Best Workout Shorts for Women (2024): 4 Fitness Pros Rate 14 Pairs of Shorts

Our jobs here at Garage Gym Reviews are amusing. Sometimes, we’re frustrated at the fact that we’ve had to drill 27 holes into our living room walls to test smart home gym equipment, or that we’ve been tripping over packages of resistance bands for two weeks. 

But other times, we get the immense pleasure of receiving a bunch of new workout clothes to thoroughly test and judge. This guide stems from one of those fun times—I present: A full-fledged guide to the very best workout shorts for women. 

For this guide, the ladies on our product testing team took nearly three dozen pairs of shorts through various types of workouts, from CrossFit WODs to long runs to Olympic weightlifting sessions. Additionally, we considered our previous experiences with the bazillion pairs of shorts we’ve worn throughout our training years. Each pair of shorts we tested was given a score between 1 and 5 in categories such as:

• Fit and compression
• Appearance and design
• Workout performance
• Pockets and extras
• Overall value

The Best Workout Shorts for Women

• Best Workout Shorts for Women Overall: FLEO Signature Shorts True High Contour
• Best Women’s Workout Shorts for CrossFit: NOBULL High-Rise Sleek Short 4”
• Best Booty Shorts: Savage Barbell Classic Booty Shorts
• Best Mid-Rise Workout Shorts for Women: Nike Attack Short
• Best Running Shorts for Women: Brooks Chaser 5”
• Best Lined Workout Shorts for Women: lululemon Hotty Hot Short
• Best Bike Shorts: Athleta Transcend 7” Bike Short
• Best Yoga Shorts for Women: lululemon Align HR 8” Short
• Best High-Waisted Workouts Shorts for Women: Born Primitive New Heights Booty Shorts
• Best Form-Fitting Workout Shorts for Women: Alphalete Amplify Short
• Best Workouts Shorts for Women with Pockets: Athleta Salutation Stash Short
• Best Shorts for Outdoor Workouts: Senita Athletics Baseline 5” Short
• Best Budget Workout Shorts for Women: BMJL Women’s Running Shorts
• Best Plus Size Workout Shorts for Women: Girlfriend Collective FLOAT Ultralight Run Short

Best Workout Shorts for Women Overall: FLEO Signature Shorts True High Contour

Good for: Everything. Literally everything 

Best Overall

FLEO Signature Shorts True High Contour

GGR Score: 3.63

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Product Highlights

• Available in 44 colors/prints
• 4” inseam and 4” flat waistband
• True high-rise design
• No elastic in the waistband
• 4 fabric types available: Bounce, Monarch, Ninja, and Romey

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Great variety of color and patterns
• Soft and comfortable material options
• No elastic in waistband
• Squat-proof

Cons

• Popular styles sell out of sizes quickly
• May ride up on legs

Bottom Line

Fleo’s True High Rise Contour shorts are a solid choice for anyone seeking a high-rise, comfortable short that provides a lot of coverage.

When I first slipped my new pair of FLEO True High Contour shorts on, I immediately sent a Slack to the other testers on our team and said: “I tried these on and audibly gasped.” Seriously! Here’s a screenshot.

You’ll notice I complain about the price in the above conversation. It’s true that I’m a cheap-O. Some wouldn’t consider $40 to $50 expensive for a pair of shorts, but I wear Target workout shorts and shop at TJ Maxx for the nicer stuff. However, after wearing these FLEOs for dozens of workouts (swear, I prematurely do laundry just so I can wear them again), I can say they are absolutely worth the price. 

FLEO’s “Bounce” fabric is ultra-soft and stretchy, and the high-rise waist and 4-inch inseam provide full coverage with more-than-adequate range of motion. I gave them 5 out of 5 stars for appearance because they come in a variety of fun colors and prints.

However, I also rated them 3 out of 5 stars for durability. I don’t see them holding up well if they get snagged on something. Also, they’re not the best at wicking sweat, but they’re not the worst, either. I didn’t notice any sweat spots, but I ordered a dark color. A lighter color may show sweat more easily.

