13 best men's running shorts for 2024

Oct 20, 2024

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Whether you’re a hardcore member of team ‘all weather is shorts weather’ or you prefer to throw on a pair of running tights as a base layer during the colder months, finding a pair of shorts that are comfy and don't ride up or down can be a challenge.

That's where we come in. We've sweat-tested a number of the best men’s running shorts on the market to bring you our round-up of the ones that you'll genuinely enjoy wearing, mile after mile.

Looking for the best women's running shorts? Check out our round-up

Runner’s World has been a helpful resource for dedicated competitive and hobbyist runners for more than 30 years. Our most important running gear recommendations, including essentials like running shoes and running shorts, are based on the hard work of our test team. Using our expert knowledge of performance running apparel, experience testing hundreds of pieces of kit and eye for a good deal, we've put these shorts through their paces on roads and trails, as well as testing their strength, durability and how well they wash.

From the best running shorts for under £20, to the running shorts to power you around the route on race day, we've rounded up some of the best running shorts on the market here.

A simple pair of running shorts, with a fitted under-layer to prevent any chafing on the move and a baggier outer layer for coverage as you run. There's a drawcord waistband that allows you to customise the fit, side pockets help keep items like a key or card close and a zip back pocket large enough to hold a phone.

These Gymshark shorts will be comfortable on the run and in the gym. The 7-inch leg-length sits mid-thigh and the slim fit means they don't look overly baggy. There are two leg pockets, but they aren't zipped, so you'll probably still need your running vest or run belt.

Having trouble finding the right inseam length? Try Lululemon’s Fast and Free shorts, which offer an 6-inch inseam, splitting the difference between the two most common lengths. Made from a sweat-wicking, quick- drying mesh fabric, the liner pouch provides breathable support on the go with flat-locked seams to reduce chafe.

They are the kind of shorts that form a staple of your running wardrobe as they’re durable, anti-odour, fast wicking and quick drying – and lightweight too making them a very good multitasker, and a good option for warm weather runs or any sessions where you’re getting a massive sweat on.

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.

For those who prioritise aerodynamics, these body-hugging half-tights fit the brief. Made from soft, stretchy, woven fabric, the second skin security makes you feel like you’re suiting up in muscle-protecting running armour. There’s a built-in brief liner and seamless front for preventing chafing, a vented waistband and six pockets, including two side pockets with moisture barriers to keep your gear dry.

Once you get above £50 for a pair of shorts, the value is often in the less-obtrusive details. In this case it's the four-way stretch in the weave, which not only allows amazing freedom of movement but is also lightweight and feels cool on the skin. A delight to train in.

Available with a mid-length 5-inch inseam or as a classic 3-inch split, the Accelerate short from New Balance is ideal for track workouts (or for anyone who prefers less coverage). The woven polyester fabric offers good breathability, and the split hem gives some extra flex for intense sprints.

There’s a dedicated key pocket at the waist, but without a drawcord to cinch these down, they’re limited in how much stuff they can actually carry.

A shorter version of Tracksmith's excellent Session Shorts, these 3-inch high-stretch speedsters are great for all-out efforts. The knit outer is light and loose, with retro overlapped side splits. Storage is pretty good for short shorts, too, with a hidden zippered pocket on the right hip and another small fuel pocket in the liner. There's no phone pocket though, as the focus here is on speed.

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.

Some runners prefer the skin-tight support and enhanced range of motion you get from compression shorts. This pair from Brooks Compression hugs snugly in all the right places, with a pair of slim pockets capable of holding a phone and little else, which is kind of the point. Though they’re made to grip, they still have a drawcord at the waist so you can adjust the fit.

Good for trail, track or your local park loop, these minimal shorts are made from a stretchy, sweat-wicking FlashDry XD fabric that’s designed to sit close to the skin to lift moisture off the body to where it can evaporate faster. The thin split hem outers hang loose for good airflow, while the liner briefs add support without cooking up too much heat.

Salomon's S/Lab gear is all about performance. These half-thigh racers are built light and minimal for flying along trails. The snug-fitting liner offers excellent support, while the outer is feather-light. The thin fabric dries fast, too, and the inner has a water-repellent coating. Storage is excellent, with a built-in four-segment mesh storage belt that gobbles up a 250ml soft flask, light windshield jacket, smartphone and gels.

Rick Pearson is the senior editor at Runner’s World UK. He’s been with the brand since 2017 and loves testing PB-friendly shoes for on and off road. Rick is a sub-three marathoner and occasionally likes to remind people of this on the Runner’s World podcast, which he co-hosts. He once raced a steam train over 14 miles (he won, narrowly) and a horse over a marathon (he lost, comfortably).

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