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Specs are compiled from manufacturer listings and verified buyer reviews and can change over time — please confirm the key details on the product page before buying.
The right pair of workout shorts stays put during squats, covers what you want covered, and carries your phone securely. The wrong pair rides up, clings, or leaves you juggling your phone mid-run. This guide cuts through sizing guesswork and fabric claims to find shorts that solve those daily frustrations.
I’m Mohammad — the founder and writer behind Calories Fit. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
Whether you run daily, lift at the gym, or just want shorts that survive a hot summer, find the best working out shorts for women that match your body type and routine.
Our Picks at a Glance
How To Choose The Best Working Out Shorts for Women
Before you buy, you need to match the short to the activity. A 3-inch short with a brief liner suits a fast run, while a 6-inch biker short with a scrunch detail suits strength training. The biggest mistake is ignoring inseam and liner type, which control ride-up and chafing.
Match the Liner to Your Movement
Built-in briefs or spandex liners stop the outer fabric from riding up. Some liners have anti-slip silicone dots to grip your skin, while others are simple stretchy layers. If you hate the feeling of a snug liner, look for a loose outer short with a separate brief, called a 2-in-1 design.
Understand Inseam Before You Guess
Inseam is the inner leg seam length that determines thigh coverage. A 3″ inseam sits high and breezy, ideal for running. A 4.5″ or 6″ inseam covers more thigh, which helps prevent chafing and feels more modest for gym or daily wear. Taller women often need the longer inseam so the shorts don’t look like underwear.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Inseam | Pockets | Liner Type | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BALENNZ 5 Pack★ Best Overall | Budget multi-pack with zippered phone storage | Not specified | Zipper Pockets | Built-in Brief | Amazon |
| Pinspark 2 in 1Gym Staple | Gym sessions needing a snug inner layer | Not specified | Pocketed Liner | Bike-style Liner | Amazon |
| Blaosn Flowy SkortCurvy Fit | Curvy fits with tummy control and a flowy look | Not specified | Yes (Side) | Biker Spandex | Amazon |
| HOPLYNN 3 Pack | Daily wear and light activity with a true 5″ length | 5″ | Yes | None | Amazon |
| YEOREO SoftHue | Buttery-soft biker shorts with tummy control | 3.6″ / 4.5″ / 6″ | No | None (Compression) | Amazon |
| CRZ YOGA Dolphin 3″ | Runners who want a weightless, no-swish short | 3″ | Zip Pocket | Mesh Liner | Amazon |
| CRZ YOGA 2 in 1 3″ | Half-marathon comfort with anti-slip grip dots | 3″ | 4 Pockets | Spandex Shorts | Amazon |
| CE’ CERDR 5 Pack | High-quality multi-pack with a high waist that stays put | Not specified | 2 Zipper Pockets | Built-in Brief | Amazon |
| Nike Tempo Dri-FIT | Trusted name, sweat-wicking durability for daily runs | Not specified | No | Brief-Lined | Amazon |
In-Depth Reviews
1. BALENNZ 5 Pack Womens Athletic Shorts
Our pick — 4.5★ from 850+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
The five-pack that nails the fit, the pockets, and the price all at once.
What wins people over here is the fit — it’s the top thing owners mention, with over 140 singling it out. The high-waisted elastic band with the hip-lift line holds the tummy in, and the built-in brief liner means no wardrobe malfunctions during a squat. Buyers report the fit works across body types, with one 5’3″ buyer at 175 pounds confirming a Large fits well.
The zippered side pockets are the second-most praised feature, with 76 buyers calling them out. They’re deep enough for a phone to zip in securely, so you can run or hike without holding anything. The quick-dry, moisture-wicking fabric keeps you comfortable through gym sessions, and the fabric quality holds up after several washes without fading or pilling.
The honest trade-off is sizing: 32 owners flagged it as mixed, with a few finding the fit baggier than expected, especially around the thighs and waist. One 5’3″ buyer at 175 pounds found a Large perfect, while another recommends sizing down for a snug fit. This is a relaxed athletic cut, so if you want compression, consider a size down.
What Owners Rave About
- Deep zippered pockets that hold a phone securely
- Brief liner prevents ride-up, even with thick thighs
- Fabric holds color and shape after repeated washes
- Excellent value: five pairs for the price of one premium short
Know Before You Order
- Fit runs relaxed/baggy in the thigh for some
- Sizing is mixed — check the chart and consider sizing down
- No internal compression layer
Best for: Anyone wanting a versatile multi-pack for gym, running, and daily wear with secure phone storage.
