The 11 Best women’s running shorts in 2023

Eleven of the best women’s running shorts from popular brands including Rockay, Nike, Adidas, and others!

Shopping for the very best pair of women’s running shorts can be difficult. However, taking the time to search for a great pair of shorts can not only make your running more enjoyable, but you’ll be more comfortable, perhaps even faster, and, of course, looking your best.

When searching for a pair of shorts, there are multiple factors that you need to consider. For example, these factors include the price, the fit of the shorts, and the technology included, e.g. how effective these are at sweat-wicking, preventing a build-up of nasty odours, and so forth.

Finding a balance of these components is essential, providing you with ultimate comfort and performance benefits for those tough weekend runs or races.

This article is a round-up of our top eleven women’s running shorts, beginning with a hybrid pair from the popular sustainable running brand, Rockay.

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Alternatively, you can also view our selection of the men’s best running shorts, too.

Our number one pick of women’s running shorts is this 2 in 1 pair from Rockay. For starters, the shorts are created using recycled materials, removing ocean waste and contributing to a greater sustainable future. However, these Hybrid 2 in 1 women’s running shorts also contain impressive Polygiene anti-odour technology to keep your shorts fresh and long-lasting, even between washes.

This is further complemented by the perforated ventilation, increasing breathability and general comfort when running. Overall, these shorts are comfortable, performance-enhancing, and even contain multiple pockets, one of which is dedicated to your smartphone with a no-bounce design – something very few shorts offers.

Despite the many benefits, however, this pair from Rockay are more expensive than others, definitely a premium choice of running shorts.

Next up, we also have another pair of women’s 2 in 1 running shorts, this time from TCA. Although slightly less well-known than other popular brands, TCA creates various sports and running gear, usually much more budget-friendly options, too.

For starters, the compression inner layer provides additional muscular support and performance benefits, allowing you to get the most out of each run. However, with this being said, the compression is not the same as a dedicated pair of compression shorts or tights, more so like our number six choice of Nike Pro compression shorts.

Notwithstanding this, this pair from TCA is an excellent option for beginners runners and veterans alike. For example, you will benefit from multiple zip pockets to store your essentials, quick-drying fabric for a comfortable and dry run, and an adjustable waistband for added comfort.

Also, TCA tests their products, including these shorts with various elite athletes, ensuring a universal but optimal design for various sports.

It is worth noting that the zipped pockets may not fit all smartphones. However, all in all, most runners reported the pockets to be more than big enough for all their essentials.

Another pair of women’s running shorts from Rockay, we have the flare half tights. With a greater compressive design, these running shorts provide enhanced support, whether running intervals on the track or a quick and easy 30-minute run.

Using similar technology to the Hybrid 2 in 1 women’s running shorts from Rockay (this time HeiQ® fresh odour control), you can wear these shorts multiple times before washing, all without a build-up of nasty odour. Also, you benefit from the equally as good sweat-wicking performance, keeping you dry and comfortable for the entire duration of your run.

Much like the other pair from Rockay, the flare half tight running shorts for women are also constructed using recycled materials, helping to combat ocean waste. The shorts also make use of the same phone sleeve pocket we seen from the other Rockay pair – secure, plenty of room, and containing a no-bounce design. There’s also an additional pocket for other smaller items, whether keys, cash, or nutritional items.

All things considered, there a couple of potential downsides. Firstly, these shorts are more expensive than others. And second, these are slightly tighter than other pairs, perhaps not to everybody’s liking. Instead, if this is you then you may prefer our number one pick, also from Rockay.

The Nike women’s 2 in 1 running shorts provide unrestricted movement, thanks to the Nike Flex fabric and high split heam design. The inner of the shorts, although somewhat compressive, do not offer the same benefits of compression as opposed to a proper pair of compression shorts, such as the Nike Pro pair, as seen at number six in our list. However, the inner lining is stretchy and comfortable, adapting to your every movement to maximize performance.

While there are multiple pockets, admittedly, these run quite small. Sure, they’re great for storing small items, such as keys or cash, but you’re going to struggle to fit your smartphone. Similarly, compared to other running shorts for women, such as the Adidas M20 (as seen below), this pair from Nike also contain fewer reflective details – just something to watch out for.

As always, you can expect signature Nike breathability and sweat-wicking benefits too, ensuring a comfortable run no matter the distance.

The Adidas M20 is one of the more basic women’s running shorts on our list, low in price, and containing just enough technology to get you through your run.

