{"id":14474,"date":"2026-06-05T17:58:51","date_gmt":"2026-06-05T17:58:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/?p=14474"},"modified":"2026-06-05T17:58:51","modified_gmt":"2026-06-05T17:58:51","slug":"best-running-shorts-for-women-summer-2026-tested-and-reviewed","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/?p=14474","title":{"rendered":"Best Running Shorts for Women (Summer 2026): Tested and Reviewed"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Published June 5, 2026 11:05AM<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
What makes the best women\u2019s running shorts comes down to personal preference. All of us, however, want them to wick sweat, dry quickly, carry what we need, and make us feel confident. The best women\u2019s running shorts are the ones that we look forward to putting on and let us forget about them while we\u2019re out there. Over the past 18 months, our team of testers has put hundreds of miles on a whopping 72 pairs of shorts. These are our favorites.<\/p>\n
Best Women\u2019s Running Shorts: At a Glance<\/h2>\n\n(Photo: Lisa Jhung)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Most Versatile<\/h2>\n
Tracksmith Session Shorts<\/h3>\n
Sizes:<\/strong> XS-XL<\/p>\n
Pros and Cons <\/strong>+ Casual styling + Performance functioning \u2013 Thin waistband isn\u2019t flattering on all<\/p>\n
<\/section>\n
The inseam length of these shorts may be a mere three inches, but the relaxed fit, subtle branding, and easy flow of the lightweight polyester\/spandex shell fabric make them versatile enough to run errands or grab a coffee (or beer) afterwards. The fabric raised suspicions at first, as it is a soft knit that appears as if it would hold sweat. But we were pleasantly surprised. \u201cThe fabric is a miracle,\u201d one tester raved. \u201cIt dries quickly and has a really nice drape to it.\u201d<\/p>\n
The liner, made of Italian-sourced nylon\/elastane, adds to the luxurious feel and functionality of the Session Shorts\u2014soft against the skin, extremely lightweight, and quick drying. Three interior pockets in the liner add storage options to the one exterior zippered pocket, which holds items like AirPods rather awkwardly. Some testers found the thin waistband unflattering, as it can create a \u201cmuffin top\u201d around the midsection. Otherwise, we love how well these shorts perform on and off the trail.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n\n(Photo: Lisa Jhung)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Best Value<\/b><\/strong><\/h2>\n
New Balance RC Essential Short 5\u201d<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Sizes:<\/strong> XS-2XL<\/p>\n
Pros and Cons<\/strong> + Excellent wicking + Zero chafing \u2013 Can feel frumpy<\/p>\n
<\/section>\n
Many 5-inch shorts feel constricting and hot; not the RC Essential Short. The length provides modesty, while a roomy cut and substantial side notch allow mobility. The perforated four-way stretch woven shell helps keep these shorts comfortable on the run, and New Balance\u2019s fast-drying fabric technology (think capillary action moving moisture) does a great job wicking sweat.<\/p>\n
Testers called these shorts \u201ceasy to wear,\u201d and said they didn\u2019t experience any chafing or discomfort, despite the longer length. They also liked the four drop-in pockets at the waistband (a feature usually reserved for pricier shorts) and the zippered back pocket. These RC Essential Shorts also come in a 3-inch length.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n\n(Photo: Lisa Jhung)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Most Comfortable Running Shorts<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Oiselle Roga Shorts<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Sizes: <\/strong>2-24\/26<\/p>\n
Pros and Cons <\/strong>+ Universally flattering length + Comfortable, stretchy fabric \u2013 Tighter fit around the booty\/thighs than other shorts<\/p>\n
<\/section>\n
We love Oiselle\u2019s original Roga Shorts for their wide, flat waistband that makes them sit as comfortably as yoga pants. The 4-inch inseam length and tapered sides are flattering, and the stretch woven polyester\/spandex fabric is both substantial and lightweight. A semi-fitted cut provides coverage while the stretchy material moves with your body. \u201cThey fit in between a short tight and a more traditional running short,\u201d said a tester, who described the material as having more structure than other shorts. \u201cI liked it\u2014it wasn\u2019t wimpy, but also not heavy or thick,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Minimal seams in the crotch add to comfort, even during high-friction moves like high knees, and the shorts proved comfortable in hot and humid running conditions. \u201cI wore these for a treadmill run when I was super sweaty after sitting in a sauna, and they were great\u2014no chafing,\u201d said a tester. Bonus: A tiny loop on the interior backside allows for easy hanging to dry from all that sweat.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n\n(Photo: Lisa Jhung)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Most Comfortable Short Tights<\/h2>\n
