Choosing the right athletic skirt matters whether you're on the golf course, tennis court, or running errands. The right skort balances coverage, mobility, storage, and comfort. These recommendations come from hands-on wear testing, fabric and fit analysis, and a synthesis of expert and consumer feedback.
How we tested and chose
We evaluated dozens of current women's athletic skirts using a consistent, repeatable process. Our approach combined real-world use, lab-style checks, and crowdsourced feedback:
- Fit & mobility: dynamic movement tests (squats, lunges, lateral steps) to check coverage and ride-up.
- Materials & breathability: feel, stretch, quick-dry performance, and UPF where advertised.
- Storage & practicality: pocket depth, security (zippers), and placement for phones/balls/keys.
- Construction & durability: seam quality, waistband stability, and wash resilience.
- User feedback: aggregated reviews and common complaints to spot real-world issues.
Each candidate was scored across these categories, and we prioritized pieces that deliver consistent comfort, reliable storage, and lasting construction for the price.
5-Pocket Athletic Skort
A pocket-forward budget skort with UPF50+ fabric and a high waist. Built-in drawstring and inner shorts keep everything secure. Great for those who need storage and sun protection on a tight budget without sacrificing basic performance.
Best Budget Pick — Practical and pocket-rich
This skort stands out for delivering important features at a very low price: a 3.3" high waist with a built-in drawstring for a secure fit, five useful pockets (including space for a phone and balls), and UPF50+ sun protection. The lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric and same-color built-in shorts provide modesty during active movement. Expect variable finish quality compared with higher-priced options, but for walkers, casual golfers, or multi-sport beginners who prioritize pockets and sun protection on a budget, it’s an excellent value.
CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Skort
A premium-feel skort in Butterluxe fabric that emphasizes softness and stretch. High-waisted with built-in shorts and inner pockets, it blends everyday comfort with sport-ready construction—ideal for golfers and those wanting a luxe, versatile skort.
Premium Choice — Luxury feel, everyday performance
This skort uses CRZ YOGA's Butterluxe fabric for a plush, ultra-stretchy hand and comfortable fit. The high-waist, flat waistband design avoids digging while the integrated shorts include pockets for essentials. At its price point it emphasizes comfort and appearance—great for players who want a soft, flattering layer that transitions from course to casual wear. It’s not the most pocket-heavy option, but the construction and feel make it worth the premium.
16-Inch High-Waist Skort
A mid-price, versatile skort with a modest 16" length, breathable mesh shorts, and two deep inner pockets. The 3" waistband and split hem deliver a flattering silhouette with practical storage for phones and keys.
Best Value For Money — Balanced performance and practicality
This skort offers a smart blend of features for the price: a modest 16" skirt length for extra coverage, breathable 4.5" mesh shorts that wick moisture and resist chafing, and two deep inner pockets that easily hold modern phones. The 3" elastic waistband provides tummy control without uncomfortable compression, and the split hem preserves mobility. If you want a dependable everyday athletic skirt that performs across sports and casual wear without a high price tag, this is a standout.
G Gradual 18" Skort
A technically focused skort with an 18" knee-length design, four secure pockets (two with zippers), and a soft 4-way stretch fabric. Ideal for players who want maximum coverage and secure storage during vigorous play.
Editors' Choice — Technical features and maximum coverage
This skort leans into function-first design: a knee-length 18" skirt for full coverage; two reinforced zipper pockets that secure phones and valuables; plus two inner pockets for smaller items. The 4-way stretch fabric feels buttery-soft while the breathable mesh shorts reduce ride-up. Construction quality and the inclusion of zippered security pockets make it an excellent pick for serious golfers, pickleball players, or anyone who needs secure storage and full-coverage movement. It’s the most feature-rich of the group and justifies the higher price for active users.
Quick comparison and who each skort suits
- 5-Pocket Athletic Skort (Best Budget Pick) — Most affordable with excellent pocketing and UPF50+ sun protection; best for beginners and budget shoppers who prioritize storage.
- CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Skort (Premium Choice) — Soft, luxurious fabric and comfortable waist construction; ideal for those who want a premium feel for daily wear and light sport.
- 16-Inch High-Waist Skort (Best Value for Money) — Balanced features: modest coverage, breathable shorts, and deep pockets; excellent all-rounder for players and active commuters.
- G Gradual 18" Skort (Editors' Choice) — Longest length, zipper-secure pockets, and technical fabric; best for serious players who need secure storage and full-coverage performance.
Best overall: the G Gradual 18" Skort for its combination of secure storage, coverage, and thoughtful technical design. Alternatives: choose the budget pick if price and sun protection matter most; choose the Butterluxe skort for superior comfort and everyday style.
Choosing the right athletic skirt depends on your priorities: storage, coverage, fabric feel, or price. Our hands-on testing and review of user feedback show there’s no one-size-fits-all winner—only the right pick for your needs. If you want the most reliable, all-around performer with secure pockets and coverage, the G Gradual 18" Skort is our top recommendation. If you need an affordable everyday option with plenty of storage, the 5-Pocket Athletic Skort delivers strong value. For those who prioritize comfort and a premium hand-feel, the CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Skort is an excellent choice. All selections were chosen for consistent performance, construction quality, and real-world practicality based on testing and aggregated consumer experience.