The Best Running Shorts for Women, by Nike

• Lightweight materials that wick sweat away, keeping you both cool and dry
• Compression (or tight fit) to help support the muscles in your hips and legs, improving circulation and lessening muscle soreness
• An interior liner or inner layer to prevent chafing, which occurs when the fabric rubs up against your skin
• Pockets to keep necessary items handy

Just because you’re working up a sweat doesn’t mean your shorts have to feel sweaty. The best running shorts for women are made of synthetic fabrics to keep moisture away and leave you feeling dry. These include polyester, nylon or stretchy spandex (also called elastane). Nike Dri-FIT shorts are constructed using advanced engineering and lightweight moisture-wicking fabric to help keep moisture away from the skin.

Some runners like their shorts extra short, while others prefer a longer length. Mid-thigh length running shorts typically have at least a 4-inch inseam for a bit more coverage, while shorter running shorts allow you to move more easily and may be better suited for competitive runners. Upper-thigh-length running shorts will have inseams of 3 inches or less.

Some runners like the looser feel of typical running shorts, while others prefer the support of tighter shorts. A pair of tight running shorts for women, also known as compression shorts, will provide more support, helping to eliminate chafing that occurs when the fabric brushes up against your skin as you run. The best compression running shorts for women have at least a mid-thigh length so they won’t ride up. We love the Nike Go Women's Firm-Support High-Waisted 8-Inch Biker Shorts with Pockets for its sleek, midweight InfinaLock fabric that feels compressive and supportive in all the right places.

If you’re familiar with women’s running shorts, you may have noticed that some feature an interior liner. This liner can replace wearing underwear, leaving you more comfortable and mobile. The liner can help prevent chafing, provide breathability, and help protect the shorts from bacteria buildup.

Other women’s running shorts may have a built-in compression liner. These shorts are also often called 2-in-1 running shorts, aptly named for their looser exterior layer with a snug inner layer that helps protect you from chafing. The Nike Dri-FIT Swift is a women’s mid-rise 3-inch 2-in-1 pair of running shorts with pockets for storing all the essentials. If you’re seeking reflective shorts, look no further than the Nike Women's Mid-Rise 3" 2-in-1 Reflective Shorts.

The waistband on a pair of running shorts can sometimes be a dealbreaker. You want one that will not ride up while you run or feel too constricting. A pair with an adjustable drawstring waistband like the Nike Tempo Swoosh Women’s Dri-FIT Brief-Lined Printed Running Shorts provides a more personalized fit.

Adding pockets to running shorts is absolutely genius. With pockets, you can bring your phone, money, keys, and whatever else you need. If storage is important, look for a pair of running shorts with pockets aplenty. FYI: In addition to the more obvious leg pockets, some pairs have cleverly hidden pockets at the waistband. A zipper is a bonus to help keep your items safe and secure while you’re on the move. The Nike Women's Tight Mid-Rise Ribbed-Panel Running Shorts with Pockets have both a back zippered pocket and drop-in side pockets so you can securely store small items. Another plus: They’re constructed using at least 50% recycled polyester fibers.

With more than 40 pairs of Nike women’s running shorts, you’re bound to find a pair that has the features you need with a look to match your style. Nike women’s running shorts come in a variety of colors — from basic black and white to hot pink, purple, and navy — and prints, too.

Words by Erica Brooke Gordon