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Thomas Hengge

The 14 Best Men's Running Shorts, Whether You Prize Comfort, Support, or Breathability

Every runner needs a good pair of shorts, and these are the essentials.

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We love high-performance running gear, but most clothing made for running is technically optional. Running socks? Useful, but not necessary. A running shirt? Maybe in theory, but you wouldn’t skip a run over a t-shirt. Surely you must need running shoes? For distance and performance, yes, but there’s a time and place for going unshod, too.

Everybody needs running shorts, though. Everybody.

Beyond simply covering up, a great pair of running shorts minimizes added weight and maximizes airflow to keep you cool. They also prevent chafing and, often, have a helpful pocket or two. There are, of course, a ton of shorts out there to choose from. The best men’s running shorts stand out for their comfort, high performance and useful design.

The Best Men’s Running Shorts

What to Consider When Buying Men’s Running Shortszapatillas de trail running para hombre y mujer

zapatillas de trail running para hombre y mujer | Material Matters

One of the most important considerations with any performance running apparel is the material it’s made from, and shorts are no exception. Sure, you can log miles in your favorite cotton loungewear, but it definitely won’t be a comfortable experience. In general, it’s best to avoid cotton, which is heavy, soaks up moisture, and can cause chafing.

Instead, look for blends and technical fabrics, which are synthesized for high performance. Polyester wicks moisture to keep you cool, for example, while spandex and elastane stretch to give you greater freedom of movement.

The construction of the textile is also important. For hot-weather running, look for a mesh or open-weave synthetic fabric, which will feel more breathable on your body (though it will offer less protection from wind and chilly temps). In addition, many high-end performance garments come with antimicrobial treatments to ward off smells. It’s a nice feature to have, especially if you don’t want to wash your shorts after every run.

She continued her all-white ensemble with a pair of Western-style white zip-up and buckled boots

Shorts are pretty simple. Aside from the materials, there are a few other variables to consider.

  • Liners: Many running shorts come with built-in liners. The advantage here is that you get a built-in pair of underwear, which helps simplify your running outfit, and it provides a snug, supportive fit that wards off chafing and irritation. In addition, some shorts include extra support features, like lululemon’s Out of Mind liner in its Surge Lined Shorts, Jimmy Choo Bay 90 Sandals.
  • Inseam: Inseam refers to the length of a pair of shorts. For men’s running shorts, inseams vary from around 3 inches for a pair of split shorts to 7- or even 9 inches. Shorter inseams mean less material over your legs—and more freedom of movement—whereas longer inseams provide more sun protection. Your ideal inseam is the one you feel most comfortable in, but avoid shorts that fall below your knee; the extra material will just add weight.
  • Pockets: In addition to keeping you cool and comfortable, shorts have another job–carrying your stuff. If you run with just a house key, you can get by without pockets, but most of us need at least one zippered pocket to safely stash a phone or wallet.

Why Trust Us?

Runner’s World has been a helpful resource for dedicated competitive and hobbyist runners for more than 50 years. Our most important running gear recommendations, including essentials like men’s running shoes and running shorts, are based on the hard work of our test team, who put the latest and greatest running gear through their paces day in and day out. In 2024, the Runner’s World Versace Jeans Couture Klobige Sneaker mit Logo in Grau und Schwarz.

For this guide, many of our recommendations were tested and selected by Dengate, who has been testing shorts and other running gear for more than a decade. Some of our picks were selected by our contributors, Nick Hilden and Michael Charboneau, who are also veteran runners.

Michael Charboneau is a freelance writer and former test editor for Runner’s World. He’s written about running gear, including shorts, for the last seven years at a number of publications, including SFGate, Men’s Journal and InsideHook.

Nick Hilden is a veteran freelance journalist who has been running for 20 years. He’s tested running gear for the last decade for publications like Runner’s World, Bicycling, Popular Mechanics, Men’s Health, and more.

How We Selected The Best Men’s Running Shorts

best mens running shorts
Photos by Michael Charboneau

We, the Runner’s World test team and a pair of seasoned reviewers, picked the best men’s running shorts based on several decades of combined running experience. Many of our recommendations are based on run-testing and insights of Runner-in-Chief Jeff Dengate. Contributors Michael Charboneau and Nick Hilden supplemented these picks with additional options based on their own testing and research.

