10 Best Running Shorts 2025 in the United States

The NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts are designed with active users in mind, featuring a lightweight blend of polyester and elastane that stretches well and helps wick moisture away quickly. This makes them great for running or any workout where you need to stay cool and dry. They come in a 5-inch inseam length, which is a popular choice for those who want freedom of movement without too much fabric. The fit is enhanced by a soft elastic waistband combined with an adjustable drawstring, providing a secure and comfortable feel without the need for a belt. These shorts don’t have a liner, which some might prefer for breathability, though it depends on personal comfort.

One of their strong points is the presence of three zipper pockets—two on the sides and one at the back—that are deep and secure enough to keep items safe during exercise. Additionally, small breathable holes on the sides and flatlock seams help reduce chafing and improve ventilation. They also include reflective strips for better visibility in low-light conditions, a useful feature for early morning or evening runners. The fabric offers UPF 50+ sun protection, which is a nice bonus for outdoor activities.

A potential downside is the lack of belt loops, which might be a drawback if you prefer wearing a belt for a more tailored fit, although the adjustable waistband should compensate for this. Also, since there is no liner, some users might need to wear additional support if preferred. These shorts represent a solid choice for runners or anyone looking for versatile, breathable workout shorts with ample storage and sun protection.

The NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts are made from a stretchy blend of polyester and elastane, providing durability and good breathability. They are lightweight and designed to wick moisture quickly, which helps keep you cool during workouts or runs. The shorts come in a 5-inch inseam length, offering a good balance between coverage and freedom of movement, ideal for most runners who want less restriction but some modesty.

The fit is adjustable thanks to a soft elastic waistband with a built-in drawstring, allowing you to customize the comfort level easily. This feature, along with flatlock seams, helps reduce chafing—a big plus for longer running sessions. The shorts do not have a liner, so you might want to wear your own if you prefer extra support or coverage. One standout feature is the inclusion of three zipper pockets—two on the sides and one at the back. These pockets are deep and secure enough to hold small essentials like keys, cards, or a phone, which is convenient for runners who do not want to carry extra bags. The fabric also offers UPF 50+ sun protection, a helpful bonus for outdoor activities under strong sunlight.

Reflective strips on the front and back improve visibility when running in low light conditions. The side mesh panels add breathability and a stylish touch. On the downside, the lack of belt loops means you rely solely on the elastic waistband for fit, and the shorts are unlined, which might not suit everyone. These shorts are a solid choice for runners or athletes looking for lightweight, moisture-wicking shorts with secure pockets and sun protection, suitable for various sports and activities though some may prefer adding an extra liner.

The NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts stand out with their lightweight, breathable fabric made from a polyester and spandex blend that dries quickly and stretches well to support mobility during exercise. This fabric combination also offers good durability, which is ideal for running or hiking. The shorts come in a 5-inch inseam length—short enough to allow freedom of movement without being too revealing, which suits most runners seeking comfort and flexibility. The fit is customizable thanks to a soft elastic waistband with a built-in adjustable drawstring, ensuring the shorts stay secure without digging in.

A notable feature is the inclusion of three zipper pockets (two on the sides and one at the back), which are deep and secure, making it easy to carry essentials like keys or a phone without worrying about them falling out during activity. The shorts also have unique breathable holes on both sides to enhance ventilation, plus reflective strips that improve safety when running in low-light conditions.

These shorts do not have a built-in liner, which some runners prefer for added support and comfort. The absence of belt loops might limit how you wear them casually with a belt, but this is typical for athletic shorts. They also provide UPF 50+ sun protection, a nice bonus for outdoor use, and are easy to maintain with machine washing. Suitable for running, gym workouts, hiking, or casual sports, these shorts offer breathable, quick-drying fabric with secure pockets and a comfortable fit, making them a strong choice for most athletic activities.