The 15 best men's running shorts for maximum comfort, according to actual runners

CNN

6 days ago

Men's running shorts quick picks
Breezy shorts with a supportive liner: Janji Men's AFO 5-Inch Middle Shorts
Do-it-all gym shorts: Ten Thousand Interval Shorts
For race day: Rabbit Speedsters Half Tights The best running shorts for men might not shave a minute off your mile time, but they will keep you cool, comfortable and supported. 'As a coach, I've seen so many newer runners tolerate discomfort without realizing their gear is part of the problem,' said Alysha Flynn, founder of and coach at What Runs You. 'The best shorts should support your run, not distract from it.'
But finding the perfect fit can be a struggle if you don't know what you're looking for. That's where this guide comes in. After interviewing seasoned runners and testing popular models, I compiled a list of the 15 best men's running shorts.
Janji Men's AFO 5-Inch Middle Shorts
Janji thought of everything with these lined shorts, which were so lightweight and breezy that I forgot they were there during runs. But storage is where they shine. The zippered back pocket is perfect for an ID card or phone, and the snug fit keeps pocket bounce minimal. There's also a clever internal pocket with a built-in carabiner for your house key. Choose from the original design, or spend a little more for extra gel storage with the AFO Ultra.Boa Men's Elite Split Shorts
Mike Hamberger, a running coach and All-American triathlete who's tested at least 50 different running shorts over the past 25 years, said nothing beats Boa. The brand's Elite Split shorts feature a short 1-inch inseam, polyester mesh liner and a single pocket, prioritizing minimalism and breathability over storage and coverage. Boa also features some wacky designs, if you want bananas or donuts on your short shorts.Bandit 5-Inch Vento Training Shorts
Senior testing editor Rick Stella avoids short shorts but makes an exception for Bandit's Vento. 'They are extremely comfortable, even during long-distance runs, and have several pockets for storing things like keys or a few credit cards (you can stash your phone, but I often keep my phone at home when I run),' he said. As pricey as they are, Stella added that they're worth the cost and will 'be your go-to running shorts for years.'
Vuori Kore Shorts
'These shorts are like a summer version of joggers for guys,' said Phil Young, the owner of Fleet Feet Davenport in Iowa. 'I can run, lift or dress them up and wear them out and about.' He prefers them with a 5-inch inseam, but you can also grab the stretchy, lined shorts in 7-inch and 9-inch versions.Nike Stride Running Shorts
Flynn turns to two brands for men's running shorts: Nike and Lululemon. She specifically highlighted this 2-in-1 pair from Nike, which boasts four pockets, including zippered storage in the back to secure your phone or keys. They're made from a lightweight, stretchy blend of polyester and spandex, and include mesh panels for improved airflow.
Tracksmith Men's Session Shorts
'If I could sum up Tracksmith's Session Shorts with one word, it would be 'comfortable,'' Stella said. 'I've often kept wearing them for hours after a run because they deliver that much comfort.' That's thanks to their lightweight construction and the nylon and elastane liner that 'just feels good' and doesn't ride up during runs. 'I have a few pairs of these in my running kit and always look forward to their turn in the rotation,' Stella added.
Brooks Sherpa 5-Inch Shorts
When Young needs 'a go-to, everyday pair' for his runs, he grabs the Brooks Sherpa. They are equipped with plenty of storage and lightweight materials, and reasonably priced, especially when they are on sale.
Ten Thousand Interval Shorts
With the Interval Shorts, Ten Thousand designed a do-it-all pair of gym shorts that Los Feliz Running Club founder Warren Tardif calls 'nearly perfect.' While every pair comes with stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric, a secure waistband and vents for extra breathability, you can choose from three different inseam sizes, and lined and linerless models. Ten Thousand also carries the Session Shorts, a lighter, pared-down model designed specifically for running.Read our review
Lululemon 7-Inch Pace Breaker Linerless Shorts
Flynn also recommends Lululemon's Pace Breaker shorts, which are available in three inseam lengths, and lined and linerless configurations. Whatever version you choose, they all feature low-bounce pockets and a hidden storage compartment for keys or headphones.Royal Robbins All In Shorts
When CNN Underscored outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor —and avid trail runner — Kai Burkhardt suits up for runs, hikes or days at the lake, he opts for Royal Robbins' All In Shorts. 'They're super lightweight and have three pockets (including a small zippered one on the thigh), and they are quick-drying,' he said. They're also made from recycled nylon, making them a great choice for runners who strive to live sustainably.Under Armour Men's UA Vanish Woven 6-Inch Shorts
'I only buy new athletic shorts if I can get them for dirt cheap at an outlet,' said associate testing writer Joe Bloss. Though his favorite budget pair from Under Armour has been discontinued, he said these are close. 'I wear them for running, walking, chilling — they're simply comfortable lightweight shorts great for any use.'
Alo 5-Inch Repetition Shorts
I initially ordered these for a piece I was writing about hiking shorts but realized they'd be a better fit here. The linerless design is simple — you get three zippered pockets and a drawstring — but Alo nails the basics, especially when it comes to the comfy but tight waistband and soft, stretchy fabric. Those qualities make them great for runs, but I think of them more as all-purpose athletic shorts for gym sessions and chill days at home.
A24 Gym Shorts
