Best New Balance Womens Running Shorts in 2026

BALEAF Women's Biker Shorts deliver a masterclass in functional storage through their remarkably deep thigh pockets. During my testing, the 8-inch inseam provided the perfect amount of coverage without feeling restrictive, making them ideal for everything from high-intensity tennis matches to casual daily wear. The 4-way stretch fabric feels incredibly secure thanks to the moderate compression, while the wide elastic waistband does a fantastic job of providing tummy control without sliding down during yoga poses. I was particularly impressed by the gusseted crotch and flat lock seams, which effectively eliminate the chafing often found in cheaper athletic gear. Whether you are running or cycling, the moisture-wicking material keeps you comfortable and dry throughout your entire workout.

BALEAF Women's 7" Running Shorts offer the perfect balance of coverage and mobility thanks to their thoughtful long inseam design. I found the 3.1" knit waistband and adjustable drawstring to be incredibly comfortable, staying secure without digging in during intense workouts. Because these are unlined with a split-leg cut, you get a level of unrestricted movement that many tight athletic shorts lack. The lightweight, quick-dry woven fabric is a lifesaver for preventing thigh chafing during long runs or hikes. Plus, the storage is surprisingly practical. The back zipper pocket easily secures a 6.7" phone, while the two side pockets handle the rest of your essentials. If you prefer a roomier feel for yoga or lounging, I recommend sizing up.

THE GYM PEOPLE high waisted running shorts deliver a highly functional blend of coverage and utility that makes them a standout choice for intense training sessions. The double-layered construction is a game changer. The lightweight inner liner provides peace of mind, while the outer layer features side slits that allow for an unrestricted range of motion during sprints or squats. I was particularly impressed by the storage options, which include a hidden waistband pocket and a secure zippered back pocket for keeping keys or cards safe. The wide elastic waistband offers reliable tummy control, ensuring the shorts stay put through every movement. Combined with the moisture-wicking, four-way-stretch fabric, these shorts remain comfortable and dry even during the most grueling summer workouts.

High-intensity interval trainers and distance runners demand gear that stays put and breathes, and these Soothfeel shorts deliver exactly that. The 3-inch inseam combined with stylish side splits provides total freedom of movement, ensuring you never feel restricted during deep squats or sprints. I particularly appreciate the built-in mesh brief, which offers reliable coverage and extra breathability when things get sweaty. The moisture-wicking fabric keeps you feeling dry, while the secure back zipper pocket is a game-changer for stowing keys or a card without any bouncing. Even during vigorous CrossFit sessions, the soft, flat elastic waistband remains stable and comfortable. These are a reliable staple for anyone needing lightweight, functional athletic wear that balances style with serious performance.

Can your workout gear actually transform your silhouette while keeping up with a marathon pace? The OQQ three-piece set is a serious contender for anyone looking to bridge the gap between high-performance gym wear and flattering daily aesthetics. I was particularly impressed by the crescent shading and ruched booty builder, which work together to create a natural peach-shaped lift. The high-waist elastic band sits comfortably over the navel for effective tummy control without digging in, while the four-way stretch fabric feels incredibly soft against the skin. Thanks to the gusseted crotch and flatlock seams, you get maximum freedom of movement without the irritation of chafing. Whether you are hitting the gym for badminton or just running errands, the moisture-wicking nylon blend ensures you stay dry and confident.

Most activewear leaves you fumbling with loose items or dealing with uncomfortable chafing, but these Libin athletic shorts solve those distractions immediately. The five-inch cut is ideal for high-intensity movement, especially since the built-in mesh briefs provide reliable support while minimizing friction. I was particularly impressed by the storage layout. Having two side zipper pockets for a phone and a dedicated back zip for keys means you can actually leave your gym bag in the locker. The knit waistband and internal drawcord offer a customizable, secure fit that stays put during sprints. Combined with the lightweight, sweat-wicking fabric, these shorts keep you feeling dry and cool whether you are hitting a heavy lifting session or just lounging at home.

Sweat-drenched HIIT sessions or long summer walks become significantly more manageable when your gear actually breathes. These Real Essentials mesh shorts are built specifically for high-output movement, utilizing quick-dry technology and a highly breathable construction that pulls moisture away from your skin instantly. I found the 4-inch inseam provides a great balance of coverage and mobility, whether you are hitting a yoga flow or just lounging on vacation. The elastic waistband features an internal adjustable drawstring, allowing you to dial in a custom fit that stays secure during intense running or basketball drills. Because the brand actively fine-tunes their designs based on user feedback, the quality and fit feel intentional rather than mass-produced, making them a reliable staple for any active wardrobe.

The RBX Active Women's Running Shorts solve the dreaded wardrobe malfunction problem with a built-in compression bike short that offers total peace of mind. During my testing, the stretch woven fabric felt incredibly lightweight and did a fantastic job of managing moisture, keeping me dry even during high-intensity intervals. I really appreciated the 4-5 inch inner inseam, which provides just enough coverage to allow for a full range of motion without feeling restrictive. The flat elastic waistband sits securely against the skin, ensuring the shorts stay in place whether I'm sprinting on a trail or swinging a club on the golf course. These are versatile enough to transition from a heavy gym session to casual travel wear without missing a beat.

