Every Lift and Stretch is Easier in Comfy Workout Shorts

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There’s a lot on your mind while you’re in the weight room: Counting reps, maintaining your form, and timing rests between sets is no small feat. So, what’s not on the list? Worrying about your shorts riding up (or, even worse, being see-through).

The best workout shorts for women are breathable, opaque, and stay in place—so you can focus on how much you’re lifting, not on what you’re wearing. But finding that magic pair can be tough. We get it: SELF editors are constantly testing workout gear, and we have thoughts on which shorts are really worth your money. Shop our favorites for weightlifting, running, hiking, cycling, and more below.

Our top picks

1. Best Overall: FP Movement Stinger Shorts, $48
2. Best for Walking: Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Pocket Biker Shorts, $27
3. Best for Running: Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Classic-Fit Split Short 3″, $78
4. Best for Marathons: Janji 5″ Pace Short, $68
5. Best for Strength Training: Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Short 6″, $64
6. Best for Hiking: REI Co-op Trailmade Shorts, $50
7. Best for Cycling: Peloton Cadent High Rise Pocket Bike Short 7″, $58
8. Most Breathable: Athleta Fast Route Mid Rise 2″ Run Short, $69

Hop on the treadmill or hit the trails in these comfy picks.

Best Overall: FP Movement Stinger Shorts

You get the best of both worlds with these FP Movement shorts: The outer layer is flowy and has zippered pockets, but the built-in biker shorts underneath won’t ride up or cause your thighs to chafe. “These are my go-to workout shorts for multiple activities,” SELF’s associate social media manager, Katie Gunderman, says. “They’re perfect for running, HIIT workouts, lifting, and hot girl walks. And they’re the perfect length for me to feel comfy and cute, no matter what workout I’m doing.”

She likes that the layered design gives her extra coverage while she lifts weights and provides light compression that helps her feel supported. Also a plus: They’re made of quick-drying polyester—perfect for extra sweaty outdoor workouts.

Best for Walking: Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Pocket Biker Shorts

I’ve had these Old Navy biker shorts for years, and they still look and feel the same as the day I bought them. I identify as a thick thigh girlie and have found that skin-tight shorts are the best option for me—anything looser rides up. I can walk for hours in these shorts, thanks to their longer inseam and comfy amount of compression.

While I’ve also worn them to the gym (and can attest they’re squat-proof), I really like them for walks because they have deep side pockets that can hold my phone, keys, and AirPods.

Best for Running: Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Classic-Fit Split Short 3″

These are some of best running shorts out there—just ask SELF’s director of fitness and food, Christa Sgobba: “They’re my choice for easy, short summer runs when it’s super hot—the split short is so cooling—and when I don’t need to carry a lot with me—the slip pockets will fit a key fob or a gel,” she says.

SELF writer Renee Cherry adds that the built-in briefs are a life saver. “With other running shorts, I’ve found that briefs can be too tight at the leg openings and too loose everywhere else,” she says. “The briefs on these shorts fit like actual underwear and don’t dig into my thighs. They’re made of a mesh material with tiny, breathable holes—a nice touch if you’re doubling up with underwear and could use some extra ventilation.”

Best for Marathons: Janji 5″ Pace Short

Training for a marathon? As much as our testers love Lululemon’s Fast and Free shorts, longer runs call for an upgrade—like a longer inseam to prevent chafing and larger pockets that can fit more of your essentials.

“These will hold a ton: soft flask, phone, and keys,” Sgobba says. “They’re my choice for a marathon in the fall because they hold everything super securely with no bounce, so I don’t have to worry about chafing or rubbing.” Also nice to have: Silicone grips on the inside of each leg, which keep the shorts in place while you log your miles.

Best for Strength Training: Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Short 6″

When you’re lifting heavy, you need shorts that’ll stretch with you in every direction, and these are it. “They’re sleek, compressive, and totally pass the squat test,” Sgobba says.

The wide waistband won’t roll down, and the longer, 6-inch inseam prevents the legs from sliding up. “The Wunder Trains are probably the most compressive shorts on my list,” she wrote in a review. “I’ve been finding myself reaching for these on my heaviest lower-body strength sessions, when support is really crucial.”

Best for Hiking: REI Co-op Trailmade Shorts

Whether you’re climbing a mountain or setting out on a woodsy trail, you’ll stay cute and comfy in these hiking shorts. “I love these shorts so much, I had to buy a second pair,” one SELF tester says. “They’re long enough so I don’t have to worry about them bunching up, the pockets are super roomy, and the adjustable waist ensures a great fit. They’re also really lightweight—perfect for hot, humid days.” Plus, the fabric has UPF 50+ sun protection, the highest rating a piece of clothing can have.

Best for Cycling: Peloton Cadent High Rise Pocket Bike Short 7″

We’re so impressed with these cycling shorts that we gave them a SELF Activewear Award. Our testers said their length prevents uncomfortable camel toe and that they’re compressive enough to keep them going through tough reps.

Like some of our other picks, these shorts have two deep side pockets to hold your phone and any other must-haves. Wear them with the right cycling shoes for a no-fail ‘fit, whether you’re topping the Peloton leaderboards or tackling a triathlon.

Most Breathable: Athleta Fast Route Mid Rise 2″ Run Short

SELF’s lifestyle writer, Jenna Ryu, says these shorts make her marathon training smoother. “They don’t ride up or give me an uncomfortable wedgie, and I’m able to zoom through my runs with them—I wear them for five-mile easy runs and even 15-milers,” she says. “I love them so much, and I have the same pair in multiple colors.”

With a two-inch inseam, they’re the shortest pair on this list—but you’ll appreciate the lack of fabric if you overheat easily. Plus, their side slits let even more air in (which is key when it’s hot and humid out).

How we found the best workout shorts for women

The SELF team tests activewear all year round. So, when it came time to choose the best workout shorts, they were ready to go with recs for running, hiking, biking, and more. Trainers also gave us the scoop on what they look for in a good pair of shorts, including pro shopping tips that can help you find your new go-tos.

What to consider while choosing workout shorts

Related:

• Trainers Swear By These Supportive Sneaks for Better HIIT Workouts
• The Best Cardio Machines for Every Type of Runner, Rower, and Cyclist
• The Best Trampoline Rebounders for Low-Impact Cardio Workouts at Home

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