![What Are The Best Running Shorts [Reviews 2017]](https://www.fitandme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Best-Running-Shorts-Reviews.jpg.webp)
Running really is a fantastic type of exercise, something we will talk about shortly. It does wonders for your psyche and your physical appearance, not to mention your overall fitness, all things which every human being on planet earth desires. To run effectively and do so in comfort, you are definitely going to want to wear a good pair of running shorts, but what are the best running shorts?
Well, that is why we are here, to talk about why you should run, how to find good running shorts, and of course, we have a list of the 10 best running shorts out there, all of which are affordable and will provide you with everything you need for a nice running experience!
Summary: The Best Running Shorts
Rank | Product | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
1 | ||
2 | ||
3 | ||
4 | ||
5 | ||
6 | ||
7 | ||
8 | ||
9 | ||
10 |
Why Should I Run? The Main Benefits of Running
If you are wondering why we are talking about running shorts, it is because you really can’t run without them, and running is something that you definitely want to do because it brings you a whole lot of physical benefits.
Benefit #1: Leg Strengthening
Without a doubt, one of the biggest benefits that you get from running is the strengthening of your leg muscles. Running, especially running fast over long distances, will definitely strengthen your leg muscles, and that will happen over a relatively short period of time. Having stronger leg muscles is of course a bonus because you will be able to run faster, jump higher, and it makes your everyday life much easier in general.
Benefit #2: Heart Health
Another reason why you should run on a regular basis is because it is one of the best forms of cardiovascular exercise that you could ever hope to engage in. Running will get your heart beating in that aerobic zone that will exercise it, make it stronger, and make it much more efficient at its job. This is great for increasing your heart health, for reducing the chances of heart and arterial disease, and it lets your heart pump more blood to your muscles, thus increasing your possible level of physical performance.
Benefit #3: Oxygen Use
Yet another advantage that running brings to the table for you is the increased efficiency of your lungs. Just like running exercises your heart, it also exercises your lungs. Running on a daily basis will increase your VO2 Max, which is how much oxygen your lungs can absorb, process, and provide your body with. The result will be getting winded less often, reduced chances of lung conditions, and a greater ability to engage in physical exercise.
Benefit #4: Endurance
Running is great because it helps to increase your overall endurance and stamina. Having stronger muscles that can work harder and for longer, a stronger heart that can pump around more blood and nutrients, and more efficient lungs that can supply those big muscles with more oxygen all have the ultimate effect of making you much more physically enduring in pretty much any situation.
Benefit #5: Happiness
Running is well known for causing your brain to produce various neurochemicals such as serotonin and dopamine, which are happiness-inducing neurochemicals. This is what is known as the runner’s high, which is when runners feel happy after running because of the release of excessive endorphins. Therefore, running will make you feel happy and feel much better about yourself!
Why Do I Need Running Shorts?
Running shorts are definitely a helpful thing to have if you are an avid jogger or runner. You don’t want to run in sweatpants or track pants because those are full-length pants, and they aren’t well ventilated either, not to mention that you obviously can’t go for a good run in a pair of jeans either.
Running shorts are good to have because they are short, lightweight, and well ventilated. A good pair of running shorts will make it feel like you have almost nothing on at all, and that is comfort. Moreover, a good pair of running shorts will help to wick away moisture and are usually water resistant, which means that they won’t get too sweaty or stinky.
A decent pair of running shorts will wick away the moisture and help prevent rashes and irritation on your legs. Also, running shorts often come with reflective materials to help keep you safe and visible when running during the nighttime.
Considerations To Make Before Buying Running Shorts
Running shorts usually are not going to cost you very much, but you still don’t want to go out and waste a bunch of cash on an inadequate pair of running shorts. Here are the most important considerations to keep in mind before you go out and waste your hard earned money on shorts that you won’t ever wear.
Breathability
Any running shorts that you get need to be very breathable and well ventilated. You don’t want your legs getting too hot while running because that will be uncomfortable without a doubt. Some really lightweight and thin shorts are always a bonus. You can also look for running shorts with a mesh inner lining which removes the need for underwear, thus providing more ventilation than ever. Some running shorts also have mesh inserts in the sides which help to increase breathability even more. The shorts you get should be very lightweight in general.
