Best Lightweight Running Shorts for Women of 2026

Stella Strait Avatar
Stella Strait
Last Updated: Jan 28, 2026

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Introducing lightweight running shorts, a must-have for active women seeking comfort and style during their workouts. These shorts are designed with a focus on breathability and flexibility, allowing for maximum movement and ventilation. Made from high-quality materials, they provide a lightweight feel that won't weigh you down. With a variety of colors and patterns to choose from, these running shorts are not only functional but also fashionable. Whether you're hitting the pavement or hitting the gym, these lightweight running shorts are the perfect companion for your active lifestyle.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Stelle Women 2 in 1 Running Shorts Cover #TOP 1
Stelle Women 2 in 1 Running Shorts
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Ksmien Women's 5" Quick Dry Athletic Shorts Cover #TOP 2
Ksmien Women's 5" Quick Dry Athletic Shorts
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Under Armour Womens Fly by Running Shorts Cover #TOP 3
Under Armour Womens Fly by Running Shorts
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Lightweight Running Shorts for Women

#TOP 1

Stelle Women 2 in 1 Running Shorts

2303-YR001-BK-M
Black
Medium
Stelle Women 2 in 1 Running Shorts Cover
Stelle Women 2 in 1 Running Shorts High Waisted Athletic Shorts Gym Workout Shorts with Liner Zipper Pockets (Black, M)

Stelle 2-in-1 Running Shorts are designed with you in mind. The high-quality polyester material offers durability and flexibility, ensuring a comfortable and breathable fit. With 4 large pockets, including 2 zipper pockets for quick access, you can securely carry all your essentials. The 2-layer design prevents chafing during runs, providing compression and extra coverage. These shorts feature an elastic waistband for a snug fit and a split outer hem for unrestricted movement, along with compression shorts that stay in place, even during intense workouts.

What We Like
Comfortable stretchy fit
Deep zippered pockets
No thigh chafing
Modest length
Lightweight breathable fabric

Ksmien Women's 5" Quick Dry Athletic Shorts

Black
Medium
Ksmien Women's 5" Quick Dry Athletic Shorts Cover
Ksmien Women's 5" Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Workout Gym Shorts with Zipper Pockets UPF 50+ Black

The Ksmien Quick Dry Shorts are designed to keep you comfortable during any workout. Made from a smooth blend of polyester and elastane, these shorts are lightweight and breathable, helping you stay cool and dry. They feature two zipper pockets, perfect for securely storing your phone or small items while you exercise. The wide elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring ensures a snug yet flexible fit, adapting to your body shape for maximum comfort. Plus, the split-leg design offers great thigh coverage and improved movement, so you can stay active without distractions.

What We Like
Quick-dry fabric
Zippered pockets
Adjustable elastic waistband
Split-leg design
#TOP 3

Under Armour Womens Fly by Running Shorts

1382438/1382853
Medium
Under Armour Womens Fly by Running Shorts Cover
Under Armour Womens Fly by Shorts, (001) Black/Black/Reflective, Medium

The Under Armour Fly by Shorts are designed to keep you comfortable and dry during your runs. Made from lightweight woven fabric, these shorts won’t weigh you down, allowing for easy movement. The material also helps wick away sweat quickly, so you stay fresh even during intense workouts. Super-breathable mesh panels are built in to boost airflow, helping to keep you cool on hot days. Plus, a built-in brief adds extra coverage, so you can focus on your performance without any worries. These shorts combine comfort and functionality, making them a great choice for runners.

What We Like
Lightweight fabric
Quick-drying material
Breathable mesh panels
Built-in brief coverage
#TOP 4

ZUTY 3 Pack 5" Women's Athletic Shorts

ZUTY
Small
ZUTY 3 Pack 5" Women's Athletic Shorts Cover
ZUTY 3 Pack 5" Womens Athletic Shorts Basic Running Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Pockets Black-Dark Grey-Light Grey S

The ZUTY Women's Athletic Shorts offer a lightweight and breathable fabric blend of polyester and spandex that keeps you comfortable by wicking away sweat during your workouts. Their woven material ensures durability and stability, so you don’t have to worry about tears even during intense activities. The shorts are designed with a clean and stylish look, allowing you to express your personality while staying practical. Plus, the outer split enhances airflow and movement, while the adjustable drawstring waist helps you get the perfect fit for any activity.

What We Like
Lightweight breathable fabric
Durable woven material
Stylish and functional design
Breathable outer split
Adjustable drawstring waist
#TOP 5

Ultra Performance Women's Gym Shorts 2-Pack

Black, Lilac
Small
Ultra Performance Women's Gym Shorts 2-Pack Cover
Ultra Performance Gym Shorts Women Pack of 2, Nylon Compression Workout Shorts Women with Liner, Small Black, Lilac

The Ultra Performance Gym Shorts are designed to enhance your running experience. Made from high-quality nylon, these shorts provide excellent breathability and flexibility, ensuring you stay comfortable during your workout. With built-in compression shorts, you gain essential support that helps you perform at your best. The innovative design includes a phone pocket, allowing you to keep your essentials secure while you focus on your run. These durable shorts are perfect for any athlete, whether you're training for a marathon or enjoying a casual jog.

What We Like
Comfortable fit
Lightweight material
Affordable price
Good for lounging
Stylish appearance
#TOP 6

CRZ YOGA Women's Running Shorts

RS152A
Black
Medium
CRZ YOGA Women's Running Shorts Cover
CRZ YOGA Athletic Running Shorts for Women V Split Low Waisted Lightweight Gym Workout Athletic Shorts with Liner Black Medium

The CRZ YOGA Running Shorts are designed specifically for running enthusiasts. The ultra-soft, lightweight fabric feels almost weightless, ensuring you stay comfortable while on the move. With a low-rise design and an inseam of 2.5 inches, these shorts provide just the right amount of coverage without restricting your stride. The built-in mesh liner minimizes friction, allowing you to focus on your performance rather than discomfort. Additionally, the flattering V-shape split enhances your range of motion, making it easier to tackle any workout with confidence.

What We Like
Soft, lightweight fabric
Low-rise design
Built-in mesh liner
Flattering range of motion

PrinStory Women's High Waisted Quick Dry Athletic Shorts with Zipper Pockets

athletic shorts for women
Black
Large
PrinStory Women's High Waisted Quick Dry Athletic Shorts with Zipper Pockets Cover
PrinStory Womens Athletic Shorts High Waisted Running Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Zipper Pockets Black-L-FBA

The PrinStory Quick Dry Shorts are designed to keep you comfortable and ready for any activity. Made from lightweight and breathable fabric, these shorts help wick away sweat and dry quickly, so you stay fresh during your workouts. The high-waisted design with an adjustable drawstring gives you a perfect fit and added support. Plus, the two side zipper pockets let you securely carry your essentials, whether you’re running, at the gym, or just out for a walk. These double-layered shorts are super lightweight, making them ideal for outdoor activities while providing comfort and freedom of movement.

What We Like
Lightweight breathable fabric
Quick-dry material
Adjustable high waist
Zippered side pockets
Double-layer comfort

Yevrimow Women's 2-in-1 High-Waisted Running Shorts

Yevrimow
NKDK-hei-M
Black
Medium Short
Yevrimow Women's 2-in-1 High-Waisted Running Shorts Cover
Yevrimow Women's 2 in 1 Running Shorts for Gym Yoga Workout Athletic Shorts High-Waisted Shorts with Liner Pockets Black-M

The Yevrimow 2-in-1 Shorts offer a smart double-layer design that combines support and freedom. The inner layer provides a snug fit to keep you supported during workouts, while the outer layer features side slits that enhance breathability and allow for easy movement. Made from high-quality, quick-drying fabric, these shorts help wick away moisture, keeping you cool and dry no matter how intense your exercise gets. Plus, the lightweight, soft material ensures comfort, and the elastic waistband with a drawstring gives you a secure, adjustable fit. These shorts are perfect for running, yoga, gym sessions, or even everyday wear.

What We Like
Double-layer support
Breathable side slits
Quick-drying fabric
Lightweight comfort
Adjustable waistband
#TOP 9

ZKIEYS Mid Waist Dolphin Athletic Shorts

ZKIEYS
Black
Large
ZKIEYS Mid Waist Dolphin Athletic Shorts Cover
ZKIEYS Womens Mid Waisted Dolphin Athletic Shorts for Women Lightweight High Split for Gym Workout with Liner Quick Dry

The ZKIEYS Dolphin Workout Shorts are designed with runners in mind, offering a comfortable fit that moves with you. Made from a soft and lightweight fabric, these shorts feel nearly weightless and dry quickly, keeping you comfortable during intense workouts. The mid-rise design provides a secure fit around your waist, while the built-in mesh liner helps prevent chafing, so you can focus on your exercise without irritation. These features make the shorts an excellent choice for gym sessions or running, offering both convenience and freedom of movement.

What We Like
Lightweight soft fabric
Quick-drying material
Mid-rise comfortable fit
Built-in mesh liner
Designed for running
#TOP 10

NIASHOT Women's Dolphin Quick Dry Shorts

Black
Large
NIASHOT Women's Dolphin Quick Dry Shorts Cover
NIASHOT Athletic Workout Running Shorts for Women Dolphin Quick Dry Hiking Outdoors Gym Track Tennis Sports Clothes Black L

The NIASHOT Quick Dry Shorts are designed with your comfort and activity in mind. Made from ultra-soft, lightweight fabric, these shorts dry quickly and move quietly, giving you a smooth, second-skin feel during workouts. The knit waistband offers gentle tummy control and stays in place without rolling, so you can focus on your exercise without distractions. Inside, a breathable liner helps reduce friction, keeping you comfortable even during intense movement. The split design at the leg opening adds extra room, making these shorts ideal for running and other active sports. Whether you’re hiking, hitting the gym, or playing tennis, these shorts support your every move with ease and style.

What We Like
Quick-drying fabric
Comfortable knit waistband
Breathable inner liner
Flexible leg split design
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our lightweight running shorts for women research, we found 48 lightweight running shorts for women products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 30,916 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lightweight running shorts for women list. We found that most customers choose lightweight running shorts for women with an average price of $22.99.

The lightweight running shorts for women are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lightweight running shorts for women, including Stelle, Ksmien, Under Armour, ZUTY, Ultra Performance. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,873 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Stella Strait Avatar

Stella Strait is a tall, energetic woman who loves to play sports and go on outdoor adventures. She has been doing competitive swimming since she was five years old, and still swims today to stay in shape. Stella also enjoys playing tennis, golfing, hunting, hiking, camping, and fishing. Stella is always up for a new challenge, and she has an adventurous spirit that will keep her exploring the world around her.