For male runners of every level, from the weekend warrior logging miles on the treadmill to the elite marathoner chasing a new personal best, the right pair of running shorts is a non-negotiable piece of performance equipment. Choosing the best running shorts is about far more than style; it’s a critical decision that directly impacts comfort, prevents painful chafing, and provides the functional support needed to run farther and faster. The ideal short blends advanced fabric technology for moisture management with an ergonomic design that allows for complete freedom of movement, ultimately making every run a better experience.
Why Your Running Shorts Matter More Than You Think
It’s easy to dismiss running shorts as a simple piece of clothing, but they are a highly engineered tool designed to solve specific problems runners face. Unlike casual gym shorts or basketball shorts, which are often made from thick, absorbent cotton, running shorts are crafted from technical, synthetic fabrics that serve a distinct purpose.
The primary function is moisture management. As you run, your body sweats to cool itself down. Cotton fabrics absorb this sweat, becoming heavy, waterlogged, and abrasive against the skin. This trapped moisture is the leading cause of chafing, a painful skin irritation that can cut a run short and take days to heal.
Modern running shorts, however, use materials like polyester and elastane that are hydrophobic, meaning they repel water. They wick moisture away from your skin and push it to the outer surface of the fabric, where it can evaporate quickly. This keeps you lighter, drier, and significantly more comfortable.
Beyond fabric, the design of running shorts is optimized for the repetitive, forward motion of running. They are cut to allow for a full range of motion in the hips and legs, preventing any feeling of restriction. This focus on biomechanics is what separates a good run from a great one.
Decoding the Anatomy of a Running Short
Understanding the different components of a running short can help you identify exactly what you need. From the liner to the inseam length, each element plays a role in your overall comfort and performance.
The Liner: To Wear or Not to Wear Underwear
One of the most common questions from new runners is whether to wear underwear with running shorts. The answer, for shorts with a built-in liner, is a definitive no. The liner is specifically designed to function as your underwear.
These liners are typically made from a soft, antimicrobial, and moisture-wicking mesh fabric. They come in two main styles: a traditional brief liner or a longer, form-fitting compression liner. Their purpose is to provide support, reduce friction, and manage moisture directly against the skin. Wearing traditional cotton underwear underneath defeats this purpose, trapping sweat and creating the exact chafing problem the liner is meant to solve.
Inseam Length: Finding Your Perfect Fit
The inseam is the measurement from the crotch seam to the bottom of the leg hem, and it’s a key factor in a short’s function and feel. Men’s running shorts typically come in four standard lengths, each suited for different purposes.
- 3-Inch Inseam: Often found in “split shorts,” this length offers the maximum range of motion. The short leg and a split or notch on the side allow for an unrestricted stride, making them a favorite for racing, track workouts, and speed-focused training.
- 5-Inch Inseam: This is arguably the most versatile and popular length. It provides an excellent balance between coverage and freedom, making it a perfect all-rounder for daily training, 5K and 10K races, and general fitness.
- 7-Inch Inseam: Offering more coverage, the 7-inch inseam is a popular choice for trail runners who want a bit of protection from brush and branches. It’s also preferred by many runners who simply want a more modest fit or a short that can easily transition from a run to the gym.
- 9-Inch Inseam: This length provides the most coverage, falling just above the knee for most men. It’s less common for dedicated running but is a solid choice for those who prefer a basketball-short style or want extra warmth in cooler conditions.
The Shell: Fabric and Technology
The outer layer of the short, known as the shell, is where fabric technology truly shines. Look for lightweight, breathable materials, almost always a blend of polyester with spandex or elastane for stretch. A key feature is four-way stretch, which allows the fabric to move with you in every direction without pulling or restricting your stride.
Many high-performance shorts also feature a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish. This coating causes water to bead up and roll off the surface, keeping you drier during light rain or misty conditions without sacrificing breathability.
Waistbands: Comfort and Security
A poorly designed waistband can ruin a run by digging in, chafing, or slipping down. The best running shorts feature a flat, wide, and soft elastic waistband that sits comfortably against your skin. Most will also include a drawstring—either internal or external—to allow you to fine-tune the fit for maximum security.