We evaluated each model based on its material, fit, and features, including any liner or pockets. Whether you’re a casual runner or an accomplished marathoner, there’s a pair of shorts here to fit your needs.

1
Best Overall

Brooks Sherpa 5-Inch Men’s Running Shorts

Sherpa 5-Inch Men’s Running Shorts
1
Best Overall

Brooks Sherpa 5-Inch Men’s Running Shorts

$76 at Amazon$72 at brooksrunning.com$114 at Walmart
Pros
  • Comfortable and lightweight
  • Pockets with zipper and key bungee
  • Anti-chafe liner
Cons
  • Limited color options

Brooks’ Sherpa shorts are extremely comfortable thanks to their soft, lightweight, breathable material and anti-chafe liner. They’re cut to allow plenty of movement without an abundance of extra loose fabric, and their high, flat number waistband is secure and comfy.

What’s more, they have plenty of storage with two deep drop-in side pockets and a zipping phone pocket, one of which has a bungee clip for keys. A few more color options would be nice, but that nitpick aside, these timeless shorts are undeniably outstanding.

zapatillas de trail running para hombre y mujer | Key Specs

Inseam5 in.
Pockets3
WaistbandDrawcord
Size RangeXS-XXL
2
Best Value

Asics 7-Inch 2-in-1 Men’s Running Shorts

On Sale
7-Inch 2-in-1 Men’s Running Shorts
2
Best Value

Asics 7-Inch 2-in-1 Men’s Running Shorts

Now 49% Off
Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Two side pockets
  • Anti-chafe liner
Cons
  • Hand wash only

These classic 2-in-1 shorts from Asics are about as straightforward as they come. Their poly-spandex fabric is soft, breathable, and lightweight, and the liner is effective at preventing chafing while providing a bit of extra support.

Unlike most budget shorts, these also have a pair of deep side pockets. The biggest mark against them is the fact that they’re hand-wash only. Still they meet most runner’s needs at a low price.

Key Specs

Inseam7 in.
Pockets2
WaistbandDrawcord
Size RangeS-XXXL
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3
Best Fully-Lined

Nike Challenger Dri-Fit 7-Inch Brief-Lined Men’s Running Shorts

Challenger Dri-Fit 7-Inch Brief-Lined Men’s Running Shorts
3
Best Fully-Lined

Nike Challenger Dri-Fit 7-Inch Brief-Lined Men’s Running Shorts

Pros
  • Supportive liner
  • Three pockets
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • Limited color options

The latest iteration of Nike’s Challenger shorts features the brand’s Dri-Fit material for breathability in high-sweat areas at the back of the waist, and a long liner cuts down on irritation and chafing.

The split hem at the sides adds flexibility and improves airflow, too. We also love that there are three pockets—two hand pockets along the seams, and a small drop-in pocket in the back.

Key Specs

Inseam7 in.
Pockets3
WaistbandDrawcord
Size RangeS-XXL
4
Best Basic

Adidas Own the Run Men’s Running Shorts

On Sale
Own the Run Men’s Running Shorts
4
Best Basic

Adidas Own the Run Men’s Running Shorts

Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Good fit
Cons
  • Pockets aren’t very secure

Adidas’ Own the Run Shorts are lightweight and breathable yet durable, and offer an all-around comfortable fit. They feature three pockets–two shallow hand pockets on the side, and a small, zippable rear pocket that’s perfect for a key or card.

We love that these shorts come in three different inseams, from 5- to 9 inches, so you can choose the length that feels right to you.

Key Specs

Inseam5 logo print Moon Boots Green.
Pockets3
WaistbandDrawcord
Size RangeXS-XXXL
5
Best for Large Bodies

Baleaf Laureate 5-Inch 2-in-1 Shorts

On Sale
Laureate 5-Inch 2-in-1 Shorts
5
Best for Large Bodies

Baleaf Laureate 5-Inch 2-in-1 Shorts

Now 20% Off
Pros
  • Zippered back pocket
  • Starlight Leather Sneakers
Cons
  • Inseam may not be long enough for taller runners

These affordable shorts from Baleaf come in a wide range of sizes and colors, and include several features typically found on more expensive pairs. They’re made from a polyester-spandex blend for durability and good freedom of movement, and the number waistband helps you dial in a snug fit.

