Last updated on January 2nd, 2023 at 08:09 am
Whether you run multiple times per week or plan to run competitively, it makes sense to invest in a pair of shorts made specifically for running. Doing so will reduce friction on the legs, and allow for a more comfortable run. To help in your search, this post provides details, information, and pictures of the best men’s running shorts.
What Makes an Ideal Men's Running Short?
There doesn’t seem to be much of a science around shorts, but there are very real design differences between running specific shorts and typical athletic shorts. For men looking to purchase running shorts, there are a few important attributes you should look for:
- Ease of Movement: Running shorts should allow for sprinting, mountain ascents, and long distance runs…even when your thigh muscles are large.
- Lightweight: Good running shorts are comprised of lightweight material.
- Fast Drying: Shorts get drenched with sweat during runs; fast drying shorts allow for multiple uses between washes.
- Built in Liner: Built in liners don’t retain the same moisture as underwear worn separate. For this reasons shorts with liners are a plus.
- Price: It is not uncommon to see even the shortest running shorts sell for a high price; there are definitely quality affordable options out there, however.
Our Favorite Men's Running Shorts Are...
With the above attributes in mind, and after comparing shorts on their ability to dry quickly, allow for easy movement, and price, we felt that these three shorts were the best all around running shorts in their respective sizing:
Best 3″ Running Shorts: Baleaf 3″ Men’s Quick Dry Running Shorts
Best 5″ Running Shorts: New Balance 5″ Men’s Impact Running Shorts
Best 7″ Running Shorts: Baleaf 7″ Men’s Quick Dry Running Shorts
Check out all five of our favorite men’s running shorts in the comparison table below. This allows you to see what they all look like when compared.
If you want more detail on any of the shorts in this post, scroll down past the comparison table, and you can get more specifics on each pair of shorts that made our list.
Comparison Table of 5 Best Running Men's Running Shorts
To help you sort through the various options in our list we’ve put together this comparison table of our favorite men’s running shorts. You can check out more pictures, specs, and current pricing on Amazon by clicking on any of the pictures or the product name.
The comparison table above provides a good side-by-side look at our favorite running shorts. Below we go int o much more detail on all the shorts on our list.
1. Baleaf 3" Men's Quick Dry Running Shorts
The Baleaf 3″ Men’s Quick Dry Running Shorts are affordable, comfortable, and extremely fast drying.
Various brands charge an arm and a leg for similar shorts. Baleaf, however, has provided shorts with a 3″ inseam that don’t break the bank.
These Are AFFORDABLE Elite Level Running Shorts
As a serious running I have often searched for “very short running shorts” or some similar search to find the shorts I see all my favorite runners wearing. I am always shocked to see running shorts, often comprised of a very minimal amount of material, can be very costly. These Baleaf 3″ Running Shorts break this pattern and are extremely affordable.
While there are other awesome 3″ running shorts out there, such as those made by brands like Jinji, they often cost twice as much (or more) than the Baleaf brand 3″ inseam short.
Quick Drying and Lightweight
Comprised of a 95% polyester and 5% spandex mix, these shorts are extremely lightweight. Both of these materials are also very fast drying.
Since you will completely drench running shorts in sweat, it is important that they don’t hold onto that moisture for long. The Baleaf 3″ shorts won’t hold your sweat for long, even on long runs.
Split Leg Design Allows for Easy Movement
Split leg designs are important for runners looking to take on fast speeds or ascents, without loosing mobility.
Quality range of motion is arguably the most important attribute of a good pair of running shorts, and these deliver. This makes for runs with less friction.
Whether taking on a track workout, or competing in a trail half-marathon, these shorts will allow for free leg movement.
Pros and Cons of the Baleaf 3" Men's Quick Dry Running Shorts
PROS
- Small amount of material
- Affordable
- Very fast drying
- Split leg design
CONS
- No drawstring
Who Will Love These Running Shorts?
These running shorts are…well, they’re short. Most beginner runners may find them to be too short, but for experienced runners, or those looking to take running more seriously, these shorts are a lightweight option that will ensure maximum leg mobility. If these sound like running shorts that match your needs, there are a ton of color options available on Amazon here: Baleaf 3″ Men’s Quick Dry Running Shorts.
2. New Balance 5" Men's Impact Running Shorts
The New Balance 5″ Men’s Impact Running Shorts are a near-perfect 5″ inseam running short. With a zippered rear pocket, leg splits for easy mobility, and a reasonable price, these deserve to be on any runners’ shortlist.
They’d work well for running on the track or hitting the trails.
Leg Splits for Improved Mobility
Leg splits are small slits at the side of running shorts that allow your legs to move without restriction.