Best Women’s Workout Shorts for CrossFit: NOBULL High-Rise Sleek Short 4″

Good for: Exercisers looking for a CrossFit short with squat-proofness and sweat-wicking properties 

Best for CrossFit

NOBULL High-Rise Sleek Short 4”

GGR Score: 4.25

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Product Highlights

• High-rise workout shorts with a flexible construction
• 4” inseam
• Back waist pocket for storing your phone
• Moisture-wicking properties
• Reflective NOBULL branding for visibility

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Moisture wicking
• Back waist pocket
• Reflective branding for visibility
• Lightweight and flexible

Cons

• Limited colorways
• Pricier pair of shorts

Bottom Line

The NOBULL High-Rise Sleek Short has a 4-inch inseam, which typically lands at the upper thigh. With a high-rise waist that hugs your mid-section, these lightweight shorts are great to feel secure while performing versatile exercises. These workout shorts also have a flexible construction with moisture-wicking properties, sure to help you feel comfortable during your training session.

If you’re looking to CrossFit, one of the places you’ll have to consider for your workout shorts is NOBULL. Certified personal trainer and senior staff writer Lauren Strong tried out the NOBULL High-Rise Sleek Shorts and likes how they look and feel.

In Lauren’s words, they are “Basic compression shorts with a high waist and 4-inch inseam, which makes these pretty appropriate for all ages and body types.” She adds, “I know a lot of women don’t like super short booty shorts or long biker shorts, so this is something smack dab in the middle.” She gives the shorts a 4.5 out of 5 for their appearance.

Lauren took these shorts through strength training workouts and daily walks, and she never had to adjust the shorts during her sessions. “I ordered my usual size and they fit perfectly,” she adds.

This could be a dealbreaker, but the shorts have no pockets…literally zero. Plus, the shorts are $58, which is pricey for shorts. But Lauren insists it’s worth it, saying, “I think it’s worth it to have one or two of these in rotation if you want a high-quality workout short that doesn’t require tons of adjustments.”

Best Booty Shorts: Savage Barbell Classic Booty Shorts

Good for: Exercisers who want a durable fabric with minimal coverage and maximum range of motion

Best Booty Shorts

Savage Barbell Classic Booty Shorts

GGR Score: 3.97

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Product Highlights

• 2.5” inseam
• 3” double-lined waistband
• Soft blend of nylon and spandex providing a 4-way stretch
• Squat-proof
• Multiple color and pattern options

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Soft and stretchy
• Squat-proof
• Versatile
• Wide range of colors/patterns

Cons

• Lower rise, so if you prefer high-rise, these may not be for you

Bottom Line

Savage Barbell’s Classic Booty Shorts deliver a comfortable fit at an affordable price.

These are your “typical” CrossFit-style booty shorts, says Kate Meier, GGR Senior Director of Content and the team member who tested this product. Actually, Kate’s had some pairs of Savage Barbell Classic Booty Shorts for five years that she can still wear, although the logo has peeled off in some places. 

“I’m not sure they’re even meant to last for five years, though?” Kate ponders. Either way, it’s a sign of durability!

With a low-rise waistband and very short 2.5-inch inseam, for many women, these shorts will lack coverage—they’re really intended specifically for those who want less coverage to prioritize range of motion while still covering all of the important bits. We rated them 3 out of 5 stars for fit and rise since we know the limited coverage isn’t something everyone will like.

The fabric is on the thinner side, but the oval crotch gusset helps with comfort and confidence. I love that these are available in so many colorways and fun patterns, so they get 4 out of 5 stars for appearance.

Best Mid-Rise Workout Shorts for Women: Nike Attack Short

Good for: Anyone who wants a mid-rise short available in several color options

Best Mid-Rise Shorts

Nike Attack Mid-Rise Short

GGR Score: 4.27

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Product Highlights

• Mid-rise unlined shorts with a loose fit
• 5” inseam
• Sweat-wicking fabric with hem vents at the sides
• 100% polyester

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Variety of sizes
• Sweat-wicking fabric
• Side pockets for quick storage

Cons

• Some customers say pockets are too shallow
• Unlined

Bottom Line

The Nike Attack Mid-Rise Shorts are made with 100% polyester. The shorts are breathable with hem vents on either side, as well as sweat-wicking fabric. These shorts also come in a variety of sizes and colors, certain to accommodate a variety of people.

With a comfortable fit and a low price, the Nike Attack Short is a solid pick for people who prefer a mid-rise short. Lauren Strong, CPT and GGR senior staff writer, tried out the Nike shorts, and thought the value was high.

