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  • 10 Best Running Shorts for Women UK 2024 1
  • 10 Best Running Shorts for Women UK 2024 2
  • 10 Best Running Shorts for Women UK 2024 3
  • 10 Best Running Shorts for Women UK 2024 4
  • 10 Best Running Shorts for Women UK 2024 5

10 Best Running Shorts for Women UK 2024

When the weather starts to get warm, many women will be looking to ditch the running tights for something a little more breathable. However, nothing will kill the buzz of your summer fitness escapades more than a garment that's soggy with sweat or prone to chafing and constant readjustment. 


Whether you'd prefer a modest 7-inch length, a split design for bigger thighs, compression shorts that don't ride up, or a pair for marathons with gel or phone pockets, the online options are endless. Our nifty buying guide is here to help, plus we'll also share our top 10 picks from brands like Nike, Asics and Under Armour. We're sure to have a pair that will get you feeling comfortable and confident out there!

Last updated 22/03/2024

Quick List - Top Running Shorts for Women

1

Nike

Nike Pro Flex
Nike Pro Flex

An All-Round Fantastic Pair of Running Shorts

2

Asics

Women's Brief Woven Short
Women's Brief Woven Short

Ultimate Comfort, Support and Protection

3

Under Armour

Speedpocket Shorts
Speedpocket Shorts

A Perfect Short for the Casual Runners

4

Nike

Air Shorts
Air Shorts

Comfy Shorts That Could Make It Into Your Everyday Wardrobe

5

Baleaf

Active Athletic Skort
Active Athletic Skort

Who Said You Can't Look Feminine While You Work Out?

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Table of Contents

How to Choose Running Shorts for Women in the UK - Buying Guide

First things first, let’s run through the buying guide! This will help you identify your perfect style of shorts, as well as their length, fit and materials before you hit that ‘add to cart’ button.  

1

Decide the Style of Shorts You're Looking For

When comparing running shorts for women, there are 4 main styles of garment to consider. Here we'll take a look at which are best suited to who. 

Split Shorts Offer the Greatest Range of Movement

Split Shorts Offer the Greatest Range of Movement

Often the choice of more serious runners, the front and back panel of split shorts are connected at the outer seam. This creates an upside-down V shape on the outer leg.


Not to be confused with V-notch shorts, crucially, this overlap allows for an extremely wide range of motion, hence why runners focused on performance prefer them.

Compression Shorts Prevent Friction and Chafing

Compression Shorts Prevent Friction and Chafing

Compression shorts are a great choice when it comes to preventing chafing. Their snug fit won't ride up and creates a barrier between the skin, protecting it from friction. Furthermore, they're often warmer and offer more support for the muscles, helping to fight fatigue and injury. 


These styles can be worn on their own or underneath another pair of running shorts if you’re not keen on showing too much skin. Alternatively, you could go for a 2-in-1 compression pair that has a looser short sewn over the top. 

V-Notch Shorts Offer Flexibility With a Looser and More Modest Fit

V-Notch Shorts Offer Flexibility With a Looser and More Modest Fit

Easily confused with split shorts (or the other way around!) the 'V-notch' style has a cut out panel on the outer seam that creates a little upside-down V. However, unlike split shorts, this comes from a split in the seam, not from the overlapping of panels. 


These are a good choice for casual runners as they are looser than compression shorts, but less revealing than split styles. Plus, the cutout still allows for a wide range of motion. 

Still Want a Little Femininity? Try a Skort

Still Want a Little Femininity? Try a Skort

Finally, if you fancy adding a little femininity to your running look, you could go for a skort. Skirt + short = skort, clever right? They're simply a fitness skirt with a pair of fitted shorts underneath, and though typically seen on tennis courts they can easily transfer to the track. 


A lot of traditionalist runners may consider skorts a bit more fashion-focused than 'proper' performance-wear, but we say to hell with that if you want to go for it! 


Remember that they are pretty much the same as compression shorts though, so if you don’t like the snugness of tighter shorts you may want to give them a miss. 

2

Consider the Length of Shorts You'd Prefer

The next factor to consider is how long you want your shorts to be. This comes down to how comfortable one feels in each, though different lengths do tend to be better for different types of running. When talking about the inches of shorts, we refer to the in-seam, so don’t worry, this isn’t their complete length! 

