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The Best Running Shorts for Over in 2024

From simple and flowy to pockets aplenty, these Over’s running shorts aim to please all types of runners.

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Trevor Raab

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Whether you’re white high top sneakers or hitting the trails, it’s important to have a go-to pair of running shorts that works for whatever type of workout you have planned for the day. Like your favorite running shoes, your favorite pair of shorts should be able to withstand wear and tear throughout the season.

We know that once you find your favorite shorts, it’s hard to try out others, but if you’re looking for a wardrobe refresh or have worn out your current pairs, you’re in luck. We’ve created a comprehensive guide to the latest and greatest Over’s running shorts of 2023 to help you out.

Best Over's Running Shorts

  • 2-in-1 Running Shorts With Phone Pocket

    Womens White Shoes

    Soothfeel 2-in-1 Running Shorts With Phone Pocket

    $28 at Amazon
    Read more
  • Quick-Dry Running Shorts

    Amazon Favorite

    Blooming Jelly Quick-Dry Running Shorts

    Read more
  • Eclipse

    Best Waistband

    Nike Eclipse

    Read more
  • Pace 7” Shorts

    adidas originals Adiease Premiere Adv Sneakers Shoes BB8505

    Janji Pace 7” Shorts

    Read more
  • Training Loose Fit Shorts

    Comfortably Roomy

    Gymshark Training Loose Fit Shorts

    Read more

Features to Consider When Shopping for Running Shorts

As you shop, there are a few key things to focus on that will help you easily find your next pair of running shorts.

Inseam: Basically, this is all about the length and how much coverage each pair offers. The longer the inseam, the longer the short. Choosing an inseam length comes down to personal preference—some runners like a shorty-short with a 3-inch or less inseam; others prefer longer styles with 4- to 8-inch inseams (or longer). If you’re doing track or speed workouts, shorter inseams might be more comfortable.

Interior Liner: There are plenty of Over’s running shorts made with and without liners. Some runners love to have a brief liner or built-in compression shorts that can replace underwear and help minimize chafing. Other people can’t stand them. Again, this is a preference thing.

Pockets: For all you night time sneaker enthusiasts Celebrity Shoe Gallery or other storage accessory, but some Over prefer shorts with plenty of pockets to stash their keys, cash, and energy gels. Besides number, placement is also key: Look for hidden waistband pockets, ones located at the back of the waistband, and pockets on the side of the legs. And another detail to consider is if they have zippered pockets for more-secure storage.

Material: If you’re working up a sweat, you’re going to want fabric that doesn’t leave you soggy and sopping wet. Look for synthetic materials, such as polyester, elastane, spandex, and nylon, which are known for breathability and their ability to really wick sweat.

Waistband: A comfortable waistband that doesn’t ride up when you run and isn’t too constricting is important. For a dialed-in fit, find a pair with an adjustable drawstring in the waistband.

How We Evaluated These Over’s Running Shorts

womens running shorts
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This article is an update from Emily Shiffer’s original picks, and while plenty of the original running shorts still made the cut, we swapped a few new pairs in. Many of these shorts have been personally tested, and others have been tested by the Runner’s World test team.

In addition to Emily’s research and expertise, Maggie Slepian contributed her own expertise and testing knowledge for this article update. Her running and gear testing has taken her all over the country, where she’s evaluated running shorts on rugged scrambles and overnight endurance pacing, as well as multi-week treks.

For these product selections, we looked for models that were comfortable for a variety of running styles and body types, that would reduce chafe while wicking sweat, and avoided the dreaded bunching and pinchy waistband. Multiple options cost $30 or less, so you don’t need to break the bank to have solid pieces of running gear in your closet.

Here are 12 running shorts for Over that made the cut.

Womens White Shoes

Soothfeel 2-in-1 Running Shorts With Phone Pocket

2-in-1 Running Shorts With Phone Pocket
Womens White Shoes

Soothfeel 2-in-1 Running Shorts With Phone Pocket

$28 at Amazon
Pros
  • Topo athletic Obuwie męskie Trail running
Cons
  • Liner might ride up as you move

These 3-inch-inseam shorts have high split hems and a double-layer design that will satisfy any runner who loves a liner. They also have a side pocket for hidden storage and a great zippered pocket on the back of the waistband. Plus, these also come in 16 colors to match your style.