Not all running shorts come with leg splits. The New Balance 5″ Men’s Running Shorts do though. They have an appropriate cut, approximately 1.5″ deep in the bottom-side of the shorts.
You will feel the benefits of a split leg design when you’re running up hills, stretching out your gait during springs, or if you’re doing squats.
Simply put, range of motion is a good thing, and these running shorts help you maximize your range potential.
Rear Zippered Pocket and Low-Profile Hip Pockets
Most high quality running shorts come with some form of rear zippered pocket – typically near the waistband.
These running shorts come with the standard zippered rear pocket but also come with two side pockets that hug the waistband near the rear-hip.
What’s unique about the side pockets is:
- Their shape: they are horizontally oriented, which means they are wider then they are deep.
- The way they are covered: New Balance includes a flap of material that rests overtop the pocket opening.
While not everyone wants pockets during their runs, these shorts provide ample storage for keys, credit cards, recovery gels, or an ID.
Comfortable Interior Liner / Briefs
To reduce your overall running weight, and reduce abrasion, these New Balance running shorts come with an inner liner.
Attached briefs are an important way to increase your comfort on runs. This becomes especially true as you cover more distance each run.
While liners aren’t for everyone, they are a great way to feel like you’re wearing less on your run. If you aren’t a fan of using the liner, feel free to cut it out of the shorts (this is what I used to do).
New Balance 5" Men's Running Shorts Pros and Cons?
PROS
- Extremely comfortable
- Fast-drying material
- Built-in briefs
- Cool pocket design
- Comes with split leg design
CONS
- Does not include a drawstring
Who Are These New Balance Shorts Designed For?
These shorts are perfect for almost any runner, although they aren’t the shortest option available. With the split leg design, New Balance has ensured that elite level runners can achieve their required mobility. If you think you’ll benefit from the design elements of these shorts you can check out more specs, pictures, and current pricing on Amazon here: The New Balance Men’s Impact Running Short.
3. Baleaf 7" Men's Quick Dry Running Shorts
The Baleaf 7″ Men’s Quick Dry Running Shorts provide an inexpensive alternative option for those looking to cover more of their legs.
While 7″ might seem like too much material for some, there are those of us with really long legs, or who just don’t feel comfortable showing off tons of thigh.
For this reason, it makes sense to mention a running short option with slightly more material than the rest on our list of favorites.
Longer 7" Inseam Covers Legs
Not all runners want to show their entire leg (and almost more) while running. Or maybe you grew up wearing longer shorts because you also played basketball.
Whatever your reason, it is difficult to find a pair of running shorts with a 7″ inseam that are also comfortable, lightweight, and have pockets. These shorts offer all three of these options, but with the longer inseam.
Extensive Pockets - One With a Zipper
Just like the slightly shorter Baleaf 5″ Men’s Running Shorts, the 7″ model comes with side pockets, and a back pocket that zippers.
You might be able to fit a phone in its rear pocket, but at 4.7″ you would need to have a small phone by today’s standards.
Built-In Underwear...
It is true… with a 7″ inseam for your shorts, you might be able to get away without wearing any underwear at all. That said, these shorts come with a fast-drying mesh liner so you don’t need to make that decision. If you aren’t a fan of short liners, you can always cut them out.
Pros and Cons of the Baleaf 7" Men's Running Shorts
PROS
- Longer inseam (if you like that)
- Lightweight
- Fast Drying
- Great for taller runners
CONS
- No leg split
Who Are These Running Shorts Perfect For?
Not all runners love the sight of their legs as they run around their neighborhood. For the most economical minds, longer running shorts may also make the most sense if you plan to use them for various other activities. If this sounds like you, there are more pics, specs, and current pricing you can check out on Amazon here: Baleaf 7″ Men’s Running Shorts.
4. Baleaf 5" Men's Running Shorts
The mid-length 5″ running short is a classic. It’s not too short, but still provides great range of motion. The Baleaf 5″ Men’s Running Short is a great low-cost example of this length of short, and it provides many of the same benefits of shorts produced by larger running brands.
Rear AND Side Pockets for Storage
Pockets are not a standard for most lightweight running shorts, but the Baleaf 5″ Men’s Running Shorts come standard with side AND a rear waistband pocket. The rear pocket zips closed and provides a 4.7″ space that would work perfectly to hold:
- Car keys
- Credit Cards
- Your ID
If your phone was 4.7″ long (or less) I suppose you could also fit your phone in the rear zippered pocket. This might be a bit cramped though especially considering how large most phone screens.
The side pockets are an added benefit, especially when wearing the shorts before or after the run.
Built-in Mesh Brief Liner
I have had a hard time adapting to built-in liners; they are more breathable than standard underwear, and for that reason, it is a little bit of a shock to commit fully to them.