Patagonia Endless Run Shorts 6\u201d<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Sizes:<\/strong> XXS-XL<\/p>\n
Pros and Cons <\/strong>+ Material dries quickly + Three no-bounce pockets \u2013 Drawstring seems unnecessary<\/p>\n
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Many running brands are designing short tights right now, but the capabilities of the Patagonia Endless Run Shorts caught our attention. These shorts dried quickly from sweat, keeping us from getting hot when it was warm and from feeling cold and clammy even when the weather turned.<\/p>\n
The 6-inch length on a trail run provided coverage and protection from both the sun and overgrown trees on tight singletrack. The next-to-skin fit kept us covered while scrambling on rocks (no flashing trail partners), and the wide, flat waistband stayed put during fast efforts and long, rambling runs alike. The lack of a center seam kept these comfortable, even when doing high-knee warm-ups or during rock scrambles. One tester raved: \u201cA perfect length (not too short, but also not so long that they felt frumpy), perfect level of compression of the smooth, soft material that made me forget I had the shorts on.\u201d<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n\n(Photo: Lisa Jhung)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Most Comfortable Short Tights<\/h2>\n
Tracksmith Twilight Short Tights<\/h3>\n
Sizes:<\/strong> XS-XL<\/p>\n
Pros and Cons<\/strong> + Super soft, comfortable waistband + Don\u2019t ride up \u2013 Side pockets are long and narrow<\/p>\n
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The ribbed exterior of these short tights adds style and compression, while a smooth-as-butter interior finish caresses the skin. The fabric\u2019s nylon\/elastane blend was a big hit among testers. It looks elevated, gently supports muscles, and doesn\u2019t ride up. Adding to the comfort is a wide, super-soft waistband and a brushed, breathable, and moisture-wicking liner panel.<\/p>\n
Testers praised the snug support: \u201cThey\u2019re a little thicker than some other short tights,\u201d said one, \u201cbut I like the feeling of structure kind of holding me in.\u201d Another said that these kept her \u201cfeeling supported through the run.\u201d Testers also liked the drop-in pockets on the legs and the zippered pockets on the back.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n\n(Photo: Lisa Jhung)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Best Pockets (Shorts)<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Rabbit 3\u201d Stashems<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Sizes:<\/strong> XS-XL<\/p>\n
Pros and Cons <\/strong>+ Ample, no-bounce storage pockets + Can work for road and trail running \u2013 Drawcord can feel bulky<\/p>\n
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With a mesh pocket that wraps 360 degrees around the torso, these function like a waist belt and a pair of shorts in one. We loved them for storing gels, chews, and our phones; all of which carried comfortably and with minimal bounce. The cut of these is more generous around the hips than other Rabbit shorts\u2014most testers liked the extra room, but some felt the fit was a little too baggy. We all liked the flattering angled leg openings and side slit, and the feel of the shell fabric that is both lightweight and durable.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n\n(Photo: Lisa Jhung)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Best Pockets (Short Tights)<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Janji W\u2019s 5\u201d Pace Short<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Sizes:<\/strong> XS-XXXL<\/p>\n
Pros and Cons <\/strong>+ Lightweight, comfortable fabric + Well-placed storage pockets \u2013 No zippered pocket<\/p>\n
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The Janji 5\u201d Pace Shorts are so comfortable that they converted more than one tester who prefers the modesty of looser-fitting styles from \u201cnever-ever would I wear skin-tight shorts like this\u201d to \u201cokay, now I occasionally wear shorts like this.\u201d The nylon\/spandex fabric lightly compresses upper leg and glute muscles while remaining extremely lightweight, and the multiple pockets give runners storage options.<\/p>\n
We liked the side pockets for carrying a phone or gels, the back pass-through pocket for holding things like gloves or even a long-sleeve layer, and the internal waistband pocket for stashing a key. The silicone grip dots on the leg hems keep the shorts in place and don\u2019t leave a mark, and the 5-inch length strikes a good balance between coverage and freedom. \u201cI like that they are tights without being bun-huggers,\u201d said a tester.<\/p>\n
