If you’re a plus-size runner, it can be hard to find running shorts that fit well. Many of the styles out there are cut for a slimmer silhouette, which can create a chafing problem for people with wider hips and buttocks. However, some brands offer options that are both comfortable and functional for runners of all shapes and sizes.
The best plus size running shorts are made from materials that wick away sweat, which is essential when you’re putting in a lot of miles on hot days. They should also have a comfortable waistband and plenty of pockets for gels, keys, and other essentials. They’re also lightweight, so they won’t weigh you down during a long run.
Some brands have even designed their fabric to be as soft as possible against the skin, which helps to avoid chaffing and irritation. In addition, some shorts come with built-in underwear, which makes it easier to pack only one pair of tights and avoid chafing or blisters. This is especially important for women, since their thighs are more sensitive to friction than men’s.
A good pair of running shorts can last for years, so it’s worth the investment in quality gear. Look for a fabric that’s both lightweight and breathable, and choose one that will keep its shape and color after repeated washings. If you want to stay cool and dry on your runs, consider a pair with an antimicrobial liner.
This pair of shorts from Lululemon uses a fast-drying Swift fabric to wick moisture, keeping you comfortable and dry on your runs. Its four-way stretch fabric hugs your body, making it comfortable to move in and ensuring that the shorts won’t lose their shape after multiple trips to the washer. The fabric also stretches to help reduce chafing, and the zippered pocket in the back is big enough for a phone and other essentials.
These lightweight, stretchy shorts are the perfect choice for hot weather. They have a stretchy, lightweight nylon-and-elastane blend that’s both flexible and durable, and they come with a built-in liner to protect against chafing and irritation. The liner is made from a soft and absorbent merino wool, so it feels great against the skin and wicks away moisture to keep you cool and dry.
Another option for warm-weather running, these shorts are made from a smooth and soft polyester-and-elastane blend with a stretchy fit that hugs your body. They’re a bit longer than some of the other shorts in our test, which may make them a good choice for more casual wear as well. The pockets are a little shallower than some of the other pairs we tested, but they’re still large enough for your phone and other running essentials.
Girlfriend Collective’s activewear has earned the brand a dedicated following, and these running shorts are a testament to their quality. They’re compression-fit to prevent them from riding up or chafing, and the 4.75-inch inseam is long enough to avoid riding up on your thighs during extended runs. They’re also made from recycled post-consumer water bottles, which gives them some extra sustainability cred.
Milena Estêvão is a YouTuber passionate about sharing her experiences (challenges, successes and motivations) in the fitness activities she is involved in.
FIND HER ON INSTAGRAM OR YOUTUBE THROUGH THE BELOW LINKS