This is another spot that usually doesn't bounce much and is a good place for a smartphone if the pocket is big enough. 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. However, the 5-inch option seems to be the most popular. If I had to nitpick, one concern I have is their long-term durability. Even though the On Lightweight Shorts only have one phone pocket, it is a joy to use and receives high marks in the category. While moisture wicking is an essential feature of a short, we think this could get frustrating in warmer humid climates. Both of these metrics influenced our ranking. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers. Besides general field testing, the five metrics that we assessed for each pair of shorts are waistband comfort, liner comfort, pocket performance, moisture-wicking and drying, and style and versatility. Those pockets typically are zippered for added security. Breaking news, folks: It turns out you can run without being, y'know, a runner. Beyond running, these are the type of shorts I wanted to lounge around the house in. Regardless of aesthetic and feel, the priority must be lack of movement and chafing. Every element of these shorts was designed for performance. If you struggle with finding shorts that fit properly or experience shorts riding up, I recommend you look for shorts with spandex and/or elastane. Due to this folding design, it can accommodate different-sized items, which we appreciate. Once we understood the comfort of each pair of shorts, we analyzed the small details such as pocket performance, fabric breathability/drying times and tested their versatility throughout the day. 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. If youre doing any amount of volume, Id steer toward other shorts listed here. Esquire participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. The brand's signature running short comes with all the nifty technical details you've come to expect, in a sweat-wicking fabric that's as sleek as it is breathable. Ive had mine for over 5 years, and theyre still going strong. Anytime you have movement, you have friction, and this compounded over time equals discomfort and chafing. Moisture-ridden fabric and poor fit are the top causes of chafing. We subjected each pair of running shorts to head-to-head testing in real-world situations. This comfort is combined with one of the most unique phone pocket designs, making these the only shorts we tested not feature a zipper. When you click on links to buy products we may earn money to support. A good split short should drape over your legs with the slits down the side, allowing the shorts to open freely with no restriction or riding up as you lift your thighs while running. A model in this price range has trouble competing with the latest designs and ultimate comfort of the premium materials that cost much more. Outdoor Voices's High Stride shorts are made out of an elastic nylon blend and finished with a side slit to give you that extra bit of mobility when you're trying to hit a PR. The fit and feel must allow for all-day comfort. These shorts also feature reflective details for added visibility in low-light conditions. You could also purchase them separately, but why go through the hassle when styles offer a two-in-one deal? One really smart feature is the built-in key string to prevent your key from accidentally falling out when accessing items. Designed in collaboration with ultra-endurance athlete Rich Roll, the Far Short holds its own against some of the best running shorts Ive tested. The thick but well-vented waistband with a drawstring provides a secure foundation for five pockets: three drop-in pockets and two rear zipper pockets. Pockets: If youre outside, running for miles on end, youre going to need a compartment to store your phone and wallet. In addition, there are some styles that are treated with UPF protection and odor protection. Im also not a huge fan of DWR-treated shorts. Cory Smith has been a runner since 1992. While we appreciate the inclusion of this feature, the location would be better suited towards the hip. With eight colors to choose from, youre bound to find a pair to match your shirt. The Nike Flex Stride 7" receive high marks for their cool colorways and two hand pockets which we appreciate on 7-inch inseam models. Getting the right gear is half the battle. By analyzing the starting weight and comparing it to the dry weight, we could see the total absorption amount. The internal brief liner was one of the more supportive ones tested. These shorts fit so well we didn't even need to use the internal drawstring. When you are running, you generate loads of heat, and tight compression shorts often do not allow that heat to escape very well. If you can get past the price, youll be rewarded with one of the best pairs of split shorts you can own. On really hot days the DWR treated shell became absolutely drenched with sweat, retaining the moisture and feeling a bit like heavy swim trunks. Its impossible to highlight the best running shorts without mentioning the Patagonia Pro Strider ($69). Initially, I wasnt a huge fan, but the supple feel grew on me after further testing. Much to the surprise of most people, wool is a great summertime fabric because it has natural temperature regulation properties. Imagine taking the most comfortable pair of sweatpants (or shorts, for that matter) and infusing them with a highly technical moisture-wicking fabric. While