Best Overall Running Short
Brooks Journey Short (5″)
Now 25% Off
Brooks is a top-tier brand in the running game. While it’s known for its shoes, the brand also has an exceptional clothing line that helps you run comfortably and in style. The Journey Short are built for performance, with a 5-inch inseam with multiple pockets. They have a zippered rear pocket that can fit your phone, along with compact pockets on the side.
“These bright-colored running shorts do it all for a long journey run, as nicely as a short run in the park,” says Men’s Health style authority Ted Stafford. As Stafford mentions, Brooks offers a few colorways that really pop, like Neo Limeade and striped Strider, not your typical fare.
The new iteration of the Journey Short features smaller pockets to help reduce excess fabric and bouncing. This short does include a liner; however, it does have more give compared to its predecessor. If you are looking for a tighter liner for faster runs, this may not be for you; however, this does great for the casual trot or easy long run on the weekend.
Specs
| Inseam | 5″ |
| Liner | Stretch brief liner |
Best for Everyday Running and Errands
Vuori Qualify Run Short Lined (6″)
Now 21% Off
Cons
- Not the most ventilated for super hot days
Vuori offers a very classic fit with a classy aesthetic in the Qualify Run Short. They feature unique zippered pocket compartments to store very small items such as headphones, salt-tablets, or even some cash. These 6-inch inseam lightweight shorts are great for running due to how comfortable they are.
Fitness and Commerce Editor Charles Thorp calls this short a solid choice for laid-back runners and gym-goers, or really anyone who makes comfort their number one priority. They look great, and we’ve worn them in casual settings just as often as it active ones.
This 6-inch short is the perfect length between 5 and 7 inches you’ll see out there. These Journey shorts make for a comfortable fit with the drawstring cord for these shorts placed on the inside and is also lined. “These ultra‑light shorts have 4‑way stretch and are built for great runs,” Thorp says. “Moisture‑wicking and quick‑drying features are built right in.”
Specs
| Inseam | 6″ |
| Liner | Boxer brief liner |
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Best 2‑in‑1 Short
Nike Challenger 2‑in‑1 Short (5″)
Cons
- Inner liner may ride on longer runs
Nike is a pioneer when it comes to creating products that stick around for a while. Once a flagship item is born, you can definitely bet that Nike will continue to make improvements on it. In this case, the Nike Challenger 2-in-1 short does the job, a