Pockets and Storage: A Modern Necessity
Gone are the days when running shorts were just fabric. Today, storage is a critical feature. As runners carry phones, keys, cards, and nutrition, pocket design has become highly sophisticated. Look for bounce-free pockets, which are engineered to hold items securely against your body to prevent them from jostling as you run.
Common pocket types include a zippered back pocket for secure items like a key or credit card, drop-in hip pockets for easy access to gels, and, increasingly, a dedicated phone sleeve built into the compression liner of 2-in-1 shorts.
Types of Running Shorts: Which Style is for You?
Running shorts generally fall into three main categories. Choosing the right one depends on your personal preference, the type of running you do, and your body’s needs.
V-Notch (or Split) Shorts
These are the quintessential racing shorts. Characterized by a very short inseam (usually 2-3 inches) and a significant overlap or “split” on the side, they are built for pure speed. The design prioritizes minimal weight and maximum leg freedom, allowing for a completely unhindered stride. They almost always feature a simple brief liner and minimal storage to keep them as light as possible.
Best for: Competitive racing, track workouts, and runners who prioritize speed and mobility above all else.
2-in-1 Shorts
This style features a loose, traditional outer shell with a built-in compression short liner. The inner liner provides muscle support, which some studies suggest can help reduce muscle oscillation and fatigue. More importantly, the form-fitting liner is exceptionally effective at preventing chafing on the inner thighs, a common issue for many runners on long distances.
The compression liner often includes a pocket perfectly sized for a smartphone, holding it snugly against your thigh to eliminate bounce. These shorts offer a great combination of support, coverage, and functionality.
Best for: Marathoners, trail runners, and any runner prone to chafing.
Traditional Running Shorts (with Brief Liner)
This is the classic workhorse of the running world. It consists of a lightweight shell with a built-in brief liner, typically in a 5-inch or 7-inch inseam. It offers more breathability than a 2-in-1 short, as the looser fit allows for more airflow. This style is incredibly versatile and serves as the go-to choice for millions of runners for their daily miles.
Best for: Daily training, gym sessions, and runners who prefer a classic, airy feel.
How to Choose the Best Running Shorts for Your Needs
To find your perfect pair, consider the type of running you do most often.
For the Marathoner
Long-distance runners should prioritize chafe prevention and storage. A 2-in-1 short is an excellent choice to protect the inner thighs over 26.2 miles. Alternatively, a traditional short with a soft, seamless liner can work well. Look for multiple pockets, including at least one zippered pocket for essentials and several drop-in pockets for gels and other fuel.
For the Trail Runner
Trail running demands durability and utility. A 7-inch inseam offers better protection from stray branches and rocks. The fabric should be robust and snag-resistant, and a DWR finish is highly beneficial for unpredictable mountain weather. Ample, secure storage is crucial for carrying water, nutrition, a phone, and a map.
For the Sprinter or Track Athlete
For those focused on speed, less is more. A 3-inch split short is the undisputed champion. The goal is to have a short so light and freeing that you forget you’re even wearing it. Pockets and other features are secondary to minimal weight and maximum range of motion.
For the Casual or Gym Runner
Versatility is key. A 5-inch or 7-inch traditional short is often the best bet. It’s comfortable on the treadmill, functional for a 5K in the park, and stylish enough to wear during a post-run weightlifting session. Look for a comfortable waistband and at least one pocket for a key or phone.
Care and Maintenance: Making Your Shorts Last
High-performance running shorts are an investment, and proper care will extend their life and maintain their technical features. Always wash your shorts after every run to prevent the buildup of bacteria and odor. Use a cold, gentle cycle and avoid fabric softeners, as they can clog the pores of technical fabrics and inhibit their moisture-wicking properties. For best results, hang them to air dry; the high heat of a dryer can degrade the elasticity and damage the delicate fibers over time.
Ultimately, the best running shorts are the ones you don’t have to think about while you’re running. They are a piece of technical equipment designed to work for you, eliminating distractions like chafing, bouncing keys, or restrictive fabric. By understanding the key components and aligning them with your personal running needs, you can find the perfect pair that will support you comfortably through countless miles, helping you focus on the simple joy of the run itself.
