9 Best Workout Shorts For Women in 2026
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The best overall workout shorts for women are THE GYM PEOPLE High Waist Yoga Shorts, thanks to their moisture-wicking fabric, deep phone pockets, and tummy-control waistband that stays put through squats and runs. For runners who need secure storage, the Blooming Jelly Women’s Athletic Running Shorts offer a double-layer design with zippered pockets. And if sweat management is your top priority, the adidas Women’s Entrada26 Shorts deliver Climacool performance.
Finding the right pair of workout shorts means balancing coverage, pocket security, fabric feel, and freedom of movement. A short that works for yoga might not cut it for a long outdoor run, and a running short with a 2.8-inch inseam may not suit someone who prefers more coverage.
We built this guide by analyzing specifications, manufacturer descriptions, and patterns in owner feedback across dozens of models. The nine picks here cover the most common needs: phone storage, moisture wicking, sun protection, built-in liners, and buttery-soft fabrics for low-impact movement.
Top 9 Workout Shorts For Women in the Market
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The Best Workout Shorts For Women, Reviewed
THE GYM PEOPLE High Waist Yoga Shorts
What We Like
- Non see-through, moisture-wicking fabric
- Deep side pockets hold phone securely
- High-waisted tummy control design
- 4-way stretch resists deforming after washes
Trade-offs
- Only two pockets, no zippered option
- No built-in liner for extra coverage
Two deep side pockets that can actually hold your phone while you move are the standout feature here. These shorts are a practical pick for anyone who likes to listen to music or track runs without carrying a separate armband. The high-waisted tummy control panel and 4-way stretch fabric work together to keep everything in place, bending into a yoga pose or picking up the pace on a jog. That combination of storage and secure fit covers the essentials most of us actually need.
The trade-off is the 5-inch inseam, which sits shorter than the 7-inch options from Ksmien, so if you prefer more thigh coverage or worry about riding up during squats, those might suit you better. But for the majority of gym sessions, the moisture-wicking, non see-through material handles sweat well, and the wide waistband stays put without digging in. You get compression and support without feeling restricted, and the fabric holds its shape wash after wash. It is a straightforward, well-thought-out design that covers the essentials most of us actually need.
Blooming Jelly Women's Athletic Running Shorts
What We Like
- Two zippered pockets secure phone and keys
- Crossover waist offers tummy control
- Side slits allow wider range of motion
Trade-offs
- 2.8" inseam offers less coverage than longer shorts
Two zippered pockets on these shorts are large enough to hold a phone, a key, and a card. You can run or work out without constantly checking whether your belongings are about to slip out. The zippers keep everything secure during dynamic movement, which means no mid-sprint fumbling or dropped items on the gym floor. Reviewers note that having that peace of mind lets them stay focused on their form and pace rather than on their pockets.
The inseam here is 2.5 inches, which is short enough to feel airy in summer heat. If you prefer more thigh coverage or don’t like the feel of a built-in liner, a longer short might suit you better. That said, if you want a secure, double-layer short that keeps your essentials safe and your waistline smooth, this is a smart pick for active summer days.
Product photos
adidas Women's Entrada26 Shorts
What We Like
- Climacool pulls moisture away fast
- Adjustable drawcord for secure fit
- Short inseam allows full leg mobility
- Durable interlock fabric resists wear
Trade-offs
- No pockets for phone or keys
- Not designed for casual wear or storage needs
The Climacool moisture management in these shorts pulls moisture away from your body and disperses it quickly to keep you feeling cool and dry during intense training sessions or games. That makes them a strong pick for anyone who sweats heavily and wants fabric that works with them, not against them. The shorter inseam supports unrestricted movement when the game demands speed, giving your legs freedom to move without extra fabric getting in the way. The elastic waistband with adjustable drawcord keeps the fit secure through rapid direction changes and high-energy movements. These are built for competitive soccer and the physical demands that come with it.
The adidas Women’s Entrada26 Shorts have no pockets, so you’ll need a waistband pouch or another way to carry your phone and keys before heading out. Compared to the Blooming Jelly Women’s Athletic Running Shorts, which include pockets and a high-waisted design, the adidas shorts focus purely on moisture management and unrestricted movement rather than storage. If your priority is staying cool and dry during intense training, these shorts deliver. If you need to carry your phone hands-free, you might prefer a pair with pockets.
