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10 Best Running Shorts For Men 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts 7"/ 5"/ 9" Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball Shorts Hiking Exercise NAVY-5inch M

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,219
Material
Pockets

Most important from
13442 reviews

Material
The material is fantastic—light, airy, and dries super quickly, perfect for sweaty workouts or beach trips.
Pockets
Secure pockets with zippers make it easy to carry essentials without worrying about them falling out.

The NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts are a solid choice for men seeking versatile, lightweight, and comfortable workout attire. Made from a blend of 90% polyester and 10% elastane, these shorts offer excellent breathability and quick-drying capabilities. The material is durable, stretchy, and abrasion-resistant, making it ideal for various physical activities, including running, hiking, and gym workouts. The shorts come in three different lengths (5, 7, and 9 inches) to suit individual preferences and needs. They feature stylish breathable holes on both sides, which enhance ventilation and keep you cool during intense workouts.

The soft elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring ensures a customizable and secure fit, while flatlock seams help reduce chafing for added comfort. An attractive addition is the two reflective strips on the front and back, which improve visibility and safety in low-light conditions. The inclusion of three zippered pockets (two side and one back) is highly practical, providing secure storage for essentials like keys, phones, or cards. The pockets are deep enough to prevent items from falling out during activities.

Furthermore, the fabric offers UPF 50+ sun protection, making these shorts suitable for outdoor use. However, it is important to note that these shorts do not have a built-in liner, which might be a drawback for some users who prefer added support. Also, the shorts lack belt loops, which could be a consideration for those who like to wear belts. These shorts are machine washable, adding to their convenience. They are best suited for men looking for cooling, comfortable, and functional activewear for a variety of sports and everyday use.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,219
Material
Pockets

Most important from
13442 reviews

Material
The material is fantastic—light, airy, and dries super quickly, perfect for sweaty workouts or beach trips.
Pockets
Secure pockets with zippers make it easy to carry essentials without worrying about them falling out.
#2

NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball Shorts Hiking Exercise Navy-7 inches XL

Rating
9.4
Material
Pockets

Most important from
2227 reviews

Material
Fit perfectly even for taller and larger individuals, and the material is thin yet durable, ideal for various activities from gym workouts to casual wear.
Pockets
Super comfy and lightweight, these shorts are perfect for running with practical pockets that keep your phone and AirPod case secure.

The NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts are made from a durable blend of 90% polyester and 10% spandex, which ensures they are lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. This material combination allows for good flexibility and mobility, ideal for various athletic activities. The shorts have a 7-inch inseam, a length that offers a good balance between coverage and freedom of movement, suitable for running and other sports activities.

The built-in adjustable drawstring on the soft elastic waistband allows for a customized fit, enhancing comfort during use. Additionally, the flatlock seams help reduce chafing, making these shorts more comfortable for long workouts or runs. The inclusion of two deep zipper pockets is a practical feature, as they provide secure storage for essentials without the risk of items falling out during activities.

The fabric also offers UPF 50+ sun protection, making them a good choice for outdoor activities. These shorts are versatile and can be used for a wide range of activities like tennis, hiking, and even casual wear. They are a solid option for active individuals looking for comfort, mobility, and practical storage solutions.

Rating
9.4
Material
Pockets

Most important from
2227 reviews

Material
Fit perfectly even for taller and larger individuals, and the material is thin yet durable, ideal for various activities from gym workouts to casual wear.
Pockets
Super comfy and lightweight, these shorts are perfect for running with practical pockets that keep your phone and AirPod case secure.
#3

CANGHPGIN 2 Pack Mens Workout Athletic Shorts 7 inch Inseam Quick Dry Hiking Shorts Men Lightweight Sports Gym Shorts Running

Rating
9.2
Material
Pockets
Waistband

Most important from
2089 reviews

Material
These shorts are lightweight, stretchy, durable, and true to size, making them perfect for both lounging and quick outings.
Pockets
Ideal for intense workouts, the shorts offer great mobility and have pockets that fit an iPhone, with the breathable and soft material adding to the comfort.
Waistband
The elastic waistband and stretchable material provide an excellent fit, and the shorts are airy, making them suitable for both hot and cooler days.