Shorter 3 Inch Lengths Are the Choice of Serious Runners

Shorter 3 Inch Lengths Are the Choice of Serious Runners

Shorts with an inseam measurement of 3 inches or less are considered to be firmly in the 'short shorts' category. They're used by both serious long-distance and sprint runners due to the freedom of movement that they allow, and will make you feel as though you're barely wearing a thing! 


This length is typically found in split shorts, although this is not always the case, particularly since the rise in popularity of compression shorts. 

Medium 5-7 Inch Lengths Offer Adaptability to Different Types of Running

Medium 5-7 Inch Lengths Offer Adaptability to Different Types of Running

A nice middle ground between short and long shorts, a 5 to 7 inch option is best for those who want to retain a little modesty, but still want a good range of motion. 


Shorts of these lengths are also capable of providing a tad more protection to your pins if you like mixing it up between the track and the trial, as your legs won’t be as exposed to getting scratched or bitten in the wilderness. 

Long Shorts Will Give the Most Coverage and Protection

Long Shorts Will Give the Most Coverage and Protection

Generally favoured by trail runners due to their higher level of protection, these shorts offer the most coverage, and therefore lessen your chances of being attacked by bugs and brambles. 


Moreover, these can be a good choice if you have struggled with some rubbing from medium length shorts as they tend to be a little baggier. Just be careful of their material (which we'll get into shortly), as they can very easily become sweaty in hotter weather. 

3

A High Waistband or Drawstring Keeps Shorts From Falling Down

A High Waistband or Drawstring Keeps Shorts From Falling Down

There’s nothing more distracting than having to constantly readjust yourself mid-run, as well as the added fear of your shorts sliding down and revealing all. To save yourself the headache, make sure you pick up a pair of shorts with waistband features that keep these annoyances at bay. 


High-waisted shorts are an easy way to go about this, as well as having the added benefit of keeping everything tucked in nice and snugly. 


If you'd prefer to plump for a lower-slung waist but often find your shorts slipping, check that they have some form of drawstring. This way they can be tightened to your unique shape and stay where they should be. 

4

Picking a Material: Natural Vs Synthetic

Picking the right material depends on what you deem most important. While most activewear is generally made of synthetic fibres, there are some natural options in running shorts. Here we’ll take a look at what each brings to the table. 

Natural Materials Are Smooth and Soft but Break Down Quicker

Natural Materials Are Smooth and Soft but Break Down Quicker

If you’d prefer a natural material, then cotton (or a cotton blend) is probably your best bet. Cotton shorts are smooth, soft and create almost no friction. Natural materials are also more sustainable and kinder to the environment, should this be important to you.  


However, after heavy use in hot weather, the material will begin to break down, so they tend to have a shorter shelf life than their synthetic counterparts. Plus, they’re not as proficient at wicking moisture, which can lead to soggy jogs and potentially even exacerbate chafing. 

Synthetic Fibres Are Breathable and Long-Lasting

Synthetic Fibres Are Breathable and Long-Lasting

Synthetic fibres, such as polyester, nylon, spandex and elastane are the most common choice of materials in the activewear world, and for good reason. 


They're all extremely light, flexible, and stretchy, which allow for freer movement and that all-important breathability. They’re also moisture-wicking and therefore able to help manage discomfort and chafing. 


Being a man-made material, the quality of synthetics can vary greatly, so it'll pay to read the reviews here. 

5

Look Out for Added Features Such as Pockets and Reflective Strips

Look Out for Added Features Such as Pockets and Reflective Strips
Source:amazon.co.uk

Last up, additional features. Unfortunately, there isn't a garment that'll do the work for us yet, but there are some useful things to look out for

 
As with women’s clothes in general, activewear doesn’t always grant us the luxury of pockets, even though they’re so useful! It's definitely worth checking if one or two are included, particularly if you use your phone to listen to music, or you want to store keys, gels or snacks. 


Another smart feature to look out for is reflective strips, which provide enhanced safety at night. We would still recommend you wear additional fluorescent clothing too though, just to be safe!

