--- source_url: "https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a22749888/running-shorts/?utm_source=openai" title: The Best Running Shorts in 2026 - Running Shorts for Men and Women mirrored_at: 2026-08-13T01:38:47.545Z host: www.runnersworld.com cited_in_42a: true mirror_canonical: "https://index.42a.ai/www.runnersworld.com/gear/a22749888/running-shorts/index__q__utm_source_openai" --- > **Original source:** https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a22749888/running-shorts/?utm_source=openai As a year-round shorts runner, I’m an expert in the good, the bad, and the miserable when it comes to running shorts. Comfort, potential for chafing, and storage are front-of-mind when I’m shopping for a pair. When runners look for their next pair, there are all kinds of questions to consider: What’s the right inseam to prevent friction? Are the pockets big enough to store my phone, [sunscreen](https://www.runnersworld.com/training/g19576604/best-sunscreen-for-runners/), and [gels](https://www.runnersworld.com/nutrition-weight-loss/g22716327/best-energy-gels/)? For all my [hot summer runners](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a26977933/summer-running-gear/) and year-round leg barers, this guide is for you. We go over the best shorts that’ll have drawer life well beyond the first fall leaf, plenty of race day storage for all the gels and gummies, and other features to look out for when shopping for bottoms. ## Quick Glance: Best Running Shorts Preview - **Best Overall:** Tracksmith Session Shorts ([Men’s](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tracksmith.com%2Fproducts%2Fm-session-shorts)/[Women’s](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tracksmith.com%2Fproducts%2Fw-session-shorts))​ - **Best Value:** New Balance RC Essential Short ([Men’s](https://new-balance-athletics-inc.sjv.io/c/3006986/1377658/16502?subId1=ruw&subId3=xid:{xid}&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.newbalance.com%2Fpd%2Frc-essential-short-5%2FMB6180TA.html)/[Women’s](https://new-balance-athletics-inc.sjv.io/c/3006986/1377658/16502?subId1=ruw&subId3=xid:{xid}&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.newbalance.com%2Fpd%2Frc-essential-short-3%2FWB61J868.html))​ - **Best Men’s Budget:** [Baleaf Running Athletic Shorts](https://www.amazon.com/BALEAF-Running-Athletic-Shorts-Zipper/dp/B073P3K275/?tag=runnersworld-auto-20)​​ - **Best Women’s Budget:** [Old Navy Mid-Rise Stretch-Tech Run Shorts​](https://gap.igs4ds.net/c/3006986/383278/5555?subId1=ruw&subId3=xid:{xid}&u=https%3A%2F%2Foldnavy.gap.com%2Fbrowse%2Fproduct.do%3Fpid%3D855916002%26irgwc%3D1%26clickid%3D2cVzHCWXGxycRALWYAxD6TRLUkuxd9zqEWjQRM0%26ap%3D6%26siteID%3Donafcid383278%26tid%3Donaff001667%26vid%3D1%23pdp-certona-content)​ - **Best Anti-Sweat Mark Shorts:** Bandit Vanisher Compression Shorts ([Men’s](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbanditrunning.com%2Fproducts%2Fnext-gen-stamina-reinvisioned-half-tight-with-mesh-1)/[Women’s](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbanditrunning.com%2Fproducts%2F5-next-gen-stamina-compression-shorts))​​ - **Best Racing Shorts:** [lululemon Women’s Hotty Hot High-Rise](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=30347&awinaffid=1264447&campaign=&clickref=ruw|xid:{xid}&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fshop.lululemon.com%2Fp%2Fwomen-shorts%2FHotty-Hot-Short-HR-Long%2F_%2Fprod9250073&platform=pl)​ ## How We Selected _Runner’s World_ has been testing products since 1966, vetting the best gear for runners so they can train hard, race their best, and enjoy all the other runs throughout their lifetime. Over the course of three weeks, we had our staff test several shorts to narrow down the best men’s and women’s bottoms during their workouts, from trail running to marathon training, from speed to recovery. ![Group of runners in athletic gear jog along a gravel path.](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/f6414ee8-e4ba-43d0-80d5-cb5097563589.