That being said, as weekly mileage increases and your long runs get longer, it makes practical sense to use running shorts with a built-in brief liner. Liners reduce friction, allow for a cooler temperature run, and also reduces the stack of used underwear in your dirty hamper each week.
While liners might not be for everyone, it should be noted that most elite runners use shorts with liners. There are too many benefits. If you can brave giving a short with a liner a try you might fall in love with it.
Inexpensive Compared to Other Running Shorts
Baleaf has gained a reputation for having shorts that rival major label brands, but for a fraction of the price. These shorts are no different as they seem to be about half the price of many name brand running short options of the same size. If you don’t believe me, you can check out their current price on Amazon: Baleaf Men’s 5″ Running Shorts. It is honestly a bit surprising how inexpensive they are when you see what other name brands charge.
While you might be racking up the mileage you don’t need to rack up the expenses.
Pros and Cons of the Baleaf 5" Men's Quick-Dry Running Shorts
PROS
- Super inexpensive
- Lightweight material
- Very fast drying
- Multiple pockets
- Rear zipper pocket
CONS
- Not a split leg design
Who Are These Running Shorts Best For?
While serious runners often develop serious leg muscles, it doesn’t mean you need to wear super short shorts on your runs. That is where 5″ long running shorts come into the mix; these provide a short enough short to allow for good range of motion but aren’t so short that you will feel uncomfortable on your runs.
These running shorts are a great mid-length option that comes with pockets, is fast-drying, and is super lightweight. All of those attributes and the shorts are still SUPER affordable. You can check out more specs, pictures, and current pricing on Amazon here: Baleaf 5″ Men’s Quick-Dry Running Shorts.
5. Naviskin Men's Lightweight 3" Running Shorts
If you’re looking for a pair of inexpensive, no frills running shorts, the Naviskin Men’s Lightweight 3″ Running Shorts might be perfect for you.
While lacking large pockets, these shorts are lightweight, fast drying, and comfortable.
Split-leg Design
Along the sides of the Naviskin 3″ Running Shorts there are a slight slit to provide improved mobility of you upper leg.
While a 3″ inseam short doesn’t offer a ton of material to get in the way of your legs, it can be particularly helpful to have a split leg short for runners with larger quads.
A Very Small Interior Pocket
As mentioned before, these running shorts are a minimalist pair of shorts. This means these shorts don’t come with the same type of pockets that many other shorts come with.
Instead of having side pockets, or a rear-zippered pocket, these shorts have a small pouch pocket that hangs on the interior of shorts. This pocket is small, so it will only be able to hold small items like a car key, or maybe a single energy gel.
While pockets are great if you are planning to wear your shorts outside of running, these shorts decide to focus on the run itself instead of your ability to carry something. This could be seen as a pro or a con.
Lightweight and Stretchy Material
Comprised of a 95% polyester and 5% spandex mix, these running shorts have the ability to stretch a little bit. This means they have a little give to them, which could be beneficial for anyone with larger quad muscles.
The polyester and spandex blend is also very lightweight, and tends to dry easily.
Pros and Cons Naviskin Men's Quick-Dry Lightweight Running Shorts
PROS
- Minimalist design
- Extremely lightweight
- Has interior briefs
- Very small pocket
CONS
- No drawstring
- Pocket is very small
Who Will Love The Naviskin 3" Running Shorts?
These are definitely running shorts designed with only one thing in mind: running. You won’t get a ton of design elements outside of that if you purchase these running shorts. That said, they come with exactly what you need to have a comfortable easy run. In other words, you might not even notice you’re wearing shorts at all.
If you are looking to run in shorts that have a 3″ inseam, that have leg splits, and that are affordable, these might be perfect for you. You can check out more pictures, specs, and current pricing on Amazon here: Naviskin Men’s 3″ Quick Dry Running Shorts.
Before Picking Your Running Shorts
If you’re close to selected your next running shorts, remember to compare some of the main attributes against your wants and needs. Many runners try to make sure their shorts come with a mix of the following attributes:
- A lightweight and comfortable construction
- A pocket of some kind
- Built in underwear
- Leg splits for mobility
Not everyone wants (or cares about) pockets in their running shorts, but it is important to decide if you do or not before jumping into your next shorts.
Good Shorts Give You The Confidence To Run Anywhere
As runners, our legs are front and center for most of the world to see. While this isn’t a huge deal, it does mean you should feel comfortable and confident in what you wear on your legs. If you don’t feel confident in your shorts you may find yourself running less than you otherwise would.
Hopefully this post has helped you narrow down your list of potential running shorts, so you can stay focused on what matters most, which is the running.
Image Credit: Steven Pisano | (https://www.flickr.com/photos/stevenpisano/) | Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) –reduced file size
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