Ever feel like your gym shorts are holding you back instead of helping you power through your workout? You’re not alone! Finding the perfect pair of women’s gym shorts can feel like a mission. Too tight, too loose, or just not breathable enough – we’ve all been there, wishing for shorts that move with us, not against us.
This frustration is exactly why we’re diving deep into the world of women’s gym shorts. We know you want comfort, style, and performance. You need shorts that let you focus on your reps and reach your fitness goals, not on adjusting your bottoms. Get ready to discover what makes a great gym short and how to pick the ones that will become your new workout best friends.
By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll break down the key features and give you the confidence to choose shorts that feel amazing and help you perform your best, no matter what exercise you’re tackling next.
Our Top 5 Womens Gym Shorts Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Womens Gym Shorts Detailed Reviews
1. Mancreda Women’s Running Shorts with Liner 3 Zipper Pockets Elastic Workout Athletic Gym Yoga Shorts(PK
Rating: 8.6/10
The Mancreda Women’s Running Shorts in a vibrant pink are a fantastic choice for anyone who loves to stay active. Whether you’re hitting the gym, practicing yoga, or going for a run, these shorts offer comfort and functionality. They are designed with a double-layer system to keep you supported and covered while allowing for a full range of motion. Plus, the built-in pockets are perfect for carrying your essentials.
What We Like:
- The breathable and quick-drying fabric keeps you comfortable during workouts.
- The spandex blend provides great flexibility and support for all your movements.
- Three invisible zipper pockets securely hold your phone, keys, and cards, freeing your hands.
- The double-layer design offers good coverage and a flattering fit with its curved outer layer.
- These shorts are super versatile and work well for running, yoga, hiking, and even casual wear.
What Could Be Improved:
- The invisible zippers require two hands to open and close, which might be a slight inconvenience for some.
These Mancreda running shorts are a stylish and practical addition to any active wardrobe. They offer a great combination of comfort, support, and convenience for all your fitness adventures.
2. Ksmien Women’s 5″ Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Workout Gym Shorts with Zipper Pockets UPF 50+ Black
Rating: 9.0/10
Looking for shorts that keep up with your active lifestyle? The Ksmien Women’s 5″ Athletic Running Shorts are designed for comfort and performance. Made with a special fabric that dries quickly and feels light, these shorts are perfect for your workouts or just hanging out. They have handy pockets with zippers to keep your essentials safe and a comfy waistband that fits just right. Plus, the split-leg design lets you move freely!
What We Like:
- The fabric is super soft, breathable, and dries fast, so you stay comfortable.
- Two zipper pockets are big enough for your phone and other small items.
- The wide elastic waistband with a drawstring means they fit many body types well and feel secure.
- The split-leg design and side vents allow for a great range of motion, perfect for running or sports.
- They offer UPF 50+ protection, which is great for sunny days.
- These shorts are versatile and work for running, hiking, lounging, or casual wear.
What Could Be Improved:
- The shorts are unlined, meaning you’ll need to wear separate underwear.
These Ksmien shorts are a solid choice for anyone who needs comfortable, functional shorts for various activities. They offer a good mix of style and practicality for your everyday adventures.
3. AUROLA Intensify Workout Shorts for Women Seamless Scrunch Short Gym Yoga Running Sport Active Exercise Fitness Shorts
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready to crush your workouts with the AUROLA Intensify Workout Shorts! These black, size medium shorts are designed for comfort and performance. They’re perfect for yoga, running, or any gym activity. You’ll love how they feel and how they help you move.
What We Like:
- These shorts are designed to be less intrusive during workouts, giving you more freedom to move.
- The diamond gusseted crotch allows for a wider range of motion.
- Flatlock seams help prevent chafing and irritation.
- The high waistband stays put and offers tummy control, so you won’t have to adjust them.
- They are made from a super soft, skin-friendly material that wicks away sweat and stretches in four directions.
- The fabric blend feels natural and is great for wearing every day, not just at the gym.
- The shorts are thick enough to avoid being see-through, giving you confidence.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “slightly reveals the ankle” description might not be what everyone is looking for in a short.
