We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Apparel and Gear Workout Clothes Workout Leggings and Bottoms The 10 Best Women’s Athletic Shorts for Running, Strength Training, and Lounging Whether you’re doing HIIT or lounging at home, these are best styles out there, including bike shorts and options with built-in liners. By Kristen Geil, NASM-CPT, Kristen Geil, NASM-CPT As the Senior Fitness Editor at Shape, Kristen oversees the Fitness category and covers workout trends, exercise tips, recovery, and more. Previously, Kristen was the Chief Content Officer at aSweatLife.com, where she led content and editorial strategy. She has experience in copywriting and digital marketing, and she's an award-winning freelancer who works with B2C clients in health and wellness. Shape's editorial guidelines Jayla Andrulonis, Jayla Andrulonis Jayla Andrulonis is an Austin-based editorial copywriter for Everly Health and a freelance writer who specializes in fashion, beauty, and wellness. Her work has appeared in People, InStyle, Real Simple, HelloGiggles, Health, Parents, and Travel+Leisure.She completed internships at INKED and Whirl publications and the College Fashionista website before becoming the community engagement coordinator for HERdacity and a commerce fellow at Mashable. Jayla has also covered the latest street style trends, wedding planning ideas, and celebrity news for SHEfinds as a contributing writer. She joined Meredith Corporation as an e-commerce editorial assistant and e-commerce writer before landing at Everly Health. Shape's editorial guidelines and Jennifer Heimlich Jennifer Heimlich Jennifer Heimlich is a writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience, specializing in fitness and wellness. Previously, she was the senior fitness editor for Well+Good. Shape's editorial guidelines Updated on February 14, 2024 In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Our top picks Reviews What to Know Why Trust Shape Shape / Kristin Kempa TBH, there's not much a great pair of leggings can't do. From hitting the gym to running errands, they've become a go-to wardrobe staple. But it's important not to forget what laid the foundation: women’s athletic shorts. Whether you've exclusively run in shorts for years or just rediscovered your love for them during what could be called the great bike shorts resurgence, a reliable and comfortable pair of women’s athletic shorts is not to be underestimated. Before a shiver goes down your spine thinking about the days of Soffee shorts rolled three times in gym class, take a breath. Workout shorts have come a long way — and there's something for every comfort level. We asked our editors to submit their tried-and-true favorites, then analyzed each pair for their comfort, durability, value, and any extra bonus features (pockets, always pockets). We also conducted our own research on additional best-sellers to handpick the best women’s athletic shorts, with options for every type of movement you can imagine. Our Top 3 Women's Athletic Shorts Our favorite women's athletic shorts were the Hoka Performance 4" Shorts, with their buttery soft waistband. If pockets are a must, we love the Athleta Salutation Stash 5 Short. The Lululemon Wunder Train High Rise Shorts are excellent at wicking moisture during sweaty workouts. Our Top Picks Best Workout Shorts Overall: Hoka Performance 4” Short at Hoka.com (See Price) Jump to Review Best Women’s Athletic Shorts With Pockets: Athleta Salutation Stash 5 Short at Gap.com (See Price) Jump to Review Best Moisture-Wicking Women’s Athletic Shorts: lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Short at Lululemon ($64) Jump to Review Best Women’s Athletic Shorts for Strength Training: NIKE Pro 3-Inch Shorts at Nike.com ($23) Jump to Review Best Women’s Athletic Shorts for Low-Impact: Tentree InMotion Bike Short at Tentree.com (See Price) Jump to Review Most Sustainable Women’s Athletic Shorts: Girlfriend Collective Moss Gazelle Short at Girlfriend.com (See Price) Jump to Review Best High-Waist Women’s Athletic Shorts: Set Active Sculptflex Bike Shorts at Setactive.co (See Price) Jump to Review Most Durable Women’s Athletic Shorts: Nike Tempo Dri-Fit Running Shorts at