Also among the most comfortable is the flat, narrow, and mesh patterned waistbelt on the Janji AFO Middle shorts, and the similarly flat and thin material and comfort of the Patagonia Strider Pro. That brings up the next dilemma in that what size phone is your shorts size for. However, the 5-inch option seems to be the most popular. We hope On makes a 5-inch version of these shorts in the future. Liners should ultimately provide you with the best of both worlds, bounce-free support and breathability for long days. Searching for the best men's running shorts? However, there is a tipping point where youll want to start using a vest or waist belt to hold your items. Overall, I would have liked to see better pockets in these shorts. The woven fabric is light and airy, and the flat waistband sits directly against your skinalmost adhering to it. If youre looking for compression tights, these are not it. The shell is made with a recycled polyester and elastane blend that moves freely. That only begins to paint the picture of how comfortable the Tracksmith Session Shorts ($68) are. The liner is there to allow for breathability and support, which often is not offered with standard underwear. For Matthew, both competitive and personal objectives require a commitment to finding the best gear possible to increase the odds of success and completion. Then, we squeezed as much water as possible out of the shorts and hung them up to dry in a cool garage with a fan to provide airflow. The Hightail 2-in-1 ($68) basically takes their award-winning underwear and wraps a moisture-wicking polyester stretch running shell on top. We go "Off the Map" to find new roads and epic adventures. You need stuff with moisture-wicking properties, nylon being the best option. The same factors influence a liner. From sunny beaches to high alpine trails, our experts evaluated for fit, comfort, mobility, moisture-wicking, and more to compile a list of the best mens running shorts available today. The shell is extremely lightweight and the four drop-in pockets are huge. Their claim to fame is something called the Ballpark Pouch, a built-in soft, supportive pouch for your boys. Among other innovations, these high-performance shorts are made using fabrics that provide anti-odor protection, so even on the hottest, sweatiest runs, you don't have to worry about getting funky. Ive been running and racing in split shorts since high school (25 years), and these are by far the best Ive worn. With eight colors to choose from, youre bound to find a pair to match your shirt. The waistband is exceptional and is the best we tested. Its a good idea to invest in at least one pair of shorts with a large carry capacity like the Black Diamond Sprint. One of GearLab's running experts, Matthew also takes the lead in our Men's Road Running Shoes review. Going for the occasional run in shorts to stay in any semblance of shape doesn't automatically mean you have to start caring about things like proper form and gel nutrition. We hope that your next season in shorts is a great one. Not once did I feel the stretchy fabric was confining. Theres something to be said about zoning out and letting some cardio release your pent-up frustrations. I think a thicker, flat drawcord would have provided better comfort and holding power. Initially, I wasnt a huge fan, but the supple feel grew on me after further testing. Both of these shorts look good, allow for all-day comfort, and have accessible pocket options that allow for quick storage and ease of use. All of the shorts we tested can provide a good running experience, but the higher-end models provide the highest quality materials and construction. The rear zip pocket on the waistband is capable of holding a smartphone, and two drop-in side pockets can hold snacks or keys all bounce-free. They're made of super light, stretchy fiber, and feature mesh side panels and a mesh liner that wicks away moisture and helps with air circulation. How many pockets you need depends on what you want to carry. Anytime you have movement, you have friction, and this compounded over time equals discomfort and chafing. And I was highly impressed with how supportive and comfortable the polyester liner felt, even when the waist pockets were stuffed. These shorts fit great and are supportive, and I can attest to the odor resistance. However, they are by far the most durable split shorts Ive owned. Asics's two-in-one style boasts a breathable outer shell with an in inner compression layer for extra support. Patagonia nailed the waistbelt. They do have a few flaws. I find DWR-treated shorts great for wind protection, but they can absorb and hold moisture longer than non-DWR-treated shorts. Theyll work for beginners and elite runners alike, and Im confident youll appreciate having them in your drawer. If you want to carry items such as your phone, keys, or fuel during your run, youll want a pair of shorts with pockets. The Patagonia Strider Pro has a well-designed external rear pocket which we find useful for a phone. We prefer 5-inch inseams for running due to the reduced fabric movement and potential chafing, while 7 to 8-inch inseams typically allow for more comfortable all-day wear. While the drawstring is tied on the inside, we found that the band materials are supportive and compressive, which reduced the need