Pros and Cons <\/strong>+ Zippered back pocket + Lightweight, durable shell material \u2013 Pricey<\/p>\n
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For those who prefer a short with a classic shell and liner instead of a short tight for trail running, we\u2019re recommending the Arc\u2019teryx Norvan Short 3\u201d. We love the feel of the lightweight shell material, a recycled polyester that\u2019s water repellent and durable enough to slide down rocky slabs on our butts. \u201cThese performed exactly as I\u2019d want them to and I didn\u2019t have to think about them,\u201d said a tester who wore them regularly on a 7-mile trail loop in the foothills of Boulder, Colorado. \u201cThere\u2019s no chafing, even though I\u2019ve been sweating a ton, and they provide just the right amount of leg and butt coverage.\u201d<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n\n(Photo: Lisa Jhung)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Best Shorts for Extreme Heat<\/b><\/h2>\n
Janji W\u2019s 2\u2033 AFO Split Short Ultra<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Sizes:<\/strong> XXS-XXXL<\/p>\n
Pros and Cons<\/strong> + Internal key clip + Great pockets + Split short mobility \u2013 Can feel skimpy<\/p>\n
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These super-light, \u00fcber-comfortable shorts offer split short mobility without baring all. The polyester\/elastane blend shell overlaps on the side of the leg and only opens into a split short when in motion. We found the liner and waistband\u2014both made of soft, lightweight, sweat-wicking, and quick-drying blends of polyester\/spandex\u2014particularly comfortable.<\/p>\n
Two drop-in pockets on the back work great for stashing Airpods or a key fob. \u201cThey\u2019re secure, but easy to access,\u201d said a tester. The back zippered pocket holds a phone without bouncing, and a front drop-in pocket features a small key clip. Reflective detailing, which looks like piping, is subtle and stylish.<\/p>\n
\u201cI took these shorts on an 8-mile run the first time I wore them,\u201d said a tester. \u201cThey were comfortable from the first step, and didn\u2019t rub or chafe.\u201d<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n\n(Photo: Lisa Jhung)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Best Shorts for Extreme Heat<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Oiselle Flyout Chill<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Sizes:<\/strong> XS-XL<\/p>\n
Pros and Cons<\/strong> + Lightweight + Highly breathable + Comfortable cut \u2013 Waistcord is very long<\/p>\n
<\/section>\n
The Flyout Chill shorts are as comfortable as baggy pajamas thanks to a super-soft, lightweight polyester material and a loose-fitting cut. But technical features\u2014like a mineral cooling fabric treatment, mesh interior liner, small key pocket, and waistband drawstring\u2014make the Flyout Chill shorts ready for a run of any distance. \u201cI love the material of these shorts,\u201d said a tester. \u201cThey never felt wet when I was sweating.\u201d<\/p>\n
They\u2019re the least pocketed shorts in the bunch, but we like their simplicity and appreciate the ability to do post-run, belly-up core work without having a zipper digging into our backs (although they are cut very short, so beware of flashing fellow gym-goers). We also love the curved hemline and flattering style.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n\n(Photo: Lisa Jhung)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Pros and Cons<\/strong> + Comfortable midrise fit + Complementary combo of inner and outer short \u2013 Drawstring is a bit bulky<\/p>\n
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The best 2-in-1 shorts have interior tights that don\u2019t ride up and an outer shell that is light and breezy in summer heat. The Rabbit Pacer Shorts 2-In-1 4\u201d fit the bill. Testers loved the feel of the lightly compressive inner tight made from a recycled polyester\/spandex-blend, describing it as \u201csuper soft and comfy\u201d with \u201cjust the right level of compression.\u201d The split-cut shell, made of a stretchy polyester\/spandex blend, allows full mobility and plenty of airflow.<\/p>\n
\u201cI have worn these shorts in a variety of conditions, from the trails to the roads to the track,\u201d said a tester. \u201cI love the split short feel and performance benefits with the added bonus of the comfortable, supportive, chafe-reducing short tight underneath.\u201d<\/p>\n
We liked stashing Airpods, energy chews, lip balm, and even a phone and small hydration flask in the compression-short leg pockets. The zippered back pocket secured keys and more. A tester who ran with the pockets fully loaded said they handled it all effortlessly. \u201cNothing bothered me,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
What to Look For in Women\u2019s Running Shorts<\/strong><\/h2>\n
