7 of the best men’s running shorts
After some new kit? Liz Connor shares her edit of the best exercise gear to buy right now
For a runner, finding the right pair of trainers is vital — but anyone who’s ever had to dig an ill-fitting pair of shorts from their inner thighs during a five-mile run will tell you the rest of your kit can be just as important.
While many runners prefer full-length tights during winter, lightweight shorts are often the way to go when the weather’s milder; they allow for way more freedom and keep your legs cool and ventilated. When it comes to choosing the perfect pair, look for fabrics that wick sweat away from the body, allow your legs to breathe, and, above all, won’t chafe, pinch or ride up when you’re pounding the pavements.
So whether you’re a fan of compression styles or looser V-notch shorts, we’ve found an array of options — from high street favourites to high-performance sports brands — that won’t rub, bunch or get in your way...
1. Lululemon Pace Breaker Shorts, £48, lululemon.com
Featherlight and deliciously soft, these training shorts are a great no-fuss option for guys who want a pair of shorts they can slip on easily. They’re made from a special four-way stretch fabric that won’t inhibit those pre-run lunges, while sweat-wicking technology stops your lower body from dripping with moisture. There’s also a handy concealed zip pocket for stashing your phone and keys away safely.
2. H&M Running Shorts, £24.99, hm.com
Is there anything worse than consciously adjusting your shorts out of fear you’re exposing yourself to the other runners behind you? If this sounds like a familiar scenario, then what you really need is a pair with a double layer effect, like these ones from H&M. You basically slip into a pair of fitted shorts underneath with a looser pair attached over the top for modesty. As well as providing extra coverage, they’re made from a fast-drying, breathable fabric that’s been updated with some all-important reflective details for extra visibility on those late or early runs.
3. Ronhill Running Everyday Split Shorts, £22, asos.com
Ideal for hotter days, these compact shorts from Ronhill are shorter than the other board styles out there, but still give coverage where you need it. With a water-resistant coating, they’ll keep you dry during unexpected summer showers, while the V-notch seams allow for maximum ventilation. There’s also a discreet side pocket for carrying gels or valuables.
4. Under Armour Charged Compression Short, £70, wiggle.com
Supportive and flattering, these second-skin shorts from Under Armour are made from a compression material that helps muscles to recover better and reduces post-workout pain.
The design keeps seams off high-abrasion areas, and they’re versatile enough to be worn alone or layered up with a baggier pair on top. An added bonus is UA’s anti-smell technology that prevents the growth of odour-causing microbes while you work up a sweat.
5. New Balance Printed Impact 5 Inch Shorts, £35, newbalance. co.uk
If you run late at night or early in the morning, you need a pair of shorts that will help you to be seen at all times. These printed shorts have reflective details on the thigh, as well as fluorescent colour accents, and come in three different colours (we’re a big fan of the red).
Mesh panels allow for increased airflow to help keep you cool on those tricky longer runs, while a thick, elasticated waistband helps to keep everything firmly in place.
6. Puma PWRRUN 2-in-1 Shorts, currently reduced to £31 from £45, puma.com
With these 7in shorts, there’s no risk of feeling exposed in these. They have an insulated inner short — perfect for those notquite-sunny days where you need some extra warmth, and the top layer is made from a polyester material that won’t crumple or crease. They’re also fitted with tiny laser-cut ventilation slits, so the breeze can get through to the compression tights below. An inner drawstring means you won’t find yourself having to hitch the waistband every five seconds either.
7. M&S Active Panel Shorts, £22.50, marksandspencer.com
If you’re just getting into jogging, check out Marks & Spencer’s new season selection. The best thing about these shorts from the high-street stalwart is they have built-in mesh underwear, which will help you to feel comfortable and secure on your run. In a smart teal colour with no fussy details, this is kit for guys who want to keep their activewear practical and simple.