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Quick answer

Our overall pick is the Brooks Journey 7″ 2-in-1 Short for its supportive boxer liner and ample secure storage. The other picks include options for those seeking shorter inseams, multi-packs, or specific features like UPF protection.

Finding the right pair of running shorts can make a big difference in your comfort and performance. The best running shorts for you will balance fit, freedom of movement, and the features you need, like storage or built-in support. We compared manufacturer listings and specifications to bring you this roundup of 16 options, from 2-in-1 designs to single-layer shorts.

Quick picks

16 Best Running Shorts compared

# Product Best for Inseam Liner Type Pocket Features
1 Brooks Journey 7″ 2-in-1 Short Best overall 2-in-1 running short 7″ Boxer brief Side zip pocket + 4 hip pockets
2 persimar Men’s 2-in-1 5″ Shorts Best 2-in-1 with a compression liner 5″ Compression liner Zippered back + side + inner pockets
3 Kinglaman 4-Pack 2-in-1 Shorts Best 4-pack of lined shorts Not listed Compression liner Liner phone pocket + side + back zipper
4 Naarts Men’s 2-in-1 5″ Shorts Best with a firm internal liner pocket 5″ Compression liner Inner liner pocket + two side pockets
5 CRZ YOGA 2-in-1 3″ Shorts Best 2-in-1 shorts with anti-slip dots 3″ Spandex short Pockets on inner short
6 Blooming Jelly Women’s Athletic Shorts Best with tummy control and a crossover waist 2.8″ Inner brief Two side zipper pockets
7 CE’ CERDR Women’s 2-in-1 5-Pack Best multi-pack of 2-in-1 shorts Not listed Soft inner liner Two zippered + two hidden pockets
8 G Gradual Men’s 3″ Running Shorts Best 3-inch inseam with a liner 3″ Mesh brief Two zipper pockets
9 G Gradual Men’s Athletic 7″ Shorts Best running shorts with UPF 50+ 7″ None (unlined) Two zipper pockets
10 NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Shorts Best with reflective strips and vents 7″/9″/5″ None (unlined) Three zipper pockets
11 MIER Men’s 5″ Inseam Shorts Best lightweight shorts with slash pockets 5″ None (unlined) Two slash pockets + internal pocket
12 CRZ YOGA High Waisted 3″ Shorts Best high-waisted shorts with a mesh liner 3″ Mesh liner Not listed
13 CRZ YOGA V Split 2.5″ Shorts Best 2.5-inch inseam shorts 2.5″ Mesh liner Not listed
14 Gaglg Men’s 5″ Shorts 2-Pack Best 2-pack with a relaxed fit 5″ None (unlined) Two concealed zipper pockets
15 MAXCK Men’s 5″ Shorts 2-Pack Best 2-pack with high-stretch panels 5″ None (unlined) Hidden side zip pockets
16 Niksa Compression Shorts 4-Pack Best compression shorts for muscle support Not listed Compression (base layer) One pocket

How we chose

We compared manufacturer listings and specifications on Amazon as of October 2026. We did not test these products hands-on. Our picks are based on comparing listed features like inseam length, pocket types, fabric technologies, and design (e.g., 2-in-1 vs. unlined).

Best 2-in-1 Running Shorts

These shorts feature a built-in liner for support and chafe reduction.

1. Best overall 2-in-1 running short: Brooks Journey 7″ 2-in-1 Short

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Brooks Journey 7" 2-in-1 Short

Brooks Journey 7" 2-in-1 Short

Brooks
View on Amazon.com
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Built-in, supportive boxer brief liner
  • Multiple secure pockets, including a phone pocket
  • Adjustable drawcord for a custom fit

Cons

  • The listing does not mention UPF sun protection.

The Brooks Journey 7″ 2-in-1 Short is designed for runners who want added coverage and support from a built-in boxer brief liner, which the listing says provides chafe-free support. The outer shell is stretchy with an adjustable drawcord. For storage, it includes a side zip pocket for a phone and four expandable hip pockets.

Best for: Runners seeking a secure 2-in-1 short with extensive storage.

2. Best 2-in-1 with a compression liner: persimar Men’s 2-in-1 5″ Shorts

The persimar Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts have a 5-inch inseam. They combine a lightweight outer layer with a muscle-support compression liner designed to minimize thigh friction. Storage includes four pockets: a zippered back pocket, dual deep side pockets, and an inner phone pocket.