Nordstrom ($30) Jump to Review Most Versatile Women’s Athletic Shorts: Outdoor Voices Warmup Short at Outdoorvoices.com (See Price) Jump to Review Best Women’s Athletic Shorts for Running: lululemon Track That Lined Short 5” at Lululemon ($68) Jump to Review Best Workout Shorts Overall Hoka Performance 4” Short Hoka View On Hoka.com Why We Like It: The wide, soft waistband keeps these women’s athletic shorts from constricting your movement.It’s Worth Noting: They’re a little too loose for yoga or Pilates. Best for: Running, strength training, everyday life | Sizes: XS to XXL | Inseam: 4” Comfort won out when we chose the Hoka Performance 4” shorts as our pick for best overall women’s athletic shorts. The buttery soft waistband doesn’t feel constricting at all; plus, it features a cunning little zip pocket on the side that’s more accessible than other shorts with zip pockets at the back. There are also smart reflective details to add visibility (who says safety and fashion can’t go hand in hand?). The easy, breezy fit is ideal for most workouts or casual activities, but we’d advise against wearing these for yoga classes, where the looseness may feel a little too revealing during downward dog, even with the built-in liners. Best Women’s Athletic Shorts With Pockets Athleta Salutation Stash 5 Short Athleta View On Gap.com View On REI $29 Why We Like It: The side pockets are big enough to hold your phone.It’s Worth Noting: They’re prone to rolling in the waistband and the bottom hems. Best for: Yoga, studio, running | Sizes: XXS to 3X | Inseam: 5”, 7” Did someone say pockets? The Salutation Stash 5 Shorts have two big side pockets that can easily fit a phone. These women’s athletic shorts are made from Athleta’s signature Powervita fabric, providing just enough support without being restrictive. They’re quick-drying, making them a natural choice for hot yoga or sweaty studio classes, and they’re also rated UPF 50+ (meaning the fabric protects you from UV rays). If you like extra coverage, there’s a 7” inseam version available, too. "While designed for yoga, these have quickly become my favorite shorts for all workouts," says Shannon Bauer, Shape senior commerce editor. "The pockets, compression, and UPF are ideal for long, sweaty runs." Just know that the bottom hems and waistband sometimes roll during runs or bike rides, so be prepared to adjust if necessary. Best Moisture-Wicking Women’s Athletic Shorts lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Short Lululemon View On Lululemon $64 Why We Like It: The ultra-fast drying fabric was designed for training hard.It’s Worth Noting: If you’re in between sizes, go up. Best for: Cycling, yoga, studio, strength training, everyday life | Sizes: 0 to 20 | Inseam: 4”, 6”, or 8” The Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Shorts boast the brand’s fastest-drying fabric, Everlux, which will get you through hot, sweaty workouts with ease. A hidden drawcord keeps the waistband from rolling, and there’s a stealth pocket in there too. You can choose between three inseam lengths, and also opt for a version with two side pockets. “I’m petite, and I love being able to choose an inseam that actually fits my short legs,” says Kristen Geil, senior fitness editor at Shape. These women’s athletic shorts are compressive, so if you’re in between sizes, go up for a comfier fit. Yes, the price tag is higher, but truly, the Lululemon quality is worth it (just make sure you handwash and lay flat to dry to keep these in tip-top shape). Best Women’s Athletic Shorts for Strength Training NIKE Pro 3-Inch Shorts Nike View On Nike.com $23 View On Dick's $30 View On Footlocker.com Why We Like It: The Spandex fabric is incredibly lightweight.It’s Worth Noting: They’re pretty low-coverage. Best for: Strength training, HIIT | Sizes: XS to 2XL | Inseam: 3” When it comes to strength training, the Nike Pro 3-inch spandex shorts are the gold standard for women’s athletic shorts. The wide, mid-rise waistband supports your core and low back during posterior chain moves (think: deadlifts and squats). Meanwhile, the moisture-wicking fabric features the brand's Dri-FIT technology that stands up to even the sweatiest of workouts. “If you want workout