10 Best Running Shorts For Men 2026 in the United States

The NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts are designed with comfort and functionality in mind, making them a solid choice for runners and active men. Made from a blend of polyester and elastane, these shorts offer good stretch and quick-dry capability, which helps keep you cool and dry during workouts. They come in a 9-inch length, providing enough coverage without restricting movement, suitable for various sports and outdoor activities. Unlike some running shorts, these do not have a built-in liner, which may be a consideration if you prefer extra support or coverage. The elastic waistband with a drawstring allows for a secure and adjustable fit, adding to comfort.

The three zippered pockets are a great feature, offering secure storage for small essentials like keys or a phone, which is handy when you're on the move. Reflective strips on the front and back enhance visibility during low-light conditions, improving safety for early morning or evening runs. Additionally, the fabric offers UPF 50+ sun protection, which is a nice bonus for outdoor workouts. On the downside, the shorts lack belt loops, so if you prefer using a belt, this might be limiting. The absence of a liner may not suit everyone, especially those who prefer more support or chafe protection.

These shorts are versatile enough for running, hiking, tennis, and more, making them a practical option for men seeking lightweight, breathable shorts with useful storage and safety features.

These men's running shorts are a solid choice if you want lightweight and comfortable gear for various activities like running, gym workouts, or hiking. The 7-inch length hits a sweet spot—not too short or too long—providing good freedom of movement. Made from mostly polyester with a bit of spandex, they’re quick-drying and breathable, which helps keep you cool during intense exercise. The wide elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring offers a secure and customizable fit, which is great for comfort during movement.

One standout feature is the pocket design: you get two roomy front pockets plus a deep side zipper pocket, perfect for safely storing essentials like your phone or keys while on the go. These shorts balance functionality and comfort well, especially if you value pockets and quick-dry fabric for your workouts.

The Pudolla Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts are designed to offer comfort and functionality for a variety of physical activities. Made from a lightweight blend of nylon and elastane, these shorts feel breathable and soft, which helps you stay cool during runs or workouts. Their 5-inch length strikes a good balance — not too long to get in the way, yet enough to provide decent coverage. The shorts feature a built-in compression liner made of polyester and elastane that supports your legs and helps prevent chafing, which is great if you run frequently or for long distances.

One of the standout features is the practical pockets. There’s a secure phone pocket that keeps your device from slipping out while you move, plus a zipper pocket in the back for storing keys, cash, or cards safely. This means you can keep your hands free without worrying about your valuables. The elastic waistband comes with an internal drawstring, allowing you to adjust the fit to your comfort easily.

These shorts do not include reflective elements, which could be a drawback if you often run in low light conditions. Also, they require hand washing, which is less convenient than machine washable options. They are suitable not just for running but also for gym workouts, hiking, and other athletic activities, offering versatility. If you want simple, comfortable shorts with good support and secure pockets, Pudolla’s 2 in 1 running shorts are a solid choice, though you should consider the absence of reflective details and the extra care needed when washing them.