Moisture Control
Another thing that you need to look out for before making a final purchase of running shorts is if they have good moisture control. Nobody wants to be sweaty while running because that can cause irritation and discomfort, especially between the legs. A good inner lining that absorbs moisture and wicks it away is a bonus indeed. Moreover, a pair of shorts that is water resistant and quick drying is another bonus to look out for. This will make sure that the shorts in question never get too wet and uncomfortable no matter how far and hard you run.
Visibility
The next thing that you should look out for before buying a pair of running shorts is their nighttime visibility. If you like to run in the wee hours of the morning or later at night when it is dark out, cars can pose a serious risk if they don’t see you. A good pair of running shorts should have some kind of reflective material on it so that cars can see you during the night time.
Convenience
There are a few different convenience factors you should also keep your eyes on before making a final purchase. First of all, many of us like to carry our keys, phones, and maybe even our wallets with us when we run, but many running shorts are inadequate in that respect. A really good pair of running shorts will have pockets, or at least a small key pocket so you can carry those things with you while you run. Next, a good pair of running shorts should have both an elastic band and a drawstring for a good fit.
Running Shorts Reviews
Our Rating
As far as innovation goes for running shorts, the Nike Men’s Challenger Dry Running Shorts are quite innovative indeed. Quick drying fabrics, pockets, reflective qualities, and durability all make this an ideal pair of running shorts for any man.
Design
If you want lightweight and breathable running shorts then you should definitely consider getting the Nike Men’s Challenger Dry Running Shorts. These things are extremely light and well ventilated in order to keep you as comfortable as can be for the duration of any run that you go on. These shorts have a mesh side panel in order to let air flow freely, a valuable feature for running in hot climates.
Moreover, the Nike Men’s Challenger Dry Running shorts utilize Dri-FIT technology. These shorts have a built-in brief so you don’t even need to wear your own underwear, plus both the brief and outer layer is made to wick away moisture from your skin to keep you comfortable, plus the shorts dry really fast so they never stay sweaty for long.
Furthermore, these shorts are built with reflective qualities in order to make nighttime running as safe as can possibly be. Moreover, the polyester outer layer of these shorts is very rugged and won’t just come apart after a few runs, not to mention that the shorts are totally machine washable as well.
To make these shorts stay on well, they feature an elastic waistband, plus for convenience, they also come with 2 pockets, one on either side, so you can carry a wallet, phone, keys, and even more without having to worry about them.
Value for money
The Nike Men’s Challenger Dry Running Shorts are going to cost you somewhere in the neighborhood of 60 dollars. This might seem like a high price to be paying for simple running shorts, but remember, they have reflective qualities for safety, lots of pocket space, they are lightweight and breathable, and they do a great job at handling moisture too.
Build quality
The build quality of these particular running shorts is nothing short of outstanding. They are made with very durable polyester that is machine washable, they will keep you safe during the nighttime, they are well ventilated for comfort, and they dry really fast too, which is pretty much everything you need from a good pair of running shorts.
Pros
- Elastic waistband
- 2 pockets
- Reflective qualities for nighttime running
- Quick drying inner liner
- Woven inner layer – brief
- Mesh panels for ventilation
Cons
- No drawstring
- Fairly expensive
Our Rating
Under Armour never fails to deliver great products at reasonable prices, which is exactly what they have done with these running shorts. When you buy these shorts, you aren’t going to be spending a fortune, but you still get great running shorts none the less.
Design
Perhaps one of our favorite aspects of the Under Armour Men's Launch Run Woven 7" Run Shorts is that they are designed with special anti-odor technology that does not allow for the growth of smelly bacteria. Everybody sweats when they run, but at least these shorts aren’t going to smell because of it.
Yet another great thing about these running shorts is that they are very lightweight and breathable, but they do still manage to retain their durability too. You really can’t find a better mix of durability and comfort than with these running shorts. These things also come with a built-in mesh liner that helps your legs breathe and also wicks away moisture in order to keep your legs cool and dry for as long as you run.
For the sake of convenience, these running shorts have both an elastic waistband and an internal drawstring to make them fit you like a glove fits a hand. Moreover, these things also have mesh pockets so you can carry around keys, your wallet, and even your phone with no issue, plus they even have a specialized key pocket too.
Value for money
These running shorts surprisingly are only going to cost you around 30 dollars, which is not a very high price for such a great pair of running shorts. Comfort, breathability, moisture control, and durability are all things that these running shorts bring to the table.