clothes that feel as close to wearing nothing as possible (but still look amazing and make you feel like an athlete), give these a try," says one Shape editor. We also love that they’re easy on the wallet — and frequently on sale. Yet these are admittedly a little skimpy, so if you’re more modest in your workout wear, try the Nike Pro 365 Women's High-Waisted 5" Shorts or the Nike Pro 365 Women's High- Waisted 7" shorts. Best Women’s Athletic Shorts for Low-Impact Tentree InMotion Bike Short Tentree View On Tentree.com View On Publiclands.com Why We Like It: The fit on these bike shorts is both close to the skin and incredibly stretchy.It’s Worth Noting: Sizing is limited. Best for: Yoga, cycling, studio, everyday life | Sizes: XS to XL | Inseam: 7” For some workouts, you don’t need the compression that other women’s athletic shorts provide — and heck, sometimes you just want a comfy pair of shorts to lounge around in. The Tentree InMotion Bike Short is versatile enough for any low-impact workout (or day) you have planned, and they’re made sustainably, too. The 4-way stretch knit fabric moves with you, and the crotch gusset prevents any awkward snagging (yes, we’re talking about camel toe). “These incredibly comfortable shorts act like a second skin, providing support and coverage during a slow yoga flow or sweaty cycling class,” vouches Eliza Savage, associate editorial director. “The sustainable material washes well and holds up with frequent use.” While the range of colors available spans the rainbow, the size options are less robust. Most Sustainable Women’s Athletic Shorts Girlfriend Collective Moss Gazelle Short Girlfriend Collective View On Girlfriend.com Why We Like It: These size-inclusive women’s athletic shorts are made from 100% recycled single-use bottles.It’s Worth Noting: They have a slightly loose fit, but there’s a drawstring waist for adjusting. Best for: Running, everyday life | Sizes: XXS to 6XL | Inseam: XXS-L: 2"; XL: 2 1/2"; XXL-6XL: 3" These women’s athletic shorts from Girlfriend Collective are made from 100 percent recycled water bottles (each pair uses 29 bottles, to be exact!), yet the material is surprisingly soft and sweat-wicking. "The built-in liner and zippered pockets are convenient touches, while the variety of colors sets them apart from your average black running shorts," says one editor of her favorite pair. We also admire Girlfriend Collective’s dedication to *truly* size-inclusive activewear. If you like a roomier fit, these shorts are on the opposite end of the tightness spectrum from bike shorts — even the waistband is a little loose. Luckily, the drawstring helps you adjust the fit. Best High-Waist Women’s Athletic Shorts Set Active Sculptflex Bike Shorts Set Active View On Setactive.co Why We Like It: The high waist is supportive but not restrictive.It’s Worth Noting: The size range is limited, and the 4.5” inseam may feel short on some. Best for: Cycling, yoga, studio, strength training, everyday life | Sizes: XS to XL | Inseam: 4.5” The high-waisted look is totally on-trend in women’s athletic shorts, and this pair from Set Active offers support while still letting you move freely. "I've never found a pair of bike shorts that I love so much,” says one editor. “These are thick and durable without being restrictive, and I love that they hit mid-thigh and don't ride up as I play tennis or work out in the gym.” If you want a coordinating moment, Set Active has matching tops. We do wish the size range was larger, and sizing seems to run small. The 4.5” inseam may also feel a little short on people with long legs. Most Durable Women’s Athletic Shorts Nike Tempo Dri-Fit Running Shorts Nike View On Nordstrom $30 View On Nike.com $32 View On Paragonsports.com Why We Like It: The snag-proof fabric holds up after dozens of washes.It’s Worth Noting: You’ll need some anti-chafe protection. Best for: Running, everyday life | Sizes: XS to 2XL | Inseam: 3” These durable women’s athletic shorts have stood the test of time, both in style and functionality. “I only run in these Nike Tempo running shorts, whether I’m jogging a 5K or a half-marathon,” says Geil. “They’ve literally lasted me years, and I love the way the curved hemline looks