10 Best Running Shorts for Every Workout in 2026

The right running shorts should stay comfortable through miles, intervals, strength sessions, and everyday workouts. This roundup compares 10 options across liner styles, inseams, pocket layouts, fabrics, and fit preferences.

Whether you want lightweight split shorts, secure phone storage, or supportive 2-in-1 coverage, these picks make it easier to narrow your search by how and where you train.

Best 10 Running Shorts Picks for 2026

Best All-Around Pick – NORTHYARD 7-Inch Running Shorts

For versatile running shorts with practical storage, the NORTHYARD athletic shorts combine lightweight stretch fabric, moisture-wicking performance, and three secure zipper pockets. Reflective strips, side vents, and UPF 50+ protection add useful features for outdoor training.

Best For: Runners and gym users who want secure storage and a versatile 7-inch length.

Pros:

• Quick-drying, breathable 4-way stretch fabric with UPF 50+ protection.
• Three deep zipper pockets help secure a phone, keys, and cards.
• Reflective strips and breathable side vents support outdoor comfort and visibility.
• Available in multiple colors, sizes XS–4XL, and three inseam lengths.

Cons:

• The relaxed athletic fit may feel less streamlined than compression-style shorts.
• The 7-inch option may be longer than preferred by runners who favor very short shorts.

With its combination of storage, stretch, sun protection, and reflective details, this is a strong everyday option for running, workouts, and other outdoor activities.

Best Lightweight Women’s Pick – CRZ YOGA 3-Inch Split Shorts

These CRZ YOGA running shorts are designed for a barely-there feel, using soft, lightweight, quick-drying fabric with a 3-inch inseam. The high split and built-in mesh liner support unrestricted movement while helping reduce friction during runs.

Best For: Women who prefer short, lightweight running shorts for unrestricted movement.

Pros:

• Feathery-fit fabric is soft, weightless, quick-drying, and slightly stretchy.
• High split provides a broad range of movement.
• Built-in mesh liner helps reduce friction.
• Wide elastic waistband is designed for a comfortable fit.

Cons:

• The 3-inch inseam offers less coverage than longer running shorts.
• The supplied details do not specify a dedicated phone pocket.

This is a focused choice for runners who prioritize lightness and mobility over extended coverage or extensive storage.

Best Longer-Length Pick – BALENNZ Men’s 10-Inch Shorts

For runners and athletes who prefer more coverage, the BALENNZ athletic shorts feature a 10-inch inseam, breathable quick-drying polyester, and a standard fit. Two side pockets provide convenient storage for a phone, wallet, or small accessories.

Best For: Men who want longer running shorts for multi-sport workouts and everyday training.

Pros:

• 10-inch inseam provides more coverage than shorter running shorts.
• Breathable, quick-drying fabric helps manage moisture during workouts.
• Two side pockets hold a phone, wallet, or small accessories.
• Encased elastic waistband and inner drawcord support a secure fit.

Cons:

• Two side pockets offer less secure storage than zipper pockets.
• The standard, longer design may feel less minimal for short-distance runners.

The BALENNZ shorts are a practical option when coverage, simple storage, and multi-sport versatility matter more than a short split-runner silhouette.

Best Value Multipack – Kinglaman 2-in-1 Running Shorts

The Kinglaman 2-in-1 running shorts pair lightweight mesh outer shorts with built-in compression shorts for added coverage and support. A multi-pocket layout includes a liner phone pocket, two side pockets, and a rear zipper pocket, while the four-pack supplies multiple color options.

Best For: Men seeking supportive 2-in-1 running shorts and multiple pairs for regular training.

Pros:

• Built-in compression liner is designed to support the thigh muscles.
• Quick-drying, lightweight, breathable fabric helps keep workouts comfortable.
• Four pockets include a liner phone pocket and a rear zipper pocket.
• Four-pack includes black, blue, and gray color options.

Cons:

• The compression-style liner may feel less relaxed than unlined shorts.
• The supplied details do not specify a single selectable inseam range.

With built-in support, substantial storage, and four pairs per pack, this set is well suited to runners who train frequently and prefer a layered short design.