Build quality
The build quality of these running shorts is quite phenomenal indeed. They bring a good combination of durability and comfort to the table. Being lightweight and breathable, having good moisture control, and being durable all make these ideal running shorts for sure.
Pros
- Mesh pockets and key pocket
- Durable material
- Lightweight and breathable
- Mesh liner
- Moisture wicking
- Great odor control
- Elastic waistband and drawstring for superior fit
Cons
- Somewhat tight around the thighs
Our Rating
If you need a great pair of running shorts, then you should definitely look into the PUMA Essentials Running Shorts. These things come with absolutely everything you need for a great running experience.
Design
We really like these particular running shorts because they are made out of 100 percent polyester. This makes the PUMA Men's Essentials Running 7" Shorts extremely durable, plus they are machine washable so they are very easy to clean as well.
Moreover, these Puma Running Shorts feature dry cell technology, which means that they dry very fast, plus they are moisture wicking too. Next, these things feature an inner brief for increased comfort, a brief that is great for moisture wicking and very breathable too. Speaking of breathability, these shorts also have mesh strips on the sides to make them even more ventilated than you probably need.
To make these shorts stay on well they come with an elastic waistband, and to make carrying your keys a breeze they also have a key pocket.
Value for money
The PUMA Men's Essentials Running 7" Shorts are only going to cost you around 30 dollars, which is a very reasonable price for such high-quality shorts. Lightweight, breathability, durability, and ultimate comfort all make these shorts a valuable find.
Build quality
The build quality of these shorts is definitely better than most other running shorts out there. Being machine washable and very durable, lightweight and well ventilated, and moisture wicking make these shorts a quality product, not to mention that they have mesh strips and a key pocket too.
Pros
- Mesh strips for ventilation
- Lightweight
- Moisture wicking inner lining
- Key pocket
- Elastic waistband
Cons
- No drawstring
- No reflective materials
Our Rating
A good pair of running shorts to go with, the Adidas Men’s Running Response Shorts come with absolutely everything you need for a cool and comfortable running experience.
Design
One of the things that we really like about the Adidas Men’s Running Response Shorts is that they come complete with reflective stripes on the sides. These are ideal for nighttime running because it lets light reflect off you so that cars can actually see you. These are safe running shorts and we like that.
Moreover, these particular running shorts are made with interior Climalite fabric that wicks away moisture from your skin so that you are dry while running. Having sweaty legs can lead to rashes and nobody wants that. Plus, these shorts are also designed to dry very fast, so even if you do sweat through them, they will be dry in just a matter of minutes.
The majority of these shorts are made out of polyester which we are totally fine with because it is a durable fabric that is easy to clean. It will last a long time, it dries fast, and it is machine washable as well. These particular shorts actually come in various sizes including a 5, 7, and 9-inch inseam.
The Adidas Men's Running Response Shorts are also very convenient because they feature an elastic waistband and a drawstring so you can tighten them to fit perfectly and prevent them from slipping down as you run. Another convenient aspect about them is that they feature a little key pocket in the front so you can store your house keys without any trouble at all.
Value for money
The Adidas Men’s Running Response Shorts are going to run you around 30 dollars. This is a great price to pay for comfortable and lightweight shorts that are quick drying, won’t slip down, and have a convenient key pocket too.
Build quality
The build quality of these running shorts is simply great, something which Adidas does well every single time. The Climalite fabric is very lightweight, wicks away moisture, and is quick drying, the polyester build is very durable and machine washable too, and the little key pocket is an added bonus that everyone can appreciate.
Pros
- Lightweight and breathable
- Durable fabric
- Moisture wicking and quick drying
- No-slip fit – drawstring and elastic waistband
- Key pocket for convenience
- Machine washable
Cons
- Sizing chart is a little off
- These shorts will smell of sweat if not washed regularly
Our Rating
If you need a great pair of running shorts for a very good price, you would be wise to take a look at these Baleaf Quick Dry Running Shorts. These things come with everything you need for a comfortable running experience.
Design
Something that you will definitely appreciate about this pair of running shorts is that they are very lightweight and breathable. They feature a polyester and spandex build that is both very durable as well as flexible and light too. These things also come with side mesh panels for some extra ventilation. Getting too hot in the Baleaf Running Shorts is not an option.
