When it comes to finding the perfect athletic shorts, women deserve options that balance comfort and style. From cotton blends to moisture-wicking fabrics, the top picks provide the flexibility and functionality you need for your active lifestyle. But which ones truly stand out among the rest? Delve into the details to uncover the unique features that make these five athletic shorts worth considering for your workout wardrobe. With the right combination of quality, performance, and fashion-forward design, you’ll be ready to take on your fitness goals in comfort and confidence.
If you’re a woman seeking comfortable, versatile athletic shorts with practical features, the Hanes Women’s Jersey Pocket Shorts are an excellent choice. Crafted from soft, breathable cotton or a cotton-poly blend, these shorts boast an adjustable drawstring waistband and deep pockets that can hold your essentials.
Users praise their true-to-size fit, quality construction, and versatility for everyday wear, lounging, or activities. The wide, adjustable waistband provides a secure, comfortable fit, while the casual yet stylish design allows you to pair these shorts with various tops.
Although some may find the inseam slightly shorter than expected, the overall consensus is that these Hanes shorts offer unbeatable value for their quality, comfort, and functionality. With positive reviews across multiple languages, the Hanes Women’s Jersey Pocket Shorts are a versatile and practical addition to any active woman’s wardrobe.
Best For: Active women seeking comfortable, versatile athletic shorts with practical features and a great value.
Pros:
Soft, breathable cotton or cotton-poly fabric
Adjustable drawstring waistband for a secure, comfortable fit
Deep pockets to hold essentials
Cons:
Inseam may be slightly shorter than expected for some users
Pricing can fluctuate, so it’s best to buy when the price is lower
Some initial concerns about fabric type, though most users were satisfied after washing
The BALEAF Womens Yoga Workout Shorts with Pockets are an excellent choice for women seeking a comfortable, practical, and well-made pair of athletic shorts for a variety of activities. The lightweight, stretchy fabric feels soft against the skin, similar to shapewear, and the high-quality waistband won’t roll down during your workout.
You’ll love the convenient side pockets, which can hold your essentials like keys, phone, and wallet. Most users find the sizing to be spot-on, providing a secure, supportive fit that stays in place. The durable, compressive material is suitable for outdoor pursuits like running, cycling, and even volleyball.
With multiple purchases and glowing reviews, it’s clear these shorts offer fantastic value and versatility. Whether you’re hitting the gym or heading out for a jog, the BALEAF Womens Yoga Workout Shorts are a reliable, comfortable choice.
Best For: The BALEAF Womens Yoga Workout Shorts are best for active women seeking a comfortable, practical, and well-made pair of athletic shorts for a variety of activities like yoga, running, cycling, and more.
Pros:
Lightweight, stretchy, and soft fabric similar to shapewear
Convenient side pockets to hold essentials
Durable, compressive material suitable for outdoor activities
Cons:
Potential inconsistency in manufacturing between different color options
The adidas Women’s Soccer Squadra 17 Shorts are an excellent choice for soccer players who prioritize moisture-wicking performance and a versatile, stylish look during gameplay. Crafted with climalite fabric, these shorts effectively wick away sweat to keep you dry and comfortable on the field.
The clean styling and iconic 3-stripes lend a sleek, sporty appeal that can shift seamlessly from practice to the game. Reviewers appreciate the vibrant color options, ranging from classic black to bold shades like green and orange. While some customers note the sheerness of certain colors, the variety of sizes from small to extra-large guarantees a flattering fit for diverse body types.
With positive feedback on the lightweight, comfortable construction and high satisfaction levels, the adidas Squadra 17 Shorts are a reliable choice for active women seeking both style and function.
Best For: Soccer players looking for moisture-wicking performance and a stylish, versatile look during gameplay.
Pros:
Climalite fabric effectively wicks away sweat to keep you dry and comfortable
Clean styling and iconic 3-stripes for a sleek, sporty appeal
Vibrant color options to suit personal preferences
Cons:
Certain colors may be sheer, requiring undergarments for opacity
Potential sizing discrepancies, with recommendations to size down for a better fit
Some customers note the sheerness of the shorts in certain lighting conditions
90 Degree By Reflex Soft Comfy Activewear Lounge Shorts for Women
Soft, stretchy, and true to size, the 90 Degree By Reflex Soft Comfy Activewear Lounge Shorts make an ideal choice for women seeking comfortable loungewear. Customers rave about the shorts’ excellent quality, with the material being both super soft and durable. They’ve held up well through multiple washes, maintaining their vibrant colors.
