15 Best Men’s Running Shorts
It’s an activity that inspires elation for some and dread for others — pounding the pavement for a run (daily, weekly… you name it). And if you’ve resolved to get out there, you should do it with the best men’s running shorts money can buy.
Like taking time to research slim denim or stylish polos, finding the right running shorts comes down to where you start your search. For starters, you could do worse than this list of the best men’s running shorts — as we’ve included picks for both the casual jogger and the elite racer. Keep in mind that performance-ready fabric and an active fit are crucial. Also Keep in mind that you can check all of the above boxes while still looking great.
From vintage-inspired pairs to futuristic shorts, our list of the best men’s running shorts is everything you need to make your run speedy and stylish.
Tracksmith Session Shorts
Tracksmith has perhaps done more than any brand to get ahead of the game in recent years when it comes to stylish, effective and performance-ready running shorts. Pieces like the Session Shorts prove that quite nicely — and you’ll surely dig the results (in addition to the vintage aesthetic). The brand’s stretch knit Veloce Blend fabric provides a reliable starting point for a great pair of shorts, and a plethora of sharp color options will help you stand out from the crowd during your next race. – Buy It
Patagonia Strider Pro Running Shorts
If you’re used to turning to Patagonia for rough-and-tumble outerwear (or hiking and camping gear), you’re familiar with the brand’s unmatched penchant for quality. But did you know they also make a heck of a pair of running shorts? That’s the case with the Strider Pro, a no-nonsense pair of running shorts made with polyester woven dobby and a DWR finish. They’re more functional than your average training shorts, and that’s only a positive. – Buy It
Arc’Teryx Soleus Shorts
Arc’Teryx are masters of outdoor function and fashion, what with the brand’s sleek approach to design and investment-level quality. The Soleus Shorts are a warm-weather option you really can’t afford to pass up — especially not when available for under $100. They were designed with breathable, moisture-wicking fabric to compete at a competition level — your old college gym shorts don’t have that sort of clout, to say the least. The fabric should be resilient and stretchy, designed to prevent chafing. With all those details considered, you need only worry about how your race time stacks up. – Buy It
Nike Flex 2-In-1 Running Shorts
You’ve surely got a pair of Nike basketball kicks or running shoes in your rotation — right? And what better way to complement them than with running shorts that offer up the brand’s trademark approach to performance? The Flex 2-in-1 Running Shorts offer up just that — two types of functionality in one. Between breathability and additional support built right in, there’s no question that the 2-in-1 Running Shorts could be among the best things to happen to your run since, well … Nike sneakers? – Buy It
Outdoor Voices Stretch Trail Shorts
Outdoor Voices has quickly gained traction in the gear and adventure space for a unique approach to minimal styles done with functionality in mind. Its Stretch Trail Shorts just the pair you need for maximum impact and durability as you put in your daily miles. They can certainly stand up to hard training sessions — that much is true. The brand’s Stretch Crepe material is both wind and water-resistant, featuring four-way stretch for range of motion and a sleek black color for perfectly minimal style. – Buy It
The North Face Better Than Naked Split Shorts
The North Face might have come up with a cheeky name for its running shorts, but there’s no question that the brand can still be counted on to deliver reliable performance in spades. Just like The North Face’s functionally minded fall and winter gear, its Split Shorts should help out tremendously the next time you pound the pavement. The brand’s FlashDry fibers are quick-drying and breathable, all the better when your run heats up this summer. And the reflective nature of these shorts is a huge benefit. – Buy It
Columbia Titan Ultra Shorts
Columbia’s Titan Ultra certainly lives up to its billing. As part of Columbia’s Montrail Collection, it features unique Omni-Wick technology to prevent moisture buildup on a hard run. And if you’re seeking handy extra features — like a zip-closed security pocket and hand pockets, the Titan Ultra Short has those, too. Add in the nylon and elastane blend, and you’ve got maximum stretch. Repellency can be pretty critical when taking on the elements — the brand’s Omni-Shield technology is more than helpful in that regard. – Buy It
Myles Apparel Momentum Shorts
Myles Apparel knows what it has set out to do as a brand — that is, make functional, durable and useful everyday gear. The brand’s Momentum Shorts live up to the brand’s mission quite nicely, and that means they’re a pair you need to buy just as soon as you can. It’s the brand’s Everyday Short that first helped them skyrocket to success, and similar qualities help make the Momentum Shorts a winner, from an agreeable price to a four-way stretch and quick-drying waterproof treatment. – Buy It
Under Armour Speedpocket Running Shorts
It only makes sense to reach for Under Armour the next time you head out on a run. The brand has built itself upon head-to-toe gear for every situation, and with a tailored fit and stretch-woven fabric, these shorts are more than ready for a race. The brand’s anti-odor technology lends itself to long-lasting durability, and mesh side panels aid with ventilation — quite the handy and much-needed touch the next time the thermostat climbs during a speed training session. – Buy It
Brooks Cascadia Shorts
Brooks has been lauded for its quality and innovation for years in the footwear space — and its running shorts are the perfect way to prep for a speedy outing. The Cascadia Running Short does away with excess touches and excess fabric — the brand says the DriLayer fabric of these shorts resists snags when trail running. It’s touches like those that make the Cascadia a great purchase — and three easy-to-use pockets only add to the utility of this tech-centric pair. – Buy It
Saucony Throttle Running Shorts
If you’re seeking running shorts that packed with all kinds of technology and ready for training session after training session this summer, consider picking up the Saucony Throttle Shorts — seriously. Built with 2-in-1 technology for what the brand calls “superior performance, mobility and comfort,” you really can’t go wrong with these minimal, affordable running shorts. Priced under $50, they also feature the brand’s breathable, effective VENTILITE technology as an added bonus. Available in four color options, you just might want to purchase all of ‘em. – Buy It
Outdoor Research Amplitude Shorts
A trim fit, minimal yet wearable color options and standout utility — what’s not to love in the Amplitude Shorts from Outdoor Research? The brand uses a couple different components in terms of functionality, starting with its Echo Fabric — featuring helpful AirVent trim — across the back of the shorts. Both slash and zip pockets on these shorts provide you with nice utility when hitting the trail, and the reasonable price (just under $70) means these will go easy on your wallet while serving you for many miles ahead. – Buy It
Tracksmith Van Cortlandt Shorts
A second pair of Tracksmith shorts is making its way onto the list for very good reason. The brand is redefining what running shorts should look, feel and fit like — and that’s great news for you as a consumer. The lightweight, antimicrobial fabric lends itself to performance, while the just-right inseam offers the chance for speed and proper function that you’d expect out of running shorts. The brand also notes that its mesh is “near-weightless,” a quality that should be appreciated by runners expecting mobility. – Buy It
Marmot Regulator Shorts
Marmot is going where few running shorts go when it comes to its Regulator Short, starting with its use of Ultraviolet Protection technology that serves as an effective deterrent to the sun’s rays. That technology — combined with Marmot’s quick-drying and moisture-wicking functionality — are critical to have as you log mile and mile. An array of effective colors and the use of reflectively also bolsters the appeal of these shorts — you certainly need a pair in your closet. – Buy It
Nike Aeroswift Running Shorts
Nike nabs the final spot on this list with good reason. The brand continues to search for innovation on all fronts, even when it comes to running shorts. Nike’s AeroSwift shorts are certainly worthy of your consideration when purchasing a pair for running. The lauded athletic brand’s precision fit and ultra-lightweight fabric help you achieve as smooth and efficient a run as possible — and the option to select from neutral colors should make it all the easier to pair them with your favorite running sneakers. – Buy It
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