on my legs. My cost-per-wear has to be so low.” The lightweight, woven fabric holds up in the washer and dryer, and they’re comfortably loose-fitting without falling down. For a slightly updated version, we also recommend the slightly more expensive Nike Tempo Luxe running shorts, which feature a stretchy fabric, side slits, and way more pockets. With either version, just keep your anti-chafing cream close at hand; the 3” inseam means your thighs will rub together. Most Versatile Women’s Athletic Shorts Outdoor Voices Warmup Short Outdoor Voices View On Outdoorvoices.com Why We Like It: The compressive and moisture-wicking material is high-performance.It’s Worth Noting: They’re prone to showing sweat in lighter colors. Best for: Running, hiking, cycling, HIIT, yoga, everyday life | Sizes: XXS to XXXL | Inseam: 5” These supportive 5-inch inseam bike shorts feature the same compressive material as Outdoor Voices’ famous leggings. “These bike shorts quickly became my go-to this summer, whether I was heading out for a run, barre class, or a late-afternoon hike,” says one editor. “The lightweight material kept me cool, and I love that I rarely have to adjust these shorts — they stay in place during stretches and higher-impact movements." Just watch out if you opt for a lighter color — the textured heather fabric makes it easy for sweat stains to appear in unwanted places. Best Women’s Athletic Shorts for Running lululemon Track That Lined Short 5” Lululemon View On Lululemon $68 Why We Like It: The loose fit is ideal for larger hips and butts.It’s Worth Noting: These running shorts sell out fast. Best for: Running | Sizes: 0 to 20 | Inseam: 5” The last thing you want when running is to feel restricted or bogged down by fabric, and the Lululemon Track That High-Rise Shorts are featherlight. These high-coverage shorts have extra room in the leg opening, so they’re an ideal pick for runners with muscular legs or curvy hips. The lightweight fabric dries quickly and features added Lycra for extra stretch (without losing its shape). A continuous drawcord lets you adjust the fit just so, and yes, there’s a pocket. We also love the thicker waistband, which lays flat on your stomach without digging in. But these top-notch women’s athletic shorts are no secret, and they sell out fast online. Grab your size when it’s available, and hit the track with pride. What to Know About Women’s Athletic Shorts Material: The best women’s athletic shorts should be made of quick-drying, sweat-wicking material so they don’t get soaked in sweat as you work out. Running shorts may have extra ventilation to add breathability. Shorts with a slim fit (think: bike shorts) may be made of Spandex, Lycra, or other stretchy fabrics that allow the body to move freely while still feeling supported. Length: Inseam length is a matter of personal preference. However, runners may prefer shorts with longer inseams to prevent chafing in between the thighs. Compression: Compressive fabrics may amp up your performance during a workout by increasing blood flow to your muscles. Compression can also help reduce swelling, which allows you to recover faster from tough workouts. Why Trust Shape Kristen Geil is a senior fitness editor at Shape with 10 years of experience in the fitness industry, and she remembers when Nikes and Umbros were her only options for women’s athletic shorts. As a NASM-certified personal trainer, she understands how exercise shorts can impact your workout, and she’s tried dozens of pairs herself to understand what features are most important. She leads Shape’s annual Best in Fitness Awards, where she vets and selects the best fitness products for anyone at any point on their fitness journey (including the best activewear). For this story, she interviewed contributing editors and researched all forms of women’s athletic shorts to help you find the best fit. Jennifer Heimlich is a health and fitness writer and the former senior fitness editor of Well+Good. A UESCA-certified running coach, former dancer, and longtime yoga lover, she’s tested all kinds of women’s athletic shorts, and knows exactly which features can make or break your workout. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit