Best Athletic Shorts for Girls of 2026

Mary Hopper Avatar
Mary Hopper
Last Updated: Jan 27, 2026

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These athletic shorts are designed specifically for active girls who love to move and play. Made with high-quality materials, these shorts offer comfort, flexibility, and durability to withstand any sports or outdoor activities. With a variety of colors and styles to choose from, girls can express their unique personality while staying comfortable and stylish. Whether it's for soccer practice, running, or simply lounging around, these athletic shorts are a must-have for any active girl's wardrobe.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Nike Girls Performance Game Shorts Youth (Medium, Black) Cover #TOP 1
Nike Girls Performance Game Shorts Youth (Medium, Black)
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Under Armour Girls HeatGear Shorty Shorts Cover #TOP 2
Under Armour Girls HeatGear Shorty Shorts
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Haloumoning Girls Quick Dry 2-in-1 Athletic Shorts Cover #TOP 3
Haloumoning Girls Quick Dry 2-in-1 Athletic Shorts
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Athletic Shorts for Girls

#TOP 1

Nike Girls Performance Game Shorts Youth (Medium, Black)

836323
Black
Medium
Nike Girls Performance Game Shorts Youth (Medium, Black) Cover
Nike Girls Performance Game Shorts Youth (Medium, Black)

The Nike Girls Performance Game Shorts are perfect for young athletes. With the Dri-FIT technology, these shorts help you stay dry and comfortable during your workout or game. The elastic waistband provides a snug fit, ensuring that the shorts stay in place as you move. The lined crotch gusset allows for natural range of motion, giving you the freedom to perform your best. And with the embroidered Swoosh design trademark at the left thigh, you'll look stylish while playing your favorite sport. These shorts are available in youth sizes, making them perfect for girls of all ages. Get the Nike Girls Performance Game Shorts and experience the comfort and performance that Nike is known for.

What We Like
Very comfortable fit
Flexible, stretchy fabric
Great for volleyball
High quality material
True to size
What We Don't Like
Sizing inconsistencies
Thread unraveling
#TOP 2

Under Armour Girls HeatGear Shorty Shorts

1390070
Medium
Under Armour Girls HeatGear Shorty Shorts Cover
Under Armour Girls HeatGear Shorty, (001) Black / / White, Medium

The Under Armour HeatGear Shorts are designed to keep you comfortable and agile during any activity. Made from ultra-light HeatGear fabric, these shorts provide excellent coverage without feeling heavy, so you can move freely. The fabric also quickly wicks away sweat and dries fast, keeping you dry and fresh even during intense workouts. With a 4-way stretch design, the shorts move with your body, giving you better flexibility in every direction. Plus, the updated gusset design enhances comfort and allows a full range of motion, making these shorts perfect for active girls who want both performance and comfort.

What We Like
Comfortable fit
Vibrant color options
Good quality material
Easy to wash
Great for sports
What We Don't Like
Runs slightly large
Material a bit thin

Haloumoning Girls Quick Dry 2-in-1 Athletic Shorts

H2L357HS140
Black
9-10 Years
Haloumoning Girls Quick Dry 2-in-1 Athletic Shorts Cover
Haloumoning Girls Athletic Shorts Kids Qucik Dry High Waisted 2 in 1 Running Biker Shorts with Pockets 5-14 Years Black

The Haloumoning Girls 2-in-1 Shorts feature a soft, lightweight fabric that dries quickly, helping you stay cool and comfortable during any activity by wicking away sweat. Their double-layer design includes an outer breathable layer for better movement and an inner supportive layer that offers coverage and comfort. The shorts also come with handy side pockets, perfect for keeping small essentials like your phone or wallet close while you run or play. Plus, the wide elastic waistband adjusts easily to your waist, providing a secure fit that stays in place and supports you throughout the day.

What We Like
Lightweight and breathable fabric
Comfortable elastic waistband
Built-in biker shorts
Functional pockets
True to size for most
What We Don't Like
Sizing runs small for some
Material wrinkles easily
#TOP 4

Under Armour Girls Tech Play Up Shorts

1390075
Medium
Under Armour Girls Tech Play Up Shorts Cover
Under Armour Girls Tech Play Up Shorts, (002) Black / / Black, Medium

The Under Armour Play Up Shorts are made from a soft and lightweight knit fabric, giving you great comfort and breathability during any activity. The material is designed to quickly wick away sweat, so you stay dry and comfortable even when you’re active. You’ll also appreciate the mid-rise waistband with an exposed elastic band that offers a secure fit without feeling tight. Plus, the shorts include open hand pockets, giving you convenient space to carry small items while on the go. These features combine to make these shorts a practical and comfortable choice for girls who love to stay active.