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

Top 10 Best Running Shorts for Women in the UK

Next, onto our top 10 ranking, which have been hand-picked from the vast and varied selection of running shorts online. We’ve scoured far and wide and come up with a bunch of products from trusted brands that tick many boxes, so we hope you find your pair! 
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Nike

Nike Pro Flex

Nike Nike Pro Flex 1

An All-Round Fantastic Pair of Running Shorts

2

Asics

Women's Brief Woven Short

Asics Women's Brief Woven Short 1

Ultimate Comfort, Support and Protection

3

Under Armour

Speedpocket Shorts

Under Armour Speedpocket Shorts 1

A Perfect Short for the Casual Runners

4

Nike

Air Shorts

Nike Air Shorts 1

Comfy Shorts That Could Make It Into Your Everyday Wardrobe

5

Baleaf

Active Athletic Skort

Baleaf Active Athletic Skort 1

Who Said You Can't Look Feminine While You Work Out?

6

TCA

Perform 2-in-1 Running Shorts

TCA Perform 2-in-1 Running Shorts 1

A 2-In-1 Short From a New Kid on the Sportswear Block

7

Naviskin

Women's 7" Active Shorts

Naviskin Women's 7" Active Shorts 1

Long Shorts for a Little Protection in the Wild

8

R Runvel

Running Shorts

R Runvel Running Shorts 1

Brilliant High-Waisted Shorts

9

EXIU

Loose Cotton Running Shorts

EXIU  Loose Cotton Running Shorts 1

Roll Back the Years With a Retro Vibe

10

Sweaty Betty

Power Shorts

Sweaty Betty Power Shorts 1

Get Sweaty With These Multi-Sport Essentials

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Nike
Nike Pro Flex

Nike Pro Flex 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Nike Pro Flex 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£23.47
Mid
Reference price
£23.47
Mid

An All-Round Fantastic Pair of Running Shorts

Whether you're an avid marathon runner or new to the game, these shorts are great for everyone. They're simply designed with a minimalist look and reflective logo, and the style has become a go-to for runners of all ages.


These shorts are as great running on the track as they are running errands, and combine a tight, stretchy compression layer with a loose outer layer. The sweat-wicking design and mesh panels keep you cool and dry throughout your workout. These are pretty much the perfect running shorts, and that's why they take our top spot! 

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

Asics
Women's Brief Woven Short

Women's Brief Woven Short 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£22.41
Mid
Reference price
£22.41
Mid

Ultimate Comfort, Support and Protection

Looking for exceptional comfort, support, protection, and breathability all in one pair of shorts? Here you have them. These 5.5-inch shorts from Asics will have you breezing through the miles in style. 


They're made from a polyester blend with a drawcord waistband so you'll be able to get the exact fit you want. On top of this, they have reflective strips at the back for added safety if you're partial to a nighttime jog. 

No.3

Under Armour
Speedpocket Shorts

Speedpocket Shorts 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Speedpocket Shorts 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£15.48
Mid
Reference price
£15.48
Mid

A Perfect Short for the Casual Runners

These shorts are great on many accounts, but the first thing we want to pick up on is their excellent pockets that'll keep everything locked in and secure. Whether it's the zip at the back or the little key pocket at the front, you never have to worry about them breaking your stride. 


These shorts are super lightweight, and while that might not make you run faster, it makes you run more comfortably, for sure! Despite their slight construction, they're also ultra-durable and are ideal for those that like a comfortable jog a couple of times a week

No.4

Nike
Air Shorts

Air Shorts 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£24.00
Mid
Reference price
£24.00
Mid

Comfy Shorts That Could Make It Into Your Everyday Wardrobe

Our first product from the monolith Nike, these v-notch shorts are loved by many runners around the world due to their forgiving stretchy fabric and fantastic waistband that'll stay put when you've got the drawcord to your desired tightness. They're that comfortable that many women have taken them up as their everyday shorts, too! 


Made from polyester, you'll have no worries that they'll keep you dry and cool no matter the weather. They also have pockets on the sides that give a little extra storage should you require it. 

No.5

Baleaf
Active Athletic Skort

Active Athletic Skort 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Active Athletic Skort 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£20.99
Mid
Reference price
£20.99
Mid

Who Said You Can't Look Feminine While You Work Out?