Best for: Runners seeking muscle support from a compression liner.

3. Best 4-pack of lined shorts: Kinglaman 4-Pack 2-in-1 Shorts

The Kinglaman 4 Pack Men’s 2 in 1 Lined Running Shorts are sold as a set of four. They feature a built-in compression liner, quick-dry fabric, and multiple pockets including a liner phone pocket, two side pockets, and a back zipper pocket.

Best for: Runners looking for a multi-pack of lined shorts.

4. Best with a firm internal liner pocket: Naarts Men’s 2-in-1 5″ Shorts

The Naarts Men’s 2 in 1 Athletic Running Shorts have a 5-inch inseam and a 2-in-1 design with a stretchy outer layer and compression liner. The inner lining has a firm internal pocket. The outer layer has two deep side pockets, and the waistband includes an invisible drawstring.

Best for: Runners who want a secure pocket within the liner.

5. Best 2-in-1 shorts with anti-slip dots: CRZ YOGA 2-in-1 3″ Shorts

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CRZ YOGA 2-in-1 3" Shorts

CRZ YOGA 2-in-1 3" Shorts

CRZ YOGA
View on Amazon.com
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Double-layer 2-in-1 design
  • Built-in short has anti-slip dots and pockets
  • High-rise waist

Cons

  • The listing does not specify the type of pockets on the outer layer.

The CRZ YOGA 2 in 1 Double Layer Running Shorts feature a double-layer design with a 3-inch inseam and a high rise. The built-in spandex short includes anti-slip dots and pockets. The outer fabric is described as ultra soft, weightless, and quick-dry.

Best for: Runners wanting a secure 2-in-1 short with anti-slip features.

6. Best with tummy control and a crossover waist: Blooming Jelly Women’s Athletic Shorts

The Blooming Jelly Women’s Athletic Running Shorts have a double-layer design with an inner brief. They feature a crossover high-waisted design for tummy control and a slimming fit. The shorts include two side zipper pockets and have a 2.8-inch inseam.

Best for: Runners looking for a high-waisted short with a flattering, secure fit.

7. Best multi-pack of 2-in-1 shorts: CE’ CERDR Women’s 2-in-1 5-Pack

The CE’ CERDR Womens 2 in 1 Running Shorts are sold in a 5-pack. They have a high-waisted design with an elastic waistband and drawstring. Features include a supportive inner liner, a side split hem, and four pockets (two zippered outer, two hidden inner).

Best for: Runners wanting a variety of 2-in-1 shorts in one purchase.

Best Single-Layer Running Shorts

Lightweight, unlined shorts offering breathability and a minimalist feel.

8. Best 3-inch inseam with a liner: G Gradual Men’s 3″ Running Shorts

The G Gradual Men’s Running Shorts have a 3-inch inseam and are made from a lightweight, breathable mesh fabric blend. They feature a built-in mesh underwear liner for support. The shorts have two deep zipper pockets and an elastic waistband with an inner drawstring.

Best for: Runners preferring a very short inseam with built-in support.

9. Best running shorts with UPF 50+: G Gradual Men’s Athletic 7″ Shorts

The G Gradual Men’s Athletic Running Shorts are made from a lightweight, quick-dry fabric. A key listed feature is UPF 50+ sun protection. They have two deep zippered pockets and an elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring. They are unlined.

Best for: Runners who need sun protection for outdoor workouts.

10. Best with reflective strips and vents: NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Shorts

The NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts are made from a lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric with 4-way stretch. They feature reflective strips on the front and back for visibility and breathable side vents. Storage includes three secure zipper pockets (two side, one back).

Best for: Runners prioritizing safety with reflective details and ventilation.

11. Best lightweight shorts with slash pockets: MIER Men’s 5″ Inseam Shorts

The MIER Men’s 5 Inch Inseam Running Shorts are single-layer shorts made from a super lightweight, quick-dry, and breathable fabric. They feature two deep slash pockets and an internal drop-in pocket at the waist. The design includes side splits at the hem for ventilation.

Best for: Runners who prefer a minimalist, lightweight short with easy-access pockets.

12. Best high-waisted shorts with a mesh liner: CRZ YOGA High Waisted 3″ Shorts

The CRZ YOGA High Waisted Split Running Shorts have a 3-inch inseam and a high-rise fit. They are made from a feathery-soft, weightless, and quick-dry fabric. They include a built-in mesh liner, which the listing says helps reduce friction.