these shorts don't have the extras that the higher-end models have, these, without a doubt, won't let you done on runs around town. Ten Thousand is one of many fitness-oriented apparel brands that has recently branched out to the running category. We often found ourselves using this for multiple activities throughout the day. If you thrive off an all-eyes-on-me attitude come race day and want to look and feel like an elite runner these are for you. If youre not familiar with SAXX underwear, boy, are you missing out. The GearJunkie gear guide to mountain, road, and gravel bikes, bike accessories, apparel, and more. I can easily carry a phone, 500mL soft flask, emergency wind shell, and enough fuel for over 3 hours with a dedicated pocket for trash. Its more supportive than any other brief or liner, and it layers in extra prevention around your male parts. 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. Avidan Grossman is the Style eCommerce Editor at Esquire, covering mens fashion, shoes, grooming, and accessories. Moisture-wicking briefs and zippered pockets make for a comfortable (and secure!) If chafing is an issue for you, pay attention to the fabric and look for a pair of shorts that has a slightly different makeup. Its a good idea to invest in at least one pair of shorts with a large carry capacity like the Black Diamond Sprint. District Vision makes seriously stylish running gear for seriously stylish runners. In the market for a new running shirt? GearJunkie may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. This unique design keeps your parts securely and comfortably tucked away and free from rubbing. With that versatility, we appreciate the hand pockets found on some of these models. 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 liner is there to allow for breathability and support, which often is not offered with standard underwear. Hes a full-time running coach who has been reviewing running gear since 2014. The tension used to hold the shorts up serves as a great anchor point to prevent them from bouncing around as you run. 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 Janji AFO Middle Shorts and the On Lightweight Shorts have flat sewn edges that reduce friction and noticeable bulk towards the stitching. We experienced no chafing or discomfort from either of these models from the first to the last mile. Four drop-in pockets around the waist are perfect for fuel, car keys, or a credit card, while a zippered rear pocket fits most modern smartphones. Plus, they come in a host of cool colors. The waistband comfort also didn't receive the highest of marks, but when compared to the pricey models. We then conducted a thorough field test to evaluate each short on fit, comfort, mobility, moisture-wicking, and carrying capacity. Our experts test thousands of products each year using thoughtful test plans that bring out key performance differences between competing products. 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. We made sure to test a wide variety of waistbands in this analysis. Shorts with hand pockets are generally more versatile than those without hand pockets. 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. Each short was saturated with water and the differences were analyzed to provide a wicking/drying score. Just like anything, people have their personal preferences when it comes to waistbands; some prefer thicker waistbands, some prefer thinner. Thanks to small pull tabs added to the openings of the drop-in pockets, I was able to easily and quickly access items without a struggle. If the brand wasn't already on your radar, it should be. We love how the pocket is secure while running but also allows for easy access -- something that zippered pockets struggle with. Running doesn't have to be a sufferfest; the right gear can make your experience much more comfortable! Whatever you're in the market for, from hydration vests to running jackets, we can help you find the best running gear for your needs. Ill be blunt theres nothing particularly special about them. We often strive to find the tightest fitting shorts without being too constricting. Your source for comprehensive hunting reviews and buying guides. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing and comparison. This is also why we have introduced the versatility metric, which takes these factors into account. This model has a comfortable liner and two hand pockets, which are a nice addition that allows for uses outside of running, such as bouncing around town or going to the gym. For complete mobility and freedom, there is no better type of running shorts than half tights. Of all the waistbands I tested, these were the most comfortable. Most shorts these days will blend in a stretchy fabric such as spandex or elastane to give the shorts extra mobility. They do have a few flaws. 