When you\u2019re shopping for the best women\u2019s running shorts, look for breathability, moisture-wicking, and a chafe-free fit.<\/p>\n
Materials<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Sweat-wicking and quick-drying fabrics are essential in running shorts. These are usually made of polyester or wool blends and have a wide variety of proprietary names and textures. Polyester weaves tend to be the most breathable and highly durable, while wool resists odors and has a natural feel next to skin. Try on as many options as you can to find the ones that are both soft against your skin and feel cool and airy.<\/p>\n
Fit<\/strong><\/h3>\n
The fabric should not restrict your movement or be so tight as to interfere with your breathing at all. When trying on women\u2019s running shorts, do some dynamic stretching such as leg swings, lunges, and running in place to experience your body\u2019s whole range of motion in the apparel.<\/p>\n
Style<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Besides material and fit, there are a few key features to consider in running shorts for women: pockets, inseam, and waist height.<\/p>\n
If you like to carry items like your phone, keys, sunscreen, water flask, gels, or snacks, you\u2019ll need more pockets (if you don\u2019t run with a hydration vest). Make sure the pockets are large and robust enough to fit and secure what you\u2019re carrying, and located in spots where they won\u2019t bounce or irritate. When you\u2019re trying on running shorts with pockets, test how they feel when the pockets are full\u2014especially if you intend to carry something heavy like a cell phone, which can drastically change the way a pair of shorts fits and rides.<\/p>\n
Consider whether you prefer shorts with a longer inseam\u2014like four to six inches\u2014for more coverage and to avoid chafing, or ones with a shorter inseam that show a little more leg and feel less restricted.<\/p>\n
The rise is crucial to consider, too. While some runners prefer a higher waist to feel more secure, others prefer a waistband that hits right at their hip bones and doesn\u2019t constrict.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
How We Test Women\u2019s Running Shorts<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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\u00a0 Number of testers: <\/b>9<\/li>\n
\u00a0 Number of products tested: <\/b>72<\/li>\n
\u00a0 Most extreme temperature experienced during a run:<\/b> 95-degree Florida beach runs<\/li>\n
\u00a0 Most elevation gained during a run:<\/b> 2,300 feet<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
With six testers based in Colorado, one in California, and two in Virginia, the season\u2019s warm-weather apparel received a full gamut of testing conditions. All testers have been running for two to four decades, and consistently put their apparel through the paces\u2026with scrutiny.<\/p>\n
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Meet Our Lead Tester<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Lisa Jhung writes, runs, and generally adventures from her homebase in Boulder, Colorado. Raised as a California beach kid, she also makes it back to the coast\u2014any coast, but primarily the Pacific\u2014as often as possible. She\u2019s been testing gear for Outside for a couple of decades and co-manages the road and trail running shoe tests, and manages the women\u2019s running apparel, sports bras, and running hydration vest tests.<\/p>\n
![\"New](\"https:\/\/cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/newbalance_RCEssential_short.jpg?width=3840&auto=webp&quality=75&fit=cover\"\/)
![\"Oiselle](\"https:\/\/cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Oiselle_roga_short.jpg?width=3840&auto=webp&quality=75&fit=cover\"\/)
![\"Patagonia](\"https:\/\/cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Patagonia_short_tight.jpg?width=3840&auto=webp&quality=75&fit=cover\"\/)
![\"Tracksmith](\"https:\/\/cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/tracksmith_short_tights.jpg?width=3840&auto=webp&quality=75&fit=cover\"\/)
![\"Rabbit](\"https:\/\/cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/rabbit_stashems_short.jpg?width=3840&auto=webp&quality=75&fit=cover\"\/)
![\"Janji](\"https:\/\/cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/janji_short-tights.jpg?width=3840&auto=webp&quality=75&fit=cover\"\/)
![\"Arc'teryx](\"https:\/\/cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Arcteryx-Norvan-3-Shorts_h.jpg?width=3840&auto=webp&quality=75&fit=cover\"\/)
![\"Janji](\"https:\/\/cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/janji_AFO_short.jpg?width=3840&auto=webp&quality=75&fit=cover\"\/)
![\"Oiselle](\"https:\/\/cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/oiselle_flyout_chill_short.jpg?width=3840&auto=webp&quality=75&fit=cover\"\/)
![\"Rabbit](\"https:\/\/cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/rabbit_pacer_shorts.jpg?width=3840&auto=webp&quality=75&fit=cover\"\/)