
The Best Running Shorts of 2025
Whether you’re training for a marathon or heading out for a casual jog, the right pair of shorts can make a world of difference. At Running Warehouse, we’ve combined over 20 years of expertise with real-world runner feedback to bring you our top shorts of the year! From daily trainers to trail running, here are the best running shorts in every category.
Best Running Shorts of 2025 | |
Best Daily Training Shorts | Men's: Brooks Journey Shorts Women's: Brooks Chaser Shorts 2.0 |
Best Half Tights or Short Tights | Men's: Nike Dri-FIT Aeroswift Half Tight Women: rabbit Speed Leggy Short |
Best Running Split Shorts | Men's: Nike Aeroswift Short Women's: Nike Dri-FIT ADV Aeroswift Short |
Best 2in1 Running Shorts | Men's: Saysky Pace 2in1 Short Women's: NB RC Seamless 2in1 |
Best Trail Running Shorts | Men's: Patagonia Strider Pro Short Women's: Patagonia Multi Trails |
Best Running Shorts with Extra Pockets | Men's: rabbit Shredders Short Women's: rabbit Leggy Smashems Short |
Best Daily Training Shorts
Men's: Brooks Journey Shorts
In this category, we look for shorts that are lightweight, breathable, and comfortable for your daily training miles, and the Brooks Journey shorts are just that! Featuring an updated flat waistband, the Journey shorts provide a secure, customizable fit for all body types. Built with an internal brief liner for extra support, and multiple pockets for plenty of storage, these versatile shorts offer a mix of comfort and performance that make them the perfect choice for runners looking to log their daily miles.
Features: | Best For: |
Flat waistband and drawstrings | Runners looking for a comfortable, adjustable fit |
Brief liner | Extra support |
Zippered back pocket, four stash pockets, drop-in key pocket | Easy storage of phone, keys, and gels |
Available in 5" or 7" inseams |
Women's: Brooks Chaser Shorts
The Brooks Chaser Shorts are all about movement and comfort. A wide waistband provides a perfect fit for all body types, while a light and breathable design keeps you moving freely. Made with sweat-wicking material to keep runners dry, the Chaser is our top choice for logging your daily miles in comfort.
Features: | Best For: |
Lightweight breathable fabric | Freedom of movement |
Sweat-wicking materials | Keeping you dry and comfortable |
Wide waistband | Runners who want a secure fit |
Available in 3", 5" and 7" inseam |
Best Half Tights or Short Tights
Men's: Nike Dri-FIT Aeroswift Half Tight
Offering high performance and a non-intrusive fit, half tights and short tights are a popular choice for runners of all kinds. Worn by some of the best runners in the world, Nike's Aeroswift Half Tight sets the standard, featuring Dri-FIT ADV sweat-wicking technology and a breathable Flyvent waistband. These bottoms provide added airflow while hugging your body for a smooth, secure fit that’s perfect for runners looking to compete at their best.
Features: | Best For: |
Dri-FIT ADV sweat-wicking technology | Staying dry on high-performance runs |
Adjustable, ventilated Flyvent waistband | Runners who want a customizable fit and extra airflow |
Four internal key pockets, rear zippered phone pocket | Storing phone, keys, or gels |
Women's: rabbit Speed Leggy Short
With speed in its name, the rabbit Women’s Speed Leggy Short Tight is designed for exactly that. Featuring three pockets and an ultra-light, compressive feel that won’t get in the way, these shorts provide a snug and supportive fit, with enough storage for any run. Built for competitive and casual runners alike, this short tight is high-performance and high comfort.
Features: | Best For: |
Compression Fit | Supportive feel that stays put |
Super lightweight & quick drying | Staying comfortable on any run |
Rear zippered pocket and two side stash pockets | Storing phone, gels or smaller items |
Available in 2.5", 4", and 7.5" inseam |
Best Running Split Shorts
Men's: Nike Aeroswift Short
Lightweight and built for competition, split shorts allow you to run freely and push your limits. For top performance, the Nike Aeroswift Split Short stands out as the ultimate race-day companion. With a featherlight build, deep perforated V-notch splits, and a ventilated Flyvent waistband, this short maximizes speed and freedom of movement. Available in 2" or 4" inseams, the Aeroswift is built for runners chasing PRs.
