The Best Women's Running Shorts of 2024

Finding the perfect running short can be a challenge. As an essential piece of every runner's wardrobe, running shorts provide comfortable support and breathable coverage. With a range of lengths and styles available, women's running shorts cater to individual preferences and training needs. For maximum flexibility and freedom of movement, consider bottoms with a short inseam length (1 to 3.5"). Alternatively, a medium (4 to 5.5") or longer (over 6") inseam provides added coverage and protection, particularly for trail running. Fitted bike shorts are another popular option that have a next-to-skin fit that helps reduce bunching and chafing. Many performance shorts feature built-in liners with moisture-wicking fabrics, waistbands with adjustable drawcords for a secure fit, and pockets for stashing essential items. Learn more about the different features of running shorts in our article How to Choose the Best Running Shorts. Whether you're looking for a speedy split short, added coverage, or a snug fit for muscle support, our experts have researched, tested, and compiled the best women's shorts for all of your many running needs.

Light and speedy, Nike's Dri-FIT ADV Aeroswift short gets our vote as the perfect companion for helping runners achieve their personal best. These shorts feature Nike's Aeroswift technology and trademark Flyvent waistband for lightweight ventilation, comfort, and mobility, and an updated brief liner for added coverage. An adjustable drawcord provides a dialed-in fit, and side-split hems allow you to pick up the pace and open your stride. Three internal drop-in pockets can conveniently store your keys, gels, or card. According to our resident Running Warehouse ultrarunner, Grace, "These lightweight split-leg shorts have a highly comfortable fit and breathable design." From its sweat-wicking stretch fabric to its stylish pleated-back design, the Aeroswift short will have you feeling breezy and cool as you chase your next PR.

A unanimous crowd-pleaser for the ladies at Running Warehouse, the rabbit Leggy reigns supreme. Whether you're gearing up for race day or hitting the trails for a fun outdoor adventure, rabbit's Speed Leggy is a must-have companion that delivers on comfort, performance, and style. With a reflective rear zipper pocket and two side stash pockets, the Leggy has roomy storage for your phone and other running essentials like nutrition and energy gels, helping you stay fueled on longer runs. The flat, mid-rise waistband provides a supportive fit, and the flattering silhouette offers optimal coverage and a smooth, next-to-skin feel. Thanks to its lightweight, quick-drying, four-way stretch fabric, these shorts comfortably move with your body without riding up (which is always music to our ears). With its sleek design, flattering fit, and trademark bunny logo, rabbit's Speed Leggy is simply irresistible!

The Leggy comes in 2.5", 4", and 7" lengths, so there's a perfect option for any runner. For Running Warehouse marathon runner Risa, the 4" Leggy is the ideal short for her next 26.2 miles. "The shorts don't ride up or cause any chafing on my long runs, and I also really appreciate the side pockets for stashing my phone and gels, plus the small back pocket for my I.D." Our apparel buyer, Linda, agrees that the Leggy is her "go-to" pick. "The material is compressive enough but still light on hot days. And I like wearing rabbit's fun colors and prints! The Leggy also has just the right pockets to handle phone, etc." And for apparel copywriter Marie, "The rabbit Speed Leggy has a great fit and feel. I love the construction and various lengths for your comfort level. I have worn and washed these many times, and they have held up without missing a beat on comfort and performance." Slide into the Leggy for yourself, and you'll see why these shorts are the talk of the town!

A consistent bestseller here at Running Warehouse, the Nike 365 Pro short is the perfect blend of fashion and function. The 365 Pro's signature feature is the flat, wide, logo-branded waistband with a mid-rise fit that sits comfortably for a body-hugging feel. Designed for movement, the stretchy fabric and flatlock seams ensure chafe-free comfort all run long, while the Dri-FIT technology will help keep you dry as you break a sweat. We are fans of the comfortable waistband that supports your core and the colorway options that beautifully complement Nike's matching sports bras. Whether you hit the road or cross-train at the gym, the Nike 365 Pro is an affordable and supportive option for everyday workouts.

For a fierce yet comfortable marathon-day option, the rabbit Fuel N' Fly will help keep you dry and cool all the way to the finish line. These shorts have a semi-relaxed feel and feature a mid-rise adjustable waistband for a personalized fit and a built-in liner made from Polartec Power Dry with Fresh Face technology to keep the sweat at bay. The half-split design allows for freedom of movement, while the laser-cut perforations and peppermint-based anti-odor treatment offer airflow and sustainable odor control for longer-lasting freshness. According to our shoe buyer and ultrarunner, Becky, "For runners with bigger quads, the fit on these shorts is perfect. The leg openings are roomy, while the waist fits securely and has a comfortable waistband. The perforations on the sides provide extra breathability and work really well in hot weather conditions." With ample pockets and cooling ventilation, the rabbit Fuel N' Fly can handle any run.