The CANGHPGIN 2 Pack Men's Workout Athletic Shorts are designed for those who enjoy running and other sports activities. Made from a blend of 90% Nylon and 10% Spandex, these shorts are lightweight, comfortable, and breathable, effectively wicking sweat and drying quickly—qualities that are essential for maintaining comfort during an intense workout. They feature a 7-inch inseam, providing a good balance between coverage and freedom of movement, aided by a V-cut design at the leg.

These shorts include an elastic waistband with a drawstring for a customizable fit, ensuring they stay securely in place during activity. With three zippered pockets, they offer practical storage solutions for securing your phone, cards, and other essentials—a great feature for someone who likes to carry items while running. Additionally, a reflective strip on the front enhances visibility in low-light conditions, adding an extra layer of safety for evening or early morning jogs.

However, the product does not mention an internal liner, which might be a drawback for those who prefer added support. Also, while these shorts are praised for versatility across sports and casual wear, their synthetic material might not appeal to those who prefer natural fibers. The UPF 50+ rating is a plus, providing protection from harmful UV rays. Machine-washable and retaining shape after multiple washes, they are easy to maintain. These shorts seem to suit active individuals who value functionality, comfort, and safety features in their workout gear.

Rating
9.2
Material
Pockets
Waistband

Most important from
2089 reviews

Material
These shorts are lightweight, stretchy, durable, and true to size, making them perfect for both lounging and quick outings.
Pockets
Ideal for intense workouts, the shorts offer great mobility and have pockets that fit an iPhone, with the breathable and soft material adding to the comfort.
Waistband
The elastic waistband and stretchable material provide an excellent fit, and the shorts are airy, making them suitable for both hot and cooler days.

Buying Guide for the Best Running Shorts For Men

Choosing the right running shorts is essential for comfort, performance, and preventing chafing during your runs. The best running shorts for you will depend on your personal preferences, the type of running you do, and the conditions in which you run. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting running shorts for men, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.
MaterialThe material of running shorts is crucial for comfort and performance. Most running shorts are made from synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon, which are lightweight, breathable, and wick moisture away from your skin. Some shorts may also include spandex for added stretch. Look for materials that feel comfortable against your skin and offer good breathability. If you run in hot weather, prioritize lightweight and moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you cool and dry.
LengthRunning shorts come in various lengths, typically measured in inches. Common lengths are 3-inch, 5-inch, and 7-inch inseams. Shorter lengths (3-inch) are ideal for speed and race days as they offer maximum freedom of movement. Medium lengths (5-inch) provide a balance of mobility and coverage, suitable for most runners. Longer lengths (7-inch) offer more coverage and may be preferred for trail running or cooler weather. Choose the length based on your comfort level and the type of running you do.
LinerMany running shorts come with built-in liners, which act as underwear and provide support. Liners can help prevent chafing and wick moisture away from your skin. Some runners prefer shorts with liners for the added support and convenience, while others may opt for linerless shorts to wear their own preferred underwear. Consider whether you prefer the convenience of built-in liners or the flexibility of linerless shorts.
PocketsPockets can be an important feature for carrying essentials like keys, gels, or a phone. Some running shorts have zippered pockets for secure storage, while others may have open or mesh pockets. Think about what you need to carry during your runs and choose shorts with appropriate pocket options. If you run with a phone, look for shorts with a secure, sweat-resistant pocket.
WaistbandThe waistband of running shorts should be comfortable and secure without being too tight. Look for shorts with adjustable waistbands, such as those with drawstrings, to ensure a good fit. A wide, elastic waistband can provide additional comfort and support. Consider your preference for waistband style and adjustability when selecting running shorts.
Reflective ElementsReflective elements on running shorts can enhance your visibility in low-light conditions, such as early morning or evening runs. These elements can be in the form of reflective strips, logos, or patterns. If you often run in low-light conditions, prioritize shorts with reflective features to improve your safety.

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