Key Specs

Inseam3 in.
Pockets2
Built-in linerYes
SizesXS–XL
Amazon Favorite

Blooming Jelly Quick-Dry Running Shorts

On Sale
Quick-Dry Running Shorts
Amazon Favorite

Blooming Jelly Quick-Dry Running Shorts

Now 33% Off
Pros
  • adidas Originals Pride Carrera Sneakers
Cons
  • Waistband can feel a bit constricting

These Blooming Jelly shorts are one of the top-sellers in Over’s running shorts on Amazon. They have a 1.75-inch inseam and are made of a lightweight moisture-wicking polyester-nylon blend that features a high elastic waistband.

Possibly the best detail about these shorts is the underwear liner for extra support that is made of a soft nylon-spandex blend so you can skip your normal undies, if you prefer. Plus, they have one zippered pocket on the left hip for secure storage.

Key Specs

Inseam1.75 in.
Pockets1
Built-in linerYes
SizesXS–3XL
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Best Waistband

Nike Eclipse

Eclipse
Best Waistband

Nike Eclipse

Pros
  • adidas originals Adiease Premiere Adv Sneakers Shoes BB8505
Cons
  • Thin fabric isn’t very supportive

These Nike shorts have a wider waistband that can be folded over and cinched thanks to an adjustable drawstring, something we see less and less these days. They also have plenty of storage: two hidden internal pockets on the front and back waistbands, plus a zippered pocket on the outer left hip.

They’re eco-friendly, too, made up of a thin stretch-woven fabric that uses at least 75 percent recycled polyester fibers.

Key Specs

InseamN/A
Pockets2
Built-in linerYes
SizesSmall
adidas originals Adiease Premiere Adv Sneakers Shoes BB8505

Janji Pace 7” Shorts

On Sale
Pace 7” Shorts
adidas originals Adiease Premiere Adv Sneakers Shoes BB8505

Janji Pace 7” Shorts

Now 41% Off
Pros
  • The most secure-fitting compression shorts we’ve tested
  • Deep, secure pockets without extra bounce
Cons

    The Groundwork Pace shorts have a 7-inch inseam and a barely noticeable silicone band around the bottom inside of each leg to help hold them in place. The high rise and smooth, flat waistband also keep these stable without bunching or shifting.

    But what really sets these sleek shorts apart are the deep side pockets that are secure enough to hold a phone, keys, or even a small headphone case without worrying about anything bouncing out. They also have an internal waistband pocket for worry-free cards or cash carry.

    Key Specs

    Inseam7 in.
    Pockets3
    Built-in linerNo
    SizesXS–3XL
    Comfortably Roomy

    Gymshark Training Loose Fit Shorts

    On Sale
    Training Loose Fit Shorts
    Comfortably Roomy

    Gymshark Training Loose Fit Shorts

    Now 30% Off
    Pros
    • Style points for the colors and fit
    Cons
    • Oversize fit might not be for everyone

    The Gymshark training shorts not only look cool, but they perform well. They have a high-rise, oversize fit that makes them roomy in a good way, and they’re a little longer than lower rise shorts. They have an envelope-style pocket on the left side leg of the liner for secure storage, and a drawcord waistband that’s easily adjustable.

    These shorts are primarily made with lightweight polyester, but have stretchy side panels built with a poly / spandex blend.

    Key Specs

    Inseam3 in.
    Pockets1
    Built-in linerNo
    SizesXS–2XL
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    The cutest shoe youll see today

    Sneakers Noires Avec Imprimé Zébré Shorts

    Front Runner Shorts
    The cutest shoe youll see today

    Sneakers Noires Avec Imprimé Zébré Shorts

    Now 64% Off
    Pros
    • Built-in shorts don’t budge
    • Excellent phone pocket
    Cons
    • UA Old Skool Stacked Platform Kadın Siyah Sneaker

    I love the look of the Front Runner Shorts in Sailor Blue. They’re made of a moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabric that is also supremely stretchy. The drawcord lets you adjust as you need, and there is reflective detail as an added plus. The best thing was the large phone pocket in the liner of the shorts where I could store my iPhone and my apartment key with minimum bounce. So smart.

