I’m Picky About Running Shorts—This Newer Brand Nailed the Fit, Fabric, and Style

I firmly believe running shorts matter more than running shoes—I’ll take a blister, bruised toenail, or hot spot over a nether regions rash any day—and the Bandit Vento Shorts have been my Platonic Ideal: pocket configuration, fit, liner. It all works for me. They were only a seasonal offering for a while, and I’d stock up on every drop (though they’re now a core piece available year-round). I can’t recommend them enough, but I’ve recently been reaching for a different pair.Miler Running is one of my favorite newer running brands because it balances design and functionality equally. The brand uses imported fabrics and makes all its gear in New York’s garment district, something I’ll gladly pay a bit more for when shopping for running and civilian clothes. I got a pair of its Work 2-in-1 Running Shorts at the beginning of the year, and they’re easily my most-worn pair of 2026.Miler’s Work Shorts pare back the pockets from Bandit’s Ventos, but I’m preferring the clean silhouette lately. It has two liner pockets for my phone or gels, plus a small key pocket on the waistband. Nothing bounces whether I’m on a long easy run or sprinting up a hill and letting my running form go out the window. The liner offers light compression that keeps me snug yet comfortable, and I haven’t had any chafing.What impresses me most is the fabric—it’s extremely lightweight. I don’t pay much attention to the fabric weight of running apparel because I’m no Olympian. Shaving precious milliseconds off my mile times isn’t a concern. But man, these Miler shorts have me reconsidering that stance. It feels like I’m wearing next to nothing, next-level freedom of movement. SatisfyAs far as looks go, they easily pivot from workout to casual wear thanks to tonal branding and a subdued color. I’m all for loud colors and patterns—I ran my first marathon in leopard-lined shorts—but I like that Miler’s Work Shorts don’t scream “running”. They’ll seamlessly go from run-club run to run-club coffee afterward.I won’t get on my soapbox here, but I will say I like spending money on brands that do more than just make and sell stuff. Miler hosted a Dirt City Series run club over the summer that promoted using and maintaining dirt roads and trails in New York City. In contrast, it recently began its Grid City Series, a guided run which explores the design and architecture around town. Not many run clubs open your eyes to an 18-mile dirt trail starting in Brooklyn, or the history of a SoHo facade; a zag amongst endless run club zigs.I still wear my Bandit Ventos, and they’re a great pair to rotate, but Miler’s Work Shorts are my personal favorite of 2026. Their approach to fabric and design matches some of my favorite clothing brands, and the construction is comfortable and durable. “Look good, feel good” is an adage I wholeheartedly believe in. Miler adds “run good” to it.Shop the Miler Running Work Running 2-in-1 ShortDanny Perez is a Reviews Editor for Popular Mechanics with a focus on men's style, gear, and home goods. Recently, he was coordinator of partnership content at another product journalism outlet. Prior to that, he was a buyer for an independent men's shop in Houston, Texas, where he learned all about what makes great products great. He enjoys thrifting for 90s Broadway tees and vintage pajama sets. His spare time is occupied by watching movies and running to impress strangers on Strava.