Features: | Best For: |
Full side split | Unrestricted movement |
Sweat-wicking and quick-drying | Staying dry and comfortable |
Adjustable, light and breathable Flyvent waistband | Extra breathability and custom fit |
Lightweight knit liner | Additional support |
Available in 2" inseam |
Women's Nike Dri-FIT ADV Aeroswift Short
The Nike Dri-Fit ADV Aeroswift Short offers the perfect blend of speed, style, and performance. Its ultra-lightweight, split-leg design allows for a full range of motion, while a breathable waistband combined with moisture-wicking Dri-FIT technology keeps you cool when the competition heats up. Featuring a unique pleated rear design, the Aeroswift shorts let you perform at your peak and look good doing it!
Features: | Best For: |
Side splits | Unrestricted movement |
Adjustable, lightweight, and ventilated Flyvent waistband | Extra breathability and custom fit |
Dri-FIT material | Wicking away moisture and staying dry |
Inner brief | Added comfort and coverage |
Available in 3" inseam |
Best 2in1 Running Shorts
Men's: Saysky Pace 2in1 Short
Offering half tight performance combined with the storage and coverage of traditional shorts, 2in1 shorts give runners the best of both worlds! The Saysky Pace 2in1 Short provides a free-moving half tight that comes complete with a breathable, lightweight, and quick-drying outer layer. Featuring a sweat-resistant rear zipper pocket and plenty of additional storage, they’re our top pick for runners seeking a barely-there feel without sacrificing additional coverage.
Features: | Best For: |
Internal 5" half tight | Secure and breathable fit |
Lightweight, soft and quick drying SAYSKY performance fabric | Extra coverage |
Two side stash pockets, two rear internal pockets, and one rear zipper pocket | Storing phone, gels, and other essentials |
Women's: New Balance RC Seamless 2in1
If you’re looking for a slim fitting, high performance short with extra coverage, the New Balance Women's RC Seamless 2in1 Short has you covered (literally)! These shorts combine a seamless, fast-drying liner with a laser perforated shell that provides maximum air flow. Complete with a rear zipper pocket, two side waistband pockets, and two side stash pockets, this 2in1 short offers comfort, performance and breathability that are second to none.
Features: | Best For: |
Lightweight NB Dry material | Staying dry and comfortable |
Seamless mesh short liner with ribbed cuff | Comfortable fit and chafe prevention |
Laser perforated shell | Extra breathability |
Rear zipper pocket, two waistband pockets, two side stash pockets | Versatile storage for phone, keys, or gels |
Available in 3" inseam |
Best Trail Running Shorts
Men's: Patagonia Strider Short
Storage and durability are a must when it comes to exploring the outdoors and hitting the trails, and the Patagonia Strider Pro Short is equipped to meet every runner's adventurous needs. Built for mountain mileage, it features five pockets, a chafe-free liner, and a breathable, water-resistant finish that stays fresh and dry no matter the terrain. Whether you opt for the 5" or the 7" inseam, these shorts are built for serious trail stamina.
Features: | Best For: |
Moisture-wicking and odor-controlling | Long outdoor runs and hot temperatures |
Rear zippered pocket, four envelope stash pockets | Storing phone, keys, or running essentials |
Comfortable built-in brief liner | Increased comfort and performance |
Water repellent coating | Staying dry on trail runs and rainy workouts |
Available in 5" and 7" inseam |
Women's: Patagonia Multi Trails Short
Lightweight and durable, the Patagonia Women’s Multi Trails Shorts are ready for any adventure. Designed with a dose of utility, these shorts feature a 5.5" inseam for extra coverage and protection while out on the trails. Front and rear pockets and a water-resistant finish with HeiQ Mint odor control will keep you fresh and comfortable.
