Looking for the right pair of running shorts can be like looking for a needle in a haystack – pretty tricky! We look at how to choose the best option for your exercise needs
Back in the good old days, choosing a running short was easy. There was one length, one colour and one style, you generally needed to wear underwear and the moisture-wicking properties of the material were distinctly suspect.
Fast-forward 20 years and there are no myriad options – everything from a 3-inch split to a seven-inch twin. So how do you know what is right (and, some might also say, appropriate) for your chosen exercise. Hopefully, we’ll help navigate you through this shorting minefield.
Short length
The length of your running shorts determines the amount of leg coverage as well as your freedom of movement. If you’re a racing snake, you’re more likely to go for a shorter option (3-inch). If you’re looking for a more relaxed look or more leg coverage in the winter months, you’ll be looking for a longer short (5 or 7-inch). Ultimately, this decision often comes down to what you are comfortable wearing.
2-in-1 shorts
2-in-1 shorts have grown in popularity in recent years and are more popular with gym-runners. They comprise an outer shell short along with a fitted inner liner that fits snugly on the upper leg. Some of the more expensive short options will see this liner sport compressive capabilities. This type of short tends to have excellent storage options: there is often a phone pocket on the longer, inner liner. These shorts are great for winter usage but can get a bit hot in the height of summer.
Split shorts
Split shorts offer slits up the sides that provide your legs with a greater range of motion. The higher the split rises, the wider the panels of the shorts open-up, allowing your legs to move freely between strides. There is often a notional age limit to be able to wear these! But, if they’re your go-to short, then age shouldn’t be a barrier!
Liners
Liners is the polite term for the material which holds your bits and pieces in place in this type of short. Lightweight and breathable, they let you wear your running shorts without underwear as the pouch-like construction is designed to hold everything and minimise movement on the run. Also known as ‘onion bag’ or ‘ball bags’ these are often people’s go-to short. Again, available in different lengths.
Storage options
Running shorts with storage space allow you to stash your running essentials, such as your keys, gels, ID, phone, and other gear. Drop pockets, internal envelope pockets, and zippered pockets are all places for you to keep your necessities so you can stay hands-free on your run. Often, the longer the short, the more storage options available to you.
