Best Running Shorts for Men: Complete Reviews with Comparison


Without a doubt, running during those pleasant summer evenings offers an unparalleled joy. It gives you the chance to enjoy the outdoors and keep yourself fit.

Running proves to be a more effective kind of work out, as you don’t have to confine yourself within the walls of a gym. Plus, the outcome is more promising than any other workout regimen.

However, running without shorts wouldn’t be that much fun. Therefore, when going jogging, it is important to make sure you wear comfortable, performance-oriented running shorts.

If you are planning to buy the best running shorts available, here are some of the most popular options to choose from. By taking a look at our reviews and buyer’s guide, you will definitely find a suitable pair of shorts for you.

Without any further delay, let’s dive into our first review.

Best Running Short for Men Reviews

Champion Men’s Long Mesh Running Short

If you are interested in buying reliable, high-quality running shorts, Champion sportswear is a renowned name to consider. This brand is backed by a century’s worth of expertise.

These Champion Men’s running shorts are one of the most authentic and functional pairs of shorts that money can buy. Indeed, it’s an updated classic that gives you the feel of a champion.

Product Highlights

In fact, Champion was the first company to introduce mesh athletic shorts. Since then, this brand continues to perfect its product to meet the needs of almost every individual.

The Champion Men’s Long Mesh Running Short is another outstanding product that is versatile and comfortable to wear. These shorts are cool, lightweight, and breathable, offering you the best running experience.

The extra-smooth fabric feels nice and doesn’t harm your skin, and its elastic waist gives you freedom of movement. After wearing this pair of shorts, you will definitely feel a noticeable difference with reference to your running.

The presence of sleek pockets keeps your cash and keys safe. Besides the cool design and breathable mesh, the shorts also feel quite comfortable. Moreover, the drawstring closure gives a snug fit.

When it comes to washing these shorts, you won’t experience any issues. This is because these running shorts are easy to wash and they dry very quickly.

You can count on their durability, as these shorts are made of 100% polyester. Being lightweight, it doesn’t add much weight to your body, making it ideal for running.

The Good

Champion offers a wide range of sportswear, including street styles and retro-cool products. If you are looking for an authentic sports style, the Champion Men’s Long Mesh Running Shorts are the best option to consider.

These shorts offer unsurpassable performance and comfort. The long mesh shorts also offer 360-degree breathability. While wearing these running shorts, you will feel a difference in your overall performance.

The Bad

The side pockets aren’t big enough to store your smartphone. Even if you manage to place your smartphone in the pocket, it won’t be secure at all. Therefore, you have to buy a separate accessory to carry your smartphone.

PROS

  • Made of 100% polyester
  • Secure, snug fit with drawstring closure
  • Machine washable running shorts
  • Breathable, lightweight, and comfortable
  • Quickcord offers better adjustability
  • Spacious pockets for keeping keys and cash

CONS

  • Pockets aren’t big enough

Neleus Men’s Lightweight Running Shorts

Neleus is another popular brand that is associated with the manufacturing of excellent sportswear. The innovative designs and use of comfortable fabric are a few reasons for this brand’s popularity.

The Neleus Men’s Lightweight Running Shorts is a quality product that ensures both comfort and performance. The materials used for the production of these shorts are of high quality. This makes these running shorts highly durable and comfortable to wear.

Product Highlights

The Neleus Men’s Lightweight Running Shorts is constructed with 100% polyester. The mesh fabric is known for its breathability and elasticity. These shorts prove to be the best option when you are going out running during a hot, summer evening.

The mesh lining also gives a trendy look to the shorts. With the provision of an elastic closure, it is quite easy to wear these shorts. Moreover, they fit snugly and don’t become loose while running.

These shorts by Neleus are designed in a way to offer an athletic level of performance. Their mesh fabric offers additional ventilation and allows the moisture to dry quickly. This is possible due to the wicking fabric, which absorbs most of the moisture.