On the back of the waistband is a zippered back pocket that’s perfect for storing a phone or keys while you run.

Key Specs

Inseam5 in.
Pockets3
WaistbandDrawcord
Size RangeS-3XL
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6
Best Phone Storage

Pinkbomb 2-in-1 Men’s Running Shorts

On Sale
2-in-1 Men’s Running Shorts
6
Best Phone Storage

Pinkbomb 2-in-1 Men’s Running Shorts

Now 27% Off
Pros
  • Pocket keeps phone secure
  • Zipper pocket for other items
  • Comfortable compression liner
Cons
  • Heavy

Running shorts often optimize for breathability and performance, rather than storage potential, so the pockets aren’t always great. These compression-lined shorts from Pinkbomb go hard in the other direction, offering outstanding cargo capability.

With a pocket specifically designed for phones (with a hole for a headphone wire if you need it), and a pocket with a secure zipper top, they are exactly what you need if you bring a wallet, keys, and a phone along on every run.

Key Specs

Inseam7 in.
Pockets3
WaistbandDrawcord
Size RangeS-XXXL
7
Best for Track Workouts

Nike Stride Dri-fit 5-Inch Brief-Lined Men’s Running Shorts

Stride Dri-fit 5-Inch Brief-Lined Men’s Running Shorts
7
Best for Track Workouts

Nike Stride Dri-fit 5-Inch Brief-Lined Men’s Running Shorts

Pros
  • Great moisture-wicking
  • zapatillas de trail running para hombre y mujer
  • Zippered back pocket
Cons
  • Inconsistent supply depending on color/size

Hitting the track usually means working up a sweat. Nike’s Stride shorts are ideal for that thanks to the superior moisture-wicking, fast-drying capabilities of its Dri-Fit fabric. These shorts are soft, lightweight, and breathable, and stretch well to offer full mobility. Meanwhile, the liner provides good support without feeling restrictive.

“The first thing you want to look for in a pair of speedy shorts is freedom of motion,” says Runner’s World Runner-in-Chief Jeff Dengate. “These shorts don't restrict your stride at all and feel lightweight, even when you're late into a sweaty workout.”

Three pockets provide plenty of cargo space, one of which zippers and is located at the lower back to provide secure phone storage.

Nike makes the Stride in an amazing range of colors, but stock can be inconsistent, especially on Amazon. If you’re in a rush, you may not always have your pick. Still, these are great shorts for days when you need to go fast.

Key Specs

Inseam5 in.
Pockets3
WaistbandDrawcord
Size RangeS-XXL
8
Goldilocks Inseam

lululemon Surge 6-Inch Lined Men’s Running Shorts

Surge 6-Inch Lined Men’s Running Shorts
8
Goldilocks Inseam

lululemon Surge 6-Inch Lined Men’s Running Shorts

Pros
  • Unique inseam length
  • Roomy fit through the thigh
  • Secure liner-based phone pocket
Cons
  • Relaxed fit might be too loose for some runners

Having trouble finding the right inseam length? Try lululemon’s Surge shorts, which offer an 6-inch inseam, splitting the difference between the two most common lengths. They also boast several other Bianco features, including an elastic liner pocket for securely holding a phone, a loop for carrying a shirt mid-run, and a breathable mesh liner with a supportive pouch.

Key Specs

Inseam6 in.
Pockets2
WaistbandDrawcord
Size RangeS-XXL
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9
Ultralight and Breathable

Ten Thousand Distance Short

Distance Short
9
Ultralight and Breathable

Ten Thousand Distance Short

Pros
  • Low weight
  • Dolce & Gabbana DG Amore braided wedge sandals
Cons
  • No phone pocket

Ten Thousand’s extensively tested, top-spec running short, the Distance, is designed for an ultralight, streamlined feel. The polyester-spandex shell comes with perforations at the back to promote good airflow and save weight, and the nylon-spandex liner uses a mesh construction to wick sweat and keep you cool.