“Honestly, it’s a pretty good price for a basic short from Nike,” Lauren says. “I don’t think anyone is going to be obsessed with these shorts, but I could see them being a normal part of my summer rotation. Plus, they don’t cost an arm or leg.”

The shorts are simple. “Boxy, basic, and athletic is how I’d describe these,” Lauren adds, giving the appearance a 4 out of 5. They perform well enough, with the exception being the pockets, which Lauren rates a 3 out of 5. “My phone was dangling out as I walked to the gym. No zippers either,” she explains.

With a longer 5-inch inseam and no compression liner, these shorts may not be for everyone. But at a $30 price, it’s hard to look past these shorts.

Best Running Shorts for Women: Brooks Chaser 5″

Good for: People who want a high-waisted short with a loose leg opening

Best Running Shorts

Brooks Chaser 5” Short

GGR Score: 3.55

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Product Highlights

• Lightweight running shorts
• Adjustable waistband
• Phone-ready back pocket, no-bounce pockets, and a bungee loop
• Sweat-wicking material
• Available in 7 colors

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Pockets and bungee loop for storage
• Variety of colorways
• Sweat-wicking material

Cons

• Pricier pair of shorts
• Some customers had sizing issues, either too big or too small

Bottom Line

With several appealing colorways available Brooks Chaser 5” Shorts are a lightweight and breathable pair of shorts. With a sweat-wicking liner and an adjustable waistband, you can secure these shorts and feel comfortable for your entire run. Plus, the shorts have multiple pockets for storage, plus a bungee loop for holding keys.

Looking to run faster? I can’t guarantee that a pair of running shorts will help, but they’re at least designed to keep you dry and comfortable during your running workouts.

GGR head of content, Nicole Davis, CPT, PN1-NC, tried the Brooks Chaser Shorts—our pick for best running shorts for women—and liked the look of them, rating them a 5 out of 5 for appearance. “Very cute, in my opinion,” she says. “They’re light and breezy and have a few good colors to choose from.”

Nicole adds that they performed exceptionally well as she ran, rating their performance a 4.5 out of 5. “They ride up a smidge on me but not bad at all and no chafing, so perfect,” she explains. “Plus, they wick sweat well and once I had the waist adjusted, I didn’t have to touch them again the entire workout.”

These are an expensive pair of shorts at $64, but they offer solid performance and fabric, and we think they’ll last.

Best Lined Workout Shorts for Women: Lululemon Hotty Hot Short

Good for: Exercisers who want a wide-leg short with a liner that stays put

Best Lined Shorts

Lululemon Hotty Hot Shorts

GGR Score: 4.8

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Product Highlights

• Multipurpose shorts that come in multiple lengths and rises
• Lightweight, sweat-wicking fabric specifically designed for runners
• Comes with a built-in liner for extra coverage 
• Comes in close to 20 different colorways

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Great for running
• Fairly budget-friendly
• Comes in a variety of colors
• Zippered pocket
• Lightweight fabric

Cons

• Built-in liner
• Smaller sizes are often sold out
• Reviewers say they run big

Bottom Line

The Lululemon Hotty Hot Shorts are a comfortable and stylish choice for running and everyday use.

These are excellent for working out, Caroline says, and they are her go-to shorts when her laundry is all clean. She liked them so much that she rated them 5 out of 5 stars for performance during testing.

These shorts are not compression-based, and instead are more loose-fitting in the leg, Caroline says. “This is generally my personal preference when it comes to working out, because I feel like my legs can breathe.” 

“There is a drawstring inside the waist, which I have cut and tied myself (versus just pulling on it to make it together),” she continues. “I don’t have any issues with a waist gap since there is a drawstring. I do wish there was slightly more leg room, but it is enough to make my legs feel fine.”

The Hotty Hots are weird in that they come in mostly low-waist designs (“Ew,” Caroline quips) but occasionally, high-rise and mid-rise options pop up online. She has a pair of mid-rise Hotty Hots, which hit decently below the belly button for her, and high-rise, which land right under her belly button. Caroline is 5 feet, 9 inches tall, for reference.

Bonus points for durability: “These don’t show any signs of wear, and I’ve had both pairs for probably two years now,” Caroline says. “I actually throw these in the dryer and have never had any issues with them shrinking or pilling. They are excellent durability-wise.” She gave them a perfect 5 out of 5 for durability.

