Heading on a run? These are the best women's running shorts (that won't cause chafing)
Even though it's spring, there's still a chill in the air. We know that. You know that. And yet, will it stop us all from donning our favourite running shorts to go for a jog? Probably not. It's always shorts weather, right?
From compression running shorts to lightweight racer shorts and 2-in-1 running shorts, no two pairs of running shorts are made the same. And when it comes to choosing the very best, it’s less about what performs well than what make you - as the runner (or wannabe) - feel comfortable. Whether that's while trying to beat your PB or getting into running for the first time. (Btw, we've got all the expert running tips here).
That said: there are two main tripes when it comes to running shorts; both can be the difference between a good 10km worth of pavement pounding and a short or uncomfortable jog.
Firstly: chafing . When you’re on the hunt for a new pair of running shorts, you’d better make sure they don’t ride up as you move and cause any irritation between your thighs. The best running shorts won't, which means investing in a good pair is more than worthwhile. Secondly: consider the fabric. It needs to be as sweat-wicking as possible. ‘Cos there’s nothing worse than a damp final mile.
Besides that, you might also like to consider the coverage your running shorts offer: some are much shorter (like Lululemon's Hotty Hot High-Rise Running Shorts), often designed with trail running in mind, and will bare most of your thighs.
Others come with built-in compression shorts or knickers for a more supportive feel (case in point: Sweaty Betty's Challenge 4" Running Shorts or New Balance's 2-in-1 pair). You can also get running shorts that look like cycling shorts (Nike's Black Fast Trail shorts are a great choice AND you could save money on your next purchase with our Nike discount codes), covering right down to your knee, plus running shorts that absorb blood when you're on your period.
If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve rounded up the very best running shorts for women - as recommended by the eager runners in the (remote) GLAMOUR office - which also double-up as companions for HIIT and days spent on your bike.
Their inclusion in this edit is not only based on style credentials, but whether they’re made from high-performance fabric to wick away sweat and whether they cause chafing. These running shorts are lightweight and boast a barely-there feel, to help you focus on the task in hand (continuing to breath as you tackle that dreaded hill). No waistband adjustments needed. No rubbing. No falling down. Simply plug in your running headphones and get started, with zero distractions.
Scroll for our pick of the best running shorts to buy in 2021.
Best running shorts womens
Fast and Free Short, £58, Lululemon
Lululemon introduced their Fast and Free short last year and we can confirm, they are officially the best running short ever. Sure, the tight-fit style might not be for everyone, but trust us when we say you'll forget the fit at all once you start running in them. They're super light-weight, butter soft, sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and uber flattering, too.
Plus, they have two handy pockets on each side of your thigh which, amazingly, hold your phone in place as you run.
Nike running shorts
Nike Pro Running Shorts, £23, JD Sports
Thanks to the soft, sweat-wicking fabric and chunky waistband, these running shorts are some of the most comfortable we tried. Granted, they're not your traditional, loose-fitting running shorts, but their stretch and tight fit means you feel totally flexible as you run.
Save when you shop for the best running shorts with these JD Sports discount codes.
Best running shorts made from sustainable materials
Nike Tempo Running Shorts, £31.95, ASOS
These Nike running shorts are made from a lightweight fabric (check), come in the iconic Nike Tempo cut (also, check), and are made from at least 75% recycled material (another huge check). Oh, and the waistband is elasticated for comfort.
Save when you shop for the best running shorts with these ASOS discount codes.
Best running shorts for when you're on your period
The well-known period pants brand, Mobibodi, has branched out into activewear, and we'd be lying if we said we weren't impressed. The best running shorts for when you're on your period (and when you're not, actually), they're flattering and comfy with a zipped pocket for holding your phone and a drawstring waistband for added support. If you've worn their period pants before, you'll know the padding is barely noticeable and it doesn't feel like you're wearing a nappy, as possibly expected. The running shorts are the same - they absorb two tampons' worth of blood, so you can be protected even without a tampon. If you bleed more heavily, consider them as a back-up, and if you struggle with a weak bladder while running, these also make for a great choice.