to use the drawstring at all. Additionally, the Elite Race Short 4.0 ($92) held a surprising five CLIF gel packets in the rear vertically aligned zipper pocket more than any other split short I tested and was quite stable with little bounce during my run. However, you may be looking to buy more than one pair of shorts, and spending top dollar may not be what you're after. Once you realize that running is a thing, it is time to invest in the right gear. I have to say, the Ballpark Pouch design works especially well when running. Many other high-end models outperform the Launch but at nearly double the price. We also were surprised by the amount of water this fabric absorbs, being one of the highest we tested. These are great for runs when youre traveling and may need to carry more items than usual. The inner liners primary focus is built-in support and is either a mesh brief or spandex-type compression tight, called a 2-in-1. The waistband comfort also didn't receive the highest of marks, but when compared to the pricey models. A model in this price range has trouble competing with the latest designs and ultimate comfort of the premium materials that cost much more. Moisture-wicking briefs and zippered pockets make for a comfortable (and secure!) side slit for added maneuverability and stretch. While the stretch nylon plain-weave face shell is durable as hell, its terrible at wicking and retaining moisture. The On Lightweight Shorts received top marks for their ultra-comfortable waistband and awesome phone pocket design that allowed for easy access and bounce-free storage. Think about your priorities, how many pockets you desire, what style fits you, and make the decision. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers. You will have to take our word for it, the Rabbit FKT shorts simply have the most comfortable liner design when compared to the competing models. Thanks to advancements in fabric technology and design, todays running shorts are better than ever. In addition to running shorts, he covers road running shoes and GPS watches, and he writes training articles for GearJunkie. The 73% nylon and 27% elastane plain-weave shell is extremely lightweight and breathes exceptionally well perfect for long days in the mountains. Mesh media pockets and zippered stash pocket. But turns out thats half the battle when it comes to getting outside. Let me address the elephant in the room the price ($92). Imagine taking the most comfortable pair of sweatpants (or shorts, for that matter) and infusing them with a highly technical moisture-wicking fabric. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing and comparison. Both of these metrics influenced our ranking. The internal brief liner was one of the more supportive ones tested. The shell fabric is thin and stretchy, and it does a fantastic job of not only wicking moisture but also drying quickly. Most of the shorts tested, with the exception of the 3-inch version, come in both a 5-inch and 7-inch option. Whether you want the very best or simply a solid pair that can be had for less than the rest, read on for our recommendations. Every element of these shorts was designed for performance. The best use is when its cold and rainy. Ill opt for shorts with better breathability on steamy runs. Cory Smith has been a runner since 1992. They just work. The four-way stretch French fabric shell is remarkably thin and very stretchy. After months spent pounding the pavement, we found the best running socks of 2021. Whether you run trails or roads, long or short, we think there is a running short here for you. The decision-making behind our scoring in this category is different from others because the pocket count differs between models. Our team of experts is bringing you best camping gear reviews and buying guides. If you have had trouble finding liners that work well for you, we suggest prioritizing liner comfort. We never felt constricted in these pairs and noticed no liner movement during any style of running. If longevity and functionality are your primary concerns, these running shorts are certainly worth the money. The material is way too light and thin to provide any type of compression, and the ribbed face is quite unique. While theres no stretch to the shorts, they offer great mobility thanks to large splits on the sides of the legs. While these are one of the most comfortable running shorts I tested, I wouldnt wear them on race day or on a big mountain run. Brooks is one of the biggest names around when it comes to copping the right running shoes, but the rest of the brand's gear is equally as solid. The 89% polyester and 11% spandex shell is soft and supple, and they have a built-in brief liner for added support. We researched over 100 models before purchasing 10 of the most popular for this side-by-side review. Hitting the pavement or treadmill, putting in headphones, and listening to Future Nostalgia or a juicy podcast could very well be the highlight of your day. Ultimately, pocket performance is just that, what is the performance of the pockets. The most noticeable factor when putting on a pair of running shorts is the liner. This is where pockets come, the best being roomy enough to hold the essentials without adding excess bulk. SOAR, a U.K.