THE beauty of running is that, compared to other sports, it requires very little equipment.
While a lot is made of getting the right shoes before hitting the road though, finding the best running shorts can also make a big difference whether you’re a first-time plodder or serious jogger.
Modern running shorts come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are packed full of features that are more than just marketing gimmicks.
The first thing you’re going to want to look at is length, which is the inner seam’s measurement. Shorts can range from a rather revealing 3” (perfect for competitive marathon runners because of the range of movement they allow), through to 7”-plus (great for shorter sessions or off-road trails).
A lot of men's running shorts will include a pant liner, allowing you to do away with underwear and keep things well-ventilated downstairs.
Some will feature an undershort layer for added compression, which is shown to reduce muscle fatigue, while others go all out for breathability – ideal for those mid-summer sprints.
Other things to factor in is how much storage you require when out and about, as this can range from a simple key pocket to all-out utility shorts with room for gels, a phone and more.
Whether you’re looking for a set to start your couch to 5k journey in or want a pair that will help you shave time off of your PB, the below guide features some of the best men’s running shorts currently on the market.
1. Under Armour Rush 2-in-1
- Under Armour Rush 2-in-1 men’s running shorts, £60 from Under Armour – buy here
Compression shorts are shown to improve endurance and delay fatigue as their skin-hugging nature holds your muscles in place.
This running short from Under Armour include an integrated set, helping to keep you feeling supported long into your run.
The 2-in-1 construction also has an added benefit in that it helps cover your modesty if you can’t quite stomach leaving the house in a 2” pair of shorts.
Despite all this material, the shorts wick sweat away and dry fast to keep things comfortable whatever the weather.
A zipped pocket at the back is big enough for a phone and your keys, and an elasticated waistband and internal drawcord allows you to keep things secure and prevents any luggage bashing around.
2. Proviz Reflect 360
- Proviz Reflect 360 men’s running shorts, £29.99 from Proviz – buy here
If you’ve signed up for a spring marathon or are planning on jogging to and from the office, a lot of your running is potentially going to be done in the dark.
Although they look like a normal pair on the surface, these shorts from reflective specialists Proviz will help you stay seen and safe.
An innovative material that uses millions of tiny, reflective glass beads has been used on the trim and logos to offer 360-degree visibility.
The shorts aren’t a one-trick pony, either. They are lightweight, breathable and are water-resistant – making them perfect companions for long winter miles.
3. On Running Lightweight shorts
- On Running Lightweight men’s shorts, £50 from On Running – buy here
The Swiss brand On is well-regarded by those in the know for offering up great running shoe technology, and its shorts are cut from the same cloth.
Something of an all-rounder, these shorts are lightweight and breathable but have a tear-proof upper if you decide to hit the paths less-well travelled.
Chaffing is kept to a minimum thanks to seamless sides and a sewn-in brief, while the length is short enough to offer maximum movement without being too revealing.
A zipped pocket at the rear is only big enough for keys and a card, so you’ll have to get yourself a running armband if you do want to take your phone with you, but it features a bounce-minimising design – allowing you to focus on your running without distraction.
4. Columbia Titan Ultra II Shorts
- Columbia Titan Ultra II men’s running shorts, £44.65 from Amazon – buy here
Trail running is a growing trend in running as more and more people look to opt for some adventure away from pavement pounding.
These 2-in-1 shorts from outdoor experts Columbia have everything you could need for a short woodland blast or a long day of exploring.
An integrated compression brief keeps everything in place, and the use of an antimicrobial-treated fabric helps you stay fresh long into your run.
A zipped pocket at the rear is big enough for keys and a credit card, while two pockets either side are perfect for stuffing a gel or two. If planning a long-distance run where there won’t be places to stop en route, it might be worth investing in a running backpack too.
The final key feature of these shorts is the inclusion of UPF 40 sun protection, meaning your skin will stay covered from the sun’s harmful rays without requiring you to apply sun lotion under your shorts.
5. New Balance Accelerate
- New Balance Accelerate men’s running shorts, £22 from New Balance – buy here
For those just getting started with running, a cheap set of shorts that can be used both when jogging and doing other activities is a safe investment.
The Accelerate line from New Balance are these shorts. Available in 5” or 7” length, the inclusion of hand pockets and an internal key pocket make these a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
A breathable internal brief means you can go pant-free, and wicking technology should keep the build-up of sweat at bay.
6. Nike Flex Stride
- Nike Flex Stride men’s running shorts, £34.95 from Nike – buy here
At 18cm in length, the Flex Stride from Nike are the longest shorts in this list.
Their relaxed fit means all that extra fabric shouldn’t slow you down, and its sweat-wicking properties ensure things remain dry and comfortable.
Like the others featured, these include a brief liner, but their stand-out feature is found in the zipped back pocket.
A specially designed vapour barrier helps protect items stored in the pocket – such as phones – from sweat, while an internal drop-in pocket is a safe spot for keys.
The most fashion-focused here, the Flex Stride are perfect for those who want to add some style to their sprints.
7. Adidas Own The Run Short Tights
- Adidas Own The Run men’s short tights, £24.95 from Adidas – buy here
If you’re in the market for a compression-only short, the Own The Run tights from Adidas are a good place to start.
Wearable under another set of shorts or even on their own, their tight-fitting nature helps manage muscle soreness, while moisture-absorbing material helps wick away sweat from your groin – a known cause of discomfort and chaffing on longer runs.
A small zipped pocket at the rear is perfect for a set of keys and a credit card.
They’re also the eco-conscious runner’s choice, as they are made with recycled polyester.
Who makes the best running shorts?
Deciding on the best brand for running shorts will depend on what you’re looking for in a pair. For all-round versatility, well-known brands such as Adidas, Nike and Under Armour are good places to start, while for specific activities, such as trail running, the likes of Columbia are tough to beat.
What length should running shorts be?
Your running shorts length will vary on the activity you’re doing. Shorts can vary from 3” with side slits to knee-brushing 7” pairs. Generally, the shorter the short, the more movement they will allow, which is why you’ll see competitive runners in pairs that just about cover their modesty. A 5” short is a good middle-ground for all-round training, and combining with a pair of compression shorts will help to keep your nether region secure and obscured.
Should running shorts be tight?
The tighter a pair of running shorts, the more restrictive they are, so ideally the legs will be loose fitting and allow for a full range of movement. Where this isn’t true though is in running shorts that include a compression tight liner; here, the fabric will be tight-fitting without cutting off circulation and offers your muscles support and helps delay fatigue.
Enjoyed our roundup of the best running shorts for men? Then you might enjoy our selection of the best trail running shoes that money can buy.
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