Best running shorts for chafing
Time Trial 2" Short, £45, Sweaty Betty
The designers at Sweaty Betty are the queens of all things activewear, and these shorts are no exception: offering brilliant freedom of movement thanks to the side split, they're a safe bet. Plus, of the 151 reviews they have at current, they average a 4.6/5 rating. Not bad.
Best running shorts for hot weather
Hotty Hot High-Rise Running Shorts, £48, Lululemon
Since these shorts are fairly short and high-rise, chaffing is a thing of the past. They're available in five colours, fairly roomy so you can move freely and made from a sweat-wicking fabric that keeps you cool and dry.
Best running short for sweat-wicking
Impact Run Short 3 Inch, £30, New Balance
The Impact Run Short 3 Inch offers a barely-there feel. They're quite short, so if you prefer to feel covered as you go, they might not be the ones for you. But, if you don't mind getting your legs out, they're a great choice. We love the fact they have two pockets: one on the waistband (best for your phone) and another inside (for an energy boost/your house key).
Save when you shop for the best running shorts with these New Balance promo codes.
Best running shorts with phone pocket UK
Challenge 4" Running Shorts, £55, Sweaty Betty
These running shorts double up really well as companions for HIIT and cycling, making them great value for money. This is thanks to their compression inner which provides extra coverage and support. The waistband has a drawcord, so you can tighten them as you desire, and the pocket at the back fits an iPhone 8 or Samsung S9.
Best running shorts on Amazon
Columbia Ultra Women's Titan II Short, from £26.10, Amazon
These short running shorts are the best running shorts to buy if you're training for a trail run or ultra marathon - from a trusted outdoor brand. They're made from a sweat-wicking, water-resistant fabric to keep you dry - whatever the conditions - and they have pockets for the safe storage of your essentials. They also boast built-in "knickers" which keep you supported and well-covered when pounding the pavements, plus sun protection of 40+C.
Best running shorts that don't ride up
Nike AeroSwift Shorts, £54.95, Nike
If roomy running shorts aren't really your jam, you might like to consider a tight-fitting, stretchy pair like these aerodynamic running shorts from Nike. Available in two colours, they're low-rise and made from at least 75% recycled fabrics. Plus, it kinda feels like you're running in nothing when you've got them on. Result.
Save when you shop for the best running shorts with these Nike discount codes.
Best running shorts for hill training
Lululemon Tracker Short V 4", £48, Lululemon
Available in many shades, this pair has a flat waistband that lies flat and won't dig in while you're trying to hit a PB. It comes with a zip pocket too to hold your valuables, designed in a sweat-wicking, lightweight fabric with a built-in liner for extra coverage.
Best running shorts for carrying your essentials
Under Armour Women's Qualifier Speedpocket Shorts, from £15.48, Amazon
Not only are these running shorts really affordable and available for next day delivery with Amazon Prime, but they have a waterproof waistband which can store your keys/card/phone - so you don't need to take a bumbag with you.
Best running shorts to prevent chafing
Q Speed Breathe 2 In 1 Shorts,
£45, £31.50, New BalanceThe best thing about these running shorts is the stretchy inner which provides plenty of thigh coverage - but still doesn't ride up/make you too hot/cause chafing. Top marks all round. The external shorts are super lightweight and have a pocket big enough to hold your keys. The only downside is that they're quite low-rise, so if you prefer a style which sits higher up on your waist, you might like to make a beeline for another pair.
Save when you shop for the best running shorts with these New Balance promo codes.
Best running shorts for trail runners
Running Shorts, £70, ON Running
Cut from ON's signature sweat-wicking fabric, these running shorts are 'minimalist and designed for maximum speed'. They're an all rounder: semi-high-waisted, with a cycling short and upper layer, to boot. Plus, they offer good thigh coverage and have a pocket at the back for storing your essentials.
Best running shorts for freedom of movement
Chaser 5" Shorts, £35, Brooks Running
Brooks are one of our go-to brands for all things running, and their Chaser 5" running shorts are some of our favourites. Since they're made from two panels of overlapping fabric, the freedom of movement offered is second-to-none. They also have a thick, elasticated waistband which doesn't budge when you move, and an internal pocket which fits an iPhone.