Looking for a feminine look while you're running? Baleaf have you covered with this cute skort. It comes in a wide range of colours including neutral black, white and dark blue, but we've gone for this electric pink, because we feel if you're going to make a statement, do it!


Both layers are breathable and moisture-wicking, plus they have a drawcord that allows for comfortable personalised sizing. One addition we loved was the cable hole in the pocket, which lets your headphones reach your ears without getting in the way.

No.6

TCA
Perform 2-in-1 Running Shorts

Perform 2-in-1 Running Shorts 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Perform 2-in-1 Running Shorts 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Perform 2-in-1 Running Shorts 3
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£21.99
Mid
Reference price
£21.99
Mid

A 2-In-1 Short From a New Kid on the Sportswear Block

This 2-in-1 style has become understandably more popular over the years, as you're given freedom of movement without worrying about the world seeing every contour. With a solid 4.4 out of 5 on Amazon, this pair is making all the right noises when it comes to women's running shorts.


While TCA are relatively new to the world of sportswear, they've made steady progress with appearances on Sky Sports and Men's Health to name just a few, and even have their own 'Quickdry' fabric for reassurance

No.7

Naviskin
Women's 7" Active Shorts

Women's 7" Active Shorts 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Women's 7" Active Shorts 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£17.99
Mid
Reference price
£17.99
Mid

Long Shorts for a Little Protection in the Wild

Longer shorts are few and far between for women, but we like this offering from Naviskin. They're 7 inches so should keep you nice and covered, while still offering enough range of motion to complete casual jogs, particularly if you like to do so in the wild. 


They're breathable, soft and moisture-wicking so you shouldn't have any problems with maintaining heat when the hot weather appears. Our only downside is that the pockets are like ordinary pockets, with no zip, so they may not be secure enough for some during your run. 

No.8

R Runvel
Running Shorts

Running Shorts 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£12.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£12.99
Low Mid

Brilliant High-Waisted Shorts

Capable of being a supportive under-layer or working efficiently on their own, these compression shorts are a best seller on Amazon. They're high-waisted so you never have to fear for re-adjustment, and it also helps to keep everything tucked in.


Our only quibble is that there's no mention of exactly how long the inseam is, and while they look long on the model, this could vary for each person. It could be a bit of a gamble, but at under £15, it might be worth it! 

No.9

EXIU
Loose Cotton Running Shorts

Loose Cotton Running Shorts 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£4.50
Low
Reference price
£4.50
Low

Roll Back the Years With a Retro Vibe

If you're in the hunt for some 70s-inspired running fashion (bang on trend, by the way) then these split shorts could be right up your street. They come in over 10 different colours, so you could stick to neutral or go for something bold – hot pink, anyone? 


These are made from a cotton blend for lusciously soft comfort, however, they do have the issue of not being as long-lasting, though they're less than a fiver! Furthermore, the sizing can be a little off, so be sure to read the comments and reviews to see what other users have found works best. 

No.10

Sweaty Betty
Power Shorts

Power Shorts 1
Source:johnlewis.com
Reference price
£55.00
High
Reference price
£55.00
High

Get Sweaty With These Multi-Sport Essentials

Getting the ball rolling are these lightweight compression shorts from Sweaty Betty. The London-based company have been in the activewear business for over 15 years, and they aim to "inspire women to find empowerment through fitness". 


They're made from a sweat-wicking, quick-drying polyamide (nylon) that is functional and comfortable. Unfortunately, the major drawback with these shorts is the high price tag.

Summary

We'd say the most important factor of running gear is that you feel supported and confident, especially if you're new to it all. The perfect running shorts have a vital role to play in this, ensuring that they do their part so all you have to focus on is getting yourself in the best shape possible. Hopefully, this list will help you find your ideal running partner! 


Author: Lewis Clark

Top 5 Running Shorts for Women

No. 1: NikeNike Pro Flex

No. 2: AsicsWomen's Brief Woven Short

No. 3: Under ArmourSpeedpocket Shorts

No. 4: NikeAir Shorts

No. 5: BaleafActive Athletic Skort

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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