10 Best Women's Comfortable Shorts 2025 in the United States

The Levi Strauss Signature Women's True Shorts offer a vintage-inspired look with their mid-rise cut and 3.5-inch inseam, making them a good choice if you want shorts that are not too short or too long. Made from a denim blend of mostly cotton with polyester and a touch of elastane, these shorts include stretch, which helps with comfort and movement. The mid-rise fit tends to flatter many body types and the zipper closure adds ease when putting them on. The shorts feature five pockets, providing practical storage for small items.

The fabric is a denim style, so while it’s breathable enough for casual wear, it might feel a little heavier and less airy than shorts made purely from lightweight fabrics. The waistband is typical of denim shorts, offering a secure fit but without adjustable features like drawstrings. These cut-off shorts have a casual, relaxed style, but the stretch denim means they move better than traditional rigid jeans. They are machine washable, which is convenient for everyday use. However, if you prefer very soft or moisture-wicking materials for hot weather or intense activity, you might find these less ideal.

These shorts are well suited for people looking for a stylish, comfortable denim option with a mid-rise fit and a bit of stretch to keep things easygoing during warm days.

Levi's Womens 501 Original Denim Shorts, also available in plus sizes, are a classic high-rise design that fits slim through the hips. Made primarily of cotton (99%) with a slight elastane (1%) blend, these shorts are known for their durability and traditional denim feel. They come with a button fly closure and are machine washable, which adds to their ease of care.

The medium indigo Jazz Solo color offers a versatile look that can be paired with various tops. These shorts are non-stretch, which might limit comfort and flexibility for some users. The 'size up' recommendation suggests that the fit may run smaller than expected, so it might be wise to consider sizing up for a better fit.

These shorts are best suited for those who prefer a classic denim look and feel, but may not be the ideal choice if you prioritize stretch and maximum comfort in your shorts.

The CRZ YOGA Women's High Waisted Running Shorts are a solid choice for those looking for comfortable and functional athletic shorts. They feature a soft, lightweight fabric blend that feels gentle on the skin and dries quickly, which is great for workouts or running. The shorts include a high-rise waistband that offers a snug fit, helping keep them in place during movement. With a 3-inch inseam and side dolphin hem, they allow for freedom of movement without feeling restrictive. A built-in mesh liner helps reduce friction, adding comfort during longer wear.

The zipper pocket is a handy feature for securely storing small essentials like a phone or keys. The material has some stretch, making the shorts flexible but not overly tight. However, since the main fabric is mostly polyester with elastane, breathability might be moderate rather than excellent, especially for very intense activities or hot weather.

These shorts are well-suited for women who want easy-to-wear, durable shorts for gym sessions, running, or casual athletic use, but those prioritizing maximum breathability might want to consider alternatives.