If you're looking for classic, high-performance shorts that keep up the pace on your daily runs, the Saucony Outpace shorts are here to answer the call. These shorts feature a mid-rise waistband with an adjustable drawcord and a built-in knit liner for a secure fit. Two drop-in pockets and a rear zipper pocket can store energy gels to help you refuel on longer efforts, while perforated panels aid in breathability. We are fans of the comfortable cling-free fabric that can go the distance, and with a variety of inseam length options and beautiful colorways, there is a style to suit every road runner's needs.

Perfect for any outdoor adventure, the Patagonia Strider Pro short offers comfort and protection with its updated design to better accommodate various sizes and body shapes. These performance shorts are constructed from new lightweight, stretchy, breathable, moisture-wicking material to keep you dry as you work up a sweat and feature a convenient locker loop for easy hanging post-run. Sustainably made with a PFC-free DWR finish, these shorts will keep you protected in inclement weather on the trails. At the same time, the comfortable built-in liner with an adjustable waistband allows you to move freely while you run. We are always fans of storage options, and with two drop-in stash pockets and a rear zip pocket that can store a phone, there is plenty of room for your essentials. According to our marketing coordinator, Heather, "These shorts feel like butter. The quality of the material is apparent, and the length provides just enough coverage without getting in the way. I also think the color is super flattering and cute!"

On those long trail runs, you need ample storage space for energy gels and nutrition to aid your endurance. With multiple waistband pockets, two zip phone pockets, and side stash pockets (in the Leggy option), the rabbit Smashems are the perfect shorts to accompany your outdoor adventures. Sustainably made from recycled coffee grounds, these shorts feature innovative Ionic+silver technology for cooling comfort, odor control, and quick-drying action. The traditional 3" shorts have two elastic loops with silicone grippers on the back for conveniently stowing trekking poles. If you prefer a short-tight option, the Smashems now come in a 5" boy short design, combining everything we love about the rabbit Leggy's secure fit with the ample waistband pockets of the legendary Smashems shorts. With their superior performance and long-lasting freshness, the rabbit Smashems will help you go farther and faster on your trail runs.

If you're on the hunt for lightweight, comfortable, and stylish running shorts that won't bunch, chafe, or restrict your movement, then the Brooks Chaser ticks all the right boxes. Hidden splits on the sides allow for a full range of motion, so you won't feel restricted as you run. A wide waistband with an infinity drawstring provides an adjustable, athletic fit that stays perfectly in place, and the soft jersey brief liner offers a little extra peace of mind. There are plenty of convenient pockets for storing your phone, keys, and other essentials. The Chaser comes in a variety of lengths, including 3", 5", and 7" (for those seeking more modest coverage), as well as a 2-in-1 short tight option. For its many great features, it's no surprise that the Brooks Chaser remains a top-rated versatile short for a worry-free, enjoyable run.

Whether you're running outdoors or hitting the gym, the Puma Run Favorite Velocity short is a great go-to budget option that you'll be reaching for time and time again. These shorts feature a built-in brief liner and a ruched, adjustable waistband with an infinity drawstring for a comfortable fit. The lightweight construction combined with V-notch slits and mesh panels on the sides deliver airflow when your run heats up, and two small envelope pockets can securely hold your keys and card. With its signature design, reliable performance, and affordability, the Puma Velocity is a classic training staple to add to your running wardrobe.

So luxuriously soft and comfortable, it's hard not to fall in love with Vuori's Clementine Shorts. With a new-and-improved modern fit and four-way stretch fabric, these lightweight shorts are all about delivering freedom of movement for an unrestricted run. The shorts feature a breathable bikini-brief liner, a mid-rise elastic waistband with an external drawcord, and a zipper pocket that will keep your essentials secure. Thanks to Vuori's anti-odor, quick-drying fabric, you can give it your all and stay dry and fresh while doing so. From casual outings to post-run lounging at home, the Clementine shorts will support you wherever you go.

We love switching up our running gear, and rabbit's Empower skirt offers a stylish new option that stands apart from the traditional running shorts. With its 2-in-1 design, this skort provides chafe-free comfort for miles on end. A rear zip pocket can store nutrition, and two side pockets can conveniently stow your phone. While there's no drawcord, the flat, smooth waistband and silicone grippers inside the leg openings ensure a stay-put fit, so there's no slippage to worry about. The Empower is also super lightweight and quick-drying, so you can continue wearing them post-workout. For the perfect union of fashion and functionality, slip into the rabbit Empower skirt.

With their fun prints and bold colors, the ChicknLegs shorts add a stylish flair to your running game. Popular amongst young athletes and for race-day wear, these shorts have a lightweight feel and feature a flat, satin-like waistband for a comfortable fit. The 1.5" and 3" split shorts come with a rear zip pocket for storing small essentials and a built-in brief liner for added coverage, while the linerless compression shorts, with their spandex polyester blend fabric, offer extra support and chafe-free comfort. Offering breathable fabric and a wide range of playful designs, the Chicknlegs shorts are a great option for the athlete looking to breeze past the competition while highlighting their playful fashion sense.