Comfort is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing your trail running gear because you can’t give your 100% if you feel uneasy.
In terms of bottom wear, trail running shorts are better than jogging pants since they are more breathable.
Also, the best trail running shorts will ensure you can run freely on the trail.
Comparison Chart
Best Trail Running Shorts for Men
1. Champion Men's Long Mesh Short
When it comes to sportswear, Champion is one of the best brands in the market.
They have a huge collection of trail running shorts that you can choose from, and the Champion Men's Long Mesh Short is one of the most comfortable they currently have on their arsenal.
Product Highlights
The Champion Men's Long Mesh Short is a simple yet elegant sportswear that you can use for different sports activities.
It offers an athletic fit, so it won’t impede your movement.
There are also no unnecessary prints on the fabric aside from the C logo found at the left hem.
You can choose from 21 different colors, such as black, crimson, and various shades of green, blue, orange, and gray.
The Champion Men's Long Mesh Short also features a breathable mesh body that provides sufficient ventilation.
This will prevent your lower body from sweating too much while running.
The Champion Men's Long Mesh Short also has side seam pockets where you can place small items for easy access.
Its elastic waistband provides a seamless fit, while the internal drawcord allows you to adjust the tightness.
What We Like
The simple design of the Champion Men's Long Mesh Short is attractive for almost all athletes.
We also love the breathable mesh body that would keep you cool and fresh, even if you're running long distances.
These shorts are perfect for trail running since the fabric is lightweight and doesn’t stick to your skin.
What We Don’t Like
So far, the only issue with the Champion Men's Long Mesh Short is the logo on the left hem since it falls off easily after a few washes.
That said, it is better to handwash the shorts instead of putting them in the washing machine.
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2. Hanes Sport Men's Mesh Shorts
Hanes Sport apparel has always focused on comfort and style. They use innovative technologies to provide the best sportswear that would fit your style.
The Hanes Sport Men's Mesh Shorts is one of the most in-demand running shorts in their collection since it offers both comfort and performance.
Product Highlights
The Hanes Sport Men's Mesh Shorts is made from 100% polyester mesh, providing breathability and comfort to the users.
It has an athletic fit, so it won’t impede your movement when you're running or working out.
It also has a plain design to help you match it easily with any top. There are also six different colors available.
The Hanes Sport Men's Mesh Shorts' covered elastic waistband gives it an amazing fit, especially if your waistline is a bit big.
If you have a slim waistline, there is an internal drawstring to help you tighten the shorts.
Lastly, the shorts have mesh-lined pockets that are perfect for storing small things.
What We Like
The lightweight polyester mesh is one of the best reasons to use the Hanes Sport Men's Mesh Shorts.
It is perfectly breathable and doesn't stick to your skin, which is otherwise uncomfortable when you're running.
What We Don’t Like
If you don’t want to use a see-through short, it is better to look for a different running short.
For the Hanes Sport Men's Mesh Shorts, you need to wear cycling shorts or a boxer, which would make it less breathable.
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3. Under Armour Men's Raid Gym Shorts
Under Armour is known for its sports apparel and always at the forefront when it comes to innovation.
The Under Armour Men's Raid Gym Shorts is one of the most innovative and advanced designs they have on their collection.
It is a perfect choice not only for gym-goers but also for athletes.
Product Highlights
The Under Armour Men's Raid Gym Shorts is made of 84% polyester and 16% Elastane, so it is soft and light on the skin.
Its HeatGear fabric will keep you cool and dry all day, making it perfect for athletes, especially for runners.
The fabric material can wick sweat and dries quickly, so even if you're sweating too much, you won't be uncomfortable.
Plus, it has a four-way stretch construction that would not impede your movements.
The shorts' encased elastic waistband and internal drawcord provide the right fit for any waistline.
The Under Armour Men's Raid Gym Shorts features an anti-odor technology that would prevent the growth of bacteria.
The UPF 30 on the fabric will also protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun.
What We Like
The four-way stretch construction is the best feature that Under Armour Men's Raid Gym Shorts can provide.
You can twist your feet, jump, and run fast. The fabric won't break easily since it would stretch depending on your movement.
What We Don’t Like
The fabric used in constructing the Under Armour Men's Raid Gym Shorts is a bit thin and completely see-through.
Thus, if you're not comfortable wearing these shorts, it is better to find a different brand.
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4. Russell Athletic Men's Cotton Shorts
Russel Athletic has always been a consistent provider of high-quality sportswear in the USA.
Their Athletic Men's Cotton Shorts has a classic design that's perfect for those who prefer cotton over other materials. You can use it for various activities.
Product Highlights
The Russell Athletic Men's Cotton Shorts comes with a relaxed fit so it won’t obstruct your movements.
