Running shorts are one of the most popular running gear pieces among athletes. But with such an expansive array of styles and features available, it’s important to find a pair that fits you right for both comfort and performance.
When shopping for running shorts, the first thing to determine is whether you want a built-in liner or not. A perfectly fitting liner helps prevent chafing by preventing the shorts from moving around on your legs. Some brands even treat their fabrics with a steaming process that feels cool against your skin to help combat overheating during high-intensity workouts.
Next, you’ll need to decide whether or not you want pockets on your running shorts. While having pockets isn’t necessary for every run, they can be helpful for carrying your phone, keys or snacks during a long distance run. If you are concerned about the amount of movement your shorts may have during a run, consider choosing a pair with less pockets or a looser fit. On the other hand, if you tend to wear your running shorts for everyday use, you might prefer a tighter fit and a pair with plenty of pockets.
If you’re looking for a more stylish running option, look no further than these colorful shorts from Ibex. They’re crafted with a light, stretch-woven fabric that’s printed with everything from tropical fruits to animals to jort-like designs. From a performance perspective, these shorts are designed with a half side-split to enhance range of motion and offer a four-inch inseam for a comfortable feel on the thighs.
Another stylish but practical running option are these shorts from Tracksmith. They’re crafted with a soft, lightweight fabric that’s both comfortable and breathable. And for added convenience, they feature a zippered pocket on the back to hold your key or other small items. The only downside to these shorts is that they don’t have any pockets on the front, so you may need to carry a keychain or similar item for safe storage.
Finally, if you’re looking for something that can transition from a run to running errands, consider a pair of these hybrid shorts from On Running. They’re crafted with a 2-in-1 design that includes a zipped pocket for your keys and a drawcord waistband in both a sensible black and a vibrant pink. These shorts also include a sweat-wicking, 4-way stretch fabric and a mesh brief liner for added support.
Running shorts come in a wide variety of lengths, from short to a standard 3 to 4 inch inseam and longer. The inseam is what determines where your running shorts will terminate on the thigh, so it’s important to have the correct measurement to get the best fit. In addition to inseam, you’ll also want to keep in mind what type of training or racing you plan on doing when deciding which length to choose. For example, if you’re planning on wearing your shorts for track training sessions, then you may need to opt for a longer style as most of the movements in these types of exercises are lateral.
Milena Estêvão is a YouTuber passionate about sharing her experiences (challenges, successes and motivations) in the fitness activities she is involved in.
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