If you love to exercise but hate the chafing that can make even a mild workout feel uncomfortable, double layered shorts might be the answer to your prayers. The concept is pretty simple — instead of one layer of fabric that sits directly against your legs, there’s another, slimmer layer tucked in between that keeps the two from rubbing together. Some pairs of the new activewear feature a built-in compression layer, while others are just made with sweat-wicking and quick-dry fabrics. And there are options to suit any activity, from a hike to a high-intensity gym session or run.
The double-layered shorts come in a variety of shapes and styles, but most feature an inner short liner that clings to your legs to prevent the outer layer from riding up or shifting during movement. The outer shorts, on the other hand, are designed to have a looser fit and are made with either stretchy woven fabric or lightweight spandex to provide plenty of movement while still offering enough coverage. The result is a pair of athletic shorts that’s perfect for sweaty workouts or outdoor activities, and that also looks like casual streetwear.
A great example of the style is Spanx’s celebrity-loved Get Moving Shorts, which use the same flattering and smoothing technology from the bra-like brand’s best-selling activewear (worn by stars including Jennifer Garner, Kourtney Kardashian, and Reese Witherspoon). These sweat-wicking and fast-drying shorts are crafted with a breezy polyester exterior and an anti-chafe liner. They also have a wide waistband that smoothes and compresses for maximum support, plus UPF 50+ protection to keep your skin protected from the sun.
Other workout shorts include Mack Weldon’s Stratus double-layered model, which is crafted from recycled materials and has an inner short with built-in compression to aid muscle recovery and ease the effects of fatigue. The pair also has zippered side and back pockets that add extra storage, as well as a hidden phone pocket for safe keeping when you’re in the zone.
Similarly, Nike’s Dri-Fit Icon basketball shorts are made of a breathable and lightweight sweat-wicking fabric to help you stay cool and dry during a game of pickup or your next workout. They have a five-inch inseam and an eight-inch built-in compression short liner to prevent the lower leg from getting hot, and the inner brief-style liner is comfortable against the skin without feeling confining or restricting.
If you’re looking for a more modest option, FILA’s Pickleball Double Layer Shorts have a seven-inch inseam and a slimmer silhouette that hits right above the knee. The inner shorts are a bit snugger than some of the other pairs we’ve seen, but reviewers say they fit perfectly and look great.
If you’re on a budget, consider these budget-friendly Nike Dri-Fit Icon double-layered shorts that are crafted from the same sweat-wicking and fast-drying material as more expensive options. The breathable and stretchy material provides plenty of movement while the slim pockets are roomy enough for keys, cards and other essentials.
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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