating (out of a whopping 3166 reviews at the time of writing!) and have an adjustable drawstring and contrast mesh design and crossover hem. The shorts also feature a four-way stretch fabric, which offers ease of movement.
Final thoughts …
Running shorts can definitely feel like a big step out of the comfort zone, so it’s important to make sure that the ones you choose feel like something you genuinely want to wear in public, and that will support your fitness goals in terms of style and functionality.
To this end, don’t hesitate to buy multiple pairs if you’re shopping online – or to try on multiple pairs if you’re shopping in-store. Equally, while it’s tempting to simply see how things look in the mirror, it’s well worth moving around when you’re trying on running shorts, not only to see how they look, but how they feel.
Support, cover, and movement all come into play when you’re considering activewear. Try not to be scared to try everything out – and don’t hesitate to send it back (hurrah for free returns!) or put it back on the rail if it’s not for you. After all, taking control of your fitness is one of the most empowering things you can do, and this starts with feeling confident even before you head outside, or to the gym.
For more inspiration, why not check out our article; 8 activewear looks for mature women?
Have you found the perfect pair of running shorts? Will you be trying any of the shorts listed here? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.