The spandex in both fabrics gives these shorts plenty of stretch, and three small pockets along the waist store essentials like keys and a credit card. Need to store your phone? Check out the company’s Session Short.

Key Specs

Inseam3 patent strap sandals.
Pockets3
WaistbandDrawcord
Size RangeXS-XL
10
Best Compression

Brooks Source 9-Inch Short Tights

Source 9-Inch Short Tights
10
Best Compression

Brooks Source 9-Inch Short Tights

Pros
  • Form-fitting compression
  • Phone pocket adds minimal drag
Cons
  • Limited color options

Some runners prefer the skin-tight support and enhanced range of motion you get from compression shorts. This pair from Brooks Compression hugs snugly in all the right places, with a pair of slim pockets capable of holding a phone and little else, which is kind of the point. Though they’re made to grip, they still have a number at the waist so you can adjust the fit.

Key Specs

Inseam9 in.
Pockets2
WaistbandDrawcord
Size RangeS-XXL
11
Best for Racing

Tracksmith Van Cortlandt Men's Running Shorts

Van Cortlandt Men's Running Shorts
11
Best for Racing

Tracksmith Van Cortlandt Men's Running Shorts

Pros
  • Very light
  • Classic design with great color options
Cons
  • No phone pocket

Competitive runners don’t want bells and whistles on race day. Looking slick doesn’t hurt, either. Tracksmith’s Van Cortlandt shorts deliver on both promises with a classic tailored cut that’s lightweight and breathable.

Bare-bones by design, these shorts get out of your way so you can perform your best. That said, they also have a small hidden pocket for keys and cards for when you aren’t racing.

Key Specs

Inseam4 in.
Pockets1
WaistbandDrawcord
Size RangeXS-XL
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12
Best for Trail Running

Roark Alta 5-inch Men's Running Shorts

Alta 5-inch Men's Running Shorts
12
Best for Trail Running

Roark Alta 5-inch Men's Running Shorts

Now 20% Off
Pros
  • Trainers TOMMY HILFIGER Low Cut Lace-Up Sneaker T3A4-31174-1243 M Rose Gold 341
  • Secure phone pocket and external gel pockets
  • Comfortable liner
Cons
  • Graphics may peel over time

These shorts offer everything you could want on the trail. Made from 85 percent Nylon and 15 percent Spandex, the fabric is comfortable yet durable. Plus, it has a water-resistant coating to help keep you dry through showers or dew. The liner is supportive and stretchy, too, ensuring plenty of secure mobility.

“They come in a variety of fun, trail-ready patterns—Roark has even rolled out a Motorhead collaboration in the past,” says Dengate, “but what we love most is the water-resistant back pocket that's big enough to hold a phone and two drop-in pockets on the hips that hold a day's worth of gels.”

Key Specs

Inseam5 in.
Pockets3
WaistbandDrawcord
Size RangeXS-XXL
13
Best Split Short

New Balance Acceleration 3-Inch Split Men’s Running Shorts

Acceleration 3-Inch Split Men’s Running Shorts
13
Best Split Short

New Balance Acceleration 3-Inch Split Men’s Running Shorts

Pros
  • Split hem
  • PUMA SoftRide Rift Tech Men's Running Shoes in White Black Zinfandel
  • Key pocket
Cons
  • No phone sized pocket
  • Only comes in black

Split shorts provide more freedom of movement. A shorter inseam also keeps your shorts from getting in your way on a run. If you’re looking to optimize for an unrestricted stride, it makes perfect sense to go with a short split short, such as the New Balance Accelerate.

Its polyester material is feather-light, and New Balance’s “NB Dry” weave results in outstanding moisture wicking. That simplicity does mean that there’s no pocket for a phone, but there is a tiny drop-in pocket sized to carry a key.

