The Best Running Shorts For Women
We looked at the top 10 Running Shorts For Women and dug through the reviews from 35 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best Running Shorts For Women.
Our Review Process
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Our Picks For The Top Running Shorts For Women
With longer inseams (5, 7 or 8 inches) for coverage, a broad, high-rise waistband and super-soft, moisture-wicking polyester/Spandex material, these exercise shorts are perfect for working out and relaxing. They even have two large side pockets that are big enough to fit cellphones!
Just the Right LengthYou'll want to live in these shorts; they're good for much more than working out!
Available in more than 35 colors and patterns, Blooming Jelly's women's running shorts are made with lightweight fabric and feature a side zipper pocket and an elastic closure. Best of all, a built-in underwear liner that will never ride up.
These Have a LinerIf you're tired of flimsy running shorts that don't provide enough coverage and comfort, this pair was made for you!
Under Armour's flattering running shorts have a 3.5-inch inseam and are made from fast-drying, sweat-wicking 100% polyester. They have a soft waistband, built-in brief, an inside drawstring and a crossover hem accentuating the legs.
They're Athletic and FeminineThese have everything you want in a pair of running shorts; pull them on and head out the door.
These 4-inch running shorts also have an insider liner and are made from polyester and Spandex, with a drawstring closure and fabric that never irritates or chafes the skin. They really are as soft as butter! You'll also appreciate the inside pockets and back zipped pockets.
Soft as Butter FabricThese will immediately become your favorite pair of bottoms to work out in.
How great is this pair of 3-inch running shorts? They have a looser fit that provides the right amount of coverage and a built-in liner. They're made from fast-drying, lightweight fabric and have pretty piping along the seams. These shorts even have nice big pockets to stash your stuff. You can wear these outside all summer and to the gym the rest ...
With Big Pockets!These shorts are not too tight, but they will stay put when you're moving.
Buying Guide
Running shorts generally fall into two categories: short and loose or compression. The first kind is designed to provide increased breathability and a wider range of motion. The inseams generally range from 3 to 6 inches and can be V-notch or split shorts. The V-notch styles are like regular shorts, with V cutouts on the sides. Split shorts have two panels, with the front one overlapping the back.
Compression shorts are made to support and compress, which can improve blood flow and decrease muscle oscillation. You will find these with longer inseams, generally from 5 to 8 inches. Note that these are different from bicycle shorts that are made to be worn by bicyclists. Those have padding on the insides, which is not appropriate for running.
Loose running shorts are breathable because more air can get into the wider leg openings. Look for shorts with built-in liners; otherwise, your undergarments might show. They are not great for keeping you warm, and some find the material can chafe against the skin. Compression shorts are not as breathable and can restrict runner movement. Still, they provide more warmth, and some people feel that compression styles help with endurance.
Modern running shorts come in endless colors, patterns and styles; many have strategically-placed zippers for keys, phones and other small things. It’s good to have storage options like this. The looser versions can have elastic waistbands and drawstrings, but you won’t see the latter on compression shorts. The choice is up to you.
Why we recommend these running shorts for women?
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The Best Bang For Your Buck
Blevonh Women’s Yoga & Running Shorts
Key Takeawy
How great is this pair of 3-inch running shorts? They have a looser fit that provides the right amount of coverage and a built-in liner. They're made from fast-drying, lightweight fabric and have pretty piping along the seams. These shorts even have nice big pockets to stash your stuff. You can wear these outside all summer and to the gym the rest of the year.
What to Look For
- Compression shorts have higher waistbands, while looser styles hit below the waist.
- Look for soft, breathable materials that have stretch.
- Vaseline and anti-chafing balms can help with chafing.
- Running shorts come in women’s, men’s and unisex designs.
- You don’t have to wear underwear if the shorts have a full liner.
- Many runners wear compression shorts under looser shorts.
- If you run at night, wear bright-colored running tops and bottoms.
- Compression shorts are great for yoga, other activities and floor work exercises. If you do those movements in loose shorts, the material will move around and reveal more skin.
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