We all own that piece in our wardrobe that you know looks good on any occasion, is comfortable, and you feel good wearing it.
Well, that’s the feeling we want you to have when you purchase your next workout shorts. Workout clothes (especially shorts) are known not to be the most comfortable quality, but we are here to prove this wrong.
There are brands creating long-lasting and comfortable workout clothes – and we will share them all with you.
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We are rounding up 16 of the best gym workout shorts for women.
What To Look For: Workout Shorts For Women
Material
Material, material, material. As a fitness instructor, I’m all about lightweight and breathable fabric that allows me to exercise comfortably. Depending on the type of workout you perform, you want to choose the ideal material for you.
Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and spandex blend in workout shorts are often moisture-wicking and often feature quick-dry technology. They draw sweat away from the body to keep you dry and comfortable during exercise.
Length
Length is important for feeling comfortable and free while exercising. A shorter length may be comfortable for running – since it keeps in place while moving, while a longer short may be the best option for pilates or yoga – since you are opening hips and in constant motion.
It really depends on your personal preference, but some lengths may be better than others for certain workouts. It’s all about what makes you feel good.
Pockets
Pockets may come in handy many times during a workout, especially if you’re out running and don’t want to carry an athletic bag. However, pockets may make or break any workout short. You want to choose a zipped pocket that allows you to carry your phone and keys securely.
Or, the OG one, a lined pocket that you can secure your phone in while exercising. Zip pockets, front pockets, or phone pockets are all great options, it simply depends on what you’re looking for.
16 Best Workout Shorts For Women
1. Unique Bargains Women
Unique Bargains is known for making high-quality workout shorts. They are comfortable, durable, and great for different types of exercise. Their shorts are also stylish, making them a popular choice for both workouts and casual wear.
What we love: These shorts have an excellent fit and length. They’re not too short or long, ideal for any body type and workout. The strap and elastic waistband allow you to adjust the waist fit, making them one of the most comfortable options on this list.
2. UFC Extreme Workout Shorts
UFC has high-quality workout shorts that combine durability and comfort, making them ideal for intense training sessions. Their design ensures maximum mobility and performance for athletes at all levels.
What we love: If you’re looking for a high-waist option that is both stretchy and breathable, this is it. These UFC shorts are perfect for an intense workout, like weight training, since they stay in place and offer good mobility. This style is available in various colors, which makes it a stylish option.
3. Naven Baddie Biker Set Workout Shorts
Naven is famous for its girly style and durable workout shorts. They provide excellent comfort and flexibility, making them perfect for any fitness routine. Plus, their printed options are a must-have on any fitness wardrobe.
What we love: First of all, we love the style and prints of Naven. They have the most “girly-style” workout shorts that are comfortable and breathable. These biker shorts are the best option if you are more into stretchy fabric that allows you to perform different activities.
4. Madewell Dolphin-Hem Shorts
Madewell is known for its top-notch workout shorts, designed for both comfort and style. Perfect for any workout, they’re made to last and keep you feeling good.
What we love: Madewell is known for its amazing quality, and these dolphin-hem shorts don’t disappoint. The fabric is cozy cotton terry in a naturally sourced botanical dye. The fit is an easy pull-on short with a cool curved hem. Plus, it is available in many sizes, making it a great workout shorts option for everyone.
5. Lululemon Align High-Rise Shorts
Lululemon’s workout shorts are known for their comfort and durability, making them a favorite choice among fitness enthusiasts. With a range of styles and sizes, there’s something for everyone. Plus, their quality materials ensure they’ll hold up through many workouts.
What we love: Lululemon always offers the best fabrics on the market. While some Lululemon items may be more expensive than others, these aligned high-rise shorts are a reasonable price for their quality. These shorts are a little more short-length than other options on this list but still durable and comfortable.
6. Alo Yoga Aces Wrap-Effects Shorts
Alo Yoga is popular for its stylish and high-quality workout shorts, designed to offer both comfort and performance. Made with premium materials, these shorts provide excellent support and flexibility for any yoga practice or exercise routine.
What we love: If you’re into a more flowy workout style with a built-in short, this Alo Yoga wrap-effect skirt may be the best option for you. It is versatile and stretchy, and while its price may be more elevated than other options, it’s sure to last in your wardrobe.
7. GK Elite Nylon/Spandex Mini Shorts
GK Elite’s workout shorts for women are comfortable and durable, perfect for any workout. They fit well and allow you to move freely. Made from breathable fabric, they help keep you cool and dry. Plus, they come in a variety of fun colors and patterns.
What we love: Mini shorts are great for intense workouts. The only downside is that they might roll up, which can be uncomfortable. The good thing is that their waist length makes them flattering. These GK Elite shorts are made of nylon/spandex, making them a classic workout shorts option.
8. Athleta Weekender Run Short
Athleta’s workout shorts are all about comfort and performance. They’re made well and come in lots of styles, perfect for any workout you do. You’ll feel super confident and comfortable wearing them, no matter what activity you’re up to.