Best for: Runners looking for a high-waisted, short-inseam option with a liner.

13. Best 2.5-inch inseam shorts: CRZ YOGA V Split 2.5″ Shorts

The CRZ YOGA V Split Running Shorts have a very short 2.5-inch inseam and a high-rise waist. They are made from a feathery-soft, quick-dry fabric and include a built-in mesh liner to reduce friction.

Best for: Runners seeking the shortest possible inseam with a liner.

14. Best 2-pack with a relaxed fit: Gaglg Men’s 5″ Shorts 2-Pack

The Gaglg Men’s 5″ Running Shorts are sold in a 2-pack. They offer a relaxed fit with a 5-inch inseam and are made from lightweight, quick-dry fabric. Features include dual concealed zippered pockets, an elastic waistband, and breathable elastic panels on the sides.

Best for: Runners wanting a casual, relaxed fit in a two-pack.

15. Best 2-pack with high-stretch panels: MAXCK Men’s 5″ Shorts 2-Pack

The MAXCK 2 Pack Mens Lightweight Athletic Running Shorts have a 5-inch inseam and are sold as a pair. They are made from quick-dry polyester fabric and feature a high-stretch elastic panel complemented by breathable mesh. They have hidden deep side zip pockets and an adjustable waistband.

Best for: Runners seeking maximum stretch and breathability in a two-pack.

Best Multi-Pack Running Shorts

Options sold in sets of two or more, offering value and variety.

16. Best compression shorts for muscle support: Niksa Compression Shorts 4-Pack

The Niksa Compression Shorts are sold in a 4-pack. They are made from a breathable, quick-dry blend of polyester and spandex designed to provide muscle support and compression. Features include flatlock stitching to reduce chafing, a ripstop elastic waistband, and a pocket.

Best for: Runners or athletes looking for supportive compression wear.

How to choose the best running shorts

Choosing the best running shorts depends on your personal preferences for fit, support, and functionality. The right pair can help you stay comfortable and focused on your run. For more on selecting running gear, visit our Running Apparel guide.

What to look for

  • Fit and Inseam: Inseam length affects mobility and coverage. Shorter inseams (2.5″-5″) are often preferred for unrestricted movement, while longer ones (7″-9″) offer more coverage. Look for an adjustable drawstring for a secure waist fit.
  • Liner vs. Unlined: 2-in-1 shorts have a built-in liner (like a boxer brief or compression short) for support and to reduce chafing. Unlined, single-layer shorts are lighter and may be preferred for their minimalist feel or for wearing with your own underwear.
  • Features for Your Run: Consider storage needs—zipper pockets secure valuables, while slash pockets offer easy access. Reflective details are crucial for low-light safety. For sunny runs, UPF-rated fabric provides sun protection. Breathable fabrics and mesh panels help with temperature regulation.

Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions to maintain the fabric’s performance. The right combination of these features will help you find the best running shorts for your routine.

FAQ

What is the difference between 2-in-1 and single-layer running shorts?

2-in-1 running shorts have a built-in liner, typically a brief or compression short, designed to provide support and reduce thigh chafing. Single-layer shorts are just the outer shell, offering a lighter, more minimalist feel. The choice depends on whether you prefer built-in support or plan to wear your own underwear.

How important are pockets in running shorts?

Pockets add convenience by letting you carry essentials like keys, cards, or fuel. Zippered pockets provide security against items falling out, while slash pockets allow for quick access. Some shorts also have internal drop-in or liner pockets for phones. Your need for pockets depends on what you typically carry on a run.

What should I look for in the fabric?

Look for fabrics described as moisture-wicking, quick-dry, and breathable to help manage sweat and keep you comfortable. Lightweight materials reduce burden, and stretch fabrics (often with spandex) allow for a full range of motion. Some fabrics also offer UPF ratings for sun protection.

Are reflective details necessary?

Reflective strips or logos significantly improve your visibility to drivers during early morning, evening, or low-light runs, which is a key safety consideration. If you frequently run in these conditions, prioritizing shorts with reflective elements is a good idea. Learn more about outdoor safety in our guides.

References

  1. Amazon product listings and manufacturer specifications (accessed October 2026)
  2. Physical Activity Guidelines, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
  3. American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
  4. Heat Safety, National Weather Service