Features: | Best For: |
Moisture-wicking and odor controlling | Added comfort on long runs |
Soft internal mesh liner | Lightweight feel and chafe prevention |
Water-resistant finish | Added dryness for wet trails/rainy workouts |
Two zippered front pockets and snap closure back pocket | Storing your running essentials securely |
5.5" inseam | Extra coverage for outdoor runs |
Best Running Shorts with Extra Pockets
Men's: rabbit FKT short
While there’s no shortage of options when it comes to shorts with pockets, the rabbit FKT Shorts stand out above the rest. These comfy outdoor-friendly shorts offer versatile storage, featuring four outer stash pockets, four internal bounce-free storage pockets, and a zippered phone pocket at the rear. An internal liner made with odor-reducing Fresh Face technology is built into the shorts, so you can stay cool, smell fresh, and store your gear with ease and comfort.
Features: | Best For: |
Rear zippered phone pocket, four outer stash pockets, four internal no-bounce storage pockets | Runners seeking secure and optimal storage |
Quick-drying, lightweight shell | Chafe-free, all-day comfort |
Built-in brief liner with Fresh Face Technology | Stay comfortable and smelling fresh |
Scalloped side splits | Greater freedom of movement |
Available in 3", 5" or 7" inseam |
Women's: rabbit Leggy Smashems Short
Providing a secure and responsive compression fit, rabbit’s Leggy Smashems Shorts offer unparalleled storage with a performance feel. A wide mid-rise waistband houses front, rear, and side pockets, with additional stash pockets on each leg. Complete with adjustable drawstrings to customize your fit, you’ll be able to smash runs in comfort without skimping on storage.
Features: | Best For: |
Waistband with four pockets (front, back, two side pockets), two side leg pockets | Storing your phone keys and gels |
Wide waistband with an adjustable drawstring fit | Runners of any body type |
Ionic silver technology to combat bacteria and eliminate odor | Staying comfortable and smelling fresh |
5" inseam |
How We Made Our Picks
With a staff of running enthusiasts and apparel experts, we’re always working to stay up to date on the latest advancements in running gear. By combining personal, hands-on experience with real world customer feedback, Running Warehouse continually assesses which products offer the best performance, the most comfortable fit, and the key features that runners across various disciplines prioritize.
How to Choose Running Shorts
Finding the right style of running short can be a game changer in terms of comfort and performance while on the run.
Here's a breakdown of some key features, along with a brief explanation of why you may want them in your next new pair of shorts.
Types of Running Shorts
- Split Shorts: Split shorts are lightweight and offer slits up the sides that provide your legs with a greater range of motion for both men and women. This style is ideal for track athletes and competitive runners looking for movement with minimal restriction.
- Half Tights & Short Tights: Men’s half tights and women’s short tights offer stretchy, tight construction for a snug, sleek fit that prevents chafing. While ideal for high-performance running due to their freedom of movement, they can be used for any style of running.
- 2-in-1 Shorts: 2in1 shorts provide a similar fit to tight shorts but with an outer shell for added coverage and storage. These shorts are common for runners who cross-train or do yoga.
- Daily Training: Lightweight and versatile, daily training shorts offer a mix of comfort and performance that are perfect for knocking out easy runs or logging daily miles comfortably.
Running Short Features
- Inseam Length: Inseam length is the length from the crotch to the bottom of the short’s leg opening. Shorter inseams allow for more mobility, while longer inseams provide added coverage and protection.
- Waistband Width: Waistband width determines the comfort and security of a pair of shorts. Wider waistbands provide a smooth fit and a flattering silhouette, while thinner waistbands provide a minimal design and lightweight feel.
- Liners: Liners are lightweight, breathable internal fabric that work to wick away moisture and add support. These prevent skin from chafing in sensitive places and allow you to wear shorts without underwear to prevent bunching up and have a freer range of motion.
- Pockets and Storage: Available for both men and women, shorts with pockets are designed with storage often located on the back or inside of a short’s waistband and allow you to stash your running essentials, such as your phone, keys, gels, or ID.
Time to Gear Up!
Now that you’ve explored our top picks and gained insight into the different types of running shorts and key features to consider, you’re ready to find your perfect pair! The right shorts will enhance your comfort, support longer runs, and make every mile more enjoyable.
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