What are the best running shorts in 2026? 10 tested by real runners

A good pair of running shorts will drastically improve your run training and racing. The best running shorts prioritise comfort and proven functionality every time you lace up your running shoes.

When it comes to choosing your next pair of shorts for running, there’s a lot to say about personal preference. What’s certain is that the best running shorts provide a balance between lightweight fabric, excellent breathability, and freedom of movement. 

Whether you’re after built-in support in the shape of a liner, or practical pockets to stash nutrition, we’ve carefully considered the key run-specific features of each pair of shorts on test here. 

In this guide, we’ve rounded up the top running shorts for men and the best women’s running shorts, catering to different budgets, styles, and needs.

From high-performance options to versatile designs for everyday runs, we break down some top-notch short options and why we recommend them. Let’s get into it…

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Best running shorts for men and women in 2026

1. Montane Slipstream Twin Skin Shorts

Our favourite running shorts for both men and women, it’s rare that shorts hit the nail on the head twice but the proof is in the pudding with the Twin Skin. Montane’s Dragon Twin Skin Shorts truly live up to their name, sporting an innovative “twin skin” design, which involves a regenerated nylon inner layer paired with a relaxed, feather-light outer shell.

This thoughtful combination creates an incredibly comfortable feel, though I did find the waistband seam a tad noticeable on runs where I opted to go commando. Despite their relaxed fit, the flex in the waistband along with integrated drawcord ensure these shorts stay put, no matter how fast you’re moving.

The rear zip pocket is perfectly sized for your key, a card, and an energy gel. Plus, reflective details add a welcome touch for enhanced visibility. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed hitting the trails in these Montane shorts.

2. Salomon Sense Aero 7”

The Sense Aero 7″ shorts may seem a touch pricey, but they deliver excellent value compared to even more expensive options.  The seven-inch length provides solid coverage, while the ultra-light, four-way stretch fabric feels nearly weightless and offers unrestricted movement with great breathability, too.  

A supportive brief liner inside ensures comfort, with flatlocked seams and minimal waistband stitching to prevent irritation.  Though there’s no zip pocket, four elasticated pouches below the waistband securely hold essentials like gels, keys, or a phone. Be aware, though, that these pockets can get sweaty. Even without zippers, I found the storage reliable during runs.

3. Brooks Run Visible 4″ 2in1 Short 2.0

The Brooks Run Visible 4″ 2in1 Short 2.0 really do have it all – stylish, practical, visible and chafe-free. These eye-catching shorts offer the perfect balance of being fitted where needed – around the legs and waist – and loose and flexible elsewhere. 

Light and well ventilated, the double layer design with drawstring waist offers secure fitting around the legs and the outer shell offers flexibility. There are plenty of storage options with a large thigh pocket which offers bounce-free carrying of a phone and/or nutrition plus a secure zip pocket on the outer for a key. I felt cool, fresh and stylish on even the warmest of days and they wash and dry pretty quick even with the double layer. 

4. New Balance RC Short 5” 

New Balance’s RC five-inch run shorts are among the shortest men’s options we’ve tested here, making them ideal for warm-weather runs with excellent breathability and ventilation. However, they may feel too chilly for winter, especially as the lightweight design lacks substantial lining.  A snug brief liner offers solid support, but might feel restrictive for some, especially if paired with underwear. 

While movement is unhindered, the shorts tend to ride up, potentially causing thigh chafing for some.  The perforated fabric wicks moisture effectively, and a zip pocket fits keys, cards, or gels. With nine colors available and an adjustable drawstring waistband, they’re pretty versatile, too.

5. Inov8 Train Lite 5″ Short

The Inov8 Train Lite 5″ shorts sit on the waist without any digging in due to the large elastic waist band, plus handy drawstring if required. The inner brief feels almost invisible thanks to the soft fabric and perfect fit around the legs. With smooth seams and stretchy fabric they facilitate a full range of movement. 

The fabric is extremely lightweight and the outer shell is treated with a fluorocarbon-free water repellent to protect against light rain and dirt. This lightweight construction avoided any unnecessary moisture build up, plus they dried fast after washing. The 5in shorts provide a flattering fit, however I did experience some minor chafing on the inner thighs. There is an easy-access zipped pocket too, which is handy. 

6. Salomon Sense Aero 2in1 Running Shorts

 The Salomon Sense Aero 2in1 are a great performing pair of women’s run shorts. Critically, there’s no budge while running nor chafing, allowing us to focus on our run without distractions. 

There’s a built-in liner that offers additional support, without feeling restrictive or creating a case of sausage-leg (inseam 4″/10cm). While the waistband sits lightly agains the stomach, without digging in. 

What I really liked, though, is the thoughtful placement of the pockets. Sitting around the waistband at different intervals, they’re strategically placed to avoid bounce while running. 

Several pockets can hold run essentials such as a phone and gels, while a subtle back pocket can hold valuables securely with a zip closure. The only feature I’d optimise more is the reflective detailing, which was minimal at best. 

7. Craft Training Advance Essence 5” Stretch Shorts

These run shorts from Craft are made for intense exercise and I found them super comfortable to wear and run in. The 5″/12cm inseam was just right for me, though those prone to thigh-chafe may want to opt for longer options.

The inner brief lining, though a touch small, does offer a nice amount of support. Plus, there’s a drawcord waist so you can adjust the fit to suit your comfort.

