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

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

THE GYM PEOPLE Womens High Waisted Running Shorts Quick Dry Athletic Workout Shorts with Mesh Liner Zipper Pockets (Black, Large)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,362
Material
Fit
Length

Most important from
13337 reviews

Material
The lightweight fabric is cool and comfortable, making the shorts versatile for running, gym sessions, and casual wear.
Fit
These shorts offer a flattering high waist with firm tummy control that stays in place even during intense movement.
Length
The shorts have a slightly longer back and side slit design that enhances mobility and comfort.
Pockets
The zipper pocket is spacious and secure, perfect for storing gels or essentials during runs.
Liner
The double-layer mesh liner provides excellent breathability and coverage without feeling bulky or see-through.

THE GYM PEOPLE Womens High Waisted Running Shorts are designed with active women in mind, combining comfort and functionality. Made from a quick-dry blend of 90% polyester and 10% spandex, these shorts offer good stretch and moisture-wicking to keep you dry during workouts. The high-waisted design with a wide elastic waistband provides firm tummy control and helps the shorts stay in place while moving.

They feature a double-layer construction with a lightweight mesh liner inside, which adds extra coverage and breathability without feeling bulky. For convenience, the shorts include a hidden pocket in the waistband and a zipper pocket at the back, perfect for securely storing small essentials like keys or cards while you run or train. The side slit on the outer layer enhances mobility, making them suitable for various activities including running, gym sessions, and casual wear.

These shorts are an excellent choice for women seeking lightweight, breathable, and practical running shorts with good coverage and storage features.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,362
Material
Fit
Length

Most important from
13337 reviews

Material
The lightweight fabric is cool and comfortable, making the shorts versatile for running, gym sessions, and casual wear.
Fit
These shorts offer a flattering high waist with firm tummy control that stays in place even during intense movement.
Length
The shorts have a slightly longer back and side slit design that enhances mobility and comfort.
Pockets
The zipper pocket is spacious and secure, perfect for storing gels or essentials during runs.
Liner
The double-layer mesh liner provides excellent breathability and coverage without feeling bulky or see-through.
#2

CRZ YOGA High Waisted Dolphin Athletic Running Shorts for Women 3" High Split Comfy Mesh Liner for Gym Workout Track Black Small

Rating
9.1
Material
Fit
Waistband

Most important from
1699 reviews

Material
Soft, comfortable material that doesn’t ride up and fantastic built-in underwear make these shorts a favorite for daily runs.
Fit
Comparable to more expensive brands, these shorts offer perfect fit, amazing quality, and a cut that makes legs look nice and long.
Waistband
These are the perfect running shorts with an elastic waistband that stays in place while running and a flattering cut on the sides of the legs.
Liner
High waisted, light, and roomy, these shorts provide a snug fit around the waist and loose fit around the thighs with built-in underpants.

The CRZ YOGA High Waisted Dolphin Athletic Running Shorts are designed specifically for running and workouts, making them a strong option for active women. One of the standout features is the Feathery-Fit Soft Fabric, which is ultra-soft, lightweight, and quick-drying, providing comfort without the annoying 'swish-swish' sound. The material is a blend of 86% Polyester and 14% Elastane, offering slight stretch for better movement.

The high-rise design with a 3-inch inseam and high split allows for a great range of motion during activities like running or gym workouts. The built-in mesh liner helps to reduce friction, which can prevent chafing and enhance comfort. Additionally, the wide elastic waistband ensures a secure and comfortable fit, staying in place without digging into the skin. However, a notable drawback is the lack of pockets, which might be a dealbreaker for some who prefer having a place to store small items like keys or cards.

While the shorts are machine washable and easy to care for, their imported status and the specific country of origin (China) might be a consideration for those who prioritize domestic products. These shorts are best suited for women looking for comfortable, functional running shorts with a focus on fabric quality and fit, but may not be ideal for those who need pockets or prefer longer lengths.

Rating
9.1
Material
Fit
Waistband

Most important from
1699 reviews

Material
Soft, comfortable material that doesn’t ride up and fantastic built-in underwear make these shorts a favorite for daily runs.
Fit
Comparable to more expensive brands, these shorts offer perfect fit, amazing quality, and a cut that makes legs look nice and long.
Waistband
These are the perfect running shorts with an elastic waistband that stays in place while running and a flattering cut on the sides of the legs.
Liner
High waisted, light, and roomy, these shorts provide a snug fit around the waist and loose fit around the thighs with built-in underpants.
#3

CRZ YOGA Dolphin Athletic Shorts for Women 3" - High Waisted Quick Dry for Running Workout Gym Track with Zip Pocket Black Small

Rating
8.8
Material
Fit
Length

Most important from
3466 reviews

Material
Soft, lightweight, and stretchy fabric provides excellent breathability and dries quickly, while remaining quiet during movement.
Fit
The high-rise waistband fits snugly and stays in place without the need for adjustments, making them ideal for jogging and exercise.
Length
The shorts offer a perfect balance of coverage and freedom of movement with a flattering 3-inch inseam that suits active running.
Waistband
The high-rise waistband fits snugly and stays in place without the need for adjustments, making them ideal for jogging and exercise.
Pockets
The zippered pocket is securely sized to hold essentials like keys and a typical phone, providing peace of mind during runs.
Liner
Built-in full coverage liner reduces friction and enhances comfort for longer workouts.