Think twice if: You want a tight, compressive fit — these run relaxed, so size down or look elsewhere.
2. Pinspark Women’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts
The two-layer design that keeps you covered through heavy gym days.
The defining feature here is the 2-in-1 construction: a close-fitting bike-style liner under a quick-dry outer layer. The inner lining uses a different, more elastic fabric that feels comfortable against the skin, and it’s fitted enough that you don’t worry about showing anything you don’t want to during a workout. The pocketed liner places a phone pocket right at your hip without any bulge.
Sizing is the recurring warning here, so order up. Owners mention the waistband runs snug, and several note the shorts run small — a 5’6″ buyer at 225 pounds sized up to XXL and was glad she did. Multiple owners confirm going one size up from your usual is the safe move. The material itself gets positive feedback for preventing chafing, and the length is flattering for both running and weight lifting.
One caution: the description photos show a maroon tone, but customers note the red runs bright red instead. If you’re picky about exact color, expect a vivid result rather than a muted one.
Fit note: The snug waistband and smaller-than-typical cut mean sizing up one full size is the consistent advice from owners.
Color warning: Red arrives bright red rather than the wine tone shown in the photos, so check the color options with that in mind.
Reach for this if: You want a secure inner layer for gym sessions without a separate pair of compression shorts.
Look elsewhere if: You’re between sizes — the snug fit makes precise sizing tricky, so a forgiving cut suits you better.
3. Blaosn Flowy Athletic Shorts Skort
A flowy outer layer over biker spandex that flatters curves and hides the thigh rub.
Fit is the top praise here, with over 150 owners calling it out, and comfort runs a close second at 140 mentions. The wide, thick waistband with the drawstring gives real tummy control, and the double-layer design — a flowy hem over biker spandex underneath — means the outer shorts stay put while the liner does the work. A 5’10” buyer at 168 pounds confirms a Large is true to size.
The softness is the third-most talked-about quality, with 66 owners praising the silky, luxe material. It’s breathable, stretchy, and comfortable enough for all-day wear, with one owner calling it a “Lululemon dupe” that stays in place even during a Hyrox competition. The built-in biker shorts include a pocket, though one owner notes only the right side has one and wishes there were two.
The catch is the length: 52 owners flagged it as mixed. The high-rise waistband sits very high, which is ideal for longer torsos but can feel excessive for shorter ones. One owner noted the liner rides up slightly even though the outer layer stays put, and another found it “too high-waisted” for her liking.
The Strong Suits
- Silky, soft fabric that feels luxe against the skin
- Thick waistband delivers real tummy control
- Flowy outer layer hides thigh chafing and stays put
- Curvy-friendly fit through XL (sizes 12-16)
The Trade-Offs
- Very high waistband not ideal for shorter torsos
- Only one side pocket instead of two
- Liner can ride up slightly during long wear
Ideal for: Curvy figures wanting a soft, smoothing waistband with a flowy, modest look for running or daily wear.
Not ideal for: Anyone who finds very high-waisted shorts uncomfortable or who needs a pocket on both sides.
4. HOPLYNN 3 Pack Womens 5″ Athletic Shorts
The modest 5-inch length that feels as good at brunch as it does at the gym.
You get a true 5-inch inseam (the length from crotch to hem) that buyers consistently call “short enough to be on trend and long enough to feel modest.” One 5’10” buyer confirms the length sits comfortably on her frame, so taller women don’t have to worry about it riding up. The feather-light, soft fabric makes it a go-to for spring and fall workouts, and the elastic waistband with drawstring lets you adjust the fit to your body.
The fit is the most-praised aspect, with 17 owners mentioning it positively, and the quality is the second most-discussed trait. The fabric is breathable, comfortable, and durable enough for daily wear. One owner who switched from thermal leggings found the value “fantastic,” noting the material keeps her legs warm even in 20-30 degree Fahrenheit weather without insulation.
The trade-off is that they run slightly snug — a 5’3″ buyer at 130-135 pounds found a medium just a little tight. There’s no liner, so you’ll want to pair them with your own underlayer for high-impact activity. One owner noted they provide zero warmth when it’s genuinely cold, calling them a spring or fall option rather than winter gear.
Modest length, real coverage: The 5-inch inseam (the length from crotch to hem) hits that balance between trendy and modest, confirmed by taller buyers who say it covers without feeling frumpy.