It is made from jersey cotton fabric, so you will feel very comfortable all day, even while running or working out.
The fabric will also stay soft and durable even after multiple washes.
The elastic waist and the internal drawcord will ensure that the running shorts have a secure fit.
Its side pockets are deep enough to secure small items like your phone, keys, and money.
The Russell Athletic Men's Cotton Shorts also comes in different colors.
What We Like
The Russell Athletic Men's Cotton Shorts is very comfortable for your skin.
It is not too thick, so it is more breathable than other cotton shorts.
The relaxed fit is also amazing for runners since it allows you to move freely.
What We Don’t Like
This pair of shorts is not as breathable as the other running shorts.
Hence, if you're running during hot weather, your sweat will surely drench the fabric.
The Russell Athletic Men's Cotton Shorts doesn’t have any moisture or sweat-wicking technology.
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5. G Gradual Men's Running Shorts
When it comes to style and performance, G Gradual Men's Running Shorts is the best choice.
It's not just a typical pair of gym or workout shorts, so you can use it almost anywhere you want.
Product Highlights
The G Gradual Men's Running Shorts is made with a combination of 5% spandex and 95% polyester.
The fabric is very lightweight and dries quickly, so you will always feel comfy when you are doing workouts or trail running.
Its two zip pockets are deep enough to keep your mobile phone, keys, and other important items intact.
They also prevent them from falling off, even while you're running or working out.
The G Gradual Men's Running Shorts also features an elastic waistband that would fit perfectly on your waist.
It also has an inner drawstring that will lock the shorts and prevent them from falling off.
Lastly, its moisture-wicking technology will ensure you stay cool and fresh.
What We Like
The best thing about the G Gradual Men's Running Shorts is its stylish design.
It is very simple, but the overall look is cool and perfect for athletes.
The zip pockets are also amazing since they would keep your items safe.
What We Don’t Like
The only problem is that the G Gradual Men's Running Shorts is a bit small in size when compared to standard sizing.
If it's too small, the shorts would be very tight around your thighs, so it's better to get a size bigger than your usual size.
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Best Trail Running Shorts for Women
1. Under Armour Women's Fly by 2.0 Running Shorts
Style and comfortability are why the Under Armour Fly By 2.0 Running Shorts is a popular choice for active women.
If you love to work out in the gym or run on trails with your friends, this running short will provide that cool vibe without sacrificing comfort and durability.
Product Highlights
The Under Armour Women's Fly By 2.0 Running Shorts features a lightweight woven fabric that dries fast, wicks sweat and moisture, and provides ultimate comfort.
There are breathable mesh panels included to remove excess heat when you're running outside during hot weather.
Plus, its built-in brief can reduce ride-up and provides better breathability.
The Fly By 2.0 Running Shorts also has a soft knit waistband and internal drawcord that will hold the short in place, even while you're running.
There is also a crossover-shaped hem that gives the shorts a more streamlined look.
What We Like
The built-in brief is a big plus on this running short since it offers a wide range of benefits for women.
Although some people don’t prefer a built-in brief, it isn't a bad idea to try it out and see how it can improve your running experience.
What We Don’t Like
The design and the features are amazing, but the Fly By 2.0 Running Shorts doesn’t have any pockets.
You can get by with it, but pockets offer convenience if you have to keep your phone, keys, and other personal items while running or working out.
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2. Oalka Women's Running Shorts
When it comes to running, yoga, and other workout shorts, Oalka is one of the go-to brands of women.
Their workout shorts are made to provide comfort and style like the Oalka Women's Running Shorts.
Although it is not your traditional running shorts, it is one of the best choices in their collection.
Product Highlights
The Oalka Women's Running Shorts is made from lightweight and breathable materials, making it perfect for running, biking, yoga, and working out.
The moisture-wicking feature is also an amazing addition since it allows you to feel cool and fresh the whole day.
The Oalka Women's Running Shorts has a high-waist design for better tummy control and more coverage when you're stretching and bending.
It also features a four-way stretchable fabric and gusseted crotch to provide more comfort and mobility.
The shorts also have handy side pockets that are big enough to fit your mobile phone, keys, credit card, and other essentials.
What We Like
The design of the Oalka Women's Running Shorts is unique and perfect for women who don’t want to show their skin while running.
Its high-waist design is also one thing we love the most since you won't feel conscious while running or working out.
The side pockets are amazing, as well, since they are deep enough to secure your essentials.
What We Don’t Like
Breathability is a bit of an issue because it's made initially for yoga sessions, but it is still lacking when you're running on trails.
Another problem is that the Oalka Women's Running Shorts rides up when you start running.