For example, the Adidas Aeroready technology will eliminate excess moisture and sweat, keeping you comfortable. You also have the option to adjust the waistband for a better fit, and you will benefit from 360-degree reflectivity – a component many running shorts currently do not offer.

Despite this, you are missing out on various other benefits as seen with other running shorts, perhaps perforated ventilation as incorporated into the Rockay Hybrid 2 in 1 shorts, a dedicated smartphone pocket, and fresh odour control technology to reduce the need for washing while preventing a nasty build-up of odour.

It is also worth mentioning that although there are pockets, these do run slightly small.

This pair of women’s compression running shorts from Nike are the only proper pair of compression shorts included in our list. A staple piece of kit for many runners, it’s no surprise that these are often in high demand.

To begin with, the compressive fit provides additional muscular support, increasing blood flow to the muscles to aid with performance and recovery. You will also receive the other many benefits of compression technology, including reduced soreness and increased oxygen to your muscles.

Alongside the compression design, however, you also receive the standard Nike treatment – Dri-fit technology to wick sweat away from the body, flatlock seams to reduce chafing, and Nike Pro fabric for a soft but performance feel.

Having said this, there is one obvious potential downside of these shorts – there are no pockets. Also, some runners may find these a little too short for comfort at 3 inches, perhaps preferring a slightly longer pair. However, this is down to personal preference and without a doubt, these shorts are greater intended for racing and performance as opposed to regular training.

These yoga and women’s fitness shorts from Under Armour are a great entry-level pair of shorts for beginners. While the technology isn’t as advanced as others (similar to the Adidas M20 women’s running shorts), there is plenty on offer for a comfortable run.

For starters, there is a built-in under liner for additional support and comfort. Likewise, the material is soft knit and comfortable, providing an ideal fit for working out.

Some runners, however, did report this pair of shorts to be better suited to yoga and general working out, as opposed to running. Also, much like the above Nike Pro compression pair, these shorts do not contain any pockets – a major downside for many runners.

Another performance pair of women’s running shorts, this time from Asics, offer superior reflectivity, much like the Adidas M20, alongside highly breathable and moisture-wicking fabric.

Although there are two side pockets, a much-welcomed addition, especially following on from the last two pairs of shorts in our list, these do run fairly small and do not contain zips. Nonetheless, as mentioned previously, as this is a performance pair of shorts, the design is centred around faster running and racing.

The CRZ running shorts for women provide a great balance of many different components and features, all available at a competitive price, as opposed to more premium and expensive options, such as those from Nike and Rockay.

Firstly, you have the choice of many, many different colours, customization unlike any others shorts on our list. You will also favour the quick-drying and highly durable fabric, lasting a long-time and providing a comfortable ride no matter how long you intend on running for.

The zipped back pocket is a welcomed addition, too. There are also multiple other pockets, but these do run a little small and you will struggle to fit your smartphone, as opposed to other shorts, such as the Rockay Hybrid 2 in 1 that contains a dedicated, no-bounce smartphone sleeve design.

Some runners also mentioned how the shorts run slightly shorter than expected – perhaps not a game-changer, but something to potentially be wary of before placing an order.

Alongside our top nine women’s running shorts above, we’ve also put together a couple of honourable mentions. You can find these below.

Our first honourable mention is this high waisted pair of running shorts from Joyspels. For runners who prefer a fit that is high waisted, you can’t go wrong with this pair of shorts.

You will benefit from inner pockets for added convenience (similar to the Rockay smartphone pocket, but slightly less advanced), yet still big and secure enough to fit your smartphone and other larger items. Also, the anti-microbial and dry wicking technology will keep those nasty odours from building up, also increasing comfort during your run.

Many runners enjoyed the wide choice of colours (seven, to be exact) and the material, specifically how you could not see through it when working out in the gym, or running. Nonetheless, sizes may run a little larger than normal, so it’s worth using the size guide and perhaps ordering a size slightly smaller than usual if needed.

Our eleventh and final pair of women’s running shorts, and another honourable mention is this pair from BALEAF. However, where these shorts really stand out from others is in the pockets. For example, there is a total of three zipper pockets, all of which contain plenty of room to store your essentials. And yes, that includes your smartphone (similar to the two Rockay pairs mentioned in this article).

You will also reap the benefits of UPF 50 sun protection and skin-friendly and smooth fabric for further comfort. However, some runners reported the lighter colours to be a little see-through, so it may be best to stick to darker colours where possible.

Frequently asked questions

Finally, we have also gathered together various frequently asked questions regarding women’s running shorts. You can view these below: