When we equip ourselves for running, we usually focus on finding the right shoes. However, finding the right clothes is just as important, so choosing comfortable running shorts was no exception. In this guide, we will advise you on how to find women’s shorts that are so comfortable you won’t even realize you’re wearing them when you’re training or racing.
What Material To Choose?
Whether you’re going to be trail running or running on asphalt, you’ll need comfortable, lightweight, and quick-to-dry shorts. Therefore, you should only look for those made of synthetic fabric (such as polyester), which have the appropriate degree of elasticity.
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If your thing is intense activities, it is better to avoid cotton clothing for this reason: although cotton clothing is comfortable, it absorbs and retains moisture from perspiration. It also takes longer to dry, which can lead to an unpleasantly cold and damp feeling when you finish training.
- Our women’s shorts
- What length should shorts be?
- Finding the perfect length for your running shorts is up to you.
For example, among Salomon runners, François D’Haene chooses quite long models that offer good protection and muscle support, especially over long distances, thanks to the compression built into the sportswear. But on the other side of the coin, Kilian Jornet opts for the minimalism of the shortest pants. Therefore, the length of the shorts should be based on your personal preferences in terms of support, length, and the type of running you like to do.
When It’s Hot
If you want to go out running on asphalt or a short trail, the ideal would be shorts of 12 or 13 cm, because of their lightness in terms of weight, and because they offer freedom of movement. Women generally prefer shorter running pants.
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In trail running and for long-distance races (such as ultra-trails), longer shorts of 15 to 18 cm offer better protection from the sun and give you extra warmth if the temperature drops. They are also more suitable if you want to integrate longer inner shorts to better support the leg muscles.
In case of running in cold, rainy, or winter conditions, you can opt for tights or over pants to wear over yours, although there are those who prefer to wear pants over tights.
What Type Of Lining To Choose?
There are basically two types of running shorts:
- Shorts that integrate underwear are the most common. Support is offered by briefs, boxers, or tights, depending on the model. These shorts offer a high level of comfort, with excellent friction management, especially between the thighs. On the other hand, shorts with built-in compression are ideal for runners looking for thigh support.
- Twinskin™ construction is a Salomon exclusive feature that includes a fitted inner stretch short and a loose over short that does not overlap at the crotch. This reduces friction and provides comfort.
Depending on the level of thigh support you’re looking for, you can choose shorts with built-in muscle support, or compression of women’s athletic shorts, which are tighter and promote blood circulation.
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Women have the alternative to the skort: a culotte skirt. They are ideal for summer running outfits, even for long distances. Shorts without integrated underwear give you the freedom to wear your preferred underwear or compression shorts underneath. In this way, you can combine them with different undergarments, according to your needs for that day in terms of weight, protection, and support.
How To Choose The Right Size Of Shorts
Comfort is the key to choosing the right model when it comes to running shorts. If you’re not entirely sure what length, construction, or size you’re looking for, choose the ones you feel best running in.
There are those who prefer to have a lot of support and a fitted design. To get the size of your compression shorts right, it’s best to refer to the manufacturer’s size guide.
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If you prefer to forget about shorts as soon as you put them on, you will probably prefer shorter models with integrated underwear that is as comfortable as possible, such as briefs or boxers, even if that means little or no muscle support. Just make sure you choose a size that allows the garment to stay in place when running, especially if you like integrated pockets at the waist.
Details To Consider In The Waist Of The Shorts
Most running shorts have an elastic waistband that usually incorporates a drawstring. More sophisticated designs feature wider, stretchy, ergonomic fabric waistbands (the cut for women’s and men’s models is different) and may include pockets to store belongings. These belts offer greater comfort and less friction when running. If you’re looking for these kinds of features, you’ll find them on higher-priced models in the performance and trail running ranges.
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How Many Pockets Should Your Shorts Have?
We don’t recommend running shorts with hand pockets because they lack support and anything you put in them will bounce around uncomfortably when you run. Instead, the idea is to look for pockets that are integrated into the waist of the pants, since they allow you to carry a small bottle of water, an energy bar in standard format or gel, a light garment, or, simply, the keys. Sometimes a pocket for the mobile phone is usually included in the back, but do not lose sight of the humidity of perspiration in case you choose ones that incorporate it.
Some liners also come with small pockets, usually on the front and back.
If you want to increase your range on long runs by carrying more equipment or clothing, use a running belt, backpack or vest.