You’ll have to pull the shorts down repeatedly, which is very inconvenient when running on trails.
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3. BALEAF Women's 3” Running Shorts
BALEAF Women's Running Shorts has a design made specifically for runners.
All of the features are tailored for different types of runners to provide the ultimate comfort and performance.
Product Highlights
The BALEAF Women's Running Shorts is one of the best trail running shorts to use since it offers comfort and performance.
The lightweight woven fabric will keep you dry the whole day even if you're running nonstop.
The built-in mesh brief can provide more support while running and prevents ride ins.
The BALEAF Women's Running Shorts also has an elastic waistband that provides a snug fit.
Add that to the elastic closure that will keep the shorts in place and prevent it from falling.
The two side pockets included are not too deep, but they can hold your keys, credit cards, and more.
What We Like
You would like the overall design of the BALEAF Women's Running Shorts since it has a split design for a better range of motion.
The reflective logo will serve as a safety feature, especially when you're running at night.
What We Don’t Like
The BALEAF Women's Running Shorts is a bit small compared to standard running shorts, so it is better to get one size up.
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4. BALEAF Women's 7” Running Shorts
The BALEAF Women's 7” Running Shorts has a versatile design.
If you're running, working out, going to the grocery store, or just chilling in your house, this short will keep you comfy and fresh all day long.
Product Highlights
The BALEAF Women's 7” Running Shorts gives you unrestricted movement with its loose fit.
It is perfect for ladies who don’t want to use too revealing shorts when working out or running.
It comes with a comfortable tummy control waistband for more support when doing workouts.
It also has a mesh brief for more breathability and support, and help prevent ride ins while you're moving.
This pair of shorts doesn’t have side pockets, but there is a single back zipper pocket where you can store your money, keys, cards, and more.
What We Like
The BALEAF Women's 7” Running Shorts is exceptionally comfortable to wear because of its loose fit on the thigh area.
Although shorter designs have better breathability, the length of these shorts offers less restriction to your movements.
What We Don’t Like
The back pocket is a good feature, but it would be better if they added side pockets for easier access.
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5. Adidas Women's 3-Stripes Woven Shorts
Adidas will always be part of the list when it comes to running shorts since they have been offering high-quality sportswear for many years.
The Adidas 3-Stripes Woven Shorts is one of their most famous options for running.
Product Highlights
The Adidas Women's 3-Stripes Woven Shorts is a slim-fit product made to help you move freely when working out or running.
The design is cut close to your body, so it is very comfortable.
There are also different colors that you can choose from, such as maroon with black stripes, black with white stripes, and blue with white stripes.
The Adidas Women's 3-Stripes Woven Shorts is perfect for trail running since the fabric is light and breathable.
It also has a climalite fabric that can remove the sweat from your skin.
Lastly, its elastic waist and drawcord let you adjust the fit depending on your waistline.
What We Like
The Adidas Women's 3-Stripes Woven Shorts is a stylish model made specifically for women who are active in sports.
If you usually run on trails or workout in the gym, you'll always stay cool and feel fresh while wearing these shorts.
What We Don’t Like
The Adidas Women's 3-Stripes Woven Shorts is on the smaller side. Thus, it would be too short if you order your exact size.
You’ll have to get one size up to make sure that it would fit perfectly.
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Buyer’s Guide
There's nothing wrong with being confused when looking for running shorts.
That is because there are hundreds of different designs and brands are available on the market.
Some designs are great for running, while others are perfect for workout routines. Lastly, some styles can work for any type of activity.
You don’t have to keep on guessing since we will list down some of the things to consider when buying trail running shorts.
1. Comfort
Most of the running shorts available in the market are very comfortable to use.
Running short or sportswear brands focus on comfort because the runners prefer trail running shorts that would give them more range of motion while keeping them cool and fresh the whole day.
If you're always concerned about comfort, you should choose a trail running short based on its fabric.
There are two primary materials used when manufacturing trail running shorts, including:
Synthetic Fibers
Synthetic fibers offer a good fit because it is very stretchable.
If you’ll check the fabric used on most running shorts, they're polyester or a combination of polyester and spandex.
Some items are made from nylon blend to provide a good fit and proper moisture management.
Natural Fiber
If you prefer natural fibers, there are running shorts made from cotton.
They offer better movement and stretch, but they don’t have moisture-wicking features.
Natural fiber running shorts are not as durable as polyester, especially when exposed to high heat.
2. Breathability
All running shorts are made with breathability in mind. It is the reason the fit is often loose, or the length is very short.
That said, never buy cheap running shorts since the materials cannot provide the breathability that you need for longer runs, especially for trail running.
You should opt for a lightweight pair with a mesh inner lining so you won’t have to wear innerwear.