A film and TV production company is the last place you'd expect to find great running shorts, but copy chief Daniel Toy said he's fallen in love with these 'comfy, breezy shorts" from A24. 'The deep pockets are great for carrying running essentials without having to worry about dropping anything," he said, "and the mesh style offers maximum breathability during midsummer or moonlit jogs.'
Nike Lava Loops Dri-FIT ADV Running Tights
'[Compression shorts] can have lots of pockets and usually are better to avoid chafing,' said Duy Nguyen, a Nike partner and co-founder of Koreatown Run Club in Los Angeles, California. The Lava Loops are his tights of choice, as they offer plenty of security, minimal bounce and lots of storage, thanks to seven well-placed pockets.
Rabbit Speedsters Half Tights
Need a pair for race day? Try these half tights from Rabbit. 'These shorts make me want to go fast!' Young said, who added that the 'pockets are executed wonderfully without adding bulk.' Runners also benefit from the shorts' UPF 50+ protection, which will keep your thighs sunburn-free. If there's one thing I've learned covering exercise gear, it's that personal preference plays a big role. That's true for men's running shorts too. But the athletes I spoke to also shared a few nonnegotiables that everyone should look for, regardless of taste. And that starts with comfort and fit.
'You want a pair that moves with you, doesn't chafe and offers features like a secure waistband, sweat-wicking fabric and, ideally, extra pocket storage for training essentials like fuel,' Flynn said. 'You want them to feel like they disappear once you're moving.'
In practice, that means looking for lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric, flat seams (aka flatlock stitching) and a drawstring to keep the waistband secure, she added. You can shop from afar, relying on product reviews and descriptions, but Nguyen recommends getting hands on the shorts and asking yourself some important questions: Would these shorts weigh me down? Would they be comfortable on my skin? If you're still unsure, you may have to run in them to know if they're a good fit, Nguyen said.
Beyond fit, let the type of running guide your choices, Young said. 'If you need pockets for a longer run or to carry a key if not starting from home, you need to anticipate those things,' he said. Nguyen agrees, noting that inseam length, pockets and liners come down to personal preference for him.
'I don't necessarily need so many pockets and extra fabric when I'm doing a speed workout on a track,' he said. 'On the flip side, I definitely do if I have a longer run to hold gels or even to sneak in a shorter run in between errands.'
No matter how or where you train, you should never compromise on fit and comfort. The variety in design of running shorts has 'accelerated pretty rapidly,' Young said, so there should be something for everyone. 'If you start a run and wish your shorts were different, or finish a run and are mad about your shorts, you need new shorts.'
The following FAQs have been answered by running experts Phil Young, Alysha Flynn and Duy Nguyen.
What are the pros and cons of men's running shorts with liners?
What are the pros and cons of men's running shorts with liners?
'It seems that most men have moved away from traditional briefs to boxer briefs, and wearing a boxer brief with running shorts can end up looking or feeling silly,' Young said. 'So, with a built-in liner, the need to fuss over an undergarment is reduced.' Liners can also add a layer of security and warmth in colder weather, he added.
Some liners can be uncomfortable, though, Flynn said, plus some male runners prefer to wear their own base layer or compression shorts.
Should men's running shorts have short or long inseams?
Should men's running shorts have short or long inseams?
That depends on what you like, Flynn said, adding that 'longer inseams can help prevent thigh chafing, but it really depends on your build and the type of running you're doing.'
What are the differences between compression and split shorts?
What are the differences between compression and split shorts?
'Compression shorts fit close-to-skin, like a legging or tight, whereas a split short generally has a more flowy fit, often with a small inseam around 3 inches,' Young said.
Nguyen added that compression shorts typically offer more storage and security, and are less likely to chafe, though they can leave some feeling restricted or exposed. Meanwhile, he described split shorts as 'the runner's loincloth,' with the advantages being a breezy and open feeling but less storage and a potentially hit-or-miss liner.
Should men's running shorts have pockets?
Should men's running shorts have pockets?
Whether you're looking at men's or women's running shorts, the number of pockets you need depends on the length of your run. For shorter runs, treadmill running, races under an hour and other occasions where you don't need to carry anything, pockets aren't critical, Young said.
However, they are important 'if you're going out on a longer run and need to carry fuel with you,' Nguyen said. Running belts are also an option for more storage.
For this article, we consulted the following experts for their professional insights.
Alysha Flynn, founder and coach at What Runs You, which supports everyday runners with coaching and community-driven training plans
Mike Hamberger, running coach and doctoral candidate in cognitive motor neuroscience
Duy Nguyen, co-founder of Koreatown Run Club in Los Angeles, California
Warren Tardif, founder of Los Feliz Running Club in Los Feliz, California
Phil Young, owner of Fleet Feet Davenport in Davenport, Iowa
CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item.
For this guide, associate writer Maxwell Shukuya sought recommendations from experienced athletes and CNN Underscored staffers. Having covered the best men's shorts and best hiking shorts, Shukuya also supplemented this piece with his own product testing expertise.