Best Bike Shorts: Athleta Transcend 7” Bike Short

Good for: Those looking for a longer pair of shorts with no top seam and ultra-smooth fabric

Best Bike Shorts

Athleta Transcend 7” Short

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Product Highlights

• 7” inseam 
• High-waisted waistband
• Multipurpose shorts
• No side seams
• Super soft fabric

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Soft and comfortable fabric
• Fairly budget-friendly
• Classic biker short fit
• Hidden waistband pocket

Cons

• Front seam
• Several reviewers have complained of pilling
• Limited color options
• Fabric collects pet hair

Bottom Line

Athleta’s Transcend Shorts are made with a buttery soft fabric that make them a good option for low-intensity exercise and everyday activities.

I love a classic biker short. However, it’s often hard to find a nice pair that doesn’t dig into my thighs where the bottom seam lies. The Athleta Transcend Bike Shorts surprised me with a flattering fit: The waistband sits flat on my waist with no gapping, and the bottom seam doesn’t cut off blood supply to my lower leg (some shorts seriously feel that way). 

RELATED: What Muscles Does Cycling Work?

Plus, the fabric is buttery smooth and stretches in whatever way my workout needs it to. I’ve worn these for hiking, biking, yoga, running, walking, and lifting weights—and they’ve performed well through it all. I gave them 4.5 out of 5 stars for performance.

My only complaint with these shorts is that the fabric collects pet hair by the boatload, so I rated the fabric 3 out of 5 stars. I find myself using a lint roller multiple times per day when I wear these. I do love that I can throw these in both the washer and dryer and not have to worry about pilling or loss of elasticity. Hooray for lazy girl fabrics!

RELATED: Biking vs Walking

Best Yoga Shorts for Women: Lululemon Align HR 8” Short

Good for: People who enjoy doing yoga in longer shorts

Best Yoga Shorts

Lululemon Align HR 8” Short

GGR Score: 4.51

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Product Highlights

• Multipurpose biker shorts 
• High-rise shorts with an 8” inseam 
• Comes with a hidden waistband pocket for keys or a card
• Comes in close to 15 different colorways

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Great for yoga
• Made with Lululemon’s Nulu fabric
• Comes in a variety of colors
• Hidden waistband pocket
• Breathable

Cons

• Front seam
• On the pricier side
• Reviews report tight seam on the mid-thigh

Bottom Line

Lululemon Align High-Rise 8-Inch Shorts are made with comfortable, stretchy, sweat-wicking fabric great for low-intensity exercise like yoga.

Kate Meier, GGR Senior Director of Content and product tester, swears by lululemon Aligns. “These are my favorite,” she says. “They’re buttery soft, and they don’t squeeze your leg and give you that biscuit-out-of-a-can look. I love that they come in three length options—I tested the 8-inch and bought myself two pairs of the 4-inch inseam afterward.” 

“There are more patterns and colors and style combinations than I can count,” she continues, “but most importantly: high rise. A beautiful high rise.” She gave the appearance 5 out of 5 stars.

The Aligns fit true to size in both inseam lengths that Kate has, and Lululemon offers sizes from 0 to 20. 

These shorts are not super compressive, as they’re meant for yoga and not high-intensity training. Kate can explain: “I have done CrossFit in the 8-inch pair. They don’t move much, but as I know with my Align leggings, this fabric won’t hold up to a barbell’s knurling. Which is fine, because they aren’t really meant to. So I would just be selective about when I would wear them.”

Ultimately, Kate gave the Aligns 4.5 out of 5 stars for durability.

Best High-Waisted Workout Shorts for Women: Born Primitive New Heights Booty Shorts

Good for: Exercisers who want shorty shorts with a high waistline

Best High-Waisted Shorts

Born Primitive New Heights Booty Shorts

GGR Score: 3.59

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Product Highlights

• High-waisted booty shorts with a longer inseam for maximum comfort
• Utilizes the inseam from the Renewed Vigor Booty Shorts 
• Medium size measures a 3.5-inch inseam
• Available in about 13 colors

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable
• Higher waist
• Variety of colors
• Solid range of sizes

Cons

• Fabric may ride up
• Front seam

Bottom Line

If you are a fan of Born Primative’s Renewed Vigor Booty Shorts but are seeking a higher waist, the New Heights Booty Short may be for you.