What we love: These shorts are made to last long for runners. They are semi-fitted and mid-rise, sitting below the waist. Perfect for a coffee shop run, casual wear, or workout session, they are versatile and stylish. They also come in many sizes and prints.
Kabrena Williams, Founder of KBIB has independently reviewed this product, here’s what she has to say: ‘I tend to reach for my Athleta shorts when it comes to the long distance bike rides I take. There is nothing that compares to their shorts. They are breathable and don’t ride up when walking in the humid Florida weather.’
9. Nike Pro Dri-FIT High-Rise Shorts
Nike is famous for its top-quality workout shorts, loved for their comfort and durability. With a wide range of styles and colors, there’s something for everyone. For the last couple of years, Nike has been implementing fun and stylish workout short options.
What we love: Nike always offers a stylish yet athletic fit on its workout shorts. These high-rise shorts are among the best running shorts on the market. Their length, fit, and material are made to last and resist long runs and sweaty workouts. Many fitness editors say, “Nike shorts are an option you can never go wrong with.” – and we agree.
10. Adidas Lounge Terry Loop Shorts
Adidas is well-known for its high-quality workout shorts, designed for both comfort and performance. With a variety of styles to choose from, you can find the perfect pair for your workouts. Plus, their durable materials last through many sweat sessions.
What we love: If you’re looking for a more “rest-day” type of workout shorts, these lounger Terry loop shorts are the best option. While they are also great shorts for training, they are versatile enough to lounge around in them.
11. Free People Movement Speedwork Racing Run
Free People is celebrated for its stylish and comfortable workout shorts, designed to elevate your activewear game. With a focus on both fashion and function, these shorts offer versatility and performance for various activities.
What we love: Extra short-length shorts like this one may be the best option for runners. Free People Movement has excellent quality. Their stretchy and long-lasting fabric makes them one of the training shorts. If you’re into short-length and unlined options, these lightweight shorts are great.
“Shorts from Free People are my favorite type of workout shorts since they allow me to move freely in class without worrying if they slip up or roll. I always opt for something stretchy, mid-length, yet breathable. I’ve owned many Free People shorts for several years, and they almost have no signs of wear.” says Yoga Instructor, Denia Villegas.
12. Tnuck Sport White Jane Tennis Shorts
Tnuck Sport makes great workout shorts that are stylish, sleek, and comfy. They’re designed to keep you feeling good during your workouts and look good too. Made to last, you can count on them for plenty of wear.
What we love: Tnuck Sports shorts are the newest on the market. These shorts have two side pockets to carry small valuables like a phone, keys, or cards. These high-rise bottoms will take you from workouts to weekend hikes, making them a great option for all types of gym workouts.
13. Carbon 38 Biker Short
Carbon38 offers fantastic workout shorts that are both stylish and comfortable. Designed for active lifestyles, these shorts provide great support and flexibility for all your fitness activities. Plus, they’re made to last, so you can rely on them workout after workout.
What we love: An unlined biker short is always a good option for your fitness wardrobe. These are the most versatile short options. They are ideal for pilates, running, cycling, and even yoga. Their length and fabric make them great performance workout shorts for everyone.
14. Beyond Yoga Spacedye High-Rise Shorts
Beyond Yoga creates fantastic workout shorts that effortlessly combine style and function. These shorts offer exceptional comfort and flexibility, ideal for any fitness activity.
What we love: These Beyond Yoga biker shorts are different from the others on the list because they are made from their bestselling performance fabric. They feature a flattering high waistband. These shorts are great to pair with summer outfits and sunny workout sessions.
15. Athletic Works Shorts
Athletic has great workout shorts that are both affordable and reliable. Designed with comfort and functionality in mind, these shorts are perfect for various types of exercise. They’re made to last, ensuring you get the most out of your workouts without breaking the bank.
What we love: These shorts are one of the best budget-friendly options on this list. They are made of polyester, cotton, and rayon, making them a good pair of shorts for their price. A high-rise workout short with inseams is versatile for any active lifestyle. This style doesn’t have any pockets.
16. Beah House Sports Chandra Shorts
Beach House is known for its stylish and comfortable workout shorts, perfect for active days by the sea or any outdoor adventure. These shorts are crafted with quality materials and offer a flattering fit and excellent durability.
What we love: This style is a low-rise short with a shorter length. It features a wide waistband, inner drawcord, and figure-hugging silhouette to create a no-slip fit for an extremely comfortable workout or swim. They carry this four-way stretch-style short in two colors and various sizes.
The Workout Shorts For Women Breakdown
So, the best workout shorts for women combine style, functionality, and comfort. From tactical shorts and pursuit shorts to compression shorts, finding the best gym shorts can help you achieve your fitness goals.
Whether you choose a pair of gym shorts with an extra internal pocket, extra support, or ones designed for high performance, there’s an option for everyone.
