Best Athletic Shorts for Women of 2025

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These athletic shorts are designed for active women who want to stay comfortable and stylish during their workouts. Made from high-quality materials, these shorts offer a perfect blend of breathability and flexibility. With a range of sizes and colors available, these athletic shorts cater to every woman's unique style and preferences. Whether it's running, yoga, or any other form of exercise, these shorts provide the perfect fit and support for a confident and enjoyable workout experience.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Athletic Shorts for Women
Gym People Women's Quick Dry Running Shorts
The Gym People Women's Quick Dry Running Shorts are perfect for all kinds of sports, such as running, workout, gym, fitness, jogging, volleyball, and even relaxing at home. These shorts are built with a double-layered design, having an inner lightweight liner that offers extra coverage, while the outer layer has a side slit design to provide greater range of movement and breathable function. The shorts also feature hidden waistband pockets, a back waistband zipper pocket, and a high waisted design with a wide elastic waistband that provides tummy control and stay-put coverage as you move. The quick-dry fabric is made with 4-way-stretch and moisture-wicking properties, making these shorts skin-friendly and durable, ensuring maximum comfort and focus during workout.
Under Armour Play Up 3.0 Shorts
The Under Armour Play Up Shorts are designed for ultimate comfort and breathability. The soft, lightweight fabric ensures you stay comfortable during your workouts or leisure time. With moisture-wicking properties, these shorts quickly draw sweat away from your skin, helping you stay dry and cool. Their quick-drying feature means you can transition from gym to errands without feeling damp. Plus, the anti-pill and anti-pick finish enhances durability, so you can enjoy these shorts for a long time without worrying about wear and tear. The updated elastic waistband adds a stylish touch, making them perfect for any active occasion.
THE GYM PEOPLE High Waist Yoga Shorts for Women
The Gym People Women's High Waist Yoga Shorts are made of premium, comfortable, and stretchy fabric that is non-see-through, quick-drying, and moisture-wicking. These shorts have a high-waisted style with a tummy control design to contour body curves and streamline shape, and they come with deep side pockets that can hold your phone or iPod. They are perfect for yoga, exercise, fitness, pilates, running, or any type of fitness-related activity.
BMJL Women's High Waisted Athletic Shorts
The BMJL Athletic Shorts are designed with your comfort in mind. Made from quick-dry fabric, these shorts help you stay cool during workouts. The double-layer design features an outer layer with side splits for better breathability and freedom of movement, while the inner layer provides support and coverage. Plus, the convenient zipper pocket keeps your phone secure while you exercise, allowing you to focus on your workout without worry. Whether you're running, cycling, or doing yoga, these shorts are perfect for all your active pursuits.
CRZ YOGA Women's Running Shorts with Mesh Liner and Zip Pocket
These athletic shorts are designed for running and training, with a high-rise waistband that lies flat without digging in. They feature an inseam of 3 inches and a slightly loose fit for comfortable movement. The upgraded soft fabric is weightless, quick drying, and doesn't make a swish-swish sound. The built-in mesh liner offers extra coverage and reduces friction. The side zipper pocket is big enough to hold your phone or other essentials.
Liberty Imports Women's Workout Shorts Set
The Liberty Imports Workout Shorts are a stylish and practical addition to your activewear collection. Made from lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric, these shorts help keep you cool and dry during any workout. The secure zipper pockets ensure you can carry your essentials, like your phone or keys, without worry. With a relaxed fit and adjustable waistband, you can enjoy comfort whether you're exercising, lounging, or running errands. These versatile shorts are perfect for everything from yoga to casual outings, making them a must-have for your summer wardrobe.
Under Armour Womens Fly by Shorts
The Under Armour Fly by Shorts are designed for your active lifestyle. The lightweight woven fabric ensures comfort and durability, making them perfect for workouts or casual wear. With moisture-wicking properties, these shorts help keep you dry by quickly absorbing sweat. The super-breathable mesh panels enhance airflow, allowing you to stay cool during intense activities. Additionally, the built-in brief provides extra coverage, so you can move freely without worry. These features combine to create a short that supports your performance and comfort.
BMJL Women's Running Shorts with Phone Pocket
The BMJL Women's Running Shorts are made of smooth, soft, breathable and comfortable 95% Polyester and 5% Spandex material. The elastic waistband and relaxed fit at the booty area provide comfort and style for various body types. The shorts have a phone pocket design that is big enough to hold your phone or other belongings. These athletic shorts are perfect for yoga, exercise, fitness, training, indoor or outdoor activities, or daily and casual wear. Be sure to check the size guide before purchasing.
Blooming Jelly Women's High Waisted Workout Shorts
The Blooming Jelly Workout Shorts are designed for comfort and performance during various activities. With a double-layer design, you can enjoy breathable inner briefs that prevent friction, allowing for a more enjoyable workout. The unique crossover high waist provides a snug fit without curling, enhancing your natural curves and offering tummy control. Plus, the inclusion of two zipper pockets means you can securely store essentials like your phone or keys while you exercise, letting you focus on your routine without distractions. These features make these shorts a versatile choice for any active lifestyle.
CADMUS 2 in 1 Women's Workout Shorts
CADMUS Women's Workout Shorts are designed for optimal comfort and performance during your workouts. The unique double-layer design allows for unrestricted movement, so you can run, jump, and bend without any discomfort. The outer layer features a stylish side split for added breathability and a flattering fit, while also ensuring your privacy during exercises. Made from lightweight, moisture-wicking material, these shorts keep you cool and dry, making them perfect for any activity. Plus, the elastic phone pocket in the inner shorts lets you keep your phone secure and your hands free, enhancing your workout experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What to wear with athletic shorts female?
When it comes to pairing athletic shorts for women, there are endless options to spice up your outfit. You can try wearing them with a tee, an oversized blazer, and neutral sneakers. To add more style, consider adding a brightly colored shoulder bag or swapping sneakers for socks and loafers.
2. What is the difference between 5 and 7 athletic shorts?
The difference between 5 and 7-inch athletic shorts is the length. For those of average height, a 3-inch short will end on the upper thigh, a 5-inch short will approach the mid-thigh area, and a 7-inch short will finish just above the knee.
3. Why do female runners wear such short shorts?
Female runners wear short shorts primarily to avoid chafing while running. Less cloth means less friction, especially with a higher cadence, stride length, and time spent running. Additionally, shorter shorts help keep the body cooler, particularly in warmer temperatures.
4. Why do womens athletic shorts have a liner?
Women's athletic shorts often have a built-in liner for added comfort and functionality. The lightweight construction of the lining provides breathability and helps absorb sweat, minimizing chafing during physical activity.
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, providing extra protection compared to wearing only leggings.
6. What is the difference between running shorts and gym shorts?
Running shorts are typically shorter and more breathable compared to gym shorts. They are designed specifically for running, providing greater freedom of movement and ventilation during intense workouts.
7. Are athletic shorts supposed to be tight?
Athletic shorts should fit comfortably, neither too tight nor too loose. It's important to find the right fit to ensure optimal performance during workouts. Snug, but not overly tight, shorts allow for ease of movement and prevent discomfort during physical activity.
During our athletic shorts for women research, we found 48 athletic shorts for women products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 403,326 customer reviews through our big data system to write the athletic shorts for women list. We found that most customers choose athletic shorts for women with an average price of $21.79.
The athletic shorts for women are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of athletic shorts for women, including THE GYM PEOPLE, Under Armour, BMJL, CRZ YOGA, Liberty Imports. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 4,557 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

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 Women Comparison Table
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Brand | THE GYM PEOPLE | Under Armour | THE GYM PEOPLE | BMJL | CRZ YOGA | Liberty Imports | Under Armour | BMJL | Blooming Jelly | CADMUS |
Department | womens | womens | womens | womens | womens | womens | womens | womens | womens | womens |
Fabric type | 90% Polyester, 10% Spandex | 100% Polyester | 88% Polyester, 12% Spandex | 95% Polyester, 5% Spandex | Body: 86% Polyester,14% Elastane; Accessories: 64% Polyamide, 36% Elastane | 88% Polyester, 12% Spandex | 100% Polyester | 95% Polyester, 5% Spandex | 95% Polyester, 5% Spandex | 3" inseam / 90% Polyester, 10% Spandex / 90% Nylon, 10% Spandex / Machine Wash |
Care instructions | Hand Wash Only | Machine Wash | Hand Wash Only | Machine Wash | Machine Wash | Machine Wash | Machine Wash | Machine Wash | Machine Wash | Hand Wash Only |
Closure type | Pull On | Pull On | Pull On | Zipper | Pull On | Drawstring | Pull On | Pull On | Pull On | Elastic |
Origin | Imported | Imported | Imported | Imported | Imported | Designed in USA, Imported | Imported | Imported | Imported | - |
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