Being machine washable, you won’t find any difficulty in washing these shorts. Moreover, the fast-drying fabric keeps these running shorts moisture-free most of the time.

The pockets available on the side seam offer convenient storage space. Here, you can put your belongings, like keys or cash.

In addition, the elastic waistband comes with an internal drawstring that is easy to adjust. This provides a snug fit without compromising your comfort.

Furthermore, its odor-resistant liner is durable enough to bear job site abuse. You can use these shorts repeatedly without any fear of damaging them.

These shorts are vigorously tested for their performance and durability. The fabric used for the construction of these running shorts is suitable for almost every season. Due to the highest level of comfort, you can wear these shorts all day long.

The Good

Neleus is a brand that is famous for its unique designs and excellent quality. The comfortable clipping is quite popular among athletes.

Being one of the most energetic sportswear brands, Neleus is always striving to offer innovative and affordable products.

The innovative design and overall quality of these running shorts are the most notable features of this product.

The Bad

However, the leg openings are too large. This might be a problem for people with skinny legs. To avoid any embarrassing situation, it is advised to wear underwear.

PROS

  • Made with durable, lightweight material
  • Side pockets for carrying your stuff
  • Suitable for all types of weather
  • Elastic closure for a snug fit
  • Comfortable and easy to wash the mesh fabric

CONS

  • Leg openings are too large

Baleaf Men’s Running Shorts

Baleaf is one of the top brands associated with sportswear. The most amazing feature of this product is its athletic and unsurpassable fit. This ensures desired comfort and maneuverability, which is required for running, jogging, or weightlifting.

Product Highlights

The Baleaf Men’s Running Shorts turn out to be a great option when you need to improve your overall running experience. With the level of comfort offered by these shorts, you can stay more focused and run at a consistent pace.

When it comes to the manufacturing of this product, it involves using a combination of 95% polyester and 5% spandex. This makes these shorts much lighter than other available options.

Furthermore, washing these shorts is also easy. Due to the lightweight material, the fabric dries much quicker. This feature helps to keep your body free from excessive moisture.

Now, you can enjoy your running while staying dry and comfy. In addition, the built-in mesh briefs ensure a breathable and supportive fit.

You also get two side pockets for keeping your belongings. The side pockets are deep, too, allowing you to carry large items.

Besides this, there is a rear zip pocket, too, which allows you to store your keys and cash in a safe and secure manner.Additionally, the provision of a reflective logo serves as a safety precaution during low light. It offers better visibility when you are running after sunset.

The inner drawcord makes it possible to give you a comfortable fit. As a result, your shorts won’t slide down while running. Also, the 4-way stretch material improves the comfort level and overall performance.

This suggests that the stretchy material will allow you to continue with your workout without any constraints.These shorts are machine washable and can be dried in a spinner. However, it is not advised to use fabric softener.

The Good

Baleaf Men’s 5″ Running Shorts offer an athletic fit, making it a perfect option for running, training, weightlifting, tennis, etc. These shorts are capable of improving the overall experience, and they help you stay more focused.

The Bad

The liner appears to be quite large. This may not be an issue for short runs, but for long runs, you may need to choose another option.

PROS

  • Durable, lightweight, and comfortable
  • Built-in drawcord for a comfy fit
  • Back zipper pockets for additional safety of your belongings
  • Reflective logo works as a safety measure while running in low light

CONS

  • The liner appears to be too large

Souke Sports Men’s Running Shorts

Souke Sports Men’s Running Shorts tend to be the best possible option when you are looking for a comfortable, durable product. These shorts are made of high-quality materials, which adds more comfort while keeping the shorts reasonably lightweight.

Product Highlights

When it comes to the construction of these Souke Sports Men’s Running Shorts, this particular product is made of 92% polyester and 8% spandex. Besides that, the inner shorts are constructed with 90% polyester and 10% spandex.

Both the overall design and feel of this pair of shorts are unsurpassable. They are made of lightweight and breathable material. Due to its specific material, the shorts absorb moisture quite quickly.

