The 7 Best Running Shorts for Women, According to Runners Who Actually Tested Them

ProsBuilt-in interior liner Different lengths Fast-drying and wicks away sweatConsDoesn't run true to size, so it's best to size up for a roomier fit After testing countless pairs of running shorts over the years, the Hotty Hot High-Rise Lined Short from Lululemon is my fave for its sweat-wicking fabric and comfortable fit. The polyester blend wicks away sweat, prevents cling, and promotes airflow while running. The loose, flowy fit keeps me cool, while a built-in interior liner adds lightweight coverage and support without bulk.The side pockets are small, but hold small essentials like a credit card, key, or energy gels for long runs. The leg openings are spacious, allowing for a full range of motion, and an adjustable drawstring secures the waistband for a customizable fit. Want to hit the road at the crack of dawn or at night? No sweat, reflective detailing improves visibility in dark or dim light, making early morning or evening runs safer.I appreciate the 4-inch length, given I prefer more coverage, but a 2.5-inch length is available if you prefer a shorter fit. WH associate health and fitness editor Addison Aloian, NASM-CPT, is also a fan of the fit and vast color palette. “They never ride up or move around, which is hard to find in a running short,” she says. With tons of colors and sizes to choose from, you can't go wrong.Read more: Best Running Shoes For WomenFabric86% recycled polyester, 14% elastaneSizes0-20RiseHighInseam4 in.ProsLight and airy Seamless interior liner Different length options ConsRuns slightly big, it's best to size down if you want a snug fitNew Balance is a top brand in the running world, and the RC Short is one of my faves. It runs slightly big, but I love the extra breathing room during a sweat session.The lightweight, flowy construction uses the brand’s quick-drying tech fabric (a polyester and spandex blend) to wick moisture from the skin. The breathable design promotes tons of airflow, creating a cooling effect while I run—especially ideal during scorching hot summer runs.The seamless, interior lining reduces chafing and irritation, while the waistband features an adjustable drawstring to customize the fit. It’s also not too tight—some liners can feel like you’re wearing a diaper (hate). As for storage, there’s a back pocket for securing small running essentials and even tiny snacks like a granola bar when you’re on the move.Fabric86% recycled polyester, 14% spandexSizesXS-XLRiseMidInseam3 in., 5 in.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsCirculates air great Built-in briefComfy waistbandA pair of high-cut shorts, such as the Alo Match Point Short, is a running staple. The high-cut at the thighs keeps things perfectly airy and flowy for optimal coolness when I get overheated, more so than the Lululemon Hotty Hot Short.This construction, paired with its moisture-wicking polyester fabric, creates the perfect breathable running shorts. While it’s a bit short at just over two inches, there’s still great coverage with a built-in brief, and I find it doesn’t show too much skin.WH style contributor Lily Wolhner also appreciates this loose style for various workouts. “My favorite part about this short is that it’s never clingy, so it doesn’t ride up the thigh or need constant re-adjusting while you’re working out,” Wolhner says. “I’ve worn it for months and recently tested it during a 45-minute strength and HIIT workout, as well as an hour-long cross-training workout—I never felt over-exposed or uncomfortable in it.”By the looks of the elastic waistband, I expected it to dig into my skin—wrong. It felt comfortable, although it’s important to note this short does run big, so I suggest sizing down.Fabric90% polyester, 10% elastaneSizesXXS-LRiseMidInseam2.5 in.ProsBuilt-in compression Large waistband pocketsFabric resists tears and waterConsTight fit if you like more roomWe love a two-for-one, and this short from Brooks is ideal for both trail running and running at the gym. It has light compression with a built-in tight liner that doesn’t sacrifice mobility.The mega-durable polyester fabric resists tears and moisture, which makes it ideal for trail running in tough terrain. “I love the high waist, the zipper pocket to carry my keys, and the tight shorts under a looser short aesthetic,” Katz says.Two waistband pockets are impressively large and can even fit a water flask, so you can always stay hydrated during your jogs.I personally don't love compression-lined shorts because I like to feel totally free, but if you prefer extra coverage and double layers, this short is ideal.Fabric100% polyesterSizesXS-XXLRiseMidInseam3 in.