We have quite a few high-waisted picks on this list, but we thought the Born Primitive New Heights Booty Shorts deserved their own shoutout for their durability and high waistline. I tested these and was pleased overall, despite my general disliking of booty shorts. I may be in my 20s, but I’m an old lady at heart and I prefer more coverage most of the time.

Anyway, the New Heights Booty Shorts are pretty compressive in the waist, which I like. The fabric is thicker than most other shorts I’ve worn, and they feel durable, like I’ll still be wearing these in several years. I feel like these can handle a good amount of abrasion and stretch. For durability, I gave them 4.25 out of 5 stars.

The fabric also seems to wick sweat better than most, although I did get some sweat spots in the bright pink color I tried. 

I must admit, the bottom seam kept rolling up (to an almost annoying level) during a CrossFit workout with power cleans, rowing, and seated dumbbell press. However, the seam never dug into my thighs, which is a huge bonus for me. I rated them 3 out of 5 stars for the fit and rise.

Best Form-Fitting Workout Shorts for Women: Alphalete Amplify Short

Good for: Anyone who wants their butt to look phenomenal 

Best Form-Fitting Shorts

Alphalete Amplify Short

GGR Score: 3.6

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Product Highlights

• High-waisted shorts with a form-fitting, 3-tiered, tapered waistband
• Constructed with a blend of Italian yarn fibers using a full-interlock knit construction 
• Seamless fabric is dense, breathable, and flexible
• High-level of compression
• Leg and glute contouring panels designed to highlight curves
• Available in 28 colors
• No front seam for a seamless appearance
• 4.5” inseam

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 28 color options
• No front seam
• Good compression
• Silky feel
• Curve contours

Cons

• Back center scrunch seam along the back may feel uncomfortable to some
• No pockets
• Waistband compression is excessive for some wearers

Bottom Line

Alphalete’s Amplify Shorts are a high-waisted, curve enhancing, unique pair of shorts that offer compression and flexibility.

Full stop: These are THE shorts for a bangin’ booty. I tested the Alphalete Amplify Leggings and Kate Meier, GGR’s Senior Director of Content, tested the Amplify Shorts, and we are in full agreement that whatever Alphalete is doing is magical. 

“I’ve never seen my butt look so amazing,” Kate says. “These are like those Tik Tok pants. We could do a Tik Tok on these shorts.”

“They have that ruching along the buttcrack that is like MagicEye for butts,” she continues enthusiastically. YOUR BUTT WILL COME ALIVE. It’s insane.” 

The material is compressive and sweat-wicking, and you can machine-wash it. However, these shorts seem to run quite a bit small, likely due to the compressive fabric. Kate and I both recommend sizing up, especially if you tend to be in between sizes. We rated the fit 3.5 out of 5 stars.

“Because these run small, they aren’t the most comfortable for dynamic workouts,” Kate says, “but someone with a slimmer build might feel differently. I did several weight training sessions as well as several metcons in them. They don’t bunch up, and they withstand squats well.”

Best Workout Shorts for Women With Pockets: Athleta Salutation Stash Short 5”

Good for: A moderate rise, moderate inseam, and pockets that actually hold onto your shiz 

Best Shorts With Pockets

Salutation Stash Pocket II 5″ Short

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Product Highlights

• 5-inch inseam
• Buttery soft feeling shorts well-suited for yoga and/or studio practice
• Signature Powervita fabric is form fitting but not compressive
• Sweat-wicking fabric that is quick-drying, breathable, and rated UPF 50+
• Side stash pocket large enough to securely carry a phone
• Can be washed and machine-dried (unlike most workout clothing)

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable fabric
• Can machine-wash and dry
• Large pocket
• UPF 50+
• Good ranging on sizes

Cons

• Runs small
• Waistband sometimes rolls down
• Front seam
• Obvious sweat marks on lighter colors

Bottom Line

Athleta’s Salutation Stash Pocket II 5-inch shorts are a comfortable choice keeping you cool, dry, and protected from the sun during physical activity.

The Salutation Stash shorts are the very first pair of shorts I’ve worn that I actually feel comfortable stashing my phone in. Most workout shorts with pockets can hold my car key and a credit card, max, without items starting to peek out during a walk or run. 