Best Value Pack – CE' CERDR Women's Athletic Running Shorts

This five-pack of women’s running shorts is a practical choice if you want several lightweight pairs for workouts and everyday wear. The high-rise elastic waistband, quick-dry fabric, split sides, inner liners, and zippered pockets cover the basics for gym sessions, running, yoga, cycling, and errands.

Best For: Women who want a versatile multi-pack of running shorts with pockets and a high-rise fit.

Pros:

• Five-pack offers multiple colors and pairs for regular rotation.
• Quick-dry, moisture-wicking 95% polyester and 5% spandex fabric is lightweight and breathable.
• Two deep zippered pockets hold essentials such as a phone, keys, or cards.
• Side splits and a soft inner liner support movement and coverage.

Cons:

• The regular fit may not suit shoppers seeking a compression-style fit.
• The high-rise waistband may be less appealing if you prefer a low-rise design.

Overall, this set stands out for convenience and versatility. It combines practical storage and a supportive high waist with enough stretch for varied activities, making it a useful option when you need several pairs rather than a single specialty short.

Best for Outdoor Training – G Gradual Men's Running Shorts

These men’s running shorts are designed for active outdoor use, with lightweight quick-dry fabric, UPF 50+ protection, and two deep zippered pockets. The elastic waistband and adjustable drawstring allow a more personalized fit, while the 7-inch inseam offers versatile coverage for running, hiking, and workouts.

Best For: Men who want lightweight running shorts with sun protection, secure storage, and an adjustable waist.

Pros:

• Lightweight, breathable, stretch fabric wicks moisture and dries quickly.
• UPF 50+ fabric helps provide protection during outdoor activities.
• Two deep zippered pockets secure items such as a phone, keys, earbuds, or cards.
• Elastic waistband and drawstring support a customizable fit.

Cons:

• This listing is for one pair rather than a multi-pack.
• The 7-inch inseam may feel longer than preferred for runners seeking minimal coverage.

Choose this pair if outdoor comfort and storage matter as much as mobility. Its 7-inch length and UPF 50+ fabric make it a particularly practical option for varied outdoor activities, while the drawstring helps keep the fit secure.

Best 2-in-1 Design – maamgic Men's 5-Inch Running Shorts

These 2-in-1 men’s running shorts pair a lightweight outer layer with a built-in compression liner for added coverage and support. Quick-drying stretch fabric, an adjustable drawstring, two side pockets, and a back zippered pocket make them suited to running, training, gym workouts, basketball, biking, and other active use.

Best For: Men who prefer built-in liner support and multiple pockets in a shorter running-short design.

Pros:

• Built-in compression liner is designed to reduce chafing and help support the thighs.
• Stretch, sweat-wicking materials provide flexibility and quick-drying comfort.
• Two side pockets plus a back zippered pocket offer useful storage.
• Adjustable internal drawstring allows a personalized fit.

Cons:

• The built-in compression liner may feel less suitable for shoppers who prefer loose shorts.
• The approximately 5.5-inch length provides less coverage than longer running shorts.

This pair is a strong fit for runners and athletes who want liner coverage without wearing separate compression shorts. The three-pocket layout adds everyday practicality, while the high-stretch construction supports dynamic training and movement.

Flexible Women's Pick – 2-in-1 Running Shorts with Liner Pocket

These women’s 2-in-1 running shorts combine a supportive inner layer with a lightweight outer layer for workouts and everyday activewear. The moisture-wicking polyester fabric, side slit, adjustable waistband, and liner pocket make them a practical option for running, gym sessions, yoga, and other activities.

Best For: Women who want versatile running shorts with built-in coverage and a phone-friendly liner pocket.

Pros:

• Two-layer construction provides support, coverage, and freedom of movement.
• Quick-drying, moisture-wicking, breathable polyester fabric is lightweight for exercise.
• Elastic waistband and drawstring allow an adjustable fit.
• Built-in liner pocket helps secure small essentials or a phone.

Cons:

• Hand-wash care may be less convenient than machine-washable alternatives.
• The standard fit and mid-rise design may not suit shoppers seeking a different silhouette.

Choose this pair if you value coverage and storage in a lightweight design. Its broad activity range makes it a flexible choice, while the hand-wash instruction is worth considering before purchase.