-based boutique running company, executes this perfectly with the Elite Race Short 4.0 ($92). Also, while in motion, youre going to want a zipper closure to make all your personal items stay with you. A knot on the inside touching your skin during long-distance events isn't ideal. What's more, they have a mesh pocket on the right-hand side to keep your phone secure (goodbye, bouncing). Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The Patagonia Strider Pro has much more storage space, allowing for phone storage on the rear thanks to its zippered pocket and nutrition in its four small side compression pockets, which are perfect for gels on long runs. They have a built-in mesh liner or compression tight that provides the support needed while running. I found them to run a little small and opted for a size up. It was no surprise that the lightest short in our review, the Adidas Saturday Split Short, was also the fastest drying and absorbed the least amount of water. No ads. While moisture wicking is an essential feature of a short, we think this could get frustrating in warmer humid climates. Heading up this review is Matthew Richardson, a passionate runner and mountain athlete based in Durango, Colorado. Often phone pockets are either too loose or too tight. If you struggle with any kind of chafing, whether it be between the legs or around your male anatomy, or if youre simply looking for a more supportive hold, the Hightail is by far one of the best-fitting running shorts Ive tested. Nike describes them as buttery smooth, and Id have to agree. These shorts also feature reflective details for added visibility in low-light conditions. All three of these models receive high marks for their blend of support and freedom of movement. The most essential pocket items are a gel, a phone, and a key. But if youre a pro (or Milo Ventimiglia), shorter is better. GearLab is founded on the principle of honest, objective, reviews. The only downsides of this model are the higher price tag and the lack of a 5-inch inseam model. Id say if youre typically a large, go at least to a medium maybe even a small. Support us! This comfort is combined with one of the most unique phone pocket designs, making these the only shorts we tested not feature a zipper. The Under Armour Launch SW is a comfortable versatile short that works well for those with a tight budget or who simply want an extra pair of solid running shorts. While the thin, mesh waistbelt is extremely comfortable when the drawcord isnt tied, some may find that the narrow drawcord digs into your waist if tightly tied. While I typically wear a small, I opted for a medium and Im glad I did. Overall, these are a great pair of shorts for mild summer days or a run/gym hybrid workout. In the market for a new running shirt? Some liners tend to be more restrictive than others, and breathability diminishes throughout the day. Most shorts have a rear pocket right under the waistband and are centered in the middle. They size extremely large and baggy, nearly two sizes too big. While we appreciate the inclusion of this feature, the location would be better suited towards the hip. While not as secure as a zippered pocket, we had no issues with security, and unless you are going upside down, we don't think you will have any either. Running shorts come in all different lengths from 2 to 7 inches, but 5 inches seems to be the most popular length. That being said, its certainly not as cool as other fabrics. In this write-up, we will assume some pockets are wanted, which we expect the vast majority would agree with. Ten Thousand is one of many fitness-oriented apparel brands that has recently branched out to the running category. And, to assure complete independence, we buy all the products we test ourselves. I found the waistband to be well-made and comfortable. This is the second iteration of REI-branded running shorts that Ive tested, and I have to give a hats-off to the design team these are top-notch running shorts. Polyester, polypropylene, and micromodal also do the trick. Privacy | Cookies | Terms, We bought and tested running shorts from Patagonia, On Running, Brooks, Rabbit, and others to help you find the best. Longer shorts such as the 5-inch or 7-inch version are my go-to when traveling because of their all-purpose versatility, easily doubling as gym shorts, hiking shorts, or even swimming shorts. If you ever find yourself with a social event after a run or workout, these are the perfect shorts for the occasion. Each short was saturated with water and the differences were analyzed to provide a wicking/drying score. Under Armour's shorts are all about giving you the ability to move. We've tested the best hiking gear, packs, and footwear to outfit you for any adventure you choose. Our Editors independently research, test, and rate the best products. This model also features the best pockets for bringing gear along for all-day efforts; they easily fit multiple energy gels and secured a standard iPhone 11 Pro with ease in its zippered pocket. Overall, I had no issues with chafing, overheating, or having the fabric retain too much sweat. Much to the surprise of most people, wool is a great summertime fabric because it has natural temperature regulation properties. In the future, we think there could be improvements on its drying times, but we also understand the need to provide moisture-wicking in a