The 14 Best Men's Running Shorts, Whether You Prize Comfort, Support, or Breathability (2024)

We, the Runner’s World test team and a pair of seasoned reviewers, picked the best men’s running shorts based on several decades of combined running experience. Many of our recommendations are based on run-testing and insights of Runner-in-Chief Jeff Dengate. Contributors Michael Charboneau and Nick Hilden supplemented these picks with additional options based on their own testing and research.

We evaluated each model based on its material, fit, and features, including any liner or pockets. Whether you’re a casual runner or an accomplished marathoner, there’s a pair of shorts here to fit your needs.

Brooks’ Sherpa shorts are extremely comfortable thanks to their soft, lightweight, breathable material and anti-chafe liner. They’re cut to allow plenty of movement without an abundance of extra loose fabric, and their high, flat drawcord waistband is secure and comfy.

What’s more, they have plenty of storage with two deep drop-in side pockets and a zipping phone pocket, one of which has a bungee clip for keys. A few more color options would be nice, but that nitpick aside, these timeless shorts are undeniably outstanding.

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These classic 2-in-1 shorts from Asics are about as straightforward as they come. Their poly-spandex fabric is soft, breathable, and lightweight, and the liner is effective at preventing chafing while providing a bit of extra support.

Unlike most budget shorts, these also have a pair of deep side pockets. The biggest mark against them is the fact that they’re hand-wash only. Still they meet most runner’s needs at a low price.

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The latest iteration of Nike’s Challenger shorts features the brand’s Dri-Fit material for breathability in high-sweat areas at the back of the waist, and a long liner cuts down on irritation and chafing.

The split hem at the sides adds flexibility and improves airflow, too. We also love that there are three pockets—two hand pockets along the seams, and a small drop-in pocket in the back.

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Adidas’ Own the Run Shorts are lightweight and breathable yet durable, and offer an all-around comfortable fit. They feature three pockets–two shallow hand pockets on the side, and a small, zippable rear pocket that’s perfect for a key or card.

We love that these shorts come in three different inseams, from 5- to 9 inches, so you can choose the length that feels right to you.

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These affordable shorts from Baleaf come in a wide range of sizes and colors, and include several features typically found on more expensive pairs. They’re made from a polyester-spandex blend for durability and good freedom of movement, and the drawcord waistband helps you dial in a snug fit.

On the back of the waistband is a zippered back pocket that’s perfect for storing a phone or keys while you run.

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Running shorts often optimize for breathability and performance, rather than storage potential, so the pockets aren’t always great. These compression-lined shorts from Pinkbomb go hard in the other direction, offering outstanding cargo capability.

With a pocket specifically designed for phones (with a hole for a headphone wire if you need it), and a pocket with a secure zipper top, they are exactly what you need if you bring a wallet, keys, and a phone along on every run.

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Hitting the track usually means working up a sweat. Nike’s Stride shorts are ideal for that thanks to the superior moisture-wicking, fast-drying capabilities of its Dri-Fit fabric. These shorts are soft, lightweight, and breathable, and stretch well to offer full mobility. Meanwhile, the liner provides good support without feeling restrictive.

“The first thing you want to look for in a pair of speedy shorts is freedom of motion,” says Runner’s World Runner-in-Chief Jeff Dengate. “These shorts don't restrict your stride at all and feel lightweight, even when you're late into a sweaty workout.”

Three pockets provide plenty of cargo space, one of which zippers and is located at the lower back to provide secure phone storage.

Nike makes the Stride in an amazing range of colors, but stock can be inconsistent, especially on Amazon. If you’re in a rush, you may not always have your pick. Still, these are great shorts for days when you need to go fast.

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Ten Thousand’s extensively tested, top-spec running short, the Distance, is designed for an ultralight, streamlined feel. The polyester-spandex shell comes with perforations at the back to promote good airflow and save weight, and the nylon-spandex liner uses a mesh construction to wick sweat and keep you cool.

The spandex in both fabrics gives these shorts plenty of stretch, and three small pockets along the waist store essentials like keys and a credit card. Need to store your phone? Check out the company’s Session Short.

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Competitive runners don’t want bells and whistles on race day. Looking slick doesn’t hurt, either. Tracksmith’s Van Cortlandt shorts deliver on both promises with a classic tailored cut that’s lightweight and breathable.

Bare-bones by design, these shorts get out of your way so you can perform your best. That said, they also have a small hidden pocket for keys and cards for when you aren’t racing.

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These shorts offer everything you could want on the trail. Made from 85 percent Nylon and 15 percent Spandex, the fabric is comfortable yet durable. Plus, it has a water-resistant coating to help keep you dry through showers or dew. The liner is supportive and stretchy, too, ensuring plenty of secure mobility.

“They come in a variety of fun, trail-ready patterns—Roark has even rolled out a Motorhead collaboration in the past,” says Dengate, “but what we love most is the water-resistant back pocket that's big enough to hold a phone and two drop-in pockets on the hips that hold a day's worth of gels.”

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Split shorts provide more freedom of movement. A shorter inseam also keeps your shorts from getting in your way on a run. If you’re looking to optimize for an unrestricted stride, it makes perfect sense to go with a short split short, such as the New Balance Accelerate.

Its polyester material is feather-light, and New Balance’s “NB Dry” weave results in outstanding moisture wicking. That simplicity does mean that there’s no pocket for a phone, but there is a tiny drop-in pocket sized to carry a key.

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These are the ideal shorts for chafe-inclined runners. Flat seams make for smooth surfaces, and the light-compression liner is equipped with the proprietary “BallPark Pouch” for reducing friction and keeping everything in place. The material is soft and breathable. The cut is relaxed to fit muscular thighs, but also nicely tailored to eliminate loose fabric. You have to wash them by hand, but that’s a small price to pay for such skin-friendly shorts.

“Say goodbye to raw skin after a sweaty summer run,” Dengate says.

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What do you consider to be “shorts weather”?

I start to think about maybe wearing pants once the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. That said, the most important thing when running in the cold is to keep your core warm, so I usually add a long-sleeve baselayer and/or a jacket before putting on pants when it’s a little chilly.

What’s your preferred inseam length and why?

I hated wearing split shorts when I ran track, so I’ve always stayed away from really short shorts, such as those with a 7-inch inseam. They offer good coverage—long enough to create some sun protection and so I don’t feel awkward wearing them—but they stay out of my way and don’t weigh me down when I run.

What’s the one feature you must have when shopping for running shorts?

A drawcord waistband. To me, there’s nothing worse than poorly fitting shorts that slip down as you run. Elastic waistbands can fit well, but nothing beats the locked-in fit of a drawcord.

I think it’s even more essential if you plan on carrying anything in your pockets. Without a drawcord, the added weight will just make your shorts slip down even faster.

We all like a deal, but when is it worth it to invest in a pair of shorts over $50?

One of my favorite aspects of running is that it doesn’t require much gear—so don’t over-complicate it by buying a bunch of stuff. Start with the gym shorts that are already in your drawer, and pay attention to how they perform as you run. If they work for you, great. If not, take note of what you need—maybe a drawcord, maybe more (or fewer) pockets—and use that to guide your shopping.

In the end, you might find that a less expensive pair of shorts gives you exactly what you need, or you might opt for a more expensive pair because it has better materials or other key features. The important thing is to be smart about what you buy: Invest in quality gear that meets your needs, and you can focus on running instead of getting distracted by uncomfortable clothing.