With these, I can walk my pup sans fanny pack because my stuff stays put. I’ve run up to 3 miles in these with my phone in one pocket and my key, ID, and a doggy bag in the other, with no issues. 

Athleta’s Powervita fabric is soft, smooth, and the right amount of compressive. My only real complaints with these are that the middle seam can be unflattering and the bottom seam is a bit too tight for my legs. That obviously won’t be the case for everyone, but I still gave the shorts 3 out of 5 stars for overall fit.

Best Shorts for Outdoor Workouts: Senita Athletics Baseline 5” Short

Good for: Affordable, quality workout shorts that you can also use as swim shorts and hiking shorts 

Best for Outdoor Workouts

Senita Athletics Baseline 5-inch Short

GGR Score: 4.26

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Product Highlights

• 5-inch compression shorts with a seamed waistband for a super snug fit
• Side pockets large enough to hold a phone or snack
• Extra pocket at the base of the shorts
• Recommended intended use is for cardio, weight lifting, and tennis
• Fast-drying, sweat-wicking Lux Fabric

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Compression
• Lots of pocket space
• Fast-drying and sweat-wicking Lux Fabric
• Affordable
• Lots of color options

Cons

• Runs small
• Lighter colors are reportedly see through
• Legs may ride up

Bottom Line

Senita Athletics’ Baseline 5-inch shorts are a budget-friendly choice for anyone who prefers compression shorts.

You can run in ‘em. You can swim in ‘em. You can hike in ‘em. These are perhaps the most versatile pair of workout shorts I’ve ever owned. I have two pairs, and they are a go-to for every type of workout and outdoor training activity. 

These are a best-seller for Senita, and it’s clear to see why. Senita’s Lux fabric, a blend of polyester and nylon, is extremely breathable and quick-drying. The seamed, wide waistband stays put through everything. I have snagged these during tons of bushwhacking hikes and haven’t had any issues—no dethreading of seams, no holes, and no pilling.

I’ve also swam in these and the color is holding fast. I’m confident they’ll last a long time, so I rated them 5 out of 5 stars for durability.

The fabric is insanely wicking; it feels almost like a swimsuit. The only callout I have is that they are a little short for biking, and I chafe a bit around the mid to upper thigh. People with shorter legs may not run into this issue. Still, I gave them 4 out of 5 stars for the fit.

Best Budget Workout Shorts for Women: BMJL Women’s Running Shorts

Good for: People who want decent workout shorts for a very low price

Best Budget Shorts

BMJL Women’s Running Short

GGR Score: 4.24

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Product Highlights

• Women’s high-waisted running shorts
• Available in a variety of colorways
• Polyester and spandex blend
• Tulip cut bottom allows more free movement
• Zipper pockets

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Zipper pockets
• Variety of colorways
• Inexpensive
• Sweat-wicking liner
• Variety of sizes

Cons

• Customers say pocket size changes depending on color
• Some customers complain on odd fitting

Bottom Line

For runners on a budget, the BMJL Women’s Running Shorts are a lightweight and breathable pair of shorts. With zipper pockets and a sweat-wicking liner, these shorts come in a variety of sizes and colors—all for around $25.

For an affordable pair of workout shorts, I recommend BMJL Women’s Running Shorts, available on Amazon for about $25. At a fraction of the price, these shorts are just as comfortable as top trending activewear brands.

GGR senior editor Erin Chancer tried the BMJL shorts. She’s overall pleased with their look and feel, even though they’re shorter than she’d typically wear. “These are very comfortable, but much shorter than I’d like. They definitely don’t pass the school dress code ‘fingertip length’ rule,” she jokes. (If you know you know.)

While they are comfortable, these shorts are really form-fitting, so Erin rates the appearance a 4 out of 5. She says, “It can ‘bag’ a little bit depending on the size you get.” With more than 40 colors to choose from, though, you can be sure to find a colorway you like.

With a breathable and lightweight fabric, these shorts wick sweat well and feel great, as long as you’re OK with a shorter inseam.