Under Armour Women's Tech Play Up Shorts
What We Like
- Soft, lightweight knit for breathability
- Sweat-wicking fabric dries fast
- Open hand pockets for essentials
- Shaped hem improves range of motion
Trade-offs
- 3-inch inseam offers less coverage
- Exposed elastic can irritate sensitive skin
A 3-inch inseam and soft, lightweight knit fabric make these shorts feel like you are wearing almost nothing, perfect for hot gym sessions or outdoor runs where breathability is the priority. The moisture-wicking material pulls sweat away and dries quickly, so you stay comfortable even when you start pushing hard. Regular fit means they are not squeezing you anywhere, and the shaped hem helps you move freely through squats or lunges without restriction. If you tend to overheat during workouts, this is the pair that keeps you cool.
The low-rise, exposed elastic waistband with an updated wordmark sits at the natural waistline, which some users find less comfortable than a soft, covered band. For steady-state cardio, lifting sessions, or everyday casual wear, the lightweight knit fabric delivers superior breathability and a noticeably airy feel. Open hand pockets add practicality for stashing a phone or keys during a walk or gym circuit.
Stelle Women's 3" Running Shorts
What We Like
- Quick-dry fabric keeps you cool
- Built-in mesh briefs reduce chafing
- Split hem maximizes mobility
Trade-offs
- 3" inseam offers less coverage for some
- No zippered pocket for valuables
The 3-inch inseam offers less coverage than longer shorts. If you need a zippered pocket for keys, you might look elsewhere. But if you want shorts that are cool, have pocket space, and include a liner that works, these deliver.
Product photos
CRZ YOGA High Waisted Split Running Shorts
What We Like
- Feathery-Fit fabric is ultra soft and weightless
- Built-in mesh liner reduces friction
- High split allows full range of movement
- Wide elastic waistband for comfy fit
Trade-offs
- 3-inch inseam offers less coverage than longer shorts
- No pockets for carrying phone or keys
The built-in mesh liner is the hidden hero here, it cuts down on friction where it matters most, so you can focus on your stride instead of adjusting. CRZ YOGA’s Feathery-Fit fabric lives up to its name: ultra soft, weightless, and quick-drying, with a quietness that lets you move without that swish-swish sound. This pair suits runners who prioritize freedom of motion and a barely-there feel over pocket space or extra coverage. The high split and wide elastic waistband work together to keep you comfortable through miles of movement, on pavement or on a treadmill.
That 3-inch inseam means less coverage than longer styles like the CRZ YOGA Secretsculpt Biker Shorts, which also offer compression and a booty-scrunch detail for those who want more hold. If you prefer to stash your phone or keys while you run, the lack of pockets here might send you toward the Stelle Women’s 3″ Running Shorts, which include side pockets. But if your priority is a featherlight, friction-free run with maximum leg lift, this pair delivers exactly that, no extras, no bulk, just the essentials done well.
Product photos
CRZ YOGA Secretsculpt Biker Shorts
What We Like
- Buttery soft Butterlift fabric
- No front seam for smooth fit
- Moderate compression for support
Trade-offs
- No pockets mentioned in product details
- Too thick for hot yoga sessions
Compared to THE GYM PEOPLE High Waist Yoga Shorts with their 5-inch inseam and deep pockets, these CRZ YOGA shorts trade storage for a more sculpted, second-skin fit. The 4-inch inseam sits above mid-thigh length, so if you prefer longer coverage, these may feel brief. But for yoga and Pilates where distraction matters, the glute scrunch and buttery compression make them a focused choice.
Product photos
Ksmien Women's Athletic Running Shorts
What We Like
- UPF 50+ sun protection built in
- Quick-dry, breathable fabric
- Two secure zipper pockets
- Split-leg design for full range of motion
Trade-offs
- Unlined design means no built-in brief
- Only two pockets, both side zippered
The UPF 50+ rating means these shorts offer excellent sun protection, so you can log miles under the midday sun without worrying about sunburn or layering on sunscreen. The quick-dry polyester-elastane blend wicks sweat and dries fast, making them a smart pick for outdoor runs, tennis matches, or hiking on bright days. With two zippered side pockets big enough for a phone, you can carry essentials securely while staying light and unencumbered.
These shorts are unlined, so you will need to wear your own underwear or a liner if you prefer that built-in support. Compared to the Stelle Women’s 3″ Running Shorts, which include a built-in brief, the Ksmien gives you more coverage and sun protection but leaves the liner choice up to you. For anyone who prioritizes sun safety and wants a versatile, pocketed short for warm-weather activity, this is a straightforward, no-fuss option.