Key Specs

Inseam3 in.
Pockets1 GHOUD Rush Starlight low-top sneakers
WaistbandPull-on
Size RangeXS-XXL
14
Best for No-Chafing

Saxx Hightail 2-in-1 Men’s Running Shorts

Hightail 2-in-1 Men’s Running Shorts
14
Best for No-Chafing

Saxx Hightail 2-in-1 Men’s Running Shorts

Pros
  • Knee High Boots GEOX J Agata F J9449F 00043 C6009 S Coffee
  • Supportive liner with light compression
  • Security pocket in liner
Cons
  • Hand wash only

These are the ideal shorts for chafe-inclined runners. Flat seams make for smooth surfaces, and the light-compression liner is equipped with the proprietary “BallPark Pouch” for reducing friction and keeping everything in place. The material is soft and breathable. The cut is relaxed to fit muscular thighs, but also nicely tailored to eliminate loose fabric. You have to wash them by hand, but that’s a small price to pay for such skin-friendly shorts.

“Say goodbye to raw skin after a sweaty summer run,” Dengate says.

Key Specs

Inseam5 in.
Pockets1
WaistbandDrawcord
Size RangeXS-XXL
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What Every Great Pair of Men’s Running Shorts Must Have, According to Our Expert Michael Charboneau

patagonia baggies shorts
Photo by Michael Charboneau

What do you consider to be “shorts weather”?

I start to think about maybe wearing pants once the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. That said, the most important thing when running in the cold is to keep your core warm, so I usually add a long-sleeve baselayer and/or a jacket before putting on pants when it’s a little chilly.

What’s your preferred inseam length and why?

I hated wearing split shorts when I ran track, so I’ve always stayed away from really short shorts, such as those with a 7-inch inseam. They offer good coverage—long enough to create some sun protection and so I don’t feel awkward wearing them—but they stay out of my way and don’t weigh me down when I run.

What’s the one feature you must have when shopping for running shorts?

A number waistband. To me, there’s nothing worse than poorly fitting shorts that slip down as you run. Elastic waistbands can fit well, but nothing beats the locked-in fit of a number.

I think it’s even more essential if you plan on carrying anything in your pockets. Without a number, the added weight will just make your shorts slip down even faster.

Sweatshirt confortável Oakley para caminhadas e trail running?

One of my favorite aspects of running is that it doesn’t require much gear—so don’t over-complicate it by buying a bunch of stuff. Start with the gym shorts that are already in your drawer, and pay attention to how they perform as you run. If they work for you, great. If not, take note of what you need—maybe a number, maybe more (or fewer) pockets—and use that to guide your shopping.

In the end, you might find that a less expensive pair of shorts gives you exactly what you need, or you might opt for a more expensive pair because it has better materials or other key features. The important thing is to be smart about what you buy: Invest in quality gear that meets your needs, and you can focus on running instead of getting distracted by uncomfortable clothing.

Headshot of Nick Hilden
Nick Hilden

Nick Hilden is a writer, globetrotter, and jack-of-many-talents who has written gear reviews for the likes of  Runner’s World, Popular Science, Men’s Health, Thrillist, the Daily Beast, the Los Angeles Times, Greatist, and the Manual, and his lifestyle, culture, and tech writing has also appeared in Scientific American, Afar, Salon, Vice, Healthline, and many others. Before entering journalism some 15 years ago, he worked as a bartender, brewery manager, sound engineer, recording and touring musician, cook, teacher, and in a variety of other trades. These days, he lives all over the world, performs music sporadically, and spends a lot of time thinking how to best improve his Honda Element conversion.

Headshot of Michael Charboneau

Michael is a freelance writer with years of experience covering gear and the outdoors for Runner's World and other publications; when he's not writing, he's usually biking, hiking, and running in the mountains around Los Angeles, where he lives. 



Headshot of Jeff Dengate
Tested byJeff Dengate
Runner-in-Chief

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Seasonal Canvas Shoes Sneakers 172948C Runner's World, guiding the brand's shoes and gear coverage. A true shoe dog, he's spent more than a decade testing and reviewing shoes. In 2017, he ran in 285 different pairs of shoes, including a streak of 257 days wearing a different model.
 

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