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. Ill go out of my way to avoid wearing a hydration vest or waist belt. We were impressed with the liner and waistband of this model and appreciated the exterior drawstring closure, which reduces chafing for extended runs. The outer shell is always made with some sort of moisture-wicking material such as polyester, nylon, or wool. Because of the slimmed-down minimal design, these are less versatile than some other shorts, which offer multiple pockets for nutrition and other items. If you like a more free-flowing short, I suggest you do the same. Support us! Proper shorts help make running considerably more tolerable by anticipating your every complaint and addressing them in kind. I feel theres no other material that wicks and dissipates sweat better. The Janji AFO Middle Shorts also scores high for their unique pattern designs that are sure to stand out from the rest of the starting line. Shorts with a thicker waistline and/or 2-in-1s are better at holding items tightly against your waist. The shorts on this list are the ones we kept reaching for time and time again. Asics's two-in-one style boasts a breathable outer shell with an in inner compression layer for extra support. These shorts fit great and are supportive, and I can attest to the odor resistance. The New Balance Impact Run 7" with the NB Dry material effectively shed moisture and maintained fairly water-resistant throughout our testing, having both low absorption and a fast dry time. While these are lightweight (much more so than the Black Diamond Sprint), I find they dont breathe as well as non-DWR treated shorts and tend to retain moisture longer once soaked through. Tights, on the other hand, stay put when wet and wont feel as heavy. After months of testing, even years in some cases, weve managed to narrow down the best of the best for whatever type of running youre into. The part wool liner of the Smartwool Merino Sport Lined 5 Short can be a good option. Wet shorts can get heavy in a downpour and start to feel cumbersome. We performed all of our testings with an iPhone 11 Pro. Looking for a new pair of trail runners? Pockets are a personal preference, but on long training runs or exploratory outings, pockets are key. The brand's shorts are the perfect choice for an early-morning sprint. Running shorts come in all different lengths from 2 to 7 inches, but 5 inches seems to be the most popular length. To be as comfortable as possible, liners are most often made with silky smooth synthetic materials and sometimes mesh. What's more, they have a mesh pocket on the right-hand side to keep your phone secure (goodbye, bouncing). The 73% nylon and 27% elastane plain-weave shell is extremely lightweight and breathes exceptionally well perfect for long days in the mountains. Everything else generally is extra, and while other features can provide benefits, the waistband or liner will usually make or break the shorts. The two most predominant are polyester and nylon blends. I have to say, the Ballpark Pouch design works especially well when running. That only begins to paint the picture of how comfortable the Tracksmith Session Shorts ($68) are. They don't add much bulk and really do not impact the running performance, and allow you to quickly stow your wallet or phone while walking into an establishment. We've included versatility as well because shorts this expensive should hopefully be able to perform different tasks throughout the day, like heading out to breakfast post-run or going to the gym. Lululemon's surge shorts are the ideal pair to ease yourself into the idea of wearing a style with a slightly shorter inseam. The best running shorts, however, should not only provide freedom of movement, but also keep moisture at a minimum to ward off chafing, and keep items like your phone, keys, and fuel secure without bouncing around. We hope that your next season in shorts is a great one. But on chilly, windy days, the DWR treated shell acted much like a wind shell, blocking the wind better than any other shorts Ive tested. We noted how each performed for several key considerations, such as waistband comfort, liner comfort, pocket functionality, moisture-wicking, and versatility. The close-to-the-skin fit makes them ideal for runners who struggle with chafing, keeping your quads, hamstrings, and glutes warm during cold and/or rainy runs. Shorts with high absorption rates generally take longer to dry, but with minimal sweating, can be perfect for spring or fall conditions. The Rabbit FKT has by far the most comfortable liner that we tested. Between the airy build, easily accessible and plentiful pockets, and fast-looking aesthetics, the Adidas Terrex Agravic Pro trail running shorts ($75) took the crown for best trail and ultra running shorts. If youre looking for compression tights, these are not it. Both of these models feature external drawstrings. Adidas Terrex Agravic Pro Trail Running Shorts, Himalayan Climbers Make History, Fugitive Eludes Authorities & More Stories to Start Your Week, Arcteryx Running Challenge: Log Miles, Win Prizes, Polygiene anti-odor, antimicrobial treated, Somewhat heavyweight fabric compare to others tested, Vertically aligned pocket is easy to open, Wind-resistant shell is great for mountain running, Heavy shell is not ideal for really hot days. Id also like to see the rear zippered pocket have a slightly larger opening. Im a huge fan of wool as a performance fabric. The shell fabric is thin and stretchy, and it does a fantastic job of not only wicking moisture but also drying quickly. You need stuff with moisture-wicking properties, nylon being the best option. But if youre not picky on the finer details and just need a pair of treadmill shorts, or shorts for quick, hassle-free runs, these are for you. Trek, bike, and paddle with GearJunkie and USARA this season as we explore and compete in wilderness events around America. We never felt constricted in these pairs and noticed no liner movement during any style of running. This gives the shorts greater