Multipack Training Value – Men's 2-in-1 Running Shorts

This three-pack of men’s 2-in-1 running shorts is designed for regular training, with quick-drying stretch fabric, an adjustable drawstring waistband, and multiple storage features. The 7-inch inseam and lightweight construction suit running, gym workouts, court sports, and cycling.

Best For: Men who want a three-pack of versatile athletic shorts with pockets for training and everyday rotation.

Pros:

• Three-pack provides multiple pairs for frequent workouts.
• Quick-drying, breathable polyester-spandex fabric offers stretch and moisture absorption.
• Drawstring waistband supports an adjustable fit and unrestricted movement.
• Side pockets, a rear zipper pocket, and towel hook add functional storage.

Cons:

• The 7-inch inseam may feel longer than preferred for runners who want shorter shorts.
• Fluorescent color options may be visually bold for shoppers seeking understated styling.

This multipack stands out for athletes who need several pairs and appreciate practical storage. Consider the longer inseam and color selection when comparing it with shorter or more minimalist running shorts.

Lightweight Support Pick – Men's 5-Inch 2-in-1 Shorts

These men’s 5-inch 2-in-1 running shorts pair a lightweight outer layer with a stretch compression liner for support during training. Quick-drying fabric, deep side pockets, an internal liner pocket, and an adjustable waistband make them suited to running, fitness, hiking, and gym sessions.

Best For: Men who prefer a shorter athletic short with a supportive liner and dedicated storage.

Pros:

• 5-inch length offers a shorter option for running and workouts.
• Stretch compression liner provides built-in support without excessive bulk.
• Two deep outer pockets and an internal liner pocket hold personal items.
• Quick-drying, breathable fabric is lightweight and designed for durability.

Cons:

• Hand-wash care may require more effort than machine-washable options.
• The compression liner may not appeal to shoppers who prefer unlined shorts.

This is a strong fit for runners seeking a short length, liner support, and useful storage in one design. Its high-stretch construction favors movement, while hand-wash care is the main maintenance trade-off.

How We Picked These Running Shorts

We focused on the features that matter most during active use: breathable and quick-drying materials, freedom of movement, dependable waistbands, useful pockets, and practical coverage. The selection includes men’s and women’s styles, short and longer inseams, split designs, built-in liners, and 2-in-1 construction.

We also considered versatility. Some pairs are better suited to fast running and hot weather, while others offer the support and storage needed for gym workouts, walks, or mixed training. Because fit varies by brand, shoppers should confirm the product’s size chart and read recent customer feedback before ordering.

Quick Comparison

Style	Best For	Notable Features
Split shorts	Road running and speed work	Lightweight feel and greater stride freedom
2-in-1 shorts	Training and added coverage	Outer layer with a supportive liner
Standard athletic shorts	Gym and everyday workouts	Simple fit, often with pockets
Longer inseams	Coverage and general training	More fabric and often increased pocket capacity

Key Buying Factors for Running Shorts

Fit and Inseam

Choose the length based on both activity and personal comfort. Shorter inseams can improve airflow and mobility, while 7- or 9-inch options provide more coverage. A secure, non-binding waistband should stay in place without digging in.

Liner and Support

Built-in briefs and compression-style liners can reduce movement and chafing, especially on longer runs. If you prefer unrestricted airflow or plan to wear separate base layers, unlined shorts may be more comfortable.

Fabric and Ventilation

Look for lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric that dries quickly after sweat or washing. Mesh panels, split hems, and breathable liners can further improve airflow in warm conditions.

Pockets and Storage

For keys, cards, and a phone, prioritize zippered or secure liner pockets. Check pocket placement and dimensions, since a pocket that holds a phone poorly can bounce or affect your stride.

Who Should Buy Which Running Shorts?

For road runners and speed workouts: Choose lightweight split shorts or shorter athletic designs with minimal bulk and strong breathability.

For gym and cross-training: A 2-in-1 pair offers useful coverage, liner support, and flexibility for squats, lifts, and cardio.

For phone-carrying runners: Prioritize zippered pockets or a secure liner pocket, then verify that the pocket accommodates your device.

For everyday versatility: Mid-length standard shorts with quick-drying fabric and a comfortable waistband can transition easily between workouts, walks, and casual wear.