Moreover, these running shorts also come with built-in mesh briefs. These remove the need for an extra layer of underwear, plus they help keep your legs cool, and they help wick away moisture too. Speaking of moisture, these particular running shorts are made with a quick dry fabric that will dry within minutes of being wet.
For convenience, these running shorts also come with an elastic waistband so they don’t slip off during use, plus they also feature deep side pockets as well as a zippered interior pocket for keys. Safely carrying around your valuables while running is not a problem with these shorts. Finally, to keep you safe when running in the dark, these shorts also come with reflective stripes so you are clearly visible to cars.
Value for money
These running shorts will only cost you around 20 bucks. This is a very low price to be paying for shorts that keep you safe from cars, keep you cool and dry, and let you carry around your valuables with ease.
Build quality
The build quality of these shorts is superb. They are very lightweight, almost like you aren’t wearing shorts at all, they are breathable and moisture wicking for comfort, they won’t slip off, they have reflective stripes, and the polyester and spandex mix is both durable and flexible to boot.
Pros
- Reflective stripes for safety
- Mesh lining for moisture control
- Lightweight
- Ventilation strips for temperature control
- Pockets to carry your valuables
- Waistband for a snug fit
- Flexible and durable
Cons
- No drawstring
- Pockets placed in odd locations
Our Rating
This is a great mid-range pair of running shorts to go with. They come in at a fairly reasonable price, yet they still manage to deliver many qualities that you have come to expect from any pair of running shorts.
Design
Perhaps the best aspect of these running shorts is that they feature silver reflective stripes. Many of us like to run in the early morning or after dark, and these shorts will make sure that cars see you as you run.
Moreover, the New Balance Men’s Accelerate Running Shorts feature an internal brief that is made with special moisture wicking technology to keep your legs dry and comfortable, plus the shorts themselves also dry very fast.
Furthermore, these pants are made of a mix of polyester and spandex, which means that they are very durable, very lightweight and breathable, and they are also flexible too, all things which you want from a pair of running shorts.
These things also come with an internal storage pocket for keys or a small phone. There is also the fact that these particular running shorts have a drawstring as well as an elastic waistband to provide you with the perfect fit.
Value for money
These running shorts are going to cost you around 30 dollars, which is a pretty good price indeed. Ventilation, lightweight, flexibility, breathability, reflective stripes, and an internal pocket are all things that make these running shorts a valuable find.
Build quality
The build quality of these New Balance Running Shorts is nothing short of amazing. They will keep you well ventilated, they will keep your legs dry and free of skin irritation, they fit great, they stay up while you run, and they allow you to carry some keys or small items as well, all things which make these running shorts a quality purchase no doubt.
Pros
- Durable
- Flexible
- Lightweight and breathable
- Will not slip down
- Easy to wash
- Internal storage pockets
- Great at dealing with moisture
- Reflective qualities
Cons
- Run very small
Our Rating
These are some good basic running shorts that are not going to cost you a huge fortune, yet they still deliver all of the quality and comfort that you need from a pair of running shorts.
Design
We really like these shorts because they are made with both polyester and spandex. The polyester is easy to wash and extremely durable, and the spandex is flexible and very comfortable, an awesome mix indeed. Moreover, these running shorts also come with a polyester inner lining that is excellent for wicking away moisture so you don’t get too sweaty while running.
Moreover, the outer fabric is made to be both water resistant and quick drying. This means that they won’t get too hot and sweaty while running, plus they are also fairly lightweight and breathable. These running shorts bring you a great mix of durability, comfort, and flexibility, and well-ventilated moisture control too.
These shorts also feature an elastic waistband for a snug non-slip fit, plus they even come with an inner key pocket so you don’t need to hold your keys in your hands while you run.
Value for money
These may not be the fanciest running shorts around, but they do only cost 20 bucks, which spells value in our books. The Time To Run Men’s Running Shorts are light, breathable, durable, and flexible too.
Build quality
There is absolutely nothing wrong with the build quality of these running shorts. The spandex and polyester combination is very durable, water resistant, quick drying, well ventilated, and will keep you more than comfortable for the duration of your running routine.
Pros
- Lightweight and breathable
- Well ventilated
- Moisture wicking
- Elastic waistband for a snug fit
- Quick drying
- Inner key pocket included
Cons
- They fit very small
Our Rating
This is a comfortable, lightweight, and quick-drying pair of running shorts that will definitely have you running in comfort.
