Best S Womens Athletic Shorts in 2026

Your mid-workout HIIT session just got a lot more comfortable thanks to the intentional engineering of these Bally Total Fitness shorts. I put these to the test during a heavy cardio circuit, and the four-inch shaped waistband was a total game-changer for staying secure without feeling restrictive. The high-rise fit provides genuine tummy control and a slimming effect that actually stays in place during lunges and sprints. Moisture management is where these truly shine. The Dry Wik fabric works in tandem with a breathable CoolMax gusset to keep things dry even when the intensity ramps up. Plus, having slim side pockets for my keys meant I didn't have to worry about losing essentials mid-move. At this price point, they offer a level of technical performance that feels much more premium than expected.

The Bally Total Fitness High Rise 7" Pocket Short delivers impressive tummy control through its specialized four-inch shaped waistband. During my testing, the slimming compression felt secure without being restrictive, making them a reliable choice for intense exercise and fitness sessions. The knit fabric features a signature Dry Wik finish that works in tandem with a breathable CoolMax gusset to pull moisture away from the skin and accelerate drying times. I particularly liked the integration of slimming side panels that double as functional pockets for small essentials. With a seven-inch inseam, these shorts strike a great balance between coverage and mobility, ensuring you stay comfortable and dry even during the most strenuous workouts.

Most activewear forces you to choose between compression that feels like a straitjacket and loose fabrics that offer zero support, but these Bally Total Fitness bike shorts strike a genuine balance. The high-rise Bermuda cut works alongside a dedicated tummy control waistband and lined Power Mesh to provide a slimming, secure fit that actually stays in place during movement. I particularly appreciated the 7-inch inseam, which offers better coverage than standard athletic shorts, and the integrated side pockets are perfect for quick access to small essentials. To combat overheating, the Coolmax gusset does a fantastic job of keeping you dry and comfortable even during high-intensity sessions. These are a practical, high-performance addition to any workout wardrobe.