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;0xw,0xh&resize=980:* "Group of runners in athletic gear jog along a gravel path.") trevor raab We tested shorts on the road, trail, track, and treadmill. The _RW_ team includes runners of varying levels (not all of us have run a 26.2!), ages, body types, heights, and running goals. We considered well-known shoe brands’ offerings, activewear-centric apparel, and lesser-known brands to give you a range of shorts styles and pricing. Our input lends a well-rounded collection of feedback so we can find shorts for every type of runner. ## Full Reviews * * * Credit: Thomas Hengge ### Pros - Moisture-wicking and odor-resistant - Soft, stretchy material - Updated zippered side pocket ### Cons - Runs large ## Key Specs Inseam 5 inch. (M), 3 inch. (W) Sizes XS to XXL Pockets 4 Liner Yes We awarded Tracksmith’s Session Shorts in our annual [Gear of the Year](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a62748295/gear-of-the-year-2024/), because they have all the essential features, including comfort, storage, and adjustability. The older version had a zippered side pocket that positioned the girth to the front, causing whatever you stored inside to hit your thigh as you ran. The newest Session remedies that issue, with the girth set to the back. The waistband is also updated; it’s more flexible and has an internal drawstring, unlike the previous Session. The “Session 3.0” is great for training and racing; three rear drop-in gel pockets make fueling easy when you’re hours on the road, and the silky material provides plenty of airflow. [Shop Men’s at tracksmith.com](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tracksmith.com%2Fproducts%2Fm-session-shorts) | [Shop Women’s at tracksmith.com](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tracksmith.com%2Fproducts%2Fw-session-shorts) Credit: Trevor Raab ### Pros - Easy-access storage with lots of compartments along the waistband - Not too baggy - Room for storage - Low waist ### Cons - Short inseam not good for those prone to thigh-rubbing Inseam 5 inch. (M), 3 inch. (W) Sizes XS to 2XL Pockets 5 Liner Yes The RC Essential 3” is a short made for racing—at a Best Value price. The amount of storage alone makes the RC Essential a winner; individual compartments along the waistband make separating your gels easier (no more caf or no-caf surprises midrun). The four drop-in compartments are complete with a zippered rear pocket for storing discards (though the pocket is large enough to store a phone, doing so results in jostling). I tested the short and loved the short inseam and split-leg design. The lightweight, quick-drying fabric alone makes these shorts not a distraction, but I can’t help thinking the lack of fabric on my thighs makes me stride better—and faster. [Shop Men’s at newbalance.com](https://new-balance-athletics-inc.sjv.io/c/3006986/1377658/16502?subId1=ruw&subId3=xid:{xid}&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.newbalance.com%2Fpd%2Frc-essential-short-5%2FMB6180TA.html) | [Shop Women’s at newbalance.com](https://new-balance-athletics-inc.sjv.io/c/3006986/1377658/16502?subId1=ruw&subId3=xid:{xid}&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.newbalance.com%2Fpd%2Frc-essential-short-3%2FWB61J868.html) ### Pros - Pockets have lots of room for storage - Surprisingly durable for a budget short ### Cons - Sizing runs big and long ## Key Specs Inseam 5 inch. Sizes S to 3XL Pockets 3 Liner Yes Runners flock to the cheap Amazon brand Baleaf because its threads are comfy and check all the boxes when it comes to affordable, functional activewear. Take the men’s Running Athletic Shorts: these bottoms are adjustable, breathable, have inclusive sizing, lots of storage, and just feel dang comfy. “The shorts performed very well,” said a tester. “My first time wearing these was at a local 5K in August, and the shorts did not hold me back in any way. The drawstring made the shorts nice and secure. I carried only my keys in the zipper pocket on the back, and there were no issues there either. I continued running in them on various types of runs following the race and it was more of the same. Great performance and very comfortable.” Sweat-wicking mesh briefs provide support, while an internal drawcord allows you to adjust the waistband to ensure a secure, nonslip fit. You may need to tighten that drawcord too, since these shorts run large. There are two side pockets and one lower back zipper pocket; all are sizable for a phone, in case you’re a thigh phone pocket runner