The Best Running Shorts for Every Type Runner

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After your running shoes, running shorts might be the most important piece of gear you put on before heading out for a run. A good pair of men’s running shorts are a wise investment, as they can have a big effect on your performance. Well-made running shorts will wick moisture and keep you cool. They also prevent chafing and irritation, which can make your run miserable.

The Best Running Shoes for Race Day and Speed Workouts

With their premium cushioning foams and lightweight, propulsive designs, racing shoes are built to help you set a new PR

Lightweight: Arc’teryx Norvan Short 5”
Comfy Waistband: REI Co-op Swiftland 7″
Best Split Short: New Balance Impact Run 3-inch Split Short
Goldilocks Inseam Length: Lululemon Surge Lined Short 6″
Premium Fabric: Tracksmith Session Short
Best Linerless Short: Path Projects Sykes PX 5” Short
Most Versatile: Patagonia Baggies
Affordable: Baleaf Laureate 7” 2-in-1 Shorts
Best Merino Shorts: Icebreaker ZoneKnit Merino Shorts
Lots of Storage: Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts

What to look for

Before spending money on new running shorts, it’s a good idea to run with what you have and see how it works for you. Pay attention to the fit and feel of your shorts. Do they stay in place while running? Does the waistband or liner dig into your skin or cause irritation? Does the material breathe and wick sweat? Do they have enough pockets to store your essentials? If you’re dissatisfied with the pairs you own, it’s time to upgrade. Here’s what to look for in men’s running shorts.

Material: Like most performance apparel, running shorts are often made with a blend of synthetic fabrics, usually polyester and elastane. Polyester has great breathability and wicks moisture, and it’s an obvious choice for garments used in high-intensity activities like running. Elastane (also known as spandex or Lycra) is stretchy, which helps the shorts conform to your body for a snug fit while also offering good freedom of movement. Nylon is another common synthetic material. It’s lightweight, highly durable and has a bit of stretch.

If you prefer natural fibers look for shorts that utilize merino wool: It vents moisture, regulates your temperature in both hot and cold weather and resists odors — all without any chemical treatments. It’s often used as a liner material and mixed with synthetic fabrics like nylon for improved durability. Some men’s running shorts are made with modal or lyocell fabrics, which are semi-synthetic fibers produced from wood pulp. They have a soft texture and they’re very breathable.

Inseam Length: Men’s running shorts have inseam lengths that range from three inches up to about seven inches. The right length for you depends on your preference and the kind of running you’re doing. For the lowest possible weight and maximum freedom of movement, opt for split shorts, which typically have a three-inch inseam. These are a great pick for speed workouts and races. Shorts with five- to seven-inch inseams offer more coverage, so you get more sun protection. You also don’t have to bare your upper thighs to everyone around you. For average-height runners, it’s best to avoid shorts with inseams longer than seven inches — the extra material will just flop around and get in your way while running.

Liner: Liners in men’s running shorts range from loose mesh layers to close-fitting compression shorts-within-shorts. Liners have a few benefits. First, they replace underwear, so you’ll have one less apparel item to worry about. Because they’re made with performance fabrics, they’re also much better at wicking sweat and promoting airflow. Some men’s running shorts also have built-in pouches for cradling your more sensitive body parts. These features provide extra support and chafe prevention and keep things in place while running.

Already have running underwear you like? Look for shorts without liners. Wearing underwear and lined shorts together is a recipe for overheating and irritation.

Pockets: Most runners will need to carry house keys, a phone and other items like energy gels while running. Make sure you consider how you’ll store your essentials when shopping for shorts. Zippered pockets and key loops are helpful for keeping items secure. In addition, pay attention to where pockets are placed: A zippered pocket at the back of the waistband is a good spot to stash heavy items like a phone, as they’ll move around less. Some shorts have an elastic sleeve in the liner; that’s another good place to keep a phone secure.