short. The tension used to hold the shorts up serves as a great anchor point to prevent them from bouncing around as you run. You could also purchase them separately, but why go through the hassle when styles offer a two-in-one deal? The downside is that boutique brands typically cost more, and the Ten Thousand Far Shorts are no exception. That said, these shorts performed exceptionally well otherwise. Looking for a new pair of trail runners? The uncomfortable skin irritation is caused by two surfaces excessively rubbing together and is more likely to happen when a fabric has been soaked with moisture. The lower the score, the faster drying or smaller absorption. On really hot days the DWR treated shell became absolutely drenched with sweat, retaining the moisture and feeling a bit like heavy swim trunks. Testing took place on both trails and roads around Durango, CO, and the Texas Hill Country, where Matthew lives and spends his free time. The unique folding pocket that is zipperless creates a secure pouch for your phone and allows for easy stowing and retrieval. If youre doing any amount of volume, Id steer toward other shorts listed here. Im a huge fan of wool as a performance fabric. Ill be blunt theres nothing particularly special about them. We were impressed with the liner and waistband of this model and appreciated the exterior drawstring closure, which reduces chafing for extended runs. The rear-zip pocket was one of the largest tested, easily fitting a super-large smartphone, but it did bounce a bit more than other shorts. We wish this model came with hand pockets due to its 7-inch inseam, A simple design that is highly affordable, with nice feeling fabric and hand pockets. We tested this by fully submerging all of the running shorts and fully saturating them with water. Moisture-ridden fabric and poor fit are the top causes of chafing. Its impossible to highlight the best running shorts without mentioning the Patagonia Pro Strider ($69). No matter what type of running you do, whether its road, trail, or track, everything about these is designed for comfort and functionality youll put them on and forget about them. Proper shorts help make running considerably more tolerable by anticipating your every complaint and addressing them in kind. I feel restricted, off-balance, and slower. Most running shorts have two layers: an outer shell and an inner liner. When you are running, you generate loads of heat, and tight compression shorts often do not allow that heat to escape very well. If youre not familiar with SAXX underwear, boy, are you missing out. These Glide shorts ($60-64) are light, airy, and have a very nice flow to them when running. It can be hard to sort through whats really important when finding a pair of running shorts. We subjected each pair of running shorts to head-to-head testing in real-world situations. This may not be the case for others, and if so, it's even more reason to analyze how and where the drawstring is located. We appreciate the secure phone pocket on the rear, which includes a zipper pull for easy access. And while youre at it, if its been more than 4 months since you replaced your running shoes, we suggest checking out the latest and greatest road running and trail running shoes. Initial impressions were gained on a standardized 7-mile test loop around town. In addition, there are some styles that are treated with UPF protection and odor protection. Sharing in-depth conversations between the world's adventurers, athletes, and outdoorspeople, The GearJunkie Podcast is your inside look into the outdoors industry. The 73% nylon and 27% spandex shell is remarkably light and airy with excellent mobility. When considering running shorts, you must weigh your desire for premium comfort and performance with the value that they provide you. It took a little force to stuff my large Samsung smartphone in the pocket, and I could certainly imagine busting a seam trying to fit it in if I wasnt careful. Everything else generally is extra, and while other features can provide benefits, the waistband or liner will usually make or break the shorts. I usually find most tights either really tight and restrictive or somewhat loose-fitting that ride up. Higher percentages of these flexible fabrics do have a downside they tend to absorb and retain more moisture. From our experience, if shorts are sized correctly, and the fabric has a good design of stretch and compression, the drawstring is rarely needed. Still, these shorts have a place in every runners rotation based on comfort alone. Ten Thousand makes some of the best all-purpose training shorts around no matter what you do to get your sweat on, but the brand's interval shorts are a particularly good option if you're looking for an optimal running silhouette. Its a hell of a lot of money for a pair of running shorts, especially a pair of split shorts. Tights, on the other hand, stay put when wet and wont feel as heavy. We experienced no chafing or discomfort from either of these models from the first to the last mile. If youre struggling with chafing, I recommend trying a pair of shorts with a built-in compression liner such as a 2-in-1 like the SAXX Hightail. If youre interested in broadening your knowledge about running shorts, check out our comprehensive buyers guide and FAQ at the end of this article.