Product photos
Nike Women's Pro 365 5 Inch Shorts
What We Like
- Dri-FIT wicks sweat for quick evaporation
- Wide elastic waistband wraps core supportively
- Stretchy fabric keeps you dry and comfortable
Trade-offs
- No pockets for storing phone or keys.
Nike’s Dri-FIT technology actively pulls sweat away from your skin and speeds up evaporation, so you stay dry even during a tough session. The wide elastic waistband wraps your core in supportive comfort, and the stretchy fabric moves with you without bunching. That makes these shorts a reliable pick for anyone who sweats hard and wants to focus on the workout, not on feeling damp or distracted.
The Nike Dri-FIT technology pulls sweat away from your skin for faster evaporation, so you stay dry even during intense workouts. A mid-rise cut with a wide elastic waistband wraps your core in supportive comfort, making it a focused choice for training where moisture management matters most. The 5-inch inseam offers moderate coverage, and the stretchy fabric moves with you without restriction.
Product photos
How We Evaluated Workout Shorts For Women
Our research began with a close look at fabric composition, inseam lengths, waistband designs, and pocket configurations. We studied manufacturer claims about moisture management, stretch recovery, and sun protection ratings, then cross-referenced those with what frequent buyers report after months of wear. Patterns in owner reviews, like whether a short holds its shape after washing or whether pockets actually secure a phone during a run, told us more than any single spec sheet.
Four criteria mattered most. Fabric performance determined whether a short wicks sweat, resists odors, and stretches without losing shape. Pocket design separated shorts that let you carry a phone securely from those that don’t. Fit and coverage considered waistband support, inseam length, and whether the short rides up during movement. Versatility measured whether a short works across multiple activities, from lifting to running to yoga, without obvious compromises.
What this guide doesn’t do is replace direct experience. Our evaluation is research-driven, meaning we rely on what the manufacturer publishes and what consistent owner experiences reveal. For a deeper look at fit considerations, check our guide on shorts for thick thighs for specific recommendations on preventing chafing and finding roomier leg openings.
What To Look For In Workout Shorts For Women
The right workout short depends on your activity, your body, and what you need to carry. Start with fabric, then fit, then pockets, in that order.
Choose fabric first (moisture-wicking for cardio, soft-stretch for yoga), then fit (waistband support and inseam length), then pockets (deep or zippered for phone security).
Fabric and Moisture Management
The fabric determines whether you stay comfortable through a sweaty workout or end up clammy and chafed. For high-intensity training, running, or outdoor exercise in heat, look for synthetics like polyester, nylon, or elastane blends that pull moisture away from the skin. The adidas Entrada26 uses Climacool technology for fast evaporation, while the Nike Pro 365 relies on Dri-FIT for the same purpose. For yoga and Pilates, softer fabrics like the Butterlift material in the CRZ YOGA Secretsculpt Biker Shorts prioritize a smooth, no-seam feel over maximum wicking.
Fit, Waistband, and Coverage
A secure waistband prevents constant pulling and adjusting. High-waisted designs with tummy control, like the THE GYM PEOPLE shorts, work well for those who want compression and support around the midsection. Inseam length directly affects coverage and mobility. Shorter inseams (2.8 to 3 inches) allow full leg movement for running but offer less coverage, while 5-inch or longer inseams suit those who prefer more fabric or have concerns about fit for curvy figures.
The Blooming Jelly shorts use a crossover waist for tummy control, and the Under Armour Tech Play Up shorts feature a shaped hem that improves range of motion without binding.
Pockets and Storage
If you carry a phone during workouts, pocket design can make or break a short. Deep side pockets that hold a phone securely during movement, like those on the THE GYM PEOPLE shorts, are essential for gym-goers who don’t want to hold their device. Zippered pockets, found on the Blooming Jelly and Ksmien shorts, add security for keys and cards during runs or hikes.
Some shorts, like the adidas Entrada26 and CRZ YOGA High Waisted Split Running Shorts, skip pockets entirely to reduce weight and bulk, which is fine if you carry nothing but need maximum airflow.
- Check whether side pockets are deep enough to hold your phone without it bouncing out during a run.
- For outdoor workouts, look for UPF ratings if sun protection matters in your climate.
- Consider built-in liners or briefs if you prefer not to wear separate underwear during exercise.