While some customers note sizing discrepancies between colors, overall the fit is really nice, with the stretchy fabric ensuring a comfortable, true-to-size feel. You’ll love wearing these versatile shorts, which pair well with just about anything. And at a great value, you’ll likely be buying more in different colors, as many customers have done.
With their stellar reviews for comfort, style, and durability, these 90 Degree By Reflex shorts are a fantastic option for your activewear and lounge wardrobe.
Best For: Women seeking comfortable, stylish, and durable activewear and lounge shorts.
Pros:
Soft, stretchy, and comfortable material
Excellent quality and durability through multiple washes
Versatile and goes well with various outfits
Cons:
Potential size discrepancies between color options
For women searching for cozy, adaptable athletic shorts that strike a balance between performance and style, Under Armour’s Women’s UA Play Up 2.0 Shorts offer a winning combination.
The soft, lightweight knit construction provides a breathable, sweat-wicking fabric that dries quickly, while the anti-odor technology and anti-pill/anti-pick finish guarantee long-lasting wear.
The flattering fit and comfortable waistband make these shorts ideal for a variety of activities, from running to lounging. Customers rave about the shorts’ comfort, praising the roomy yet flattering silhouette and the practical side pockets.
Reviewers from different countries have also commended the shorts’ overall quality and durability, testifying to their ability to hold up well during intense workouts.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your workout wardrobe or need a dependable pair of everyday shorts, the UA Play Up 2.0s are worth considering.
Best For: Women seeking comfortable, versatile athletic shorts for workouts, lounging, and everyday wear.
Pros:
Soft, lightweight, and breathable fabric that wicks sweat and dries quickly
Flattering fit with a comfortable waistband and practical side pockets
Durable construction that holds up well during various activities
Cons:
May not provide as much compression or support as some other athletic shorts
Limited color options compared to some competitors
Factors to Consider When Choosing Athletic Shorts for Women
When selecting athletic shorts for women, you’ll want to weigh key factors like:
fabric breathability and comfort
waistband design and adjustability
pocket functionality and placement
length and fit
any activity-specific requirements
The right athletic shorts can make all the difference in your workout or activity, so take the time to assess these important elements.
From moisture-wicking fabrics to pockets that keep your essentials secure, the options are plentiful, so find the pair that meets your unique needs.
Fabric Breathability and Comfort
Breathability and comfort are paramount when selecting athletic shorts, as they’ll directly impact your performance and enjoyment during workouts. Look for fabrics like moisture-wicking polyester that’ll keep you cool and dry by effectively managing sweat and preventing overheating.
Opt for lightweight and stretchy materials that allow for full range of motion, minimizing chafing and irritation even during high-impact exercises.
Built-in mesh panels and ventilation features are excellent for enhancing airflow and regulating body temperature, so you can push yourself to the limit without feeling weighed down or uncomfortable.
Quick-drying properties are also essential, ensuring the shorts won’t become heavy and soggy with perspiration. Remember, the right fabric can make all the difference in your athletic endeavors, providing the breathability and comfort needed to perform at your best.
With these factors in mind, you can find the perfect pair of athletic shorts that’ll keep you feeling fresh, focused, and energized throughout your workouts.
Waistband Design and Adjustability
Adjustable drawstrings on the waistband allow you to personalize the fit of your athletic shorts, ensuring ideal comfort across diverse activities.
Look for wide waistbands that provide extra support and prevent discomfort during your workouts. Elastic waistbands that stay in place can also prevent slipping or irritation as you move.
High-waisted designs offer the added benefit of tummy control, creating a flattering silhouette.
Moisture-wicking waistbands are especially important for keeping you dry and comfortable during intense exercise. These innovative fabrics pull sweat away from your skin, preventing chafing and keeping you focused on your performance.
Whether you’re running, lifting weights, or stretching in yoga, the right waistband design can make all the difference in your athletic experience.
Prioritize adjustability, support, and moisture management when selecting your next pair of athletic shorts for a personalized, comfortable fit.
Pocket Functionality and Placement
Beyond the waistband, the pockets on athletic shorts for women play an important role in their functionality and overall user experience. Consider the size and depth of the pockets to make sure they can securely hold your essentials like keys, phone, or cards during workouts.