The CRZ YOGA Dolphin Athletic Shorts are designed with runners in mind, featuring a 3-inch inseam that offers a good balance between coverage and freedom of movement. The high-waisted design provides a secure and comfortable fit around the waist without needing extra adjustments. Made from a blend of polyester and elastane, the fabric feels soft, lightweight, and slightly stretchy, which helps the shorts dry quickly after sweating and avoids any noisy fabric sounds while running.

A built-in mesh liner helps reduce friction, making them more comfortable for longer workouts. An added plus is the zippered pocket, which is handy for safely storing small essentials like a phone or keys during your run. The side dolphin hem promotes easy movement without restriction.

The fit is custom, though the 3-inch inseam may feel short for those who prefer more coverage. Since the shorts have a pull-on closure without an adjustable waistband, selecting the right size is important. These shorts are a solid choice for women looking for lightweight, supportive, and practical running shorts that handle sweat well and offer useful features like a secure pocket.

Rating
8.8
Material
Fit
Length

Most important from
3466 reviews

Material
Soft, lightweight, and stretchy fabric provides excellent breathability and dries quickly, while remaining quiet during movement.
Fit
The high-rise waistband fits snugly and stays in place without the need for adjustments, making them ideal for jogging and exercise.
Length
The shorts offer a perfect balance of coverage and freedom of movement with a flattering 3-inch inseam that suits active running.
Waistband
The high-rise waistband fits snugly and stays in place without the need for adjustments, making them ideal for jogging and exercise.
Pockets
The zippered pocket is securely sized to hold essentials like keys and a typical phone, providing peace of mind during runs.
Liner
Built-in full coverage liner reduces friction and enhances comfort for longer workouts.

Buying Guide for the Best Women's Running Shorts

Choosing the right women's running shorts can significantly enhance your running experience by providing comfort, support, and functionality. When selecting running shorts, it's important to consider various factors that will affect your performance and comfort during your runs. Here are some key specifications to look out for and how to choose the best fit for your needs.
MaterialThe material of running shorts is crucial as it affects breathability, moisture-wicking, and overall comfort. Look for materials like polyester, spandex, or nylon, which are known for their moisture-wicking properties and ability to keep you dry. If you tend to sweat a lot, opt for shorts with high moisture-wicking capabilities. For those who prefer a more natural feel, some shorts come with a blend of cotton, but these may not be as effective in wicking away sweat.
FitThe fit of running shorts can range from loose to tight. Loose-fitting shorts provide more airflow and are generally more comfortable for longer runs or casual jogs. Tight-fitting shorts, often referred to as compression shorts, offer muscle support and reduce chafing, making them ideal for high-intensity workouts or races. Consider your running style and comfort preference when choosing the fit. If you experience chafing, tighter shorts with flat seams might be a better option.
LengthRunning shorts come in various lengths, typically measured in inches from the inseam. Shorter lengths (2-4 inches) offer more freedom of movement and are preferred by sprinters or those running in hot climates. Mid-length shorts (5-7 inches) provide a balance of coverage and mobility, suitable for most runners. Longer shorts (8 inches and above) offer more coverage and are often chosen for trail running or cooler weather. Choose the length based on your comfort level and the type of running you do.
WaistbandThe waistband of running shorts can affect comfort and fit. Elastic waistbands with drawstrings allow for adjustable fitting and are common in most running shorts. Wide waistbands provide more support and can help prevent the shorts from slipping during your run. If you prefer a more secure fit, look for shorts with a drawstring. For those who prioritize comfort, a wide, flat waistband might be more suitable.
PocketsPockets in running shorts can be a convenient feature for carrying small items like keys, gels, or a phone. Some shorts come with zippered pockets for added security, while others have internal pockets or pouches. If you like to carry essentials with you, look for shorts with multiple or secure pockets. For minimalists who prefer to run light, pockets may not be as important.
LinerMany running shorts come with a built-in liner, which can provide additional support and reduce the need for separate underwear. Liners are typically made from moisture-wicking materials to keep you dry and comfortable. If you prefer the convenience of an all-in-one garment, opt for shorts with a built-in liner. However, if you have specific preferences for your undergarments, you might choose shorts without a liner.

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