Design
One of the things that everybody can appreciate about the ASICS Men’s Woven 7” Shorts is that they feature a special kind of polyester. Yes, they are 100% polyester and have been specially treated to be quick drying.
No matter how much you run and how much you sweat, these shorts will never really get wet, and if they do, they dry in just a matter of minutes. Running can get really hot and sweat, but these lightweight and quick drying shorts will keep you cool and comfortable for hours on end. There is also the fact that these pants are very durable, will last you for years to come, and of course, they are machine washable too.
To make these running shorts fit comfortably and stay in place as you run they also feature an elastic waistband combined with a drawstring so you can tie them too. Slipping down your legs while you run is not an option with these running shorts. Finally, these things also come with a zippered storage pocket in the back so you can store keys, a small phone, or other small things without having to carry them in your hands or use one of those annoying fanny packs.
Value for money
These running shorts are going to cost around 35 dollars. This may seem a little expensive for a simple pair of running shorts. However, when you consider their durability, their comfort, and their quick dry build, 35 bucks is not that much to be paying at all.
Build quality
There is absolutely nothing wrong with the build quality of these running shorts. The polyester is very tough and machine washable, they are light and well ventilated, and the quick dry fabric keeps you dry for the duration of your run.
Pros
- Durable
- Drawstring and elastic waistband
- Zippered pocket for convenience
- Machine washable
- Quick drying
Cons
- Liner is somewhat tight
Our Rating
Yet another good pair of running shorts, the ASICS Men’s Split Running Shorts are very simple and straightforward, they don’t cost too much, they aren’t fancy, but they sure as heck get the job done.
Design
One of the things that we really like about the design of these particular running shorts is that they have a split seam at the side of each leg. This makes them much more flexible and helps to increase the natural range of motion which you can engage in.
The ASICS Men’s Split Running Shorts are made of 100 percent polyester, a very durable material that is easily machine washable for convenience. Moreover, these things also come with an elastic waistband and drawstring combination so you can make them fit just the way you want.
Furthermore, these particular running shorts also feature quick drying fabric that won’t even get the chance to get wet from your sweat. These things are very lightweight, breathable, and great for moisture control, all things which make these shorts extremely comfortable to wear.
Value for money
The ASICS Men's Split Running Shorts are only going to cost you around 30 dollars, which is a very reasonable price for a pair of running shorts that provides you with virtually everything you need for a comfortable running routine.
Build quality
The build quality of these running shorts is awesome. Their polyester build makes them very durable and machine washable, the split legs make them flexible, and they are well ventilated and quick drying too, all things which make these running shorts a quality find indeed.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Well ventilated
- Moisture wicking
- Machine washable
- Durable build
- Split legs for a full range of motion
- Waistband and drawstring for a snug fit
Cons
- No pockets
- Run a little small
- Stitching could be a little stronger
Our Rating
These are some really basic running shorts to go with. They do not cost very much at all, and they don’t really have any fancy features, but they are still more than good enough to get the job done.
Design
We actually like the fact that these running shorts are very simplistic. They feature an elastic waistband to keep them in place as you run, a convenient factor indeed. The Game Gear TR60 Athletic Running Shorts are made with very light materials that you can barely notice being on you, plus they are also well-ventilated thanks to the mesh slits in the side. Getting hot and sweaty is definitely not an issue in these running shorts.
Moreover, they also feature an inner lining which removes the need for underwear, plus the inner lining is fantastic for wicking away moisture too. These are some simple and straightforward running shorts that are ideal for any condition and any person.
Value for money
These particular running shorts are not even going to cost you 15 dollars. They are very affordable, yet they still bring a whole lot of value and functionality to the table.
Build quality
Build quality is definitely not an issue with these running shorts. They are made out of lightweight, breathable, and durable materials that will work for anybody and any run.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Durable
- Lightweight and breathable
- Mesh slits for ventilation
- Elastic waistband for a good fit
Cons
- No drawstring
- No reflective qualities
- No pockets
Conclusion
Finding the best running shorts out there might be a little harder that you think, but we hope that our list made things a little easier for you. Just remember that you want a pair of running shorts that is comfortable, lightweight, breathable, moisture wicking, and durable too.
If you have any questions about finding a decent pair of running shorts, just ask us and we will get back to you as soon as we can!