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It's never a bad time to refresh your running wardrobe. We don't need to tell you that alongside a breathable running top and light, comfortable running shoes, running shorts are an essential bit of kit year-round, whatever the weather (and particularly for those who run hot).
But while any opportunity to showcase your fabulous runner's pins should be jumped at, wearing short-shorts also increases your risk of thigh chafe. Fortunately running brands have finally seen the light, and cycling-style shorts are now available for runners looking for chafe-free comfort.
In a hurry? Here are the best women's running cycling shorts at a glance. Keep scrolling for the full list.
From the best high-waisted shorts for training runs, to what to wear on race day to combat thigh rub, keep scrolling for our pick of the best spandex and lycra shorts for women who run, available to shop now.
Also known as spandex or compression shorts, cycling-style shorts are slightly longer, form-fitting bottoms. Similar to leggings (but for those who run hot or the warmer months) they are well suited to women who run, as they minimise chafing by preventing your thighs from rubbing as you sweat.
They often come with a high-waist to keep your middle comfortable too. And if you're at all concerned about wearing tight lycra, don't be. Form-fitting spandex is surprisingly flattering and most styles now come with perfectly positioned seams to make you look (and feel) streamlined.
Confusingly, they are often still called cycling shorts (as bike fans got their first) but the shorts on our list are not padded, so they won't offer much protection if you're planning on wearing them on your bike, but they will feel great when you run.
Choosing the best running shorts is largely down to personal preference, but there are a few points worth considering before you get clicking...
• Find your fit: While cycling-style shorts are revelatory for women who run, not all bottoms are created equal. Some spandex shorts still ride up, feel too compressive, or just lack the power to stay put, so look for shorts that cater to your specific needs.
• Leg length: Like leggings, cycle-style shorts are designed to sit tight against your skin. The key is to select the right leg length – the distance between your crotch and the lowest part of your leg. Too short and you might feel like you're running in pants, too long and they risk sagging or riding up.
• Pocket power: Planning to hit the road in just shorts and a vest? Look for bottoms with enough pockets to store all your essentials. Most now come with secret compartments in the waistband, while some also have drop-pockets on the thigh.
• Middle ground: Prefer to tuck it all in or feel the breeze on your midriff? Look for low, mid or high-rise waistbands depending on what you prefer.
From Nike's brilliant running shorts to Runderwear's compressive numbers, we've rounded up our pick of the best cycling-style shorts to keep you running chafe-free and happy, whatever your distance.
These cycling-style shorts from Nike have a zipped-up feel and generous high waist, so they’re ideal if you’re looking for a bit more support around the middle. You can also cinch the waist in with the hidden drawcord, so there’s absolutely no way they’re slipping down during a race or intense speed session.
They’re also incredibly comfortable – made from recycled nylon, the material is gorgeously soft, they don’t ride up and there’s no seam at the bottom, so no circulation issues for those with muscular thighs. And there are pockets for days – the dream. However, it is worth noting that some of our testers found sweat was rather visible in the in lighter colourways.
Available in three colours: red stardust, indigo haze and black.
Animal print is a neutral, and we won't hear anything to the contrary. These snakeskin-inspired cycling shorts have a wide ribbed waistband, bum-sculpting ruching and are gloriously stretchy, clinging like a second skin. The print is arranged in a subtle panelling effect, so they incredibly flattering but with no seams to dig in and distract as you smash that PB. Zero pockets adds to the fuss-free approach, plus there's no front middle seam so no digging in around the crotch.
As a result they're unsurprisingly super comfy, plus they're reassuringly thick without being hot (yes, they passed the squat-test) and they're as at home pounding pavements as they are cross-training in the gym — we even used them for yoga. Plus they're easy to style, pairing well with plain running tops (we like this loose tank from the same brand) thanks to the funky print.
They don't have pockets, so you will need to wear a running belt if you want to carry anything. Available in grey/black, pink/brown and green.
We're the first to admit we're pretty distraught that lululemon's Base Pace shorts are no longer with us (if they make a reappearance we'll be the first to let you know). However, the one plus side is that their absence caused us to look at the brand's Align shorts a little closer — and we found a pretty brilliant pair of running shorts.
Made from super soft Nulu fabric and with a flattering high waistband, they're some of the most comfortable shorts going. As they're not designed for running there's no drawcord on the waist and they're slightly thinner than other running shorts, but we've worn them on gentle recovery runs and for everything from HIIT to yoga and have yet to find fault.
Fans of compressive wear will love these mid-rise shorts from Runderwear. They feel just the right amount of tight without being restrained, but nothing budges when you move. They also come with silicone leg grips to hold everything in place and, just like the brand's famous pants, promise zero chafing.
Available in black only, they don't have pockets, so if you want to carry anything, get yourself a running belt.
If storage is high on your agenda, these shorts come with five pockets so you can carry your phone, gels and even a water bottle on your run. They sit tight against the skin and the flattering cut feels supportive. But they are slightly compressive, so size up if you prefer a roomier fit.
When it comes to running shorts it doesn't get more seamless than this. These babies are deliciously stretchy but without feeling flimsy — you feel fully supported as you run — and while they're shorter than some of the options on this list they're long enough between the thighs to avoid chafing, allowing you to clock up the miles distraction-free.