- While the material is praised for its natural feel, some users might prefer a slightly different fabric blend for intense, high-sweat activities.
These AUROLA Intensify Workout Shorts offer a great combination of comfort and function. They are a solid choice for anyone looking for reliable activewear.
4. Yevrimow Women’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts for Gym Yoga Workout Athletic Shorts High-Waisted Shorts with Liner Pockets Black-M
Rating: 9.5/10
Looking for shorts that can keep up with your active lifestyle? The Yevrimow Women’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts are a fantastic option for anyone who loves to move. These shorts are designed to be your go-to for everything from intense gym sessions to relaxing yoga classes, and even just running errands.
What We Like:
- 2-in-1 Design: The shorts have a cool double-layer setup. The inner layer gives you support and coverage, letting you move freely. The outer layer has side slits that help you move even more and keep you cool.
- Great Material: They are made from good quality fabric that dries fast and wicks away sweat. This means you’ll stay dry and comfortable during any workout.
- Lightweight and Comfortable: The soft material feels great and pulls sweat away from your skin. The stretchy waistband with a drawstring fits just right, making them perfect for running, working out, or just lounging.
- Versatile for Many Activities: You can wear these shorts for almost anything! They’re great for running, gym workouts, hiking, yoga, dancing, swimming, and even just for everyday wear.
- Convenient Liner Pocket: The built-in liner has a pocket on the right side. It’s perfect for safely holding your phone or keys so they don’t fall out while you’re moving.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description doesn’t mention specific care instructions for the material.
- While the pocket is described as convenient, its exact size isn’t specified, which might be a concern for larger phones.
These Yevrimow shorts offer a great combination of comfort, support, and practicality. They are a solid choice for anyone needing reliable athletic wear.
5. 5 Pack: Womens Workout Gym Shorts Casual Lounge Set
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your activewear with this amazing 5-pack of women’s workout shorts! These shorts are super soft and comfy, perfect for hitting the gym or just relaxing at home. They’re also really stylish and a great addition to your summer clothes.
What We Like:
- TRENDY 5-PACK PERFECTION: Get five pairs of trendy, soft, and comfy shorts for your athleisure collection.
- MOISTURE-WICKING PERFORMANCE FABRIC: The breathable, quick-drying material keeps you cool and dry during any workout.
- SECURE ZIPPER POCKETS: Deep mesh pockets with zippers safely hold your phone, keys, and other small items.
- LOUNGE IN LUXURY: Enjoy a relaxed fit with a 5-inch inseam and an elastic waistband with a drawstring for a perfect, comfortable fit.
- ATHLETIC SHORTS FOR EVERY ADVENTURE: These versatile shorts are great for yoga, running, errands, and everyday wear.
What Could Be Improved:
- The specific color options in “Set 1” might not appeal to everyone.
- While described as “casual lounge,” the 5-inch inseam might be a bit short for some individuals seeking more coverage for lounging.
These shorts offer a fantastic mix of comfort, style, and practicality for any active woman. They are a great value for a 5-pack and are perfect for both workouts and casual wear.
Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Women’s Gym Shorts
Getting the right gym shorts makes a big difference in your workout. You want shorts that feel good, let you move freely, and last a long time. This guide will help you pick the best ones for your fitness journey.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for gym shorts, keep these important things in mind:
Comfortable Fit
Good gym shorts fit well. They shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. You need to be able to stretch and bend without feeling restricted. Look for shorts with an elastic waistband that stays put. Some shorts have drawstrings for an even better fit.
Breathability
You sweat when you exercise. Breathable shorts let air flow through. This helps keep you cool and dry. It also stops that sticky feeling you get from sweaty clothes. Fabrics that are light and airy are best for breathability.
Durability
You want gym shorts that can handle lots of washes and workouts. Strong stitching and good quality fabric mean your shorts will last longer. Check the seams to make sure they are well-made.
Style and Length
Gym shorts come in many styles and lengths. Some are short and flirty, while others are longer and more modest. Think about what makes you feel confident and comfortable. The length can also affect how much freedom of movement you have.
Important Materials
The material of your gym shorts is super important. It affects how they feel and perform.
Polyester
Polyester is a strong and durable fabric. It resists wrinkles and holds its shape well. It also dries quickly, which is great for workouts. Many gym shorts are made from polyester or a mix with other fabrics.
Spandex (Elastane/Lycra)
Spandex adds stretch to fabric. This is what makes gym shorts feel flexible and allows you to move easily. Even a small amount of spandex makes a big difference in how comfortable shorts are for exercise.
Nylon
Nylon is another strong and stretchy material. It’s also very smooth and lightweight. Shorts made with nylon often feel silky against your skin. It’s good at wicking away moisture too.
Cotton
While comfy for everyday wear, cotton isn’t always the best for intense workouts. It absorbs a lot of sweat and stays wet, which can make you feel heavy and cold. However, cotton blends can offer some breathability.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things can make your gym shorts amazing or not so great.
Stitching Quality
Higher quality shorts have strong, neat stitching. This prevents seams from coming apart after a few wears. Look for double stitching in high-stress areas. Poor stitching means your shorts might not last long.
Moisture-Wicking Properties
Good gym shorts pull sweat away from your skin. This keeps you dry and comfortable. Fabrics like polyester and nylon are often treated to improve this. If shorts don’t wick sweat, they can feel damp and uncomfortable.
Design and Features
Extra features like hidden pockets for keys or phones can be very useful. Flatlock seams (seams that lie flat) prevent chafing. Shorts that are too baggy or have poorly placed seams can be annoying during workouts.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you feel and what you do in your gym shorts matters.
For Running
When running, you need shorts that are lightweight and allow full leg movement. Breathability is key to stay cool. Look for longer inseams if you prefer more coverage.
For Yoga and Pilates
For activities like yoga, flexibility is most important. Shorts made with lots of spandex offer the best stretch. A comfortable waistband that doesn’t dig in is also a must.
For Weightlifting and HIIT
These workouts involve a lot of different movements, from squats to jumps. You need shorts that are durable and won’t ride up. A secure fit is essential so you can focus on your exercise.
Choosing the right gym shorts is about finding what works best for your body and your workouts. Consider these features and materials, and you’ll be on your way to finding your new favorite pair!
Frequently Asked Questions about Women’s Gym Shorts
Q: What is the best material for gym shorts?
A: Polyester and spandex blends are often the best. They are breathable, stretchy, and durable, which is great for workouts.
Q: Should gym shorts be tight or loose?
A: They should fit comfortably. Not too tight that they restrict movement, and not too loose that they get in the way. A snug but flexible fit is ideal.
Q: How do I know if gym shorts are good quality?
A: Look for strong, neat stitching and fabrics that feel smooth and durable. Moisture-wicking properties are also a sign of good quality.
Q: Can I wear cotton gym shorts?
A: Cotton is comfortable, but it absorbs sweat and stays wet. It’s better for very light activity or casual wear. For intense workouts, synthetic fabrics are usually better.
Q: What does “moisture-wicking” mean?
A: Moisture-wicking fabric pulls sweat away from your skin to the outside of the fabric, where it can dry faster. This helps you stay dry and comfortable.
Q: How long should my gym shorts be?
A: This is a personal choice. Shorter shorts offer more freedom for some activities, while longer shorts provide more coverage and can prevent chafing.
Q: Are pockets important in gym shorts?
A: Pockets can be very useful for carrying small items like keys or a phone. It depends on your needs during your workout.
Q: How do I wash my gym shorts?
A: Always check the care label. Usually, washing in cold water with similar colors and tumble drying on low heat is recommended.
Q: What is an “inseam”?
A: The inseam is the length of the shorts from the crotch seam to the bottom hem. It helps determine how long the shorts are.
Q: Can I wear gym shorts for activities other than the gym?
A: Yes! Many people wear gym shorts for running, hiking, or just lounging at home because they are comfortable and practical.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.