The 17 Best Running Shorts For Women

• Also available on Under Armour, $25

What’s great about them: Amazon shoppers are obsessed with these Under Armour shorts, which boast a near-perfect overall rating of 4.7 stars with over 9,000 reviews. They’re made from a lightweight, sweat-wicking knit fabric, and have a built-in liner as well as an anti-odor treatment. The elastic waistband features a minimalist version of the Under Armour logo, and there are also two roomy side pockets.

What fans say: “I needed a good all-around short I could wear during the summer whether it was working in the yard, running errands or walking the dog. This short works great for all those activities and more! I also like that it has pockets.”

• Available sizes: XX-Small — 2X

What’s great about them: These retro-style gym shorts are sold in a pack of two, which means they come out to just $6.50 per pair — a pretty great deal. They’re made from a super breathable, lightweight blend of cotton and polyester, and they have an elastic waistband and slim-fit design that makes them a great choice for everything from running and lifting to pairing with your favorite street style basics. They’re also pretty popular on Amazon, with an overall 4.5-star rating from over 6,000 shoppers.

What fans say: “These are so comfortable. I use them to hang around the house in and I'm very happy with them. They fit great, the elastic is not uncomfortable, and easy to throw in the washer.”

• Available sizes: Small — 3X-Large

• Also available on Blooming Jelly, $25

What’s great about them: These casual athletic shorts have a wide, comfortable elastic waistband and a built-in liner that won’t ride up for added comfort and coverage. There’s a zippered side pocket that’s big enough to hold your phone, and the split hem gives your legs plenty of room to move. The best part about these shorts though is the fact that they come in so many fun patterns and colors, which makes them easy to style for post-workout brunch or casual wear in addition to running and gym sessions.

What fans say: “I’ve been searching high and low for a breathable pair of shorts that fit my hips, waist, and thighs. These are slightly high waisted, which is amazing, and they’re super lightweight. The liner isn’t tight or pulling the shorts down. The pocket is perfect for my phone, but wouldn’t fit an iPhone plus. The slits on the sides aren’t revealing but they’re perfect for squatting without worrying they’ll ride up or give a show.”

• Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large

What's great about them: If your thighs are prone to chafing when you train, these soft anti-chafe running shorts are just the ticket. They feature a stretchy polyester-spandex blend with a special liner underneath to prevent your skin from rubbing together. The fabric is moisture-wicking, with a soft exterior that dries quickly. The drawcord waistband is comfortable, according to fans, and they have hidden pockets to stash things like cash, keys, or credit cards.

What fans say: "These are the best shorts. I have been searching for a pair for years that cover my thighs to prevent chafing and that stay in place and that don’t break the bank. These do all that. The undershort doesn’t ride up at all. They are worth the cost!"

• Available sizes: X-Small — 3X

What’s great about them: These running shorts have a built-in liner that can help to prevent chafing and ensure extra coverage where you want it, and the liner also has a pocket that can fit most smartphones, which is a huge plus. They’re made from a lightweight, moisture-wicking blend of nylon and elastane that has just the right amount of stretch, and the split hem design of the outer layer provides greater freedom of movement.

What fans say: “I love how much stretch these shorts have. The pockets are really useful too. My favorite part is the liner though, it's so comfy and doesn't ride up. I may need these in a few more colors!”

• Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large

What’s great about them: Perfect for anyone who loves a stretchy, high-waisted bike short, these are a great pick for running, yoga, or casual wear. The wide waistband offers light compression, and there are two side pockets big enough to hold a smartphone. These shorts boast an impressive 6,000 perfect five-star ratings on Amazon, and they come in 20 colors and patterns.

What fans say: “These yoga shorts are lightweight, quick-drying, soft, and comfortable. I bought 3 pairs so far. love wearing them under short dresses as well as with tshirts, tank tops, etc. I wear them ALOT!”

• Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large

What's great about them: Offering the ultimate freedom of movement combined with extra style, this running skort is a great option for your training sessions. According to customers, the material is lightweight, moisture-wicking, and super comfortable. They slide on easily, with a smooth blend of breathable nylon and flexible LYCRA. They come in five colors, and thanks to the built-in compression shorts, you get a little added support.

What fans say: "Love these shorts. I bought white, blue, and black. They are incredibly comfortable, fit cute, and they are functional."

• Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large

• Also available on Walmart, $20

What's great about them: With more than 75,000 reviews on Amazon, these long running shorts offer similar properties to my previous selection but in a style that runs farther down your thighs. Like the shorter pair, they're made from a smooth polyester-spandex blend that's soft and stretchy with quick-drying capabilities. The waist has a similar high-rise design with a snug band that keeps them from slipping down. They have a gusseted crotch, oversized phone pockets, and chafe-free seams.

What fans say: "I really like these. They fit as expected. Nice and stretchy. Soft. Not see through. I wanted some compression but not so much that it digs into my skin. These are perfect.”

• Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large

What’s great about them: Made for people who like their shorts super short, these classic Soffe shorts have a low-rise waistband and a 2.5-inch inseam, so you’ll barely notice them while you’re working out. They’re made from lightweight polyester birds eye mesh that offers great breathability, and they come in 10 colors.

What fans say: “I love these shorts! They're very comfortable - so easy to wear. I think I've literally purchased them in every color”

• Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large

• Also available on Walmart, $14

What’s great about them: Amazon shoppers love these high-waisted running shorts, which have over 2,000 perfect five-star ratings. They’re made from a lightweight polyester and spandex blend, and they have two roomy side pockets that are big enough for your phone, keys, and wallet. They also have a built-in liner and come in a variety of bright, neon colors.

What fans say: “They are super lightweight and comfortable, and I LOVE the front pockets. As others have said, your phone will bounce around if you are trying to run with it in the pockets, but they are deep enough it wouldn't fall out, and its perfect for walking or just wearing around when you want to have your phone with you.”

• Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large

What's great about them: If you prefer a form-fitting style, these high-waisted running shorts are some of the best bike shorts around — and they come in a three-pack, too. Like the previous option, they're constructed with a blend of polyester and spandex, making them both moisture-wicking and stretchy. They have an elastic band that stops them from sliding down, yet they don't feel tight or restrictive. The flat-lock seams minimize friction, while the gusseted crotch gives you freedom of motion. On top of that, the shorts have a handy pocket that's big enough to hold your phone.

What fans say: "I purchased these for myself as well as my 3 daughters ages 16-21. We all love, love, love them. We are built ranging from small but curvy, to just fairy-like thin and they fit each of us like a glove! Very opaque, wonderfully soft but smooth fabric and a nicely sized pocket [...] I will definitely be ordering more."

• Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large

What’s great about them: Made from polyester mesh, these Champion shorts have the brand’s signature details, including a small logo and a roll waistband so you can customize the length. The elastic waistband is tag-free for added comfort, and they have a 5-inch inseam that offers the perfect combination of comfort and coverage. They come in five classic colors and are machine-washable for easy care.

What fans say: “These have the best fit for running I've found from exercise shorts on Amazon. I liked this style enough to buy 5 pairs in different colors.”

• Available sizes: Small — XX-Large

What’s great about them: These popular running shorts have an overall rating of 4.6 stars from a whopping 26,000 Amazon shoppers who love how cute and comfy they are. They’re made from a double-layered cotton/polyester blend fabric, and the drawstrings on the waistband are dyed to match. The dolphin hem also provides greater flexibility for runs or workouts.

What fans say: “These are perfectly comfy for whatever you want to do in them! Walk, run, stretch, workout, or just lounge. Will buy again!”

• Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large

What’s great about them: Fans on Amazon say that these lightweight shorts are comparable to some high-end athletic brands, for a fraction of the price. Made from a quick-drying polyester spandex blend, these quick-drying shorts have a wide, comfortable waistband with an interior pocket as well as a back zippered pocket, so you can keep your essentials on hand while you’re out for a run. They also feature a built-in liner and a hidden drawcord to customize your fit.

What fans say: “I have never written a clothing review before, but I am obsessed with these shorts [...] They are comfortable, dry quickly, don’t ride up, and are very breathable. And the fabric feels like good quality - they definitely look and perform like much more expensive brands.”

• Available sizes: XX-Small — X-Large

• Also available on Under Armour, $25

What's great about them: With more than 17,000 reviews, these polyester-elastane running shorts are moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and come with super breathable mesh side panels and built-in briefs. They allow you to sweat without getting sticky, and the material is soft and comfy. They have a convenient key pocket, too. On top of all that, they're offered at a great mid-range price and come in a wide assortment of colors.

What fans say: “These shorts are breathable, light and very comfortable. They’re so light that when I sweat they stay dry. They don’t ride up my thighs when running like other shorts.”

• Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large

What's great about them: Whether you like the style of short shorts better, or the extra freedom of movement, these running shorts are a fantastic choice. They're built with a combination of moisture-wicking polyester and soft, stretchy spandex. They have built-in underwear that's lightweight and breathable, with a zippered pocket on one side for keeping valuables. They also have secret pockets in the waistband, plus a drawstring to provide a custom fit.

What fans say: "Perfect for running and overall work out! Super comfortable and nice material.”

• Available sizes: XX-Small — X-Large

What’s great about them: If you like your running shorts to have a little more length, these are a great pick, since they have a 5-inch inseam that’s longer than many of the options on this list. Made from a quick-drying polyester spandex blend, these shorts have a built-in liner and a back zippered pocket as well as two side pockets and an internal pocket. They’re super lightweight and have a dolphin-style hem for freedom of movement.

What fans say: “These shorts are excellent quality and the perfect length for running! I don’t have to worry about the slide up in the center where my thighs touch because they’re longer! They’re very comfortable!!”

• Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large