10 Best Running Shorts for 2026: Comfortable Picks for Every Workout

The best running shorts should stay comfortable through warmups, speedwork, gym sessions, and everyday movement. Fit, liner design, fabric, and pocket placement can make a bigger difference than appearance alone.

We compared 10 versatile options across men’s and women’s styles, including split shorts, compression layers, 2-in-1 designs, and multipacks, so you can choose the right pair for your training and budget.

Best 10 Running Shorts Picks for 2026

Best Everyday Coverage – BALENNZ Men's 10-Inch Athletic Shorts

For runners who prefer more coverage, these running shorts combine a lightweight polyester build with a 10-inch inseam. Quick-drying fabric, an adjustable waistband, and two side pockets make them practical for workouts and everyday active use.

Best For: Men seeking versatile running shorts with a longer inseam and convenient storage.

Pros:

• 10-inch inseam provides more coverage than shorter running styles.
• Breathable, moisture-wicking polyester fabric dries quickly.
• Two hand pockets hold a phone, wallet, or small accessories.
• Elastic waistband and inner drawcord help secure the fit.

Cons:

• The longer cut may feel less minimal for runners who prefer short split shorts.
• Standard fit may not provide the close support of compression styles.

Choose these if you want running shorts that can also handle gym sessions and other sports. Their practical pocket design and longer length make them especially useful for training and daily wear.

Best Lightweight Women's Pick – CRZ YOGA High-Waisted Split Running Shorts

These lightweight running shorts are designed for women who want unrestricted movement and a barely-there feel. The 3-inch inseam, high split, built-in mesh liner, and soft quick-drying fabric suit faster runs and active workouts.

Best For: Women who prioritize lightweight comfort, mobility, and liner coverage for running.

Pros:

• Feathery-fit fabric is soft, weightless, slightly stretchy, and quick drying.
• High split supports a wide range of movement.
• Built-in mesh liner helps reduce friction.
• Wide elastic waistband offers a comfortable fit.

Cons:

• The 3-inch inseam and high split provide limited outer-layer coverage.
• The listed pocket details may be less convenient than a dedicated phone pocket.

This is a strong option for runners who prefer short, airy layers without the swishing sound of some performance fabrics. The built-in liner adds coverage while keeping the design movement-focused.

Best Compression Layer – Under Armour Men's HeatGear Compression Shorts

These running shorts are built as an ultra-tight compression layer rather than a loose outer short. Lightweight HeatGear fabric, an ergonomic seam layout, and a supportive gusset provide a close fit for training, racing, or layering under other shorts.

Best For: Men who want a second-skin compression fit with lightweight coverage and a small storage pocket.

Pros:

• Ultra-tight compression fit provides close muscle support.
• Lightweight HeatGear fabric offers coverage without much weight.
• Ergonomic seams avoid high-abrasion areas and support durability.
• Side drop-in pocket provides space for a small item.

Cons:

• The ultra-tight fit is not suitable for runners seeking relaxed shorts.
• At a 6-inch inseam, they may offer less coverage than longer athletic shorts.
• Designed as compression shorts, they may be better suited to layering for some users.

Consider these when close support is more important than a loose silhouette. The lightweight stretch blend and updated gusset make them a focused choice for training and performance use.

Best 2-in-1 Women's Design – Yevrimow Women's High-Waisted Running Shorts

These 2-in-1 running shorts pair a supportive inner liner with a breathable outer layer for coverage and movement. Moisture-wicking fabric, a high-waisted design, a drawstring closure, and a liner pocket make them suited to running, gym workouts, and other active routines.

Best For: Women who want built-in liner coverage, a high waist, and pocket storage for active use.

Pros:

• Double-layer construction combines inner support with an outer layer for coverage.
• Side slit promotes freedom of movement and breathability.
• Lightweight, quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabric helps manage sweat.
• Right-side liner pocket helps keep a phone or necessity secure.

Cons:

• Hand-wash-only care is less convenient than machine washing.
• The mid-rise design may not suit runners specifically seeking a high-rise waist.
• Only one color is listed in the supplied details.

This style is a practical middle ground between minimalist running shorts and fuller-coverage workout bottoms. Its liner pocket and layered construction are useful when you want support and storage without carrying an extra accessory.