Sizing tip: The cut runs slightly snug, so if you’re between sizes, go up rather than down.
Best for: Women wanting a comfortable, modest daily short for spring and fall workouts without a liner.
Skip if: You need a built-in liner for running, or you’re looking for true cold-weather warmth.
5. YEOREO SoftHue Biker Shorts
Compression shorts with a scrunch back that feel like butter and stay squat-proof.
The fabric is the headline: owners call it “buttery soft” and “like butter on the skin,” with 30 mentions. The high waist has a tummy-control band that delivers light compression without feeling suffocating, and the scrunch detail in the back adds shape without being over the top. True to size for most, with a 5’8″ buyer noting a small fits perfectly.
Fit is the top positive aspect with 71 mentions, and the shorts stay in place well during workouts. They’re described as squat-proof, stretchy, and comfortable enough for both everyday wear and gym sessions. The no-front-seam design means no uncomfortable lines, and owners specifically call out that there’s no camel-toe issue.
The main warning is sizing inconsistency: the garment tag doesn’t match the size chart. One owner at a US 12-14 ordered an XL (listed as 16-18) and found it too tight, fitting more like a 10-12. Transparency is also a concern — the fabric runs on the sheer side, so owners advise wearing nude or light-colored underwear as the description notes.
Why Owners Love Them
- Buttery-soft, squishy fabric that feels luxurious
- Squat-proof with no camel-toe issues
- Light tummy control that doesn’t suffocate
- Scrunch back adds flattering shape
Watch Out For
- Fabric is on the transparent side — wear nude underwear
- Garment tag sizing doesn’t match the chart
- No pockets, which some owners miss
Reach for this if: You want a soft, compressive biker short for the gym and daily wear with a flattering scrunch back.
Size with care: The tag sizes run small, so trust the measurements over the label and consider sizing up.
6. CRZ YOGA Dolphin Running Shorts 3″
The weightless dolphin-hem short that makes you forget you’re wearing anything at all.
Fit is the clear winner here, with 82 owners praising it as spot-on and true to size. The 86% polyester, 14% elastane blend is “weightless” and slightly stretchy, and the fabric is so soft it makes no swish-swish sound when you move — a small detail runners notice. The super-high waist with a thick band lays flat without digging in, and the 3-inch inseam covers enough thigh to feel secure.
The dolphin hem design, which curves up at the sides, flatters the legs, and the airy mesh liner keeps you cool and comfortable. Owners with thicker thighs and hips specifically note this short covers them well without riding up or looking over-exposed. A 5’2″ buyer at 115 pounds says the small is “perfection” for her frame.
The honest limits: one owner with a larger backside found the high waist didn’t leave enough room, causing ride-up. Sizing is otherwise mixed — a few found it slightly snug and wished they’d sized up. The single zip pocket is enough for a key or card, but not a big phone.
Featherlight feel: The soft, no-swish fabric makes these feel like nothing, ideal for long hot runs.
Not for every shape: Those with a larger backside may find the high waist lacks room, so consider sizing up.
Best for: Runners wanting a weightless, soft short with a flattering dolphin hem and a secure high waist.
Think twice if: You carry more in the back — the cut may ride up, and the single pocket won’t hold a large phone.
7. CRZ YOGA 2 in 1 Double Layer Shorts 3″
Four pockets and silicone grip dots that keep the liner exactly where it should be.
The double-layer design features a built-in spandex short with anti-slip silicone dots under a loose outer layer. Those grip dots are the reason reviewers point out zero ride-up, even through a half marathon. The pockets are the third most-praised feature with 51 mentions — two outer zipper pockets plus a leg pocket on the liner, giving you four total storage spots. The outer pocket fits a regular iPhone, though not a Max.
Fit is the top positive aspect with 74 mentions, and the Feathery-Fit fabric (86% polyester, 14% elastane) is lightweight, quick-dry, and breathable. It’s versatile enough for running, CrossFit, lifting, and daily wear, with plenty of owners calling it a “gym staple.” The high waist is comfortable and doesn’t dig in, and the back hem swoops slightly longer for coverage.
The grip dots themselves are a double-edged sword: one owner found the silicone pieces “pinch and pull” her skin, preferring a liner without them. Another noted the outer fabric puffs out at the sides, which she found unflattering. Sizing runs slightly big, with some owners sizing down for a snugger fit.
