Introduction
The right workout gear can completely change the way you feel about running, making it something you look forward to rather than dread. Luckily, there are women's running shorts that make running comfortable by complementing your stride and moving with your every step. These types of shorts are designed to be breathable and moisture-wicking, so you stay dry no matter how much sweat you're working up. Breathable and flexible material is just the beginning of the dynamic features of running shorts that will enhance your workout. Having the best pair of women's running shorts makes a noticeable difference in the way you feel, but it can be hard to pick the right pair. With so many options, how can you narrow down to make the best choice? To help, we've curated a list of the best women's running shorts across different price points. They're all highly rated and loved by thousands, so you can't go wrong with whatever you choose to buy. Once you find the right pair of women's running shorts, you'll wonder how you lived without them. Even if you're not a runner, you need a good pair of running shorts. Read on to find out why.
What Should I Look Out for When Buying Women's Running Shorts?
Women's running shorts are a versatile clothing piece that can transition from exercise clothes to loungewear and come in many different styles. When choosing a style, it is important to feel comfortable with the length of the inseam. Often women's running shorts tend to be short with a loose fit, and the built-in briefs help you get a secure fit. These briefs can take some getting used to, and some models come without this built-in feature if you don't like how they feel. Keeping the length in mind is also important to prevent painful thigh chafing. If you don't want to wear a separate running band, look for women's running shorts with pockets. Some have a zippered pocket to keep your phone and keys secure while you run. Others have deep pockets, so your items are secure enough without the zipper. Another feature to consider is the fabric, which can make a huge difference in comfort, so make sure it is stretchy and breathable. Different hems not only flatter your legs, but also allow an increased range of motion. Movement and flexibility are important, no matter what type of workout you're doing. Most women's running shorts have elastic waistbands, but some come with additional drawstrings to help them feel even more secure. You never want to worry about your shorts slipping out of place as you move. Ultimately, athletic shorts should be comfortable.
The Best Running Shorts
Picking the best women's running shorts doesn't have to be a shot in the dark. Here are the best options available on Amazon. All are highly rated and beloved by customers. With many options across various price points, you'll be able to find a pair that works for you and your budget.
Colosseum Active Women's Simone Cotton Blend Yoga and Running Shorts
The Colosseum Active Women's Simone Cotton Blend Yoga and Running Shorts have so much to offer, with 27 colors and patterns to choose from. These women's running shorts come in sizes X-Small through XX-Large, and the drawstring closure helps you get your best fit. They're cotton and polyester and machine washable for easy care. These running shorts are unlined, but they have a double-layer body and elevated seams to help absorb moisture as you move. There are even pockets to help you carry what you need while you're on the go. They are short, but they won't ride up on your legs as you run. The Colosseum Active Women's Simone Cotton Blend Yoga and Running Shorts make a great choice, whether working out or lounging around the house. This poduct is popular on Amazon, with more than 31,000 reviews. These women's running shorts are among the top 100 products, making them best sellers in the women's athletic shorts and running clothes categories. Customers rave about these shorts, calling them the most comfortable shorts they own. The wide waistband doesn't dig into your hips; you can fold it if you prefer a lower rise. The Colosseum Active Women's Simone Cotton Blend Yoga and Running Shorts flatter all body types, and your thighs will not chafe when you wear them. Snag these holy grail women's running shorts for $14.99-$19.99, depending on the size and color. As soon as you slip them on and look in the mirror, you'll want to buy them in additional colors – and that's what many customers have done. They also report that these women's running shorts run true to size with some customers ordering up only to regret it later. So, check the size chart for the best fit for you.