Mid-morning yoga sessions just got a lot more comfortable thanks to the buttery-soft feel of these BMJL athletic shorts. The 95% rayon and 5% spandex blend creates a smooth, breathable fabric that moves with you rather than against you. I particularly appreciated the thoughtful inner layer design, which provides much-needed coverage and elastic support during more intense training movements. Instead of fumbling with a waistband or a gym bag, I could easily slide my phone into the deep side pockets and head straight into my workout. Whether you are hitting a heavy lifting session or just lounging at home, the high-waisted elastic band stays secure without digging in, making them a versatile staple for any active wardrobe.

Most people assume that high-performance athletic gear requires a massive investment, but these shorts prove that effective moisture management can be incredibly affordable. I found that the NB DRY technology actually lives up to the hype, pulling sweat away from the skin so you aren't sitting in damp fabric mid-workout. The 2.5-inch inseam offers a much higher range of motion than standard gym shorts, which is essential for anything involving lunges or sprints. Because they feature a performance woven fabric with a hint of stretch, they skim the hips and thighs without feeling restrictive or overly tight. The mid-rise waist sits perfectly just below the natural waistline, providing a secure fit that stays put while you move through your routine.

Most athletes settle for restrictive gear that chafes mid-run, but these Stelle athletic shorts prioritize unrestricted movement from the jump. The blend of polyester and spandex offers just the right amount of stretch for high-intensity sessions, while the quick-dry fabric ensures you stay cool when the sweat starts to kick in. I was particularly impressed by the integrated mesh liner. It provides breathable protection that eliminates the need for extra layers. Whether you are hitting a trail for a hike or flowing through a yoga session, the deep side pockets keep your phone and keys secure so you can focus on your form. With side splits and a high-waisted fit, these shorts truly feel designed for a full range of motion.

The sensation of the lightweight, quick-dry woven outer layer hitting your skin is an immediate relief during intense cardio sessions. These ODODOS 2-in-1 shorts solve the common problem of chafing by pairing a breathable 3-inch outer shell with a supportive 4.5-inch inner liner. I found the 4-way stretch material provides excellent coverage without feeling restrictive, while the side split design allows for a much wider range of motion during deep squats or lunges. The high-waisted fit stays remarkably secure thanks to the combination of an elastic waistband and an adjustable drawstring, so you aren't constantly tugging them up mid-run. Plus, having two dedicated pockets on the liner to stash your keys or phone makes these a seamless choice for hiking or gym workouts.

The Libin Women's 7" Athletic Running Long Shorts are a masterclass in functional design, specifically because of their incredibly secure three-zipper pocket system. While most workout shorts leave your phone bouncing in your hand, these feature two side zipper pockets and a dedicated rear zipper pocket for keys or cards, keeping everything locked down during high-intensity movement. The three-inch wide knit waistband feels soft against the skin, and the internal drawstring allows for a truly customized, low-friction fit. I found the built-in mesh briefs to be a game-changer for minimizing chafing, while the lightweight, quick-dry fabric ensures you stay cool even during long gym sessions or outdoor jogs. Whether you are hitting the yoga mat or just lounging, these shorts balance technical performance with everyday comfort perfectly.

The lightweight, smooth texture of the built-in liner is the first thing you'll notice when pulling these Aurefin shorts on. Unlike standard activewear that can cause irritating friction during high-intensity cardio, the nylon and spandex blend feels incredibly soft against the skin. I found the 2.5-inch cut provides just the right amount of freedom for yoga or sprinting without feeling exposed. A standout practical detail is the secure side zipper pocket, which keeps a phone or card tucked safely away while you're jogging or hiking. Whether you are hitting the gym or playing a match of tennis, the 100% polyester outer shell handles sweat well, though you should stick to hanging them up to dry to maintain that quick-dry performance.

High-intensity interval training requires gear that stays out of your way, and these New Balance Accelerate shorts are built specifically for that level of movement. The 5-inch inseam provides just enough coverage without feeling restrictive, while the athletic fit skims the hips and thighs for a streamlined silhouette that isn't uncomfortably tight. I found the NB DRY technology to be a genuine lifesaver during sweaty sessions, as it effectively pulls moisture away from the skin to keep you dry. Because the fabric is a performance woven material with a hint of stretch, you get a perfect balance of structure and flexibility. The mid-rise waist sits comfortably just below the natural waistline, ensuring they stay secure whether you are sprinting or stretching.

BALEAF Women's 2-in-1 Running Shorts solve the awkwardness of traditional athletic wear by combining a supportive spandex liner with a breezy outer layer. During my testing, the side split design proved to be a total game-changer for mobility, preventing that restrictive feeling during high-intensity sprints or yoga flows. The high-waisted fit stays secure without digging in, while the quick-drying fabric effectively manages sweat so you aren't left feeling sticky mid-workout. I especially appreciated the two integrated side pockets on the inner liner. They hold a phone and keys snugly against the leg, which keeps everything from bouncing around while you run. Whether you are hitting the gym or just walking on a summer afternoon, these shorts offer a seamless blend of style and utility.