flexibility and mobility, ultimately limiting restriction. I have to give HOKA credit. Once you realize that running is a thing, it is time to invest in the right gear. After two hours of dry time, we weighed the start and finish weights and found the difference. The perforated waist belt, aggressive-looking notched side split, and even the logo placement are honed for speed. On some days, the dreaded post-run soaked shorts are inevitable, but you may want to take this into account if you often find yourself running in the heat. With exceptional storage and wind protection, the Sprint Shorts are ideal for high alpine mountain running. The Patagonia Strider Pro shorts receive recognition for their comfort and versatility on long outings. The Janji AFO Middle shorts are our go-to for uptempo and fast efforts. These liners are simply that good. It comes with a small side zippered pocket and one rear elastic pocket. For Matthew, both competitive and personal objectives require a commitment to finding the best gear possible to increase the odds of success and completion. If you find the built-in liner does not provide enough, you can wear a pair of brief underwear for added support. A small probably would have worked; the medium gave me a more relaxed fit. 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. If its any consolation, I can confirm the quality is on par with the price. The longer liner can provide extra protection against friction. While Alo Yoga's goods are best known for, erm, yoga, the brand's lined Advance shorts are your new secret weapon for hard runs. Read Every Article Esquire Has Ever Published, How to Get Into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, The Case for Age Limits in American Politics, Best Running Shorts with Anti-Odor Protection, Best Running Shorts with Compression Liner, This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. Got feedback? Some are flat and skinny, some are thick and tall, almost resembling yoga pants which have grown in style and popularity for both men and women. That brings up the next dilemma in that what size phone is your shorts size for. Searching for the best men's running shorts? We appreciate the secure phone pocket on the rear, which includes a zipper pull for easy access. If that doesnt work, I suggest trying a pair of shorts with a different fabric make-up. Inseam indicates how far down the leg the short sits. And just like the exterior, the fabric a liner is made of is also crucial, with mesh or an open-weave material allowing for maximum breathability. These shorts are my go-to for light and fast mountain runs. The waistband and liner on this model are also extremely comfortable and did not contribute to any chafing or discomfort. The folding pocket design found on the On Lightweight Short is a standout feature of the model. 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. However, there is a tipping point where youll want to start using a vest or waist belt to hold your items. We find that external drawstrings are superior to internal drawstrings because they reduce the possibility of creating friction against your skin. Often phone pockets are either too loose or too tight. If youre interested in broadening your knowledge about running shorts, check out our comprehensive buyers guide and FAQ at the end of this article. The On Lightweight shorts are so comfortable that we found ourselves wearing them throughout the day, even after we finished our run. Weve logged hundreds of miles in the latest shoes this spring to help you find the best running shoes. If youve never tried them, you can take my word for it a quality pair of split shorts is pure freedom. Take this with a grain of salt, as I havent put them through a long-term durability test yet. The stretchy material provided phenomenal mobility and the large notched sides reminded me of the unrestricted, free-flowing feel of split shorts, but without the casual appearance. 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. The On Lightweight Short has the most comfortable waistband by far, which is both tall but super thin. The shell is extremely lightweight and the four drop-in pockets are huge. It also doesn't hurt that they are a great all-around model and easily could fit your needs for everyday use or long trail adventures. Testing took place on both trails and roads around Durango, CO, and the Texas Hill Country, where Matthew lives and spends his free time. But if youre a pro (or Milo Ventimiglia), shorter is better. Its shorts are complete with all the bells and whistles: boxer-brief liner, two hip pockets, phone pocketeven a key loop. We feel that models with 7-inch inseams are much more versatile for performing tasks outside of running. 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. From next-gen tech to ingenious innovation, our weekly peek at emerging products examines the sometimes cutting-edge, sometimes quirky world of gear design. They usually run from four inches to 10, so you can decide how much leg you want to show. To help, here are the key things you need to know about running shorts. If longevity and functionality are your primary concerns, these running shorts are certainly worth the money. The best pockets sit high on the hip, where their contents will bounce less. If youre an avid runner who doesnt let the weather hold you back, give these a try. The large majority of running shorts are designed to be worn without underwear.