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Under Armour Women's Fly By 2.0 Running Shorts
Some people prefer brand-name workout gear for a performance they can trust. So if you're in that camp, check out the Under Armour Women's Fly By 2.0 Running Shorts. They are a little pricier, but these women's running shorts are highly rated on Amazon, with more than 20,000 positive reviews. They are 100 percent polyester and feature an elastic waistband and internal drawcord for maximum support. The lightweight fabric is both comfortable and durable. Thanks to the moisture-wicking fabric, these women's running shorts will help absorb your sweat. It will also quickly dry, thanks to the breathable mesh panels. You'll never overheat wearing the Under Armour Women's Fly By 2.0 Running Shorts. Like many women's running shorts, these have a built-in brief for extra coverage and support as you run. These comfortable shorts feature a crossover, shaped hem to highlight your legs, and a 3 – 3.5-inch inseam depending on the size. The Under Armour Women's Fly By 2.0 Running Shorts are loose, so if you're looking for skin-tight shorts, you may want to check out another pair. They come in more than 100 colors and patterns in sizes X-small through 3X-large. These women's running shorts fit true to size. Customers say these shorts are the perfect workout shorts, great for all shapes and sizes thanks to their stretchy waistband and loose fit. They are light and airy and are among the best athletic shorts to work out or hang out. These women's running shorts will not ride up as you move. The Under Armour Women's Fly By 2.0 Running Shorts retail for $9.07 – $49.99, depending on the size and pattern.
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Under Armour Women's Play Up 3.0 Shorts
The Under Armour Women's Play Up 3.0 Shorts have a distinctive elastic waistband, so everyone will know what you're wearing. These top-quality women's running shorts are great for all activities thanks to their soft, lightweight knit fabric. It's anti-pill and anti-pick, so the Under Armour Women's Play Up 3.0 Shorts are durable and look great no matter how many times you wash and wear them. These women's running shorts are 100 percent polyester, making them comfortable and breathable. The light fabric wicks away sweat and drys, even in hot weather. The Under Armour Women's Play Up 3.0 Shorts feature a 3-inch inseam with a curved hem for a flattering fit on all body types. One of the best parts – there are even pockets for added convenience. These shorts have a looser cut, so these women's running shorts won't stick to your legs. The Under Armour Women's Play Up 3.0 Shorts won't ride up or chafe. They'll be the most comfortable shorts you train in – and more than 19,500 Amazon customers agree. These women's running shorts aren't scratchy or crunchy as you move. The elastic waistband is comfortable. Many customers report that the shorts fit just right and they're not too short and not too long. Snag these shorts in 80-plus styles and colors, sizes XX-Small through XX-Large. They retail between $13.52 and $58, depending on the size and color. If you're looking for stylish women's running shorts, check out the Under Armour Women's Play Up 3.0 Shorts.
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Blooming Jelly Women's Quick-dry Running Shorts
The Blooming Jelly Women's Quick-dry Running Shorts are fantastic if you're on a budget. You'll get many of the great features you're used to in high-quality women's running shorts for a fraction of the price. These shorts retail from $19.19 to $25.99, depending on the size and color. They run from X-Small to 3X-Large and come in over 40 colors and patterns. These women's running shorts are polyester and spandex, so they are breathable. They feature an underwear liner to provide extra coverage, whether you're running, lunging, or squatting. This quick dry running short will not ride up or chafe as you move, and the side zip pocket can hold your phone, cards, or keys. There's no additional drawstring closure, but the elastic waistband is tight enough to comfortably hold up the shorts without being to tight to cut off circulation. The Blooming Jelly Women's Quick-dry Running Shorts have a four-way stretch, so you never feel restricted as you move. They are loose-fitting with a slit up the curved hem for maximum flexibility. These women's running shorts are perfect for all activities. Check the size chart to ensure you get your best fit, as they are reported to run small. More than 13,800 Amazon reviews have customers raving about how much they love these women's running shorts. Customers love the fit and quality of the Blooming Jelly Women's Quick-dry Running Shorts. They are lightweight and so airy that you almost feel like you're wearing nothing when you put on these women's running shorts. Many report they rival expensive brand-name shorts, so they are worth grabbing a pair or two!