Best Plus-Size Workout Shorts for Women: Girlfriend Collective FLOAT Ultralight Run Short

Good for: People who need more sizing options in high-quality workout shorts

Best Plus-Size Shorts

Girlfriend Collective FLOAT Ultralight Run Short

GGR Score: 4.35

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Product Highlights

• Made from 90% recycled plastic bottles and 10% spandex
• Lightweight running short
• Sweat-wicking, squat-proof, and have a just a touch of compression
• Small center back pocket to hold cards and/or small keys
• Slight compression has a buttery soft feel with brushed matte finish
• Inclusive sizing

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Great range in sizing
• Soft and comfortable
• Squat-proof
• Environmentally friendly

Cons

• Seams feel uncomfortable for some
• Thin material

Bottom Line

The Girlfriend Collective Black FLOAT Run short is an environmentally friendly, size-inclusive pair of shorts designed for comfort and performance.

Girlfriend Collective was one of the first activewear brands to make comfy clothes in a truly inclusive size range. Constructed from fabric made of recycled water bottles, Girlfriend Collective athletic shorts are also environmentally friendly. 

I have these shorts in my regular size and can confirm they are as comfortable as “ultralight FLOAT” sounds. These shorts feel like nothing—I repeat, nothing. It’s almost alarming how naked I feel when wearing these. (The downside to this is that the fabric needs near-constant lint-rolling.) 

Our product tester agrees, giving both the workout performance and fit a 5 out of 5. She adds, “I hate shorts in general because I’ve never found a pair that didn’t ride up in my thighs while wearing them, much less during exercise. As a plus-sized woman with hungry, hungry thighs, this was a nice surprise when using these shorts.” She says the shorts stayed in place during her hour-long walking and jogging sessions.

With a high-rise waistline and 4.75-inch inseam, these shorts offer great coverage while retaining full range of motion. I prefer to wear these for yoga and mobility work over anything, since they’re so stretchy and light, and not as compressive as other pairs I own. 

Other Workout Shorts We Tried

Despite there being more than a dozen top picks on our list (it’s so hard to choose!), there are even more shorts we want to call out, for good or for bad. Here’s a comprehensive list of other shorts we bought and  tried specifically to create this guide, with a quick blurb on how we feel about them. 

• Under Armour Fly-By 2.0 Running Shorts: A basic short from a well-known brand, these are just fine, but we think there are better options at this price point. For around $20 to $30, I’d recommend something from Target’s All-In-Motion line. 
• Adidas 3-Stripes Shorts: Another basic short from a popular brand, these Adidas shorts are good for lounging and running errands. 
• New Balance Q Speed Breathe 2-in-1 Shorts: These are… Interesting. Our testers weren’t a fan of the biker-length liner in combination with the run-style outer layer.
• Reebok Chase Booty Shorts:  An OG pair of booty shorts, these were once a go-to for CrossFit athletes, but there are much better options available now. 
• Born Primitive Double Take Booty Shorts: We liked these, but we chose the high-waisted version for our top picks list. 
• FLEO Power High Rise: We’re big fans of these, but we didn’t want to saturate our guide with FLEO shorts. We do recommend them! 
• FLEO Signature Shorts Apex Contour: Ditto. 
• Vuori Studio Pocket Short: Three words: Problematic. Middle. Seam. Very soft, though! 
• Nike Women’s Pro Training Shorts: These are just your basic compression shorts, and they’re a good option if you want something to wear underneath loose, unlined shorts. They’re also good for lounging and sleeping.
• Savage Barbell High-Rise Booty Shorts: We recommend the regular Savage Barbell Booty Shorts as the best booty shorts; these are the exact same but with a high-rise waist. 
• Constantly Varied Gear (CVG) Shorts: Our tester was not a fan of these, saying “These are definitely not for people with big thighs. I got a size small and the waist was too big and the legs squeezed the crap out of my thighs.” These may work for people with thinner legs. 
• Halara High-Waisted 2-In-1 Yoga Shorts: These shorts are pretty popular on TikTok, but our tester says they run big. Plus, these shorts don’t wick sweat as well as our other choices and picks.
• Gymshark Adapt Shorts: Although GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele loves these shorts, quite a few reviews and other testers don’t like the level of compression across the midsection.

