Nothing kills a runner's high faster than pounding the pavement with a wedgie that won't go away or that all-too-uncomfortable feeling of jogging in soggy, sweat-soaked shorts. A solid pair of running shorts are an essential in every wardrobe, whether you're regularly training for the next half marathon or simply want something comfy to run errands in.
The best running shorts feel lightweight and move with your body rather than rub against it. They'll allow you to focus on your form without you having to constantly adjust your waistband. Finding the ideal pair can be a little tough, especially given the fact that we all have different needs for our unique bodies.
But in addition to your distinct needs, there are universal factors to consider. Things like fit, anti-chafing coverage, and whether the fabric is breathable and has moisture-wicking technology are just a few.
Aside from that, you obviously want them to look good, too. You may think finding all these things in one pair of shorts would be impossible, but to help you on your hunt we scoured the masses to find 13 of our favorites.
From form-fitting biker shorts that'll look just as good with a sports bra at the park as they will with an oversized tee at brunch to loose mesh shorts that are a dream for long-distance runs, there's something here for everyone.
Ready to shop? These are the best running shorts for women:
Beloved by fashion influencers and fitness trainers alike, you've probably already seen this one all over your Instagram feed if you don't already own a pair. They're so comfortable that many of the hundreds of five-star reviews claim they've replaced their favorite pair of leggings in the summertime.
With side mesh panels made to help you keep cool, these feature a small inner pocket to safely hold your belongings and even come with built-in underwear that's also made of moisture-wicking technology.
With all of that and an adjustable drawstring waistband, it's a total bargain for being under $30.
You likely won't find something more lightweight than these out there. Not only are they super thin and short, there's also a mesh lining on the inside with moisture-wicking technology in it. They'll become a go-to for your warm weather vacations, too.
Not only is the thick waistband waterproof, unlike most other running shorts, it also has a zipper pocket in the back that's far more substantial than it looks.
Reviewers say it's big enough to hold a phone, keys, and credit card without feeling your things annoyingly bounce around with your workout, too.
Because these are so simple, they are bound to become an essential in your wardrobe. The seamless design is uber comfortable and the high-waisted band is durable without sacrificing a silky-smooth feel that even makes these work as shapewear, too.
The faux-leather finish on these pair perfectly with an oversized white button-up and heels for a night out, but they're so comfy that you'll want to wear them every time you work out, too.
They're chlorine and water-resistant, so the fabric won't be damaged no matter how sweaty you plan on getting.
Not only is the ruched banding super flattering and the soft fabric odor-resistant (!), these shorts even feature super discreet pockets.
Available in four trendy colors, you'll definitely want to get the matching sports bras to make a set out of it—get as much as you like guilt-free because all their fabrics are made using post-consumer recycled plastics.
Founded specifically by women who want to help other women bring out their inner warrior, She Warrior specializes in unique, high-fashion, functional athletic wear.
One of the latest additions to their collection, the tie-dye bike shorts look super trendy when paired with an oversized tee and denim jacket. Their antimicrobial, moisture-wicking fabrics are made from recycled materials, too.
If you're looking for something simple and non-restrictive at a wallet-friendly price, 28,000 five-star reviews on Amazon will tell you that you have nothing to lose with these.
The wide waistband provides control, and the comfy compression fit is available in a short 5-inch and long 8-inch length—both of which feature pockets. At the low price, feel free to get it in several of the whopping 42 different colors guilt-free.
These may be called "volleyball" shorts, but most reviewers claim these are actually the greatest running shorts they own.
They don't ride up, and the stretchy blended fabric makes these one of the most comfortable on the list—you probably won't want to take them off for hours after your workout.
Founded by two best friends who met in business school, Rec Room is all about empowering women to feel their absolute best.
For them, function never means having to sacrifice comfort, and their moisture-wicking shorts are no exception. The seamless shorts are great for conservative swimwear, too.
Emily Abbate is a freelance writer, certified fitness trainer, and host of the podcast Hurdle. You can find her work in GQ, Shape, Runner’s World, and other health and fitness publications.
Neha Tandon is the senior commerce editor of Women's Health—she's an expert in discovering the best products and services you can buy and giving recommendations. She discovered her love for magazines when as a teen, she started stealing her mother's magazines. Determined to see more women who look like her and her family members on the glossy covers of magazines, she was guided by seasoned editors and mentors to write for brands including New York Magazine, Cosmopolitan, BRIDES, Harper's Bazaar, Business Insider, Byrdie, and Well+Good. When she’s not grilling dermatologists about the latest skincare trends, she’s doing candlelit yoga or watching Humphrey Bogart movies over vegan pizza. Follow her on Instagram.