or the more advanced lower back pocket runner. Now 40% Off Credit: Thomas Hengge ### Pros - Lightweight construction - Built-in briefs - Stretchy and flexible - Great size range ### Cons - Only one pocket ## Key Specs Inseam 3 inch. Sizes XS to 4X Pockets 1 Liner Yes These Old Navy shorts are at a jaw-dropping price—and our testers were impressed with how they performed on their runs. Even though the inseam is only 3 inches, Assistant Commerce Photo Editor [Saba Ahmed](https://www.runnersworld.com/author/445268/saba-ahmed/) reported no thigh chafing on her runs. “These are definitely the shortest inseam running shorts I own and I surprisingly really enjoyed running in these, especially on an almost 80-degree sunny day!” she said. The elastic waistband has a drawstring for adjustability. The poly-spandex material felt especially breathable, even on very hot days. The only downside with the shorts was the one side pocket. “I was pretty confused about why there was only one pocket on one side,” said Ahmed. “I appreciated that it had a zip, but I found myself trying to find a pocket on the left side as well and then remembering there was none.” Credit: Winston Zhou ### Pros - Don't show sweat marks - Waterproof pockets - Several gel and phone pockets - Gripper hemming ### Cons - Retains sweat - Runs low on stock fast ## Key Specs Inseam 5 inch. Sizes XS to XL Pockets 7 Liner No Features Senior Editor Pavlína Černá had a problem: her favorite pair of shorts showed a gigantic crotch sweat mark postrun. Enter the Bandit Vanisher collection, which promises threads that don’t show sweat. Černá tried the Vanisher shorts (in this season’s popular bright red) and found her bottoms absent of sweat marks. “The apparel does exactly as it promises: it makes sweat vanish,” she wrote in her review. “I ran 9 miles in 80-degree heat one weekend and 10 miles the weekend after, and while my skin was glistening, there was not a single sweat mark on my outfit.” Another plus: waterproof pockets so your phone won’t become sweat-logged, because even though these shorts don’t show marks, they still retain moisture. [Shop Men’s at banditrunning.com](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbanditrunning.com%2Fproducts%2Fnext-gen-stamina-reinvisioned-quarter-tight-with-mesh-1) | [Shop Women’s at banditrunning.com](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbanditrunning.com%2Fproducts%2F5-next-gen-stamina-compression-shorts) [Bandit Vanisher Shorts Review](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a71854251/bandit-vanisher-collection-review/) ### Pros - Available in a short-short inseam and 4 inch. - Reflective detail - Comfy, flat high waistband - Infinity drawcord for adjusting - Lots of colors ### Cons - Low waist for long torsos - Only available in two inseams - Small pockets ## Key Specs Inseam 2.5, 4 inch. Sizes 0 to 14 Pockets 2 Liner Yes The Hotty Hot High-Rise is a classic flow short that we love for all kinds of workouts—especially fast ones. The cut is so flattering with mesh panels on the sides and reflective detail in case you’re an early riser or dusk dancer. We wish there was more room for storage but the liner stash pocket and zippered pocket on the side provides just enough room to stash keys and a card. The flat, high waistband has an interior infinity cord for adjusting. For men, we like the [Pace Breaker Lined Short](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=30347&awinaffid=1264447&campaign=&clickref=ruw|xid:{xid}&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fshop.lululemon.com%2Fp%2Fmen-shorts%2FPace-Breaker-Short-NF-7-Lined-Update%2F_%2Fprod11400110&platform=pl), which comes in five, seven, and nine-inch inseams. The short is updated for a comfier fit around the waist and low-bounce hand pockets. Credit: Smartwool ### Pros - Legs and waistband stay put - Breathable liner - Room for storage ### Cons - Limited sizes and colors ## Key Specs Inseam 7 inch. (M), 4 inch. (W) Sizes S to XXL (M), XS to XL (W) Pockets 2 Liner Yes The airy Smartwool Active Lined achieves a miracle you rarely see in short-seamed, flowy shorts: it doesn’t cause chafing. Senior Editor Cat Bowen praised the shorts for their ample storage room, breathable liner, and ability to stay put as she runs. Bowen reported no bunching or riding up of the leg openings. An added bonus: the shorts launder well without falling apart. And even though you should wash your shorts after a sweaty session (read: bacteria) the liner is efficient at wicking moisture and not gathering odor—so only you know you’re late on laundry day. [Shop Men’s at smartwool.com](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.smartwool.com%2Fen-us%2Fproducts%2Fmens-active-lined-7-short-sw002839) | [Shop Women’s at smartwool.com](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.smartwool.com%2Fen-us%2Fproducts%2Fwomens-active-lined-4-short-sw003077) [Smartwool Active Lined Short Review](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a73273495/smartwool-active-shorts-review/) Credit: Trevor Raab ### Pros - Three pockets with lots of storage space - Soft, ribbed material - Long, fitted legs don’t ride up ### Cons - Thick liner that’s visible through fabric - Fabric is thick for humid runs ## Key Specs Inseam 8 inch. (M), 5 inch. (W) Sizes XS to XXL (M), XS to XL (W) Pockets 3 Liner Yes While testing the Twilight Short Tights, I honestly couldn’t stop brushing the palms of my hands against my thighs. The textured fabric, a nylon/elastane blend, is ultrasoft. I wore the shorts during my marathon training and appreciated the storage they provided for fuel and my phone. Editorial Assistant [Michael McDonough](https://www.runnersworld.com/author/459066/michael-mcdonough/) was surprised at the Twilight’s generous storage space despite having only three pockets when he tested the men’s version, the Twilight Half Tights. ![Athlete dressed in athletic shorts showcasing a side pocket.](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/ec56e0ac-8ae9-41f9-a4a5-d186f7f67da2.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:* "Athlete dressed in athletic shorts showcasing a side pocket.") trevor raab The women’s Twilight Half Tight has a slightly shorter inseam than the men’s. “Though it may not seem like it at first glance, the Tracksmith Half Tights have great storage capacity,” he said. “Their three pockets (two drop-in side pockets and a rear zippered pocket) look skinny—very skinny. The side pockets are just over 2.5 inches wide, and the rear pocket runs just over 3.5 inches at its max depth. But the secret to the pockets is their stretch. My phone is over three inches wide, but it was still able to fit in the side pocket.” [Shop Men’s at tracksmith.com](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tracksmith.com%2Fproducts%2Fm-twilight-half-tights) | [Shop Women’s at tracksmith.com](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tracksmith.com%2Fproducts%2Fw-twilight-short-tights) [Tracksmith Twilight Half Tights Review](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a71005339/tracksmith-twilight-half-tights-review/) Credit: Trevor Raab ### Pros - Trimmable legs with guides for customizable length - Large, secure pockets ### Cons - Waistband is on the tighter side; strongly recommend sizing up ## Key Specs Inseam 8 inch. (M), 7 inch. (W) Sizes XS to XL Pockets 2 Liner No If you’ve never considered yourself a tailor, Ciele has made alterations easy with its trimmable FSTTight shorts. The men’s 8-inch can be trimmed down to a 6-inch inseam, while the women’s inseam can be as short as 5 inches. Internal printed cut lines serve as a cheat so your trimming won’t look super hacky after chopping your shorts. I trimmed my shorts with hair shears, and the guide worked like a charm. You couldn’t tell the inseam length was DIY. The FSTTight has two side drop-in pockets for fuel, but you can carry more gels by sliding them into the waist’s external side bands. Though most of our testers found the shorts comfortable, our stockier testers found the leg openings a little snug on their thighs and wished the waistband wasn’t as tight. [Shop Men’s at cieleathletics.com](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcieleathletics.com%2Fcollections%2Fbottoms%2Fproducts%2Ffsttight-m-short-8-shadowcast) | [Shop Women’s at cieleathletics.com](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcieleathletics.com%2Fcollections%2Fbottoms%2Fproducts%2Ffsttightshort-7-w-dark-harbor) Credit: Thomas Hengge ### Pros - Silicone grips on the leg cuffs - S-biner