These Souke running shorts are extremely durable. The durability of the fabric prevents clinging or tearing down of these shorts.

Moreover, its quick-dry feature also helps you stay dry even after a long run. The perforated side panels and back offers an improved airflow, which allows you to stay focused while performing your workout.

Compared to other available options, these running shorts come with black inner shorts. This offers a snug and supportive fit without compromising the overall comfort.

The lightweight and soft fabric avoids any kind of irritation. With these running shorts for men, you don’t need to wear any undergarments. This makes it a perfect option for the summer season.

These running shorts are made to move. The overall design of the shorts involves specific features that offer a snug fit. In addition, the elastic fabric offers maximum comfort to perform any kind of movement.

The fabric is made to stretch with each stride, which helps runners improve their performance. With its 8″ inseam, these shorts offer the desired amount of stretching, which enhances overall mobility and performance.

Apart from performing well while running, these shorts also serve as a perfect option for other types of sports, including hiking, weightlifting, and tennis.

This particular pair of shorts comes with a drawstring and elastic waistband. These workout shorts for men offer an adjustable and secure fit.

Both the side pockets are zippered, allowing you to carry your belongings in a safe and hassle-free manner. These pockets offer sufficient space to store your wallet and other large items, like a smartphone.

The provision of reflective details makes it much safer for you to go out running during low light conditions. Hence, you don’t need to stop running once darkness falls.

The Good

The Souke Sports 8″ Running Shorts are highly breathable. These shorts are built to offer you the best possible fit without compromising comfort.

The relaxed fit offers the desired level of stretching, allowing you to continue with your workout with complete freedom. The inner lining offers maximum comfort and support.

The Bad

The only drawback associated with these running shorts is its availability in just three colors. Most running shorts are available in a variety of colors and patterns to meet your preferences.

PROS

  • Breathable and lightweight
  • Offers additional coverage and support
  • Best option for running
  • Unsurpassable comfort and durability

CONS

  • More expensive than similar other options

Neleus Men’s 3 Pack Compression Short

Neleus is a renowned brand, known for its quality sportswear and similar other products. It offers a unique design and excellent quality. Besides that, this brand is also committed to offering the highest level of comfort and performance.

Product Highlights

Being the most energetic brand, Neleus is associated with the manufacturing of innovative and stylish sportswear. Talking about Neleus Men’s 3 Pack Compression Shorts, these shorts are affordable yet performance-oriented.

These shorts are made with 85% polyester and 15% spandex. Moreover, these shorts are easy to wash. The elastic closure offers a snug fit, irrespective of your waist size.

Due to the tight fit of these running shorts, you won’t face the issue of them slowly falling down while running. They feel comfortable and offer maximum movability. In addition, its quick-dry fabric keeps you dry all the time.

This is possible due to the moisture sensing and two-way air circulation. With its smooth HeatGear fabric and unsurpassable elasticity, you won’t feel any difficulty while running or doing any kind of workout.

The Good

This pair of running shorts is suitable for all types of sports activities, both indoors and outdoors. It helps to prevent any kind of irritation or skin chafing, especially when doing your gym exercises.

The Bad

The overall design and appearance of these running shorts aren’t that appealing. However, this is a matter of preference. Therefore, you can just go for it if you like the overall design of these shorts.

PROS

  • Comfortable elastic closure
  • Affordable yet durable
  • Quick-dry, stretchable fabric
  • Suitable for all types of sports activities

CONS

  • Less than impressive design

BUYER’S GUIDE

When buying any product, there are a couple of things you should keep in mind. Here are the considerations for purchasing running shorts.

Types of Running Shorts

Basically, there are three types of running shorts – compression shorts, V-notch shorts, and split shorts.

Compression shorts offer a snug, tight fit. Due to their specific design, these shorts are warmer and ensure better muscle support.