- Read the care label, some fabrics hold up better to frequent washing than others.
- Try the shorts with your usual workout movements (squats, lunges, leg lifts) to check for ride-up.
A good rule: if you run outdoors, prioritize zippered pockets and a built-in liner. If you lift or do yoga, prioritize fabric feel and waistband support.
Workout Shorts For Women Compared
The table below compares key specs across all nine picks, including inseam length, pocket types, and standout fabric features, so you can quickly narrow your options.
| Product | Material | Waist Style | Inseam |
|---|---|---|---|
| THE GYM PEOPLE High Waist Yoga Shorts | 4-way stretch, moisture-wicking | High-waisted, tummy control | N/A |
| Blooming Jelly Women's Athletic Running Shorts | Quick dry, moisture-wicking | Crossover high waisted | 2.8" |
| adidas Women's Entrada26 Shorts | Tough interlock | Elastic with drawcord | Short length cut |
| Under Armour Women's Tech Play Up Shorts | Soft, lightweight knit | Low-rise, exposed elastic | 3" |
| Stelle Women's 3" Running Shorts | Moisture-wicking fabric | Elastic, high-waisted | 3" |
| CRZ YOGA High Waisted Split Running Shorts | Feathery-Fit Soft | High Rise | 3 Inches |
| CRZ YOGA Secretsculpt Biker Shorts | Butterlift | High Rise | 4" |
| Ksmien Women's Athletic Running Shorts | 90% Polyester, 10% Elastane | Wide elastic with drawstring | 5 or 7 inches |
| Nike Women's Pro 365 5 Inch Shorts | Stretchy fabric with Dri-FIT | Wide elastic, mid-rise | 5 Inch |
Frequently Asked Questions
What inseam length is best for workout shorts?
The best inseam depends on your comfort and activity. Shorter inseams (2.8 to 3 inches) offer full leg mobility for running but less coverage. Five-inch inseams provide more fabric for those who prefer a modest fit or have concerns about thigh chafing. Some brands offer multiple lengths, so check the product details before buying.
Do I need built-in liners in workout shorts?
Built-in liners, like the mesh briefs in the Stelle shorts or the liner in the CRZ YOGA High Waisted Split Running Shorts, reduce chafing and provide light support. They also mean you don’t need separate underwear during exercise. Unlined shorts give you more freedom to choose your own base layer but may require a bit more thought about fit and coverage.
How do I stop workout shorts from riding up?
Riding up often comes from a poor fit at the leg opening or a too-short inseam. Look for shorts with a wider leg opening or a split hem that allows natural movement without binding. High-waisted styles with tummy control panels also help keep the shorts anchored. For more advice on fit, see our gym shorts buying guide for detailed tips on waistband and leg opening measurements.
Can I wear workout shorts for both running and weightlifting?
Yes, but you may need to compromise. Running benefits from lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics and shorter inseams for mobility, while lifting often favors compression, tummy control, and deeper pockets for a phone. The THE GYM PEOPLE High Waist Yoga Shorts strike a good balance for both, but dedicated runners might prefer the Blooming Jelly shorts for their zippered pockets and double-layer design.
What is the best fabric for sweaty workouts?
Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and elastane blends are best for sweaty workouts because they wick moisture away from the skin and dry quickly. Look for proprietary technologies like adidas Climacool or Nike Dri-FIT. Cotton absorbs sweat and stays wet, which can lead to chafing and discomfort during intense exercise.
The Bottom Line
The THE GYM PEOPLE High Waist Yoga Shorts earn the best overall spot because they balance secure phone pockets, tummy-control support, and moisture-wicking fabric that works across gym, yoga, and casual wear. They are the most versatile pick for women who want one short that covers multiple activities without sacrificing coverage or storage.
If your priority is secure storage for running or hiking, the Blooming Jelly Women’s Athletic Running Shorts deliver zippered pockets and a double-layer design that keeps valuables safe. For outdoor athletes who train in strong sun, the Ksmien shorts offer UPF 50+ protection without adding bulk. And for those who want the lightest, most breathable option for hot-weather cardio, the Under Armour Tech Play Up shorts are hard to beat.
The single most important factor when choosing workout shorts is fabric performance. A short that wicks sweat, stretches with your movement, and holds its shape after washing will serve you far longer than one with the trendiest cut or a budget-friendly price point. For a broader look at options, check our review of the best women’s exercise shorts and our guide to the best workout shorts for more comparisons.
