Whether you’re a seasoned marathon runner or you're getting ready to start training for your first 5K, you need a quality pair of running shorts to help you reach your goals.
So what are the most important things for a woman to look for in a running short? You want something that has moisture-wicking properties to keep you cool, you want a material that doesn’t chafe or ride up — and, of course, you want something that’s overall comfortable and fits you well.
All of the women's running shorts on this list meet our editors' criteria in terms of design, comfort, and value. Read on to find the best pick for you, no matter your running abilities!
When temperatures are sweltering, you'll want a nice and cool, moisture-wicking pair of shorts. These have built-in underwear, so you don't have to put on your own, which reduces the chafing. They're nice and short to keep the air flowing on your legs.
Plus, the fabric is designed to dry quickly when you start to break a sweat.
There’s a reason these women’s running shorts have a 5-star score from almost 500 reviews — they have everything you could possibly want from a running short.
Side mesh panels offer plenty of ventilation to keep you cool, a curved hem adjusts to the shape of your thigh — so you can freely engage in any type of stretch or movement — and sweat-wicking technology keeps you dry throughout your workout. They also top Verywell Fit's list of the best running shorts for women.
“They’re incredibly lightweight, so they’re great for any type of activity (or just lazing around), and they’re the ideal length to do it all comfortably. In fact, they’re so comfortable, I’ve slept in these shorts countless times, and prefer them to some of my plusher pairs because of their loose-leg fit and better breathability. Some pairs I’ve owned for 3 to 4 years, and they’re still in great shape!” — Zarah Kavanara, contributing editor
Upper-thigh chafing is probably the worst thing that can happen from a pair of women's running shorts, and this pick from Outdoor Voices totally solves that problem. They keep you cool while wicking away sweat.
“I’ve trained in these for marathons, worn these during half-marathons, and used them for pretty much every other cross-training activity. Even though they’re tight to the skin, they don’t ride up at all — or fall down either. The material is thick enough that you’re not revealing too much, and they’re pretty flattering, too. I would own these in every color if I could!” — Erica Murphy, director of SEO & content
We're once again obsessed with Lululemon's updates to their fan-favorite Tracker shorts. They lightly tweaked the design and kept the same sweat-wicking, stretchy Swift fabric that we adore. It's no wonder why this innovative company is one of the most trusted in the athleisure space.
A medium-rise, lay-flat waistband and 4-inch inseam provide more coverage, while the relaxed fit allows you to move freely from start to finish. A few zippered pockets keep small items from bouncing around, while the flattering fit and updated colors make us want to wear these women's running shorts every single day, no matter what we're doing.
These women's running shorts are perfect for logging both road miles and trail miles. The material is super lightweight and has a silky feel, so you can spend an entire day in them and feel comfortable the whole time.
“The thing I love most about them is that they don’t ride up as much as other running shorts, and I don’t have to fold down the waistband to make them the right length. They are a good length for running or hanging around the apartment, and have a very handy zippered pocket in the back of the waistband.” — Bridget Clegg, art production manager
The Fly-By was made specifically to keep runners cool, comfortable, and dry during long-distance runs. Under Armour's signature Moisture Transport System pulls sweat away from your body like a vacuum, while its mesh side panels act like vents to dump excess heat. Plus, the relaxed fit of these women's running shorts makes them a pleasure to wear.
Reflective details make these a solid choice for nighttime runs, and with more than 10 color options, there's an option to match every pair of running shoes you own.
Tested and vetted by Runner's World, this pair of women's running shorts from Outdoor Research is praised for its durable and lightweight fabric. They have a boy-short cut, plus ventilation in the waistband to help keep you cool. You can stash your GU, keys, and whatever else you need in them before you hit the trails running.
These running shorts for women are all about ventilation. They have mesh on the bottom seam to let your legs breathe along with a vent under the waistband for relieving #backsweat. Plus, you can store your phone, credit card, etc. in the two enclosed pockets!
“These shorts are flattering and functional. They stay put — no riding up at the waist! They’re 1 inch longer than most running shorts, which I love. I have three pairs and they’re the only shorts I’ll wear on runs. I bought my first pair about a year ago and haven’t looked back!” — Christine Anderson, executive director
Looking to revamp your workout attire without going broke? This pair of women's running shorts is made from adidas's proprietary Climalite fabric, which pulls moisture away from your skin so it can evaporate quickly.
The three-stripe side panels represent the classic adidas style, and with more than 30 color choices, it's never been easier to punch up your activewear collection.
Every runner chick needs a reliable pair of running shorts with a pocket. These high-waisted shorts are made of stretchy fabric that will hold your phone tight while you sprint off into the sunset.
Reviewers say they fit true to size and can hold pretty much any smartphone size.
Sure, there is a variety of women's running shorts designed for smaller frames, but there are plenty of options out there for strong, curvy builds, too. Check out these woven shorts with a knit waistband by RBX. They offer plenty of flex and coverage, and the pockets are a plus, too.
Comfortable, stylish, technical, and eco-friendly, these shorts are everything you could ever want (and more!) from a women's running short. The four-way stretch fabric with reflective details is incredibly lightweight, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying, and the shorts have a waistband that's antimicrobial, so you'll stay cool and dry — even when hill-climbing at mile 13.
Plus, believe it or not, these shorts are 100% made from recycled plastic bottles!
Mara SantilliMara is a freelance writer and editor specializing in culture, politics, wellness, and the intersection between them, whose print and digital work has appeared in Marie Claire, Women’s Health, Cosmopolitan, Airbnb Mag, Prevention, and more.
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