For any runner, male or female, finding the right pair of running shorts is crucial. They provide comfort, breathability, and freedom of movement – all essential elements for a successful run. But with a vast array of options available, men might find themselves overwhelmed by the choices. This guide delves into the world of running shorts for men, exploring different styles, materials, features, and considerations to ensure you hit the ground running in the perfect pair.
Types of Running Shorts:
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Length: Running shorts come in various lengths, each catering to different preferences and weather conditions.
- Long Shorts: Offering maximum coverage, long shorts reach mid-thigh and are ideal for cooler temperatures or those who prefer more leg coverage.
- Mid-Length Shorts: The most popular choice, mid-length shorts fall just above the knee, providing a good balance of coverage and mobility.
- Short Shorts: Often referred to as “split shorts,” these feature a shorter inseam that falls above the kneecap. Ideal for hot weather runs, they offer maximum breathability and range of motion.
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Liners: Some running shorts come with built-in liners, which are essentially brief-like undergarments offering additional support and moisture management. Liners can be helpful to prevent chafing and provide a more secure fit. However, some runners prefer the option of wearing their own compression shorts or briefs for a more customized feel.
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Compression Shorts: Designed to fit snugly against the legs, compression shorts improve circulation, reduce muscle fatigue, and offer a locked-in feel. While some runners wear them on their own, others prefer them as a liner underneath running shorts.
Materials:
The material of your running shorts significantly impacts comfort and performance. Here are some of the most common fabrics used:
- Polyester: A popular choice for its durability, moisture-wicking properties, and lightweight feel. Polyester dries quickly, making it ideal for sweaty runs.
- Nylon: Similar to polyester in its functionality, nylon offers good moisture management and breathability. It’s also known for its toughness and abrasion resistance.
- Spandex: Often blended with other materials like polyester or nylon, spandex adds flexibility and stretch to running shorts. This allows for a wider range of motion and a more comfortable fit.
- Woolen Blends: For colder weather runs, some shorts incorporate wool blends. Wool offers excellent insulation and moisture management, keeping you warm and dry during winter training.
Features to Consider:
Beyond the basics, several features can enhance your running experience:
- Pockets: Look for shorts with built-in pockets to store essentials like keys, gels, or a phone. Consider the size and placement of pockets to ensure they don’t bounce excessively while running.
- Drawcords: Drawcords allow for a personalized fit, ensuring your shorts stay secure throughout your run.
- Reflective Elements: If you run in low-light conditions, reflective elements on your shorts can improve visibility and safety.
- Split Hem: Split hems on the sides of shorts allow for greater freedom of movement, particularly beneficial for longer strides or faster paces.
Choosing the Right Fit:
Fit is paramount when it comes to running shorts. Here are some tips to ensure you find the perfect pair:
- Inseam: Consider your preferred length and choose shorts with the appropriate inseam. Try them on to ensure they don’t restrict movement or bunch up during your run.
- Waistband: The waistband should sit comfortably on your hips without being too tight or loose. Look for a waistband with a drawstring for adjustability.
- Overall Feel: The shorts should feel light and breathable, allowing for a full range of motion. Avoid shorts that are too restrictive or cause chafing.
Additional Considerations:
- Weather: Choose shorts appropriate for the weather conditions. Opt for breathable, moisture-wicking materials for hot weather and consider thermal properties like wool blends for colder runs.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best running shorts are the ones you feel most comfortable in. Experiment with different styles, materials, and features to find what works best for you.
Top Brands and Products in the Running Shorts Market for Men
Here are some of the top brands and products in the running shorts market for men:
Top Brands
- Nike: Nike is a well-known brand for a reason. Their running shorts are known for their quality, comfort, and performance. A popular option is the Nike Dri-FIT Stride Shorts , which are lightweight, breathable, and have a built-in liner for support.
- Under Armour: Under Armour is another major brand in the sportswear industry. Their running shorts are designed to be durable and comfortable, with features like sweat-wicking fabric and anti-odor technology. A popular option is the Under Armour Men’s Launch Run 7″ Shorts , which are lightweight, breathable, and have a built-in mesh liner.
- Adidas: Adidas is a leading brand in athletic apparel, and their running shorts are no exception. They offer a variety of styles to choose from, all made with high-quality materials. A popular option is the Adidas Own The Run Shorts , which are lightweight, breathable, and made with recycled materials.
- Janji: Janji is a smaller brand that is becoming increasingly popular with runners. Their shorts are known for their comfortable fit, stylish designs, and fair trade practices. A popular option is the Janji AFO Middle Short , which is super-lightweight and breathable.
- Patagonia: Patagonia is a renowned outdoor apparel brand that also makes great running shorts. Their shorts are designed to be durable and comfortable for long runs, especially on trails. A popular option is the Patagonia Men’s Strider Pro Shorts , which are made with lightweight materials and have a variety of pockets for storage.
Things to Consider When Choosing Running Shorts
- Inseam length: Running shorts come in a variety of inseam lengths, from short (3-inch inseam) to long (7-inch inseam). The best inseam length for you will depend on your personal preference and how much coverage you want.
- Fit: Running shorts should fit snugly but not be too tight. They should also allow for a full range of motion.
- Fabric: Look for running shorts made from a lightweight, breathable fabric that wicks away sweat.
- Features: Some running shorts have features like built-in liners, pockets, and reflective detailing. Consider which features are important to you.
Highlighting top-rated running shorts based on customer reviews
Based on customer reviews and professional recommendations, here are some of the top-rated running shorts for men:
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Best Overall: Nike Men’s Dri-FIT Stride Shorts
- Average rating: 4.68 out of 5 based on 180 user ratings.
- Pros: Lightweight and breathable, true-to-size fit, secure elastic waistband, convenient zip pocket for storage, Dri-FIT fabric wicks sweat away from the skin.
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Best Budget: Under Armour Men’s Launch Run 7″ Shorts
- Average rating: 4.57 out of 5 based on 667 user ratings.
- Pros: Ultra-light, stretch-woven fabric, internal mesh liner for breathability, mesh side panels for ventilation, four-way stretch construction, anti-odor technology, encased elastic waistband with internal drawcord.
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Best for Trail Running: Patagonia Men’s Strider Pro Shorts
- Average rating: 4.17 out of 5 based on 986 user ratings.
- Pros: Materials are superbly comfortable and light, very breathable brief liner, clever pocket design, external drawcord for adjustability, locker loop for hanging to dry.
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Most Breathable: Janji AFO Middle Shorts According to Runner’s World
These are just a few of the many great running shorts available for men. When choosing a pair of running shorts, it is important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Some factors to consider include inseam length, fit, fabric, and features.
Finding the perfect pair of running shorts for men doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By understanding the different types, materials, features, and fit considerations, you can make an informed decision that will elevate your running experience. Remember, comfort and performance are key. So, lace up your shoes, hit the pavement, and enjoy the freedom of movement that comes with the perfect pair of running shorts.
