Running shorts are a form-fitting piece of athletic apparel that protects the lower body while allowing you to move freely during workouts. They come in a variety of fabrics, lengths and styles. The best ones feature a comfortable inner brief that prevents chafing and keeps the area cool, dry and free of friction. They also have a loose, breathable fabric that wicks sweat to keep you cool and comfortable.
The best options are made of synthetic materials, such as polyester, elastane and spandex. These materials are breathable and designed to quickly pull moisture away from the skin, keeping you cool and dry during workouts. They’re often combined with other materials such as cotton or linen to enhance comfort and durability.
Most running shorts have a liner that’s sewn into the fabric to prevent chafing and provide support for the genitals. The inner liner can be a brief or 2-in-1 style and is usually removable without damaging the fit of the outer shorts. Those who prefer to avoid the inner liner can wear their own underwear or boxer briefs underneath the shorts. Some liners are sewn in with the seam of the leg, while others have a zippered pocket that you can insert into your running shorts.
There are several different styles of running shorts, each intended for a specific type of run. A shorter short is appropriate for sprinting and racing, while a longer version can be ideal for long distances like a marathon or other endurance runs. Runners can also opt for a mid-length option that falls just above the knee. This is perfect for those who want the protection of a full-length short but don’t want the snags and pull-up issues associated with a longer model.
Some running shorts have pockets designed to hold essentials such as keys, ID and gel packs. This allows runners to remain hands-free on their runs and reduces the need to stop to reach into their pockets or risk losing their items. Some of these pockets are zipped while others are drop pockets with bungee loops. Some shorts have additional features such as reflective elements for safety or waistbands that are designed to prevent the shorts from riding up during a run.
While these options offer a great combination of performance, flexibility and convenience, they fall short in one key area — storage. The front pockets don’t have a place to store a phone, and Decathlon has a poor track record in ethical and transparency initiatives, according to Good On You. Other shorts have back zipper pockets large enough for a phone and bungee loops for keys. These can be useful on a longer run and are common in some trail-specific shorts.
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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