The linear pattern adds a sculpted look we love, but it's worth noting the shorts don't have pockets, so you will need a running belt if you're taking your phone or gels with you. We wish they made other colours but the blue is beautifully striking — pair with the matching crop top for seamless style.
We don't need to tell you Nike makes excellent running gear, and these biker shorts are among their best (and most cost effective) products. They're totally opaque, have a hidden waistband pocket and a zipped pocket for your phone, plus a thick waistband with a drawcord to minimise movement as you clock up the miles.
These cycling-style shorts from On are a dream to wear. Packed with features (we couldn’t find enough essentials to fill all the pockets), with a supportive fit, flattering panels, great flex to the material thanks to a high elastane content and a reflective logo for visibility.
They stayed firmly put even with a running top tucked in and they’re super lightweight so ideal for speed sessions. Available in light blue and black.
Plagued by chafing? These moisture-wicking shorts have a compressed feel so they won't budge when you move, while the fitted silhouette design looks super flattering too. We particularly like the hip pockets and handy storage tunnel.
These are shorter versions of Sweaty Betty's popular Power Leggings, so they come with 'bum sculpting technology' which is just as good as it sounds! They are available in 6 or 9-inch leg lengths, come with a super high, comfortable waistband and plenty of pockets.
You can choose from a range of designs – we're big fans of classic black, but the grey dapple and blue leopard print are worthy of mention.
Look chic on race day and protect the planet in the process with these sleek and stylish shorts from BAM. The brand specialise in activewear made using bamboo viscose, which requires half the amount of land to produce as cotton, but still wicks sweat effectively and feels gloriously soft, too.
The more natural composition does mean there's less flex to the fabric so they can feel a little tight to put on (big-bottomed ladies be aware), but once they're on they do not budge and look fantastic. Thanks to well-placed panels, simple side seams and a thick waistband, they're also super flattering and comfortable.
Also available in blue print.
Another premium pair of shorts from Sweaty Betty, these are our go-to kit if we're feeling wobbly around the middle and need some extra support. The super compressed, bonded waistband makes everything look and feel gloriously streamlined and nothing budges. Plus the forest green shade is bang on trend too.
We love these cycling-style shorts from SEFI thanks to their almost seamless construction – there’s only one on the inside of each leg, and crucially no seam down the middle so no uncomfortable crotch bunching (if you know, you know). They’re comfortable, flattering, super stretchy and longer than a lot of the shorts on this list so great if you prefer more coverage.
The high, wide waistband is ribbed so is supportive while not being restrictive, and they’re not just limited to your workout wardrobe – these also look great peeking out from under an oversized graphic tee. Also available in 5-inch length. These don’t have pockets, so grab yourself a running belt if you want to carry your phone or gels.
Available in black or dusty brown.
These cycling shorts from East London brand LNDR have a more compressive fit than some of the other shorts we tested, so are ideal for high-intensity runs and workouts. They’re super soft, with a comfortable and very wide waistband, and thanks to a clever stitch tension trim don’t dig in at the hem, so you avoid the dreaded thigh bulge.
Pockets on each side house a phone, gels and keys, they do not budge when running and they’re incredibly flattering to boot.
Choose from black, navy or marine. Also available in 6-inch length.
These mid-waisted cycling shorts from Pour Moi are surprisingly comfortable for the price, and come with a thick waistband, flattering colour block paneling and just the right leg length to minimise chafe.
There is a small zipped pocket at the back, but you will need to wear a running belt if you're carrying a smartphone. Available in black, pink and khaki or if you want side pockets, choose from monochrome or leopard and lime.
Looking for flattering, fashionable and comfy cycling-style shorts? Your hunt is over! It will come as no surprise that Stella McCartney's latest adidas range is seriously slick, and we love these high-waisted shorts made using recovered ocean-bound plastic. And best of all, they include bold contrast stripes and a reflective logo to keep you seen and stylish after dark.
Sometimes you just want a no-frills, do-the-job pair of cycling-style shorts. And in that regard this pair from Gymshark delivers. Yes, they are pocketless but that’s to the benefit of their super comfortable, form-flattering fit and gloriously stretchy construction – leaving you free to move as you please.
No seams = no chafing, the nylon/elastane blend fabric is sweat-wicking, while dotted panels of marl mesh keep you cool. They’re on the shorter side at 5 inches, and double up as great cross-training shorts in warmer weather. However, they don't have pockets, so pick up a running belt if you want to carry anything.
Available in eight colours, including black.
Do you switch your running up with yoga, cycling and the gym? These bike shorts from eco-conscious US brand Girlfriend Collective are a great all-rounder. They're supportive without being too tight, made from recycled materials and will suit a range of high and low-impact exercise routines.
They don't have pockets, so you will need to wear a running belt if you want to carry anything. Available in black, or limited sizes are still left (and on sale!) in orange or blue ribbed.
This stylish and sustainably made pair of cycling-style shorts from Irish athleisure brand Gym+Coffee are super comfy to wear, the fabric feels soft on the skin and chafe-free even after multiple washes and we love how versatile they are.
There is a small hidden pocket in the waistband, but you will need to wear a running belt if you're carrying a smartphone. Also available in orbit (dark grey) and 5 inch length.
If you're not a fan of compressive wear but you want running shorts that won't budge, these super-light four-way stretch shorts will be just the ticket. They're made from a close-knit fabric that feels supportive without being too restrictive, and the panelling provides a flattering fit.
Available in blue and black.
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