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsLong-lasting material that doesn't pillAffordable price pointLots of color options ConsNon-adjustable waistband If you want a no-frills pair of shorts at an affordable price point that will stand the test of time, the Under Armour Play Up 3.0 belongs in your running gear collection. I’ve owned multiple pairs for years in eye-catching colors, and they’re still in good condition with no pills—even after dozens of runs and wash cycles.The lightweight knit fabric made from smooth polyester has an anti-pill finish for extra durability, and is impressively comfy. Plus, it hides embarrassing sweat stains post-run, despite the slightly thicker material.The waistband uses a wide elastic band that provides a secure fit without any adjustable features. However, I find it still fits roomy and allows for a full range of motion.It includes deep side pockets but no enclosure, so I don’t recommend stashing anything super important besides fuel, like energy gels. I wear it the most for shorter, mid-distance runs and whenever I want to add a pop of color—it has 21 color options!Fabric100% polyesterSizesXXS-XXLRiseMidInseam3 in.ProsNot constrictive around the waist UPF 50 protectionTwo deep pocketsI usually don’t gravitate towards compression shorts since I don’t like feeling constricted, but the Athleta Salutation Stash 5-Inch Short offers the perfect amount of tightness. It hugs my thighs with gentle compression, while the high-rise waistband distributes pressure evenly for a secure fit without digging in. Plus, the two deep side pockets offer convenient storage for longer runs.The smooth, double-knit fabric is buttery-soft and offers great coverage. While on the thicker side, it conceals sweat stains well—a huge win during long-haul runs. I wouldn’t say it feels the most breathable compared to other shorts in this guide, but the nylon and lycra blend wicks away sweat and dries fast.Another huge selling point? The fabric’s UPF 50 protection, which prevents UV radiation from scorching your thighs. This is my favorite feature as someone fair-skinned and prone to nasty sunburns (IYKYK). Aside from its fabric, I love that it has a matching jacket for a coordinated workout set.FabricNylon, polyester, elastaneSizesXXS-3XLRiseHighInseam5 in.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsFabric helps combat odors Breathable mesh Features two small pockets ConsMay be too short for someTracksmith’s Van Cortlandt Shorts combine retro styling with a performance-driven design that makes them a winner both on and off the track. It’s made from a lightweight mesh fabric to maximize airflow, paired with an antimicrobial finish to help combat odor by wicking away sweat and limiting bacteria buildup during intense runs.After summer runs when I’m dripping with sweat, I noticed zero smell—and that the short dries at the speed of light.Like our best overall, it’s quite short at 2.5 inches, so if you prefer a longer style, you should look to other styles in this guide. On the flip side, it doesn’t disrupt my range of motion during speed work or long runs. As for fit, I found it runs true to size, but make sure to consult the size chart as always.Fabric82% polyester, 18% spandexSizesXS-XLRiseMidInseam2.5 in.Nicolette Accardi is the Fitness Commerce Editor at Women’s Health with a specialty in running content and athleisure. She likes to chase her next best time by testing out shoes and other running gear, and styling her workout clothes as streetwear. She’s also a certified personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). Nicolette studied journalism and health sociology at Rutgers University. She has written for NJ.com, VICE, Rolling Stone, NBC News Select, and U.S. News & World Report.Natascha is an editor and writer covering health, fitness, and the ways people move through the world. She’s been a NASM-certified personal trainer for more than a decade, with a background in functional strength training, corrective exercise, nutrition, and behavior change. She has additional CES, CNC, BCS, and SFC certifications. She is also a level-2 certified Spinning instructor. Her work has appeared in Bicycling, Runner’s World, and other outlets, and her experience spans both editorial and hands-on work across the fitness industry. Whether she’s writing about training, health, or performance, she’s most interested in making complicated topics useful, approachable, and helpful.