No doubt, V-notch shorts are trendy and stylish. They are named after their V-shaped cutout. These shorts are stitched throughout the entirety of their length.

Splits shorts are usually confused with V-notch shorts, as there isn’t a lot of difference between the two. Split shorts are more performance-oriented due to their specific design, though.

Size

Talking about size, this is the most important thing to keep in mind whether you are going to buy clothes or shoes. This rule also applies to your running shorts.

Although size doesn’t appear to be a matter of concern for most, it does make a difference. For instance, an oversized pair of shorts will give you a clumsy look. This would ruin all your confidence.

On the other hand, undersized shorts won’t be comfortable to wear. Forget running, you can’t even walk when wearing extra tight shorts.

Therefore, make sure to buy running shorts that perfectly fit your size. This will ensure a maximum level of comfort and performance.

Material

The overall comfort and performance offered by these running shorts are dependent on the material with which they are constructed. For instance, there are some materials that get heavy when wet.

In addition, shorts made of 100% cotton may prove to be comfortable during summer but may shrink over time. In this situation, a blended material could serve the job well.

Furthermore, elastane, polyester, spandex, and nylon are some of the synthetic materials that offer durability, comfort, and performance.

Therefore, if you are planning to buy running shorts, make sure to choose a blended material. If you don’t sweat a lot, it would be better to choose a nylon material for a better fit and durability.

Features

Some of the most essential features that you should consider when buying running shorts include flexibility, durability, comfort, and the ability to stretch.

Besides these features, you should also look for the quality of the fabric and overall design of the shorts. Don’t just buy one if you don’t like the style of fabric.

If the design of a pair of shorts doesn’t match your personality or preferences, it won’t look good on you. As a result, you won’t enjoy jogging or running.

Hence, it is imperative to look for your desired features when buying the best running shorts for you.

Design and Color

The design and color of your shorts may play a key role in giving you a perfect sporty look. Moreover, you need to select the color and design of your shorts depending on the outside weather.

During summer, try to put on shorts that are looser. In addition, you should use shorts made with perforated material for proper breathability.

This will allow your body to stay cool and perform well during hot weather conditions. On the contrary, make sure to wear shorts with a snug fit and less perforated material during cooler seasons.

Similar is the case with color selection. You need to wear dark-colored shorts during winter. However, it would be better to go for light colors when it’s hot outside.

F.A.Q.

Why are running shorts so short?

The reason behind the short length of running shorts is the ease of movement. Especially when running, you need a maximum level of mobility.

These shorts don’t cover your knees, which suggests that you won’t have any difficulty while running. It enhances the movements and maneuverability of a runner.

How should running shorts fit?

When it comes to the fit of a pair of running shorts, you should definitely feel comfortable while wearing them. To put it simply, the shorts should offer a snug fit without being too tight. Moreover, your shorts should also offer the required air circulation.

What to wear under running shorts?

In most cases, you can wear your typical undergarments. However, there are specific types of shorts that come with an inner lining. If your short offers this feature, there is no need to wear undergarments.

Why do some running shorts have built-in underwear?

Some brands offer specially designed running shorts that come with built-in underwear. This feature provides the benefit of undergarments without compromising your movements or the level of comfort.

How often to wash running shorts?

If your running shorts are made of mesh fabric, there is no harm in washing them. Most of the shorts are easy to wash and dry quickly. Hence, you can wash your running shorts after a couple of uses.

FINAL VERDICT

After taking a look at the running shorts mentioned above, it should be much easier for you to choose the best possible option. All these products are made of durable and lightweight materials, making them ideal for running.

Nicho Mauricio

Running wasn't always my favorite sport. I was a CrossFit athlete and I loved every bit of it. But since the pandemic began, I was forced to stay away from the gym and train at home instead. Things got boring. That's when I decided to trail run with my friends. I instantly got hooked. So I started training and researching all things running. As a beginner, I want to buy only the best running gear and do only the best practices. This blog is where I share what I've learned in my journey and my experiences as a runner.

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