It's also advisable to choose shorts with mesh inserts for more ventilation.
3. Style
We're not talking about the design of the trail running shorts, but the overall construction.
The style of the running shorts would determine the length, fit, and the leg seam.
Here are the different styles of running shorts to choose from:
Compression Shorts
These shorts offer a tight fit and snug close to your body.
These shorts are warmer and provide better muscle support.
The fabric is stretchable, so it offers amazing flexibility when you're running or working out.
The length of this style depends on your gender.
The length for men is between mid-thigh to knee-length and they usually wear this under a loose running short.
For women, they are more on the shorter side with as short as one-inch inseams.
V-Notch Shorts
These are the most popular running short styles.
Its name comes from the upside-down v-shaped cut on the outer leg seams.
These shorts provide a better range of movement for the runners.
They also have a loose fit to provide more breathability.
Split Shorts
Split shorts are quite similar with v-notch shorts, but the upside-down v-shaped cut can be found at the bottom.
This type of short is focused on performance because it provides the highest range of motion for runners.
4. Durability
Trail running shorts should be very durable because you will traverse different terrains compared with a regular marathon.
If you're wearing shorts that are easily damaged, you have to spend more money buying spares.
There are also chances of damaging your shorts multiple times in a single run.
You should invest in high-quality running shorts, especially the ones offered by established brands.
They are the best in terms of durability and can guarantee that your shorts would remain in good condition even after multiple runs.
5. Moisture Control
When it comes to running shorts, moisture control is one of the most important features to check out.
You will spend a lot of time on the trail, so if you're wearing running shorts without any moisture-wicking features, your run will be very uncomfortable, especially when you start sweating.
The sweat will stay on the fabric, which will remain wet throughout your run.
Although this is an essential feature, not all running shorts have this.
You have to choose wisely and look for moisture-wicking features when buying running shorts.
6. Pockets
Although it is not required to buy running shorts with pockets, they provide more convenience when you're running.
Instead of putting your phone and other essential items inside your bag during a trail run, you can just keep them in your pocket for easy access.
You need specific gadgets when trail running. It is better if you can access them easily without opening your backpack.
After all, GPS and mobile phones are not too big and can fit in your pocket.
Trail Running Shorts FAQs
1. How should I dress for trail running?
If you plan to run on the trails, you should wear moisture-wicking fabrics instead of cotton.
Although cotton is more comfortable than synthetics, this type of fabric takes time to dry, so it is not a good choice for long runs.
You can also dress in layers to help you manage your comfort.
You might start cold, so putting a few layers of clothes would be a good start.
You can remove them one by one once your body starts to heat up.
You can also add or remove your clothing depending on the temperature of the trail.
Focus on breathability when it comes to clothes because trail running can generate a lot of heat and sweat.
You can opt for lightweight knit fabrics or shirts with zippered necks.
2. What makes good running shorts?
Running shorts should always be lightweight and capable of wicking sweat and moisture away from your body.
Always remember that when you're trail running, you will sweat nonstop even while resting.
As such, you need a pair of running shorts that would keep you cool and dry the whole day.
The shorts should be very light. Also, avoid too thick and heavy fabrics since they can impede your movement in the trail and even cause accidents.
3. Why do runners wear short shorts?
Runners wear short shorts because of the freedom of movement that they offer.
The length is sufficient to cover your private parts. It also allows you to move comfortably since nothing is stopping your movement.
Although long shorts offer the same range of motion, short shorts offer more breathability so you will stay cool and fresh during the run.
4. What are 2 in 1 running shorts?
If you prefer a short that you can use as an inner lining, two-in-one shorts are your best choice.
These shorts are usually the compression style once since they're snug closely to your skin.
A lot of men and women prefer using this type of short since it gives them more flexibility.
They can choose to wear it as is or use it as an inner lining to provide better blood flow and muscle activation.
5. Why do women's running shorts have liners?
Liners are essential for women’s running shorts since they prevent ride ins and provide better moisture-wicking features.
With the liners, you won’t have to add innerwear while running, giving you a cooler feeling on your lower body.
They can also prevent chafing while you are running so you can put your rubbing concerns at ease.
Final Verdict
Looking for trail running shorts is not too tricky now even if you're a beginner. That is because the features are not too complicated, and you can easily understand what they do.
With that said, among the trail running shorts for men we reviewed, we love the Champion Men's Long Mesh Short most.
Aside from the logo issue, there is no significant problem with it.
As for women’s trail running shorts, the Under Armour Women's Fly By 2.0 Running Shorts is your best bet.
It provides a wide range of features that you can’t find in standard running shorts. Plus, it offers amazing comfort and breathability.