mesh-panel lace-up sneakers Schwarz17 best women's cycling-style running shorts

We're the first to admit we're pretty distraught that lululemon's Base Pace shorts are no longer with us (if they make a reappearance we'll be the first to let you know). But there is a plus side: these new Fast and Free cycling-style running shorts.

Made from the brand's weightless (and confirmed squat-proof) Nulux fabric and with a flattering high waistband, they're some of the most comfortable shorts going.

Silicone grips on the legs stop them riding up, there are reflective details and a handy drawcord on the waist. And did we mention the pockets? There are five. Two on the thighs (ideal for your phone/gel), and three small pockets in the waistband for keys and cards. A truly brilliant pair of running shorts we hope won't be discontinued!

These cycling-style shorts from Nike have a zipped-up feel and generous high waist, so they’re ideal if you’re looking for a bit more support around the middle. You can also cinch the waist in with the hidden drawcord, so there’s absolutely no way they’re slipping down during a race or intense speed session.

They’re also incredibly comfortable – made from recycled nylon, the material is gorgeously soft, they don’t ride up and there’s no seam at the bottom, so no circulation issues for those with muscular thighs. And there are pockets for days – the dream. However, it is worth noting that some of our testers found sweat was rather visible in the in lighter colourways.

Available in three colours.

Our absolute favourite thing about these shorts is the super deep pockets on each leg — there's space to carry everything, including a large smartphone, without fear that it will fall out. And the zipped pocket on the back is the perfect size for a spare gel.

At 9 inches they're reassuringly long so there's absolutely no chance of chafing, while the pull cord on the waist ensures they stay in place. Made from silky smooth Italian fabric, they're incredibly lightweight and comfortable with decent compression — supportive rather than restrictive, allowing you full range of motion though those post-run stretches.

Looking for flattering, fashionable and comfy cycling-style shorts? Your hunt is over! It will come as no surprise that Stella McCartney's latest adidas range is seriously slick, and we love these high-waisted shorts made using recovered ocean-bound plastic. And best of all, they include bold contrast stripes and a reflective logo to keep you seen and stylish after dark.

Also available in black, or find them in Dark Caramel, Purple Glow and Black/Purple Glow on the Stella McCartney site.

We don't need to tell you Nike makes excellent running gear, and these biker shorts are among their best (and most cost effective) products.

They're totally opaque, have a hidden waistband pocket and a zipped pocket for your phone, plus a thick waistband with a drawcord to minimise movement as you clock up the miles.

Available in black and blue.

Plagued by chafing? These moisture-wicking shorts have a compressed feel so they won't budge when you move, while the fitted silhouette design looks super flattering too. We particularly like the hip pockets and handy storage tunnel.

Do you switch your running up with yoga, cycling and the gym? These bike shorts from eco-conscious US brand Girlfriend Collective are a great all-rounder. They're supportive without being too tight, made from recycled materials and will suit a range of high and low-impact exercise routines.

They don't have pockets, so you will need to wear a running belt Dice low-top lace-up sneakers.

Available in five colours.

Animal print is a neutral, and we won't hear anything to the contrary. These snakeskin-inspired cycling shorts have a wide ribbed waistband, bum-sculpting ruching and are gloriously stretchy, clinging like a second skin. The print is arranged in a subtle panelling effect, so they incredibly flattering but with no seams to dig in and distract as you smash that PB. Zero pockets adds to the fuss-free approach, plus there's no front middle seam so no digging in around the crotch.

As a result they're unsurprisingly super comfy, plus they're reassuringly thick without being hot (yes, they passed the squat-test) and they're as at home pounding pavements as they are cross-training in the gym — we even used them for yoga. Plus they're easy to style, pairing well with plain running tops (we like this loose tank from the same brand) thanks to the funky print.

They don't have pockets, so you will need to wear a running belt Dice low-top lace-up sneakers. Available in three shades.

These cycling-style shorts from On are a dream to wear. Packed with features (we couldn’t find enough essentials to fill all the pockets), with a supportive fit, flattering panels, great flex to the material thanks to a high elastane content and a reflective logo for visibility.

zapatillas de running mujer constitución media talla 19 running top tucked in and they’re super lightweight so ideal for speed sessions. Available in light blue and pale sea green.

These are shorter versions of Sweaty Betty's popular Power Leggings, so they come with 'bum sculpting technology' which is just as good as it sounds! They are available in 6 or 9-inch leg lengths, come with a super high, comfortable waistband and plenty of pockets.

You can choose from a range of designs – we're big fans of classic black, but the blue animal print zapatillas de running Adidas talla 50.5 azules.

This stylish and sustainably made pair of cycling-style shorts from Irish athleisure brand Gym+Coffee are super comfy to wear, the fabric feels soft on the skin and chafe-free even after multiple washes and we love how versatile they are.

There are drop-in pockets big enough for a smartphone, but if you're carrying much more you will need to wear a running belt.

Also available in navy blue and 5 inch length.

If you're not a aggravate of compressive wear but you want running shorts that won't budge, these super-light four-way stretch shorts will be just the ticket. They're made from a close-knit fabric that feels supportive without being too restrictive, and the panelling provides a flattering fit.

Available in five colours.

When it comes to running shorts it doesn't get more seamless than this. These babies are deliciously stretchy but without feeling flimsy — you feel fully supported as you run — and while they're shorter than some of the options on this list they're long enough between the thighs to avoid chafing, allowing you to clock up the miles distraction-free.

The linear pattern adds a sculpted look we love, but it's worth noting the shorts don't have pockets, so you will need a running belt if you're taking your phone or gels with you. We wish they made other colours but the blue is beautifully striking — pair with the matching crop top for seamless style.

footwear men shoe-care Bags Backpacks BAM. The brand specialise in activewear made using bamboo viscose, which requires half the amount of land to produce as cotton, but still wicks sweat effectively and feels gloriously soft, too.

The more natural composition does mean there's less flex to the fabric so they can feel a little tight to put on (big-bottomed ladies be aware), but once they're on they do not budge and look fantastic. Thanks to well-placed panels, simple side seams and a thick waistband, they're also super flattering and comfortable.

Also available in five colours/designs.

These mid-waisted cycling shorts from Pour Moi are surprisingly comfortable for the price, and come with a thick waistband, flattering colour block paneling and just the right leg length to minimise chafe.

zapatillas de running Saucony amortiguación media pie normal blancas running belt if you're carrying a smartphone. Available in black, pink and khaki or if you want side pockets, choose from monochrome or adidas Continental Vulc "Arizona Tea" sneakers.

Looking for something a bit different? These spandex running shorts from Designed By Sports have a comfy waistband, flattering seams and enough pocket space on the thigh to hold a smartphone. But most importantly thanks to the amazing gold bolt fabric, you'll look like Wonder Woman whizzing around the park!

Available in bolt of gold and Lace-up boots MIINTO-55822b340745fd61aa41.

Sometimes you just want a no-frills, do-the-job pair of cycling-style shorts. And in that regard this pair from Gymshark delivers. Yes, they are pocketless but that’s to the benefit of their super comfortable, form-flattering fit and gloriously stretchy construction – leaving you free to move as you please.

No seams = no chafing, the nylon/elastane blend fabric is sweat-wicking, while dotted panels of marl mesh keep you cool. They’re on the shorter side at 5 inches, and double up as great cross-training shorts in warmer weather. However, they don't have pockets, so pick up a running belt Dice low-top lace-up sneakers.

Available in 13 colours.