What We Like
Great fit for kids
Soft, comfortable material
Vivid, attractive colors
No itchy tags
No inner liner design
What We Don't Like
Runs a bit large
No drawstring waist
#TOP 5

Haloumoning Girls High Waisted Athletic Shorts

LY3557HS140
Black
9-10 Years
Haloumoning Girls High Waisted Athletic Shorts Cover
Haloumoning Girls Athletic Shorts Kids High Waisted Yoga Dance Biker Shorts Comfy Gymnastics Shorts 5-14Y Black

The Haloumoning Girls Athletic Shorts offer a lightweight and stretchy fit made from soft materials that keep you comfortable and dry during activities. The seamless design reduces irritation, allowing you to move freely without discomfort. With a high-waisted elastic band, these shorts provide extra support around your waist and help prevent slipping as you stay active. Their durable, non-see-through fabric ensures confidence and long-lasting wear. Plus, they come in fun colors that easily match different tops, making them perfect for sports, dance, or everyday wear.

What We Like
True to size fit
Soft and stretchy material
Durable after multiple washes
Great for sports and dance
Not see through
What We Don't Like
May run slightly small
#TOP 6

Adidas Girls Alphaskin Volleyball Shorts

JWJ45
Black
Medium
Adidas Girls Alphaskin Volleyball Shorts Cover
Adidas Girls Volleyball 4-Inch Shorts, Black, Medium

The Adidas Volleyball Shorts are designed to keep you comfortable and supported during active play. They feature Alphaskin technology, which gently hugs your body to provide a secure fit that moves with you, helping you stay focused on the game. The shorts use CLIMACOOL fabric to help control sweat, keeping your skin feeling fresh and dry even during intense matches. Inside, you’ll find soft mesh briefs that add extra comfort and coverage, so you can move confidently. These shorts offer a balanced fit—not too tight or loose—making them a great choice for junior players who want both comfort and performance.

What We Like
Comfortable fit
Breathable material
Ideal length
Great for volleyball
Machine washable
What We Don't Like
Runs slightly larger
#TOP 7

Adidas Girls Squadra 25 Soccer Shorts

KQM37
Black/Black/White
Medium
Adidas Girls Squadra 25 Soccer Shorts Cover
Adidas Girls Squadra 25 Soccer Shorts, Black/Black/White, Medium

The Adidas Squadra 25 Shorts are designed to offer a great fit for active girls playing soccer or other field sports. They provide a balanced fit that’s neither too tight nor too loose, ensuring you stay comfortable during play. The fabric uses adidas AEROREADY technology, which helps manage moisture so you stay dry and focused even during intense activity. With a mid-rise waist, these shorts sit comfortably on your hips, giving you freedom of movement without slipping. Plus, the adjustable drawcord lets you customize the fit to your liking, so you can play confidently and comfortably.

What We Like
True to size fit
Comfortable fabric
Good quality stitching
Modest, versatile length
Unisex design
What We Don't Like
Material slightly thin
Stripes may leave marks
#TOP 8

3 Pack Girls Butterfly Shorts with Spandex Liner

GS-85
Pink/White/Black
Medium
3 Pack Girls Butterfly Shorts with Spandex Liner Cover
3 Pack Girls Flowy Shorts with Spandex Liner 2-in-1 Youth Butterfly Skirts for Fitness, Running, Sports (Set 2, Youth Medium)

This 3-pack of butterfly shorts with spandex liner is perfect for girls who love to stay active. The quick-dry, breathable fabric keeps teens cool and fresh during any sport, while the built-in spandex liner ensures a comfortable and secure fit. Inner pockets are perfect for holding phones, and the high waist skirt shorts are ideal for dance, gym, exercise, tennis, and lounging.

What We Like
Soft and comfortable material
True to size fit
Great coverage with undershorts
Good value for multi-pack
Versatile for sports and play
What We Don't Like
Wrinkles easily in dryer
#TOP 9

Liberty Pro 4 Pack: Youth Girls Basketball Shorts

KN-TBTM-TCPA
Medium
Liberty Pro 4 Pack: Youth Girls Basketball Shorts Cover
4 Pack: Girls Airy Mesh Active Athletic Sport Shorts, Youth Running Performance Clothes with Pockets (Set 1, Medium)

The Liberty Pro 4 Pack: Youth Girls Basketball Shorts are cute and comfortable, made of open-hole knit mesh with silky tricot lining. The quick-dry technology helps wick away sweat to keep you dry, while the side pockets provide storage for your phone and other essentials. The shorts have a 3" inseam with an elastic waistband and drawstring for a custom fit. They are ideal for basketball, soccer, gym, running, tennis, workout, volleyball, gymnastics, and lounging.