Best Lightweight Pick – MIER Men's 5-Inch Running Shorts

For runners who prefer lightweight running shorts with practical storage, the MIER men’s 5-inch model combines breathable mesh panels, quick-dry fabric, and stretch for unrestricted movement. Its regular fit and adjustable drawcord make it a versatile choice for training and everyday athletic wear.

Best For: Lightweight running, gym workouts, and athletes who want multiple pockets.

Pros:

• Lightweight, breathable fabric with micro air mesh ventilation.
• Quick-dry, moisture-wicking material helps manage sweat.
• Three pockets include two deep slash pockets and an internal waist pocket.
• Five-inch inseam, side splits, and four-way stretch support easy movement.

Cons:

• The regular-fit design may feel less streamlined than compression-style shorts.
• The listed version uses open slash pockets rather than zippered storage.

Choose these running shorts if comfort, airflow, and flexible storage are more important than a highly fitted silhouette or secured zip pockets.

Best Multipack Value – CE' CERDR Women's Athletic Running Shorts

The CE’ CERDR five-pack gives shoppers several pairs of running shorts in varied colors, with a high-rise waistband and quick-dry stretch fabric. Each pair also includes side zipper pockets and an inner liner for added practicality during workouts.

Best For: Women seeking a versatile multipack for running, gym workouts, yoga, and casual wear.

Pros:

• Five-pack includes black, navy, light gray, khaki, and hot pink options.
• Quick-dry, moisture-wicking 95% polyester and 5% spandex fabric.
• High-rise elastic waistband offers a comfortable, secure hold.
• Two deep zipper pockets and an inner liner improve workout practicality.

Cons:

• The medium-stretch fabric may provide less give than highly elastic running shorts.
• The high-rise design may not suit shoppers who prefer a low- or mid-rise fit.

This set is a strong option when variety and everyday value matter, especially if you want running shorts that can transition from exercise to errands.

Best Secure Storage – G Gradual Men's Athletic Running Shorts

These G Gradual running shorts are designed for active days when secure storage and outdoor coverage are priorities. The lightweight, quick-dry fabric has UPF 50+ protection, while two deep zippered pockets help keep essentials contained during runs, hikes, and other activities.

Best For: Outdoor running, hiking, and workouts where zippered storage and sun protection are useful.

Pros:

• Two deep zippered pockets can hold a phone, keys, earbuds, or cards.
• Lightweight, breathable, quick-dry fabric supports active comfort.
• UPF 50+ fabric provides added protection for outdoor wear.
• Elastic waistband and adjustable drawstring allow a customizable fit.

Cons:

• The supplied product details specify a 7-inch inseam for this listing, which may feel longer than split-style running shorts.
• The fabric is described as medium stretch rather than high stretch.

Consider this pair if you want running shorts with a slightly longer cut, dependable zippered storage, and features suited to outdoor training.

Best All-Around Support – maamgic 5" 2-in-1 Running Shorts

These maamgic running shorts combine a lightweight outer layer with a built-in compression liner, making them a practical option for workouts that require support and freedom of movement. The quick-drying, high-stretch fabric and adjustable waistband suit running, gym sessions, cycling, basketball, and other training.

Best For: Men who want supportive 2-in-1 running shorts with several secure storage options.

Pros:

• Built-in compression liner helps reduce chafing and supports the thighs.
• Quick-drying, breathable polyester-spandex fabric offers high stretch.
• Two side pockets and a back zipper pocket provide practical storage.
• Internal drawstring allows a more personalized fit.

Cons:

• Only one pair is included.
• Care instructions call for machine washing cold and tumble drying low, which may not suit every laundry routine.

With a 5.5-inch outseam, supportive liner, and versatile pocket layout, these are a well-rounded choice for everyday training. They are especially useful if you prefer running shorts that can transition from exercise to casual wear.

Best Value Multipack – Kinglaman 2-in-1 Running Shorts

This Kinglaman multipack gives you four pairs of running shorts with built-in compression liners, making it convenient to rotate through workouts. Lightweight, breathable, quick-drying fabric and multiple pockets support gym sessions, practice, and a range of sporting activities.

Best For: Men seeking a four-pack of running shorts for frequent training and easy rotation.