key clip inside the right pocket - Impressive amount of storage in the pockets ### Cons - Women’s inseam (4 inches) rides up on thick thighs ## Key Specs Inseam 8 inch. (M), 4 inch. & 9 inch. (W) Sizes S to XL (M), XXS to XXXL (W) Pockets 5 Built-in Liner No If you’re heading out for a long run on the trail, the Janji Trail Shorts and Half Tights have impressive deep pockets for storing any size smartphone, lots of snacks, headlamp, and anything else you’d want to carry during your time away from civilization. A rear mesh pocket that takes up most of the back waistband’s real estate is perfect for those runs where the sky looks iffy; you can run distraction-free by tucking your jacket or long sleeve inside the pocket. The Trail shorts come in half tight lengths, with men’s at an 8-inch inseam and women’s 9-inch. You may want to wear the 9-inch, since a couple of our women’s shorts testers found the 4-inch wasn’t the best short for thick thighs. [Shop Men’s at janji.com](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fjanji.com%2Fcollections%2Fmens-shorts%2Fproducts%2Fms-8-trail-half-tight) | [Shop Women’s at janji.com](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fjanji.com%2Fproducts%2Fws-4-trail-short) * * * ## What to Consider ## Type of Short It’s about comfort and intention. Some runners prefer a bike short (compression or half-tight, as these shorts are also called) to ensure the legs don’t ride up. Many brands add grip tape on the inside of the cuffs to make the legs stay secure. ![womens running shorts](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/womens-running-shorts-019-6824d614edcdb.jpg?crop=0.974xw:0.974xh;0.0155xw,0&resize=980:* "womens running shorts") Thomas Hengge On the other hand, a flowy short (or loose or relaxed fit) provides more airflow and can come in a split-leg style, which some runners prefer for racing to enhance mobility. ## Inseam Length Inseams can be as little as 1.25 inches or as long as 10 inches for maximum coverage. Some runners prefer a longer inseam to prevent the dreaded thigh chafing, while others want as little leg coverage as possible for racing. ## Liner To run with underwear or commando is a question _RW_ staff heatedly discusses every so often. The right liner wicks away moisture and doesn’t cause a wedgie or cameltoe midrun. If you prefer to run with underwear, who’s to know? But there are some shorts out there sans liner. ## Pockets Another hot topic besides running with or without underwear: Storing your phone in the thigh or back waistband pocket? If you run with a phone, location is one thing to consider as well as security. After all, no one wants to feel their phone constantly hitting their leg as they run. ![janji trail shorts](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/womens-shorts-roundup9753-6824d6922efd4.jpg?crop=0.812xw:0.811xh;0.122xw,0.134xh&resize=980:* "janji trail shorts") Thomas Hengge Janji Trail Shorts Brands are also finally understanding that both men _and_ women need pockets. Some shorts come with 360 waistband storage; others have deep side pockets. Lastly, if you carry small valuables like keys or an ID, you’ll want to consider zippered or envelope pockets over drop-ins. ## Price We included some options for runners on a budget, but we understand our top picks are up there in cost. These shorts are made of durable, sweat-wicking materials that should last you for races and years to come. But we understand not every runner can afford such an investment. Some ways to make your shorts last longer are washing without fabric softener (you should do this with all workout clothes so it doesn’t degrade sweat-wicking capabilities) and air drying. * * * ## Q&A ![Headshot of Amanda Furrer](https://hips.hearstapps.com/rover/profile_photos/834ca306-afa9-4d8c-acdb-b604ad955588_1651178293.file?fill=1:1&resize=120:* "Headshot of Amanda Furrer") Amanda Furrer, Editor, Running Reviews, studied journalism at NYU and writing at Emerson College. She has reviewed gear and covered other topics in the running space for almost 10 years. Since 2013, she has consecutively run the Boston Marathon. She also has a master’s degree in gastronomy from Boston University and was formerly a professional baker for two years before hanging up her apron.