There’s also a pocket tucked-away at the rear, which proved secure enough for my keys despite not having a zip closure. Side slits at the bottom of the shorts facilitate better ventilation and complete the ensemble.

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8. Bimble and Bolt Super Strider Shorts 6″

The Bimble and Bolt Super Strider Shorts 6″ fit true to size and they feel comfortable and supportive straight away. 

The high compression, sustainably-produced nylon is super soft and easy to stretch making them feel like a second skin. 

On the move, the high-waisted shorts remain perfectly in place — no slipping or rising of the legs. I found the 6in length long enough to prevent any chafing and short enough to look good! 

These shorts definitely win on the storage front with two good size thigh pockets and an additional pocket with zipper on the rear. 

The phone remained stable in place on long runs up to 13 miles without any bounce and this was maintained even after numerous washes without any loss in elasticity.

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9. Tri-Fit Sitech Dual Shorts

These Tri-Fit Sitech Dual Shorts offer a loose-fitting lightweight shell fabric on the outside with a woven fabric compression inner for comfort and support. 

The waist band is soft and comfortable and there is an integrated drawstring to hold the shorts in place. The seams are flatlock (on the inner) or thermo-welded on the outer giving a close and comfortable fit. 

Personally, I would have benefitted from a slightly longer length to the inner as they allowed some thigh contact/chafing. 

Laser cut holes provide ventilation and there are reflective strips on each thigh to help you remain visible in low light. 

Additionally, there are handy pockets on the thigh of the inner where an iphone sat comfortably without bounce, plus a headphone cable hole. 

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10. Brooks Chaser 2-in-1 Short 

Available in black or blue colourways, these Brooks running shorts stand out for their exceptional comfort and versatility, thanks to a smooth, moisture-wicking inner liner that includes handy side and front pockets for storage.

The five-inch inseam offers an ideal length, providing enough coverage to prevent thigh chafing, while the strategically placed ventilation panels enhance airflow, making them perfect for extended runs.

Additionally, these women’s shorts feature integrated pockets on both sides, along with a smaller zip pocket, offering just enough space to securely carry essentials like a phone or energy gels.

How we tested running shorts

These men’s and women’s running shorts reviewed here have been tested by our 220 Triathlon expert panel, who have years of kit testing experience between them.

These running shorts have been tested in a range of weather conditions and across varying differences.

Spanning several months, we also had the opportunity to test these shorts in different temperatures and after a few washes, can attest to their durability. 

We’ve tested these shorts following specific criteria, with one of the main considerations being comfort. Other important factors include breathability, moisture-wicking, value for money, and run-specific features (pockets, drawstring, relective details) that work well. 

What should I look out for in running shorts?

Comfort

As we mention at the start of this article, comfort is king when it comes to running shorts.

You’ll be spending a lot of time in them, so it’s important to choose an option that doesn’t chafe or restrict your movement.

Be sure to try on the shorts before buying, or within the returns period.  

Material

Opt for fabrics that are lightweight and moisture-wicking, like polyester or nylon, to keep you cool and dry while running. While a four-way stretch fabric allows for better range of motion.

Length

Opt for a comfortable, non-restrictive fit that allows freedom of movement. Avoid shorts that are too tight, or overly loose, unless you prefer this type of fit.

Choose a length based on your preferences—shorter styles (3-5”) offer better freedom of movement and breathability, while longer options (7”+) provide more coverage.

Liner

Some shorts come with an inner liner, especially 2-in-1 options and men’s running shorts. This is typically in the form of a brief or a longer compression-style liner that helps minimize chafing.

Compression liners, depending on their design, may provide added advantages like improved circulation and reduced muscle soreness.

That said, these benefits can be difficult to measure, and many liners are simply snug-fitting rather than genuinely compressive. 

It’s worth assessing your needs for support and comfort to determine if a lined option suits your running style. 

Pockets

A minimum of one zipper pocket for values is a must when it comes to storage in a pair of running shorts. But most runners will likely find options with additional pockets for a phone or gels even more practical. 

Frequently asked questions

Meet our testers

Sarah Broadley has been testing on the 220 Triathlon gear testing team for several years now after having picked up triathlon in 2012. Sarah is an open-water swim coach and keen athlete, she often tests the women’s gear for 220 and knows immediately how to recognise a comfortable and quality bit of kit.

Kate Milsom is a specialist triathlon journalist and 220‘s former staff writer. Formerly in charge of gear testing and sussing out the best run kit of the bunch, Kate is also a keen trail runner, triathlete and marathon runner.

Rob Slade is the magazine’s former content editor and still contributes often to 220 in the form of race reports and gear testing. A sports and adventure journalist, Rob love getting out in nature and chasing beautiful vistas wither on foot or two wheels.

Looking for a good running top to complete the ensemble? Check out our list of the best running tops for men and the best women’s running tops.

Recent updates

• 12 November 2025: we updated the product imagery, created a new header image from our expert tester photos, and updated the product links.
• 15 December 2025: we added more images and answered a question on baggy vs tight running shorts.
• 25 January 2026: we refreshed links to our recommended products to find you the best deals possible.
• 4 March 2026: we updated the title, header image, and strap, and refreshed our product links.
• 8 April 2026: We trimmed down the product selection and checked that everything was in stock.