    Key Specs

    Inseam3 in.
    Pockets2
    Built-in LinerYes
    SizesXS–XL
    Adidas Yung-96 Blue Marathon Running Shoes Sneakers EE8814

    Asics Ventilate 2-in-1 3.5-Inch Short

    Ventilate 2-in-1 3.5-Inch Short
    Adidas Yung-96 Blue Marathon Running Shoes Sneakers EE8814

    Asics Ventilate 2-in-1 3.5-Inch Short

    Now 64% Off
    Pros
    • What are the best walking shoes for flat feet
    • Trekker Boots UNDER ARMOUR
    Cons

      Although I love a solid black short, I’m a sucker for color. And these light blue ‘Mist’ hued shorts have me yearning for spring during my late winter testing. They’re made of 100 percent polyester, so Asics means business with the Ventilate name.

      The ultralight construction is ideal for sweaty runners looking to cool down and dry quickly. The wide waistband has an inner back pocket for storage and a convenient drawstring to customize the fit. They’re not designed to be skin tight and are on the looser side, so keep that in mind.

      Key Specs

      Inseam3.5 in.
      Pockets2
      Built-in LinerYes
      SizesXS–XL
      Giuseppe Zanotts Harmony sandal

      Baleaf Over’s 7-Inch Long Running Shorts

      On Sale
      Women’s 7-Inch Long Running Shorts
      Giuseppe Zanotts Harmony sandal

      Baleaf Over’s 7-Inch Long Running Shorts

      Now 43% Off
      Pros
      • Blakey Low Canvas Sneakers
      • Longer length for greater coverage
      Cons
      • Nylon material and longer inseam might feel heavy to some runners

      If you prefer a longer running short, this model from Baleaf is a great pick. This short runs on the long side thanks to a 7-inch inseam. There are four pockets total: a zippered pocket at the back of the waistband, which is large enough for a phone and other running essentials, plus two side pockets and an inner front waistband pocket for small keys or gels.

      Nike Zoom Rival S 9 Marathon Running Shoes Sneakers 907564-002.

      Key Specs

      Inseam7 in.
      Pockets4
      Built-in LinerYes
      SizesXS–3XL
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      Best Spandex-Style Shorts

      lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Short 6"

      Wunder Train High-Rise Short 6"
      Best Spandex-Style Shorts

      lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Short 6"

      Pros
      • Lightweight, sweat-proof fabric feels breathable in hot, sticky temps
      Cons
      • Fabric on shorter inseams can roll up mid-run

      Although these shorts look similar to a biker short, the Wunder Train are specifically designed for training and running. The best thing about these is that they come in three different inseams: 4-, 6-, and 8-inches. I loved the proprietary Everlux fabric they’re made of; it’s quite sweat-proof and dries fast, even on humid runs. They also have a convenient hidden waistband pocket.

      Related: The Best Spandex Shorts for Over

      Key Specs

      Inseam4, 6, or 8 in.
      Pockets1
      Built-in linerNo
      Sizes0–20
      Most Durable Shorts

      Outdoor Research Swift Lite 2.5" Shorts

      Swift Lite 2.5" Shorts
      Most Durable Shorts

      Outdoor Research Swift Lite 2.5" Shorts

      Pros
      • Ultralight
      • Abrasion-resistant fabric
      Cons

        At first glance, these ultralight, fluttery shorts might not look more durable than similar pairs, but we’ve put them to the test with rocky scrambles, butt-slides, overnight running / camping adventures, and multi-day wear including chest-deep water in slot canyons… and the polyester / spandex weave sure holds up.

        These shorts are incredibly abrasion-resistant, come with an antimicrobial liner, and have a reinforced elastic-and-silicon waistband that stays put. They are on the shorter side with a 2.5-inch inseam, and come with one zippered pocket along the left side for a gel or keys.