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BMJL Women's Running Shorts
The BMJL Women's Running Shorts are another high-quality, affordable pair of athletic shorts with more than 30 color and pattern options. The polyester and spandex are moisture-wicking, lined with inner briefs for additional coverage as you work out. These women's running shorts are breathable with a tulip cut bottom. The split allows you to move freely with each step, and the loose fit promotes maximum flexibility. The high-waisted design flattens your stomach, while the elastic waistband fits securely on your hips without cutting into your skin. The fabric features a four-way stretch and is both soft and breathable. These women's running shorts won't ride up as you move, protecting your thighs against chafing. The BMJL Women's Running Shorts are comfortable thanks to the relaxed fit. The zippered pocket fits your phone and other small belongings. The inseam varies depending on the size, ranging from 2.2 through 2.8 inches. They are machine washable, but you'll want to wash them on a gentle cycle and hang them to dry. These popular shorts are among Amazon's best sellers in clothing, women's running shorts, and women's athletic shorts. There are more than 6,000 positive reviews, and customers love that they're a dupe some other designer running shorts. They come in sizes X-small through 3X-large and retail for $17.99 to $25.99, depending on the color and size. Check the size chart to get your best fit. They run a little smaller than you may expect.
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BALEAF Women's Running Athletic Shorts
The BALEAF Women's Running Athletic Shorts are comfortable and affordable shorts, which is the perfect combination. They're made of polyester and spandex, with an elastic waistband and a drawstring closure to get your ideal fit. These lightweight shorts are airy, comfortable, and quick drying, so nothing will slow you down when you wear these shorts. The built-in mesh briefs offer additional coverage. The BALEAF Women's Running Athletic Shorts feature two side pockets to hold your valuables, though they do not have zipper closures. Customers don't find this as a negative as the pockets are deep and will hold your items securely. They are loose-fitting with a tulip cut bottom for maximum flexibility. These women's running shorts have a 3-inch inseam, regardless of the size. There are 13 colors in sizes X-small through XX-large, retailing for $9.99 through $19.99. Many report they fit as expected, so you need not worry about sizing up. With more than 5,500 reviews, they're quickly becoming a fan favorite on Amazon, and with good reason! They are great overall shorts that fit all body types. The BALEAF Women's Running Athletic Shorts are a great value, so if you are looking for all-purpose shorts, these are a great pick. They have all the great features and styles you would expect from women's running shorts for a lower price.
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VALINNA Athletic Shorts
The VALINNA Athletic Shorts harken back to the gym shorts of yesteryears with decorative white lines adorning the thighs and sides. They are available in 12 colors. The sizing of these women's running shorts runs differently than other shorts on this list. You can choose either small-medium or large-x-large. They're a tighter fit, so don't expect a lot of wiggle room. You will want to check the sizing chart to get the best fit for you. The waistband is stretchy and secured with a drawstring to sit on your hips without digging into your skin. The polyester and spandex mix is buttery soft. The VALINNA Athletic Shorts fit almost like a second skin, allowing your legs to breathe as you wear them. The dolphin hem and decorative stitching are flattering, enhancing your shape while smoothing out problem areas. These women's running shorts are great for all activities. They retail between $13.99 and $14.99, so you can go wrong with trying them. There are over 5,300 positive reviews from happy customers, calling the VALINNA Athletic Shorts the softest shorts they've ever worn. Even though they're short, there is adaquate coverage. They are high-waisted and stretchy, though they do show underwear lines. Many are so happy with their purchase that they have bought multiple pairs in different colors. They are more than just another pair of women's running shorts – the VALINNA Athletic Shorts are great all-purpose shorts, even if you're not a runner.
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The Final Say on Women's Running Shorts
Many options for women's running shorts have similar styles, but the features will vary from pair to pair. The most important feature to check is the inseam and decide whether or not you feel comfortable with its length. The shorter the inseam, the more your legs may chafe as you move. You should also consider the cut, fit, and material. Some are moisture-wicking, which is excellent for long runs as you start to sweat. While the interior lining and briefs are standard in some women's running shorts, some forgo it for maximum flexibility. It's about your comfort when picking the best pair of athletic shorts, so try a few different pairs to see what you like best. With many options available at affordable price points, you can't go wrong. All that's left is to put on a sports bra, slip on your new running shorts, and go for a jog!
