The 7 Best Compression Shorts for Running (2024)

If you love running, then you probably use compression shorts regularly. This means you know the difference between high and low-quality compression shorts when you wear them. Unfortunately, it can be hard to find the perfect compression shorts for running when you’re looking online. To make life easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of the 7 best compression shorts for running. We have both men’s and women’s options on here, so you can find something perfect!

Short on time? No problem. Check out our simple list of top picks, below:

Our Top Picks

A Closer Look: Best Compression Shorts for Running

Compression shorts help regulate blood flow and are perfect for running. But finding the right shorts helps too, so read on below to see what made these stand out.

Women’s Best Compression Shorts For Running

These Nike Pro shorts have a 5-inch inseam and are a perfect length to prevent chafing during runs or other intense workouts. This particular length is only available in grey or black, but the 3-inch Nike Pros are available in various colors. The high and wide waistband will keep your core supported throughout exercise, and the compression in these shorts keeps you secure and comfortable.

The majority of buyers loved these Nike compression shorts. They thought the length was perfect, and the shorts were comfortable for exercising and even for lounging around in. Some did mention that the shorts ran small, and they wished they had ordered up a size. A couple of others thought the material was not very good quality and was too thin.

These mid-rise women’s compression shorts are perfect for exercising in or even just lounging in this summer. Their fabric is designed to wick away moisture and is very stretchy for optimal comfort. They are only available in black, but these shorts are very sleek and have a yoga look to them. Our favorite thing about these compression shorts is that they have a secret pocket on the inside front!

Buyers were pleased with these compression shorts, overall. They were happy with how they fit, thought the material they were made of was good quality. Most importantly, they found the shorts were perfect for exercising in. Some, however, did note that the shorts rode up their thighs, and a few mentioned needing to buy a size larger than they usually would.

These high-waisted compression shorts are perfect for running, biking, or just wearing out and about. They come in a regular short-short style, as well as a longer biker length. Both sizes come with large pockets to accommodate your phone, wallet, or keys, and these shorts are available in a wide array of colors. We especially love the moisture-wicking fabric these shorts are made of, to keep you cool and comfortable.

Overall, buyers were happy with these compression shorts. They loved how the shorts looked, as well as how nice the material was. Perhaps most of all, though, they couldn’t get over how nice the pockets were! Unfortunately, some reviewers didn’t think the shorts were good quality and experienced them fraying quickly after buying.

These Under Armour compression shorts for women are a fan favorite. They are quite short, with an inseam length of just 3 inches! We love that these come in various attractive colors, and of course, classic black. The material wicks away sweat and is made with anti-odor technology to keep you feeling fresh all day.

Overall, buyers were happy with these compression shorts. They loved the cute colors, how comfortable the shorts were, and loved working out in them. Some did note, however, that the sizes ran a bit small, and that they rode up a bit during exercise.

Men’s Best Compression Shorts for Running

These Under Armour compression shorts are highly rated and seem to be of very good quality. They are available in several black, white, blue, or grey color combos, and all of them look fantastic. Under Armour designed these shorts to wick away sweat, dry quickly, and stretch so you can move however you need to. We especially love that they designed them so the seams are not on any high-friction areas. 

Overall, buyers love these shorts for running. They appreciated how durable the material was, as well as how comfortable they were (due to keeping them chafe-free!). Some, however, thought the Under Armour shorts were not the same high-quality they used to be in years past. Several noted the material quality being poor, and that the shorts ripped very quickly.

These multipack compression shorts by Runhit are some of the best men’s compression shorts for running. We love that they come in a set of 3, and are available in various sizes and color combos. They also happen to have a pocket that is large enough to accommodate a phone!

Overall, buyers were satisfied with these compression shorts. Several mentioned how much they loved the pockets, as well as how comfortable and high-quality the shorts were. On the other hand, some thought the compression was not strong enough for their liking and thought the material was cheap.

These sleek men’s compression shorts are perfect for running. They have a 6-inch inseam which is perfect to protect from chafing. The shorts are available in several colors and a cool red pattern. Designed to wick moisture away, these are made of a blend of polyester and spandex. You could wear these under some looser shorts, or you could wear them as-is, up to you!

Most who bought these Champion compression shorts were very pleased. They mentioned how well the shorts fit and compressed their legs, as well as how good the quality was, especially considering the low price. However, some weren’t very impressed. A couple of buyers specifically mentioned the waistband folded over and seemed flimsy compared to other brands. Several also noted that the shorts run small, so order a size up.

Our Process

For this guide on the best compression shorts for running, our team spent 6 hours researching the most popular options from over 25 brands and manufacturers big and small. We then read about one hundred and ninety user reviews (both positive and negative) to discover what shoppers thought about each pair of compression shorts for running. After comparing this data, we narrowed our list down to the top 7 compression shorts for running on the market. You can count on this research to guide you to a mindful purchasing decision.

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