Pros:

• Four-pair pack offers convenient workout-gear rotation.
• Built-in compression shorts provide a close fit and thigh support.
• Phone liner pocket, two side pockets, and back zipper pocket add storage.
• Lightweight, breathable, quick-drying fabric is designed for active use.

Cons:

• The pack includes set color combinations rather than a single-color option.
• The mid-length design has a 5.9-inch inseam, so it may feel longer than shorter running shorts.

For runners or gym-goers who need several pairs, the four-count package is the main advantage. The combination of a liner, drawstring waist, and broad pocket setup makes this a practical bulk-buy option.

Best Phone Storage – Pudolla 5" 2-in-1 Running Shorts

Pudolla’s running shorts pair a 5-inch outer layer with a breathable compression lining for lightweight coverage and chafe-reducing support. A dedicated phone pocket, rear zipper pocket, elastic waistband, and internal drawcord make them suited to running, gym training, hiking, and fitness activities.

Best For: Men who prioritize phone storage and a lightweight 5-inch design for training.

Pros:

• Dedicated phone pocket helps keep a device from slipping during movement.
• Back zipper pocket secures keys, cash, or cards.
• Two-layer design provides compression support and chafe-free protection.
• Lightweight, breathable fabric supports comfortable movement.

Cons:

• The product notes specify hand wash only.
• The fabric has medium rather than high stretch.

These shorts are a strong fit for runners who want organized storage without carrying a separate belt or pouch. Their 5-inch length and lightweight construction also work well for general gym and outdoor training.

How We Picked These Running Shorts

We focused on the features runners use most: moisture-managing fabrics, freedom of movement, secure storage, practical inseam lengths, and construction suited to repeated workouts. The selection includes both minimalist running designs and more versatile athletic shorts for gym training, yoga, walking, and general exercise.

Because preferences vary, we included several fits rather than treating one style as universally best. Some runners prefer a short, split outer layer, while others want additional coverage from a 5- to 9-inch inseam or a built-in liner.

Quick Comparison

Style	Best For	Notable Feature
Split shorts	Speedwork and hot-weather runs	Lightweight, unrestricted stride
2-in-1 shorts	Coverage and support	Outer short plus fitted liner
Compression shorts	Layering and muscle support	Close-fitting stretch fabric
Longer athletic shorts	Training and casual wear	More coverage and storage
Multipacks	Frequent workouts	More pairs for the price

Key Buying Factors for Running Shorts

Fit and Inseam

Shorter inseams generally improve airflow and freedom of movement, while longer options provide more coverage. Check the size chart instead of relying only on your usual size, particularly for compression or high-waisted styles.

Liners and Support

A built-in liner can reduce chafing and provide support without requiring separate underwear. If you dislike a close fit, choose unlined shorts or a looser 2-in-1 design. Look for smooth seams and a liner that stays in place during longer sessions.

Pockets

Phone pockets are useful, but placement matters. Zippered pockets offer better security for keys and cards, while liner pockets can hold a phone close to the body with less bouncing. Confirm that the pocket dimensions fit your device.

Fabric and Waistband

Quick-drying synthetic fabric is practical for heat, sweat, and frequent washing. A wide, secure waistband helps prevent slipping, while a functional drawcord allows finer adjustment. For hot conditions, prioritize lightweight fabric and breathable panels.

Who Should Buy Which Running Shorts?

• For speedwork or hot weather: Choose lightweight split shorts such as the CRZ YOGA style.
• For phone storage: Look for zippered-pocket designs from BALENNZ, G Gradual, MIER, or similar pocket-focused options.
• For coverage and support: A 2-in-1 pair from Yevrimow, maamgic, Kinglaman, or Pudolla combines a looser outer layer with a fitted liner.
• For compression layering: Under Armour’s HeatGear shorts are suited to runners who prefer a close fit beneath other shorts or athletic clothing.
• For frequent training on a budget: The CE’ CERDR multipack provides multiple pairs for rotating through workouts.
• For versatile gym use: Longer 5- to 9-inch options are generally better if you want running shorts that also work for lifting, training, or casual wear.

Before ordering, verify the current size chart, inseam, fabric composition, and return policy. The right choice is the pair that matches your preferred coverage, storage needs, and level of support without restricting your stride.