For years, I was a die-hard leggings loyalist. I genuinely believed tight bottoms were the only way to run without my thighs rubbing together with every single stride. Then TikTok wore me down, I finally tried a pair of lined running shorts — and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I've ever made about my workout gear.
They didn't just change how comfortable I felt. They changed the way my body regulates heat while I run, and over long distances that is anything but a minor detail.
I'm currently training for my third half marathon, so I know a thing or two about running kit. Over the past six months I've found my favorite in just about every category — and now it's the shorts' turn. What I was looking for: moisture-wicking fabric, a stretchy waistband, plenty of pockets, and yes, they had to look good too. Because why shouldn't they? Keep reading and find your new favorites.
Free People Get Your Flirt On shorts
These are the shorts that keep showing up on my TikTok feed, and now I understand why. Elite runners and casual joggers alike swear by them, and after testing them myself, I'm officially joining the fan club.
They're ultra-light, comfortable, and come with a built-in liner that doesn't roll up or shift while you run — which, let's be honest, is one of the most annoying things that can happen. The stretchy waistband stays put, and thanks to the multiple pockets I can head out without a running vest, which is priceless in the heat.
The tennis-skirt-style pleating isn't just functional — it holds its own as everyday wear too. There is honestly not a single thing I'd change.
Lululemon Shake It Out High-Rise running short
Lululemon is practically shorthand for quality, but I still put these through their paces before adding them to the list. The drawstring waistband and five pockets are here too, which means you can set off without a vest — earbud case and keys included.
The size range is unfortunately limited, and that's the only real shortcoming. What genuinely impressed me: the quick-drying fabric. Even in the brightest, boldest colors, sweat marks never showed through — no small thing when you're mid-run.
They didn't restrict my movement or ride up noticeably, either. If you're willing to spend a little more, these are a reliable, long-term investment.
Still on the fence about making the switch? If you've only ever run in leggings, these trending colors might change your mind too.
Next Self. black running shorts
The price of activewear is a perennial sore spot — no matter how much tech is packed in, I'm still just going to sweat in it. So when I saw the price of these shorts from the Next Self. collection, I did a double take.
They come in two neutral shades and a wide size range — so far, so good. The stretchy, high-rise waistband is comfortable and adapts to those monthly fluctuations too, which, honestly, is no small perk.
The catch: without a silicone grip, they ride up the moment you pick up the pace. So they're not the best pick for running — but for yoga, Pilates or low-intensity workouts they're spot on. At this price, you can't really ask for more.
Sweaty Betty Runner's High Power shorts
Not everyone loves loose, floaty running shorts. Some people prefer a bit of light compression — and if that's you, this Sweaty Betty pair is your match.
They're so light it feels like you're barely wearing anything, yet they're there, holding their shape. Even without a silicone grip they stay surprisingly put — they never once rode up while I ran, which is an achievement in itself.
The color range is narrow — black or patterned black — but in return they pair with any workout top you own. If you're happy to splurge, you get a reliable, versatile pair.
Vuori Daily Speed short
A friend recommended the Vuori brand, and I haven't looked back since. Of all five, these have the longest inner liner, which means extra protection for anyone more prone to chafing.
The adjustable waistband minimizes movement while you run, and over longer distances that makes a huge difference. Style-wise, they're not just for running either — they hold up as poolside wear or a casual sporty outfit too.
My only reservation: the silicone grips are small, and at a faster pace I did feel them ride up a little. But all in all, these are one of the most versatile pairs on the list.
If you've been running in leggings and you're thinking about switching, these five pairs are worth a look. Each one is built for a different need — there's a budget-friendly, a premium, a compression and a versatile option here. The one thing they all have in common? Every single one made running a better experience than any pair of leggings ever did.
Are lined running shorts better than leggings for long runs?
For me, yes. Beyond comfort, they changed the way my body regulates heat while running, which matters a lot over longer distances like a half marathon.
Do running shorts ride up while you run?
It depends on the pair. Ones with a silicone grip or a well-designed waistband tend to stay put, while pairs without a grip — like the Next Self. shorts — can ride up as soon as you speed up.
Which of these shorts is best on a budget?
The Next Self. black running shorts are the most affordable, and while they're not ideal for fast running, they're great for yoga, Pilates and low-intensity workouts.
Which pair offers the most protection against chafing?
The Vuori Daily Speed short, thanks to having the longest inner liner of all five — a bonus for anyone more sensitive to friction.
Can you skip a running vest with these shorts?
With the pairs that have multiple pockets — like the Free People and Lululemon options — yes. You can carry earbuds, keys and more without needing a separate vest, which is especially handy in the heat.