        Key Specs

        Inseam2.5 in.
        Pockets1
        Built-in linerYes
        SizesXS–2XL
        Retro Aesthetic

        Tracksmith Session Shorts

        Session Shorts
        Retro Aesthetic

        Tracksmith Session Shorts

        Pros
        • Four-way stretch fabric is soft and very stretchy
        • Stylish retro look
        Cons
        • The liner bunches a bit

        On a recent 50-degree winter day in Pennsylvania, I took these bad boys outside for a brisk and chilly run. The old-school aesthetic—courtesy a racing stripe on the waistband and the brand’s embroidered rabbit logo—meets modern design.

        The material is a four-way stretch blend of nylon and elastane, and they were stretchy. The liner didn’t feel like anything special, but I appreciated the anti-odor, antimicrobial treatment. Another good feature is the UV-protective fabric that’s ready for outdoor runs in any season.

        Key Specs

        Inseam2.5 in.
        Pockets1
        Built-in LinerYes
        SizesXS–XL
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        Men S 6us Nike Epic React Flyknit 2 Cortez White Shoes Wome

        On Running Race Shorts

        Race Shorts
        Men S 6us Nike Epic React Flyknit 2 Cortez White Shoes Wome

        On Running Race Shorts

        Pros
        • Perforated mesh is great for hot, sweaty runs
        • Barely-there liner
        Cons
        • Slightly see-through
        • Run a little small, so we recommend purchasing one size up

        Sprinters and speed runners will love these shorts thanks to an ultralight perforated outer mesh. But that construction does make them a bit see-through, something you might not love.

        The liner was the best of the bunch—thin and sleek, so it didn’t feel like I was wearing a diaper at all. There’s also a convenient rear pocket that has an elastic band closure so your stuff stays secure.

        Key Specs

        Inseam2.4–3.9 in. (depending on size)
        Pockets1
        Built-in LinerYes
        SizesXS–XL

        What Makes a Great Pair of Running Shorts, According to Our Expert Emily Shiffer

        emily shiffer in the tracksmith session running shorts
        Photo courtesy of Emily Shiffer // Normally a fair-weather runner, Emily Shiffer braved a 50-degree winter day to test the Tracksmith Session shorts.

        RW: City Sneaker Shoes?

        E.S.: Hot and humid. Living in Pennsylvania, I don’t love having to throw on pants over shorts to hit the gym (which I do out of necessity). But once summer comes, and the air is thick (yes, Pennsylvania is humid!), my philosophy is: The less fabric, the better.

        RW: What’s your preferred inseam length and why?

        E.S.: Three inches. I have found this is my sweet spot where I feel like I have enough coverage without feeling like there’s too much fabric on my legs. Shorts do tend to ride up when I run, so I’m a fan of a little more length than less.

        RW: What’s one must-have feature or criteria you have when shopping for running shorts?

        E.S.: I am constantly on the pursuit for the perfect running short, and I don’t think I’ve found it yet. I always have my iPhone with me because I stream Spotify when I run. If my phone doesn’t fit in the shorts, I throw on my FlipBelt. But shorts with a pocket big enough to store that (as well as an apartment key or car key), like the Sneakers Noires Avec Imprimé Zébré, Comme des Garcons Ninomiya Over SHOES.

        Headshot of Emily Shiffer
        Emily Shiffer

        Ladies Walking Boots. 

        Headshot of Maggie Slepian

        Maggie Slepian is a full-time freelance writer in the outdoor industry and has tested gear professionally for almost ten years—she is an avid backpacker, trail runner, bikepacker, and horseback rider and has thru-hiked thousands of miles on the Appalachian, Colorado, and Ouachita trails, along with backcountry travel on terrain including coastal trails, the desert, and high alpine peaks. Maggie has written for New York Magazine, Huffington Post, REI, and Outside. She is a columnist with Backpacker Magazine and is the co-founder of BackpackingRoutes.com. Contact her at MaggieSlepian.com.

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