How We Chose the Best Workout Shorts

In a few words: We wore them. Duh. To get more granular, here’s exactly how we judged these shorts during the various workouts we wore them for: 

• Purchasing and delivery
• Appearance (colors, patterns) 
• Fit, rise, and compression
• Workout performance 
• Pockets
• Fabric and durability 
• Customer reviews
• Return and exchange policy
• Customer service
• Value 

During our testing, we took detailed notes to answer the following questions: 

• How is the waist-to-thigh seam ratio? (Is there a gap in the back?)
• Is the rise accurate to what’s stated? 
• Does the bottom seam squeeze the thighs? 
• Does the fabric lay smooth overall? Does it have four-way stretch? 
• Are there pockets? Where on the shorts are they (front, side, or back pockets)? Do they have zippers? Can they actually hold your things? 
• Do they ride up during any movements? If so, which ones? 
• Do you chafe while wearing them for walking, running, or other workouts? 
• Do you have to constantly pull the thigh seams down or waist up? 
• Are they sweat-proof or do you look like you peed yourself after 10 minutes?
• Does the fabric collect pet hair or lint? 
• How did they hold up in the wash? Can you even throw them in the wash or do you have to hand-wash and hang-dry them? 
• Have you noticed any pilling after a few wears? 
• Do they stink after a few wears? 

The Importance of Good Workout Shorts

I mean, I’m not even sure I have to explain the importance of good workout shorts, but here we go nonetheless. 

Have you ever quit mid-workout because you’re so damn tired of pulling your shorts down or picking a wedgie? Admittedly, I have. So avoiding those two problems is reason enough to be picky about workout shorts. You can’t get the most out of your workouts if you’re constantly worried about flashing the gym, getting swamp ass, or peeling seams away from your skin where it’s too tight. 

But thinking long-term, choosing good workout shorts is important so you don’t have to buy new ones every year. A good pair of shorts will last much longer than that and save you money in the long run, even if they feel expensive upfront. Trust this, as it’s coming from someone who only begrudgingly buys the pricey stuff but is always happy when I do. 

How to Choose the Best Workout Shorts for You 

Everyone has different fit and style preferences, which is why there’s an absolutely outrageous number (14 pairs) of shorts in this guide. Here are a few factors to consider when shopping. 

Material 

You’ll want to hit three key categories here: moisture-wicking, stretchy, and soft. Most workout shorts are made of some blend of nylon, polyester, and elastic materials like Lycra, spandex, and elastane. Avoid shorts that are more than 20% cotton unless you want a soggy butt post-workout. 

Sizing

Many brands are expanding their size lineup to be more inclusive. Of the brands that are part of our top picks, the majority offer more than five sizes, ranging from XXS to 4XL. Make sure to check size charts, since there is no standardized sizing (unless you’re shopping a brand that uses actual inches for sizing). 

Length

Common inseam lengths are 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, and 9 inches. I would say anything between 2 and 4 inches can be considered “booty shorts”; 4 to 6 inches is a moderate length; and anything above 6 inches can be considered a biker short. 

Pockets 

What do we want? POCKETS! When do we want them? Like 17 years ago! 

It’s great that so many brands include pockets in women’s shorts now. However, not all do, so think about whether a lack of pockets is a dealbreaker for you. 

Pay attention to where the pockets are on a given pair of shorts, too. Waistband pockets are generally only large enough to hold important small personal items, such as a car key or ID. Side pockets are often big enough to hold a phone or even a small snack. 

Fit and Comfort

This will be completely subjective, but three main components play a role here: rise, inseam length, and seams. Mostly I want to call out middle seams, which can cause terrible front-wedgies, if you will. Some women are more prone to the horrors of middle seams, and if you feel like you fall into that group, I highly recommend filtering reviews for the keyword “cameltoe” to know if you should just completely skip a pair. 

FAQs About Workout Shorts for Women

Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC

Amanda is a content writer and journalist with extensive experience in the health, fitness, lifestyle, and nutrition niches. Before joining Garage Gym Reviews, she worked as an independent writer for various brands and outlets.Her work has appeared in national and global digital publications, including Health.com and Shape.com (Meredith Corporation), CNET (Red Ventures, formerly ViacomCBS), LIVESTRONG (Leaf Group), Verywell Fit and The Balance (DotDash), SlickDeals (Goldman Sachs/Hearst), Health Journal, and more.Now, Amanda brings her expertise in fitness to the GGR team by testing equipment and writing authentic, honest reviews on everything you might need to stock your home gym.

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