Look for shorts with pockets strategically placed on the sides or back for easy access without hindering movement or comfort. For your most vigorous activities, opt for athletic shorts with zippered pockets to avoid items from falling out.
Check the pocket lining material, too – you’ll want it to be durable and sweat-wicking to protect your belongings and keep you comfortable. Evaluate the pocket placement to avoid interference with waistbands, drawstrings, or seams that could cause discomfort during exercise.
With the right pockets, you can keep your must-haves close at hand without sacrificing mobility or convenience.
Length and Fit Considerations
When selecting athletic shorts, the inseam length and overall fit are important factors to keep in mind. Choosing a length that provides ample freedom of movement while offering the desired coverage is key to a great workout experience.
Additionally, a snug yet comfortable fit that doesn’t limit your mobility is essential for seamless performance during physical activities.
Look for shorts with a wide, adjustable waistband that allows you to customize the fit to your liking. This ensures a secure and personalized feel, so you can focus on your workout without any distractions.
Moreover, opt for moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics that will keep you dry and comfortable, even during the most intense training sessions.
Pockets are another practical feature to take into account, as they provide a convenient storage solution for your essentials like keys, phone, or cards.
With the right length and fit, along with the perfect fabric and functional details, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any workout or activity in style and comfort.
Activity-Specific Requirements
Selecting the appropriate athletic shorts for your specific workout or sport is important to ensuring best performance and comfort. Depending on the activity, you’ll want to prioritize features like moisture-wicking fabrics, durable construction, and strategic ventilation to keep you cool and supported throughout your routine.
For high-intensity cardio like running, look for shorts made of lightweight, breathable fabrics that will wick away sweat and prevent chafing. If you prefer low-impact activities like yoga or Pilates, seek out stretchy, flexible materials that won’t restrict your range of motion.
Meanwhile, for team sports like soccer or volleyball, durable, reinforced shorts with convenient pockets can help you stay focused on the game.
No matter your preferred workout, pay close attention to the length and fit of the shorts. Choose a style that aligns with your personal preferences and provides the coverage and mobility you need to move freely and confidently.
With the right athletic shorts, you can stay comfortable and perform your best.
Durable Construction and Care
Durable building and proper care are essential considerations when selecting athletic shorts for women. Look for shorts made with sturdy polyester or nylon blends that can withstand the demands of your workout routine. Reinforced stitching in high-stress areas helps prevent tears or unraveling, guaranteeing the shorts maintain their shape and integrity over time.
Moisture-wicking fabrics are a must, as they’ll keep you dry and comfortable by drawing sweat away from your skin. Check the care instructions to make certain of easy maintenance and longevity – opt for machine washable or quick-drying materials.
Moreover, consider shorts with added features like anti-odor technology or UV protection for enhanced performance and protection during outdoor activities. These thoughtful design elements can elevate your athletic wear, making it both functional and stylish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Athletic Shorts Suitable for Everyday Wear?
Athletic shorts can be a great choice for everyday wear. They’re comfortable, versatile, and can be dressed up or down to suit your style. Just pair them with the right top and accessories, and you’re good to go.
How Do I Care for My Athletic Shorts?
To care for your athletic shorts, wash them in cold water, avoid putting them in the dryer, and hang or lay them flat to dry. This will help maintain their shape and fabric quality.
What Are the Best Fabrics for Athletic Shorts?
Preferred performance fabrics for athletic shorts often feature fantastic flexibility, fantastic moisture-wicking, and fantastic breathability. Opt for lightweight, durable materials like polyester, spandex, or nylon to guarantee your shorts stay snug, comfy, and cool during all your activities.
Can I Wear Athletic Shorts to Work?
You can wear athletic shorts to work, but it depends on your company’s dress code. Check with your employer to see if athletic wear is acceptable. If so, choose a more structured, tailored short for a professional look.
How Do I Choose the Right Size for Athletic Shorts?
When choosing athletic shorts, measure your waist and hips to find your correct size. Look for a comfortable, snug fit that won’t slip down during your workout. Opt for breathable, stretchy fabrics that move with you.
Conclusion
When it comes to athletic shorts, the perfect pair is like a trusty companion – one that’ll stick with you through every stride, every squat, and every spontaneous dance move.
These top picks are the keys to accessing a wardrobe that’s as versatile as your workout routine, empowering you to move with confidence and style, whether you’re chasing your fitness goals or simply basking in the freedom of the great outdoors.