What We Like
Breathable mesh material
Comfortable fit for girls
Good length for athletic wear
Sturdy drawstring waistband
Accurate sizing
What We Don't Like
Drawstring is a bit long
Length may be short for some

4 Pack: Girls Active Athletic Performance Quick Dry Fit Short

RE6401
Set 5
Medium
4 Pack: Girls Active Athletic Performance Quick Dry Fit Short Cover
Real Essentials 4 Pack: Girls Athletic Performance Dry-Fit Running Shorts with Drawstring & Pockets - Set 5,M (8-10)

The 4 Pack Girls Active Athletic Performance Quick Dry Fit Short is a high-quality multipack of 4 cute and fresh shorts that are perfect for any activity, whether it be playing outside, soccer practice, the beach, or biking and hiking. Made from breathable and lightweight material, the shorts wick moisture and dry fast to keep your little princess active, comfortable, and cool during the hot summer months. With a loose fit, front pockets, and an adjustable drawstring waistband, these activewear shorts offer maximum comfort and convenience.

What We Like
True-to-size fit
Soft and comfortable material
Durable after multiple washes
Adjustable drawstring waist
Variety of colors
What We Don't Like
Lighter colors slightly see-through
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What shorts to wear to the gym female?

When choosing shorts for the gym, it's best to opt for performance materials that are sweat-wicking, such as polyester or nylon. These fabrics draw moisture away from the body, keeping you cool and comfortable during your workout.

2. What do you wear under athletic shorts?

Athletic shorts for girls usually do not have a built-in liner or compression garment. Therefore, it is recommended to wear underwear under these shorts for the necessary coverage and support while running.

3. What do you wear to the gym as a girl?

Girls have various options when it comes to gym attire. Matching gym leggings and sports bra outfits are popular, but there are other choices like full-length leggings, 7/8 leggings, and Capri leggings. The key is to wear comfortable and functional clothing that suits your body type and the weather.

4. Why are women's gym shorts so tight?

Women's gym shorts are often designed to be tight for a reason. Tighter clothing can help lift pressure away from muscles and improve blood circulation. Compression-style clothing has been found to enhance performance by increasing blood and lymphatic flow, allowing for more efficient oxygen delivery to the muscles.

5. Why do athletes wear shorts over leggings?

Some athletes wear shorts over leggings for added warmth, especially in extreme temperatures. The additional layer of shorts can help break the wind, cold, and snow more effectively than just leggings. It provides extra protection and insulation for the lower body.

6. What is the little pocket in athletic shorts for?

The little pocket in athletic shorts serves as a convenient storage space for small items like phones, cash, credit cards, keys, folded hats, or sunglasses. It allows you to keep your essentials secure and easily accessible while on the move.

7. What is the difference between 5 and 7 athletic shorts?

The difference between 5-inch and 7-inch athletic shorts is the length. For individuals of average height, a 3-inch short finishes on the upper thigh, a 5-inch short approaches the mid-thigh area, and a 7-inch short finishes just above the knee.

Editor's Notes

During our athletic shorts for girls research, we found 48 athletic shorts for girls products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 44,714 customer reviews through our big data system to write the athletic shorts for girls list. We found that most customers choose athletic shorts for girls with an average price of $20.57.

The athletic shorts for girls are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of athletic shorts for girls, including Nike, Under Armour, Haloumoning, adidas, Liberty Pro. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 310 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Mary Hopper Avatar

Mary Hopper is an Italian fashion designer with 10 years of extensive working experience in the fashion industry. She can design clothing and fashion accessories, such as handbags, backpacks, shoes, and jewelry. She is also a professionally trained content writer specializing in managing various fashion and beauty blogs.

Athletic Shorts for Girls Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Nike Under Armour Haloumoning Under Armour Haloumoning adidas adidas Liberty Pro Liberty Pro Real Essentials
Department girls girls girls girls girls girls girls girls girls girls
Fabric type 100% Polyester 86% Polyester, 14% Elastane 75% Polyamide, 25% Elastane 100% Polyester 75% Nylon, 25% Spandex 85% Recycled Polyester, 15% Elastane 100% Polyester 89% Nylon, 11% Spandex 100% Polyester 90% Polyester, 10% Spandex
Care instructions Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash Hand Wash Only Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash
Origin Imported Imported Imported Imported Imported Imported Imported Designed in USA, Imported Designed in USA, Imported Designed in USA, Imported
Closure type Pull On Pull On Pull On Pull On Pull On Pull On Drawstring Pull On Drawstring Drawstring
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.7
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