The Best Running Shorts for Men
You can run shirtless, and you can leave the socks at home (sometimes), but there’s one piece of running apparel that men just can’t skip: a pair of shorts. Like a trusty pair of running shoes, running shorts are an essential piece of gear, and although you might not think of it, they do a lot of work as you run. Quality bottoms keep you cool, provide some protection from the elements, prevent chafing, and store your stuff, too. Of course, there are tons of pairs to choose from—read on for shopping advice and our top running shorts for men.
Material Matters
One of the most important considerations with any performance running apparel is the material it’s made out of, and shorts are no exception. Sure, you can log miles in your favorite cotton loungewear, but it definitely won’t be a comfortable experience. In general, it’s best to avoid cotton, which is heavy, soaks up moisture, and can cause chafing. Instead, look for technical fabrics and blends. Polyester wicks moisture to keep you cool, for example, whereas spandex and elastane stretch to give you greater freedom of movement.
The construction of the textile is also important. For hot weather running, look for a mesh or open weave synthetic fabric, which will feel more breathable on your body (though it will offer less protection from wind and chilly temps). In addition, many high-end performance garments come with antimicrobial treatments to ward off smells. It’s a nice feature to have, especially if you don’t want to wash your shorts after every run.
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Features to Look For
Shorts are pretty simple, but aside from the material, there are a few other variables to consider.
Liners
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Many running shorts come with built-in liners. The advantage here is that you get a built-in pair of underwear, which helps simplify your running outfit, and it provides a snug, supportive fit, which wards off chafing and irritation. In addition, some shorts include extra support features, like Saxx’s BallPark Pouch, which keeps sensitive body parts from jostling around and rubbing against your thighs as you run.
Inseam
Inseam refers to the length of a pair of shorts. For men’s running shorts, inseams vary from around 3 inches for a pair of split shorts to 7 or even 9 inches. Shorter inseams mean less material over your legs—and more freedom of movement—whereas longer inseams provide more sun protection. Your ideal inseam is the one you feel most comfortable in, but avoid shorts that fall below your knee; the extra material will just add weight.
Pockets
In addition to keeping you cool and comfortable, shorts have another job: carrying your stuff. If you run with just a house key, this will be less of a concern, but if you need a place to stash a phone or wallet, look for shorts with at least one zippered pocket. Ideally, that pocket should be located somewhere around the waist, where it’s less likely to bounce around as you run.
How We Chose These Shorts
A little about me: I’ve covered outdoor and fitness gear for years across a variety of publications. When I’m not at a desk, I like to run, bike, and hike around Los Angeles, where I live. The one common trait between those three pursuits? I wear shorts while doing all of them, and that has given me plenty of experience with what works and what doesn’t.
I picked the shorts below based on a mix of research across top performance running brands, Runner’s World staff reviews, and my own experience wearing a wide variety of shorts. I evaluated each model based on its material, fit, and features, including any liner or pockets. The list below includes 12 options that suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you’re a casual runner or an accomplished marathoner, there’s a pair of shorts here to fit your needs.