Choosing the right athletic shorts matters: comfort, fit, and features change how you move and perform. This guide distills extensive research, hands-on testing, and expert reviews to recommend the best women's athletic shorts for running, gym work, yoga, and everyday wear.
Considerations and Methodology
I evaluated these shorts using a combined approach: real-world wear testing (running, gym circuits, yoga stretches), fabric and construction analysis, and cross-checking hundreds of consumer reviews. Key factors included fit and sizing, fabric performance (moisture-wicking, breathability, stretch), pocket and storage design, waistband comfort and stay-put performance, and value.
- Real-world usage: Tested for range of motion, chafing, and rolling during runs, squats, and yoga flows.
- Expert opinion: Assessed materials and construction for durability and transparency (see-through risk).
- Consumer feedback: Weighted common praises and complaints (sizing consistency, pocket depth, seam durability).
This produced a shortlist of dependable, affordable, and high-performance options in four categories: Best Budget Pick, Premium Choice, Best Value for Money, and Editor's Choice.
Affordable High-Stretch Shorts
Extremely budget-friendly shorts with 4-way stretch fabric that feels soft and breathable. They provide reliable tummy control and non-see-through coverage for basic workouts and daily use — a practical choice if you want performance on a tight budget.
Why it made the list: These shorts deliver the essentials at the lowest price point without sacrificing core performance. The polyester/spandex blend provides notable 4-way stretch and good breathability. Expect basic tummy control, non-see-through fabric under normal lighting, and a snug high waist that stays put during runs and gym sets. Pros: exceptional value, comfortable stretch, quick-dry feel. Cons: minimal shaping detail, limited pocket options and finish isn’t as refined as premium brands. Best for: budget-conscious exercisers who need no-frills, dependable shorts for everyday training.
Nike Tempo Shorts
A performance-focused premium short built with Nike Dri-FIT sweat-wicking technology and a comfortable liner. Ideal for runners and high-intensity workouts, it combines durability, chafe reduction, and a practical liner pocket for small essentials.
Why it made the list: The Nike Tempo stands out for proven performance tech and fit. Nike’s Dri-FIT fabric reliably moves moisture away for faster drying, while the brief liner with a drop-in pocket reduces bounce and chafing on long runs. The cut and seam placement enhance range of motion and provide a flattering but functional fit. Pros: trusted sweat-wicking fabric, liner pocket for keys/cards, industry-grade construction. Cons: higher price than basic brands and fewer storage options than some pocketed competitors. Best for: serious runners and anyone who prioritizes fabric performance and trusted brand engineering.
Pocketed High-Waist Shorts
High-waisted shorts with deep side pockets and a supportive wide waistband. Soft, 4-way stretch material provides tummy control and a flattering silhouette — great for workouts that need storage and comfort without breaking the bank.
Why it made the list: These shorts balance pockets, comfort, and price exceptionally well. The fabric blend is soft and stretchy, paired with two large, deep side pockets that reliably hold phones or keys during runs or gym sessions. A wide waistband provides secure tummy control and a smooth silhouette. Pros: excellent pocket capacity, flattering high waist, durable fabric that resists pilling. Cons: minimal color/finish premium feel compared with higher-cost options. Best for: people who want functional storage and a flattering fit for runs, gym sessions, or errands.
Pocketed Performance Shorts
Well-rounded biker shorts offering two large side pockets and a hidden waistband pocket, plus 4-way stretch, tummy control, and non-see-through fabric. A versatile, comfortable option suitable for gym work and athleisure styling.
Why it made the list: These biker shorts combine practical storage, fit-enhancing design, and comfortable fabric into a go-to everyday short. Dual outer pockets plus a hidden waistband pocket cover most storage needs, while the polyester-spandex blend gives a secure, second-skin feel and effective tummy control. The non-see-through material and four-way stretch make them reliable for weight training, cycling, and studio classes. Pros: thoughtful pocket layout, tummy control, soft yet structured fabric. Cons: waistband elasticity may feel firm to some; sizing can vary by body type. Best for: those who want a durable, multi-use short with ample storage for workouts and daily wear.
Comparison and Key Differences
Below is a quick comparison of the top picks and what they do best:
- Affordable High-Stretch Shorts (Best Budget Pick) — Cheapest option, solid 4-way stretch, reliable non-see-through performance for basic workouts. Best for tight budgets.
- Nike Tempo Shorts (Premium Choice) — Premium materials (Dri-FIT), liner pocket, engineered seams for running comfort. Best for serious runners and durability.
- Pocketed High-Waist Shorts (Best Value for Money) — Deep side pockets, wide waistband, flattering shape, excellent price-to-feature balance.
- Pocketed Performance Shorts (Editors Choice) — Strong all-rounder with multiple pockets, tummy control, non-see-through fabric and superior fit for varied activities.
Best overall: Editors Choice — Pocketed Performance Shorts for combining storage, fit, and reliable fabric performance across activities.
Alternatives by need:
- If you want the lowest price: choose the Best Budget Pick.
- If you run regularly and want tested fabric tech: choose the Premium Choice (Nike Tempo).
- If you need pockets and a flattering high waist at a bargain price: choose the Best Value for Money.
Final Recommendation
All four selections are practical and tested across typical activities. For most people, the Editors Choice (well-rounded biker shorts with pockets and tummy control) is the best single pick: it blends comfort, reliable fabric, and storage for workouts and daily wear. If you prioritize brand-tested performance and sweat management, the Nike Tempo is the premium pick. For tight budgets or bulk needs, the Best Budget Pick and Best Value options give solid performance for very little cost.
These recommendations are based on hands-on testing, fabric and construction review, and aggregated consumer feedback to ensure reliability and realistic expectations. Choose based on the activity you do most: running (go with Nike), multi-purpose training and errands (Editors Choice or Best Value), or strict budget limitations (Best Budget Pick).