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Not all activewear is created equal. Similar to running leggings, which I helped to test this past winter, there are many athletic options on the market that will technically do the job. However, if you have ever spent miles fixating on uncomfortable material and fit, you know the goal is to find a pair you do not even notice at all.
There are three main elements to consider when looking for workout shorts: material, length, and pockets. I know this because I have been running for just about 20 years from competitive high-school cross-country to actively training for my fourth marathon this fall.
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The criteria:
- Material: Most shorts are going to be made out of polyester, nylon, and elastane, and the bigger companies will have some proprietary material with a fancy name that essentially is just a blend of these. You just really want to make sure to stay away from cotton because even though it’s soft, it’s not moisture wicking or fast drying, which can lead to chafing.
- Length: It’s more of a preference and depends on the activity and type of workout. When it comes to biker shorts, I prefer the longer styles around eight inches because then I am not worried about them riding up my inner thighs. For flow-ier styles, I usually look for a two-and-a-half-inch inseam so there is not too much material to flap around.
- Pockets: My true non-negotiable. I need to be able to carry my keys and bonus if the pocket is zippered so I know I am not losing them.
The workout shorts below have been tested over many miles and sweaty workout classes to help you find the best options no matter how you choose to get yourself moving.
So, You Want To Know Which Are the Best Workout Shorts?
➼ Best workout shorts for running
➼ Best biker shorts
➼ Best shorts you could work out in (if you needed to)
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Best workout shorts for running
These are the sports cars of running shorts. They were engineered for the 2020 Olympic Marathon Trials so they’re made out of the lightest and most minimal possible material. This shorter, featherlight pair features five gel pockets and makes me feel like a serious athlete even if I am just running at an amateur pace. I reserve these for speed workouts where I want maximum mobility and race days.
I have gotten into the habit of picking up a pair of these whenever they go on sale. Now I own four. I can confirm they do hold up after multiple washes and hours of sweat. They are my go-to for shorter runs because the pocket is not quite large enough to pack fuel with you.
RunTok helped me find these. They have become a recent favorite in my rotation. They are lightweight, baggy without too much material, come in so many colors, and have a zippered pocket that can hold an entire iPhone. They tick all the boxes for a great price.
I can nearly smell my high-school track when looking at certain colorways of these shorts. There is a reason this iconic style has remained largely unchanged over the years and is a running staple that is available at nearly any sporting-goods store. They are no frills, lightweight, and a great option if you just need something to get the job done. The only downside is that there is only one very small pocket.
On those summer days when the temperature is not messing around and you know you need to wear as little as possible to workout outside, these two-and-a-half-inch low-rise shorts are as small as you can get without going full briefs mode. They still manage to have a small zipper pocket for your valuables.
District Vision, a holistic athletic brand known for its stylish running sunglasses, started making technical running clothes a few years ago and these bright-blue shorts are high on my wish list. Regardless of my mile times, the deep side splits are going to make it look like I know what I am doing out there. I might make an exception to my “must have a pocket” rule for these beauts.
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Best biker shorts
Shoutout RunTok because I also found these shorts after watching a running content creator wear this style during the New York City Marathon. It makes sense why she liked these for that race given the five pockets, built-in mesh belt allowing for even more storage, and even a key loop. Basically, these are perfect for when you need to carry a lot of fuel with you.
Best for cross-training days at the gym or in workout classes that focus on bending and stretching, these eight-inch inseam, high-rise shorts are made of a mid-weight fabric that feels buttery soft and secure and won’t become see-through when you do a squat or a pike.
If you want an extra pair of bike shorts or just want an off-duty look, these are especially great for the price. They have a pocket and comfortably hit right at the belly button, making them the perfect shorts for a morning consisting of yoga and errands; I just probably would not wear them for anything too intense.
Lululemon is most well known for its leggings, so it is no surprise the brand’s biker shorts are equally supportive and comfortable. These include a hidden pocket in the waistband for cards and keys and a drawcord so you can workout without the annoyance of constantly pulling back up your shorts. Due to their shorter length, they may ride up more as you move so they are best for lower-impact activities. Also they run small, so it is best to size up.
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Best shorts you could work out in (if you needed to)
If you are someone who likes to cut the liner out of shorts, this unlined option is for you. Outfitted with multiple pockets, including two big enough to fit an iPhone, these soft shorts are great for hiking or 12-3-30 on the treadmill. The longer zipper pulls might just get annoying when you pick up the pace.
The athlete you had a crush on in high school probably had a few pairs of these. I love pairing mine with something a bit more formal like a white prairie top or a lightweight button-down for the ultimate breathable outfit.
These outerwear shorts are not just for the trails. Yes, they have six different pockets, are made of water-repellent fabric, and even have a bungee-style waist adjustment, but they also look cool with a tank top on a really hot summer day.