The Big Wins
- Anti-slip silicone dots genuinely prevent ride-up
- Four pockets total, including a phone-sized leg pocket
- Lightweight, breathable fabric for long runs
- Flattering high waist with a longer back hem
Small Gripes
- Grip dots can pinch sensitive skin
- Outer fabric puffs out at the sides for some
- Runs slightly big; sizing down is common advice
Reach for this if: You’re training for distance and want guaranteed no-ride-up coverage plus plenty of pocket space.
Look elsewhere if: You have sensitive skin that reacts to silicone grip dots, or you prefer a sleeker silhouette without side puff.
8. CE’ CERDR 5 Pack High Waisted Running Shorts
Quality is the headline here, with over 100 owners praising the build of this five-pack.
The fabric is opaque — not flimsy or sheer — and wicks moisture well. The high waist stays put without rolling down or digging in, and the elastic waistband even works folded down for a different look. The side split design adds mobility.
The two zippered pockets are the second most-loved feature with 79 mentions. They’re big enough to hold a large cell phone and still zip closed, which is the standard owners rave about. The built-in brief liner is stretchy, non-rolling, and comfortable, and the back hem sits longer than the front for chafe-free coverage. A 39-week pregnant buyer at 165-170 pounds found the large band fit over her belly without tightness.
The one recurring complaint is the waist: a few owners found it “extremely snug” even when the rest of the short fit. Sizing is otherwise mixed, with 54 owners flagging it, so the size chart deserves attention. The colors are vibrant and don’t bleed after washing.
Why It Stands Out
- Top-tier build quality with opaque, non-sheer fabric
- Zippered pockets that genuinely fit a large phone
- High waist stays put through workouts without rolling
- Back hem longer than front for chafe-free length
The Catch
- Waistband runs snug for some, even in the right size
- Sizing is mixed — measure against the chart first
- Relaxed fit rather than compression
Best for: Women wanting a high-quality five-pack with reliable zippered phone storage and premium fabric feel.
Size carefully: The snug waistband means you should measure your waist against the chart before ordering.
9. Nike Women’s Tempo Dri-FIT Running Shorts
The classic Tempo short that sweats out the miles and keeps its shape wash after wash.
Fit leads the praise here with 40 mentions, and the Dri-FIT fabric does exactly what it promises: wicks sweat, stays lightweight, and breathes through every run. The mid-rise waistband stays secure without digging in, and the built-in brief liner means you can move freely without checking behind you. Owners consistently call it comfortable and durable, holding up well after multiple washes.
Quality is the second most-talked-about trait with 27 mentions, and the versatility earns its own praise with 9 owners noting it works for both workouts and daily wear. A 5’8″ buyer confirms a Small fits well true to size, and the length is described as “great” — short enough to run in, long enough to feel covered. One owner even calls it “a great substitute” for Lululemon shorts.
The honest limits: there are no pockets, which is the biggest functional gap versus the multi-packs above. Sizing and length are both flagged as mixed, with some owners reporting sizing issues. If you need to carry a phone on a run, you’ll need an armband or belt.
Proven Dri-FIT: The sweat-wicking fabric is the foundation here — lightweight, breathable, and comfortable for daily runs.
No storage: The lack of pockets means planning for your phone and keys separately.
Best for: Runners who trust the Dri-FIT brand and want a durable, comfortable short for daily mileage without needing pockets.
Not for: Anyone who wants to carry a phone or keys without extra gear — look to the zippered-pocket options above.
Understanding the Specs
Inseam Length
The inseam is the inner-leg measurement that decides where the hem lands. A 3-inch inseam rides high on the thigh, perfect for running, while a 5 or 6-inch inseam covers more leg and prevents chafing for taller women. Choosing the wrong inseam is the fastest way to end up with shorts that feel either too revealing or too long.
Liner Type
Built-in liners — whether a simple brief, a bike-style short, or a mesh layer — stop the outer fabric from riding up. Some liners include anti-slip silicone dots for grip, while others are looser and more breathable. If you hate the feeling of fitted liners, the 2-in-1 designs with a separate spandex layer underneath are the compromise.
FAQ
What inseam length should I choose for running?
Are built-in liners better than wearing separate shorts underneath?
How do I know if zippered pockets will fit my phone?
Why do some shorts ride up during a workout?
Should I size up in workout shorts?
What does “high waisted” actually mean for workout shorts?
How do I stop chafing between my thighs in shorts?
Are quick-dry shorts actually worth it?
What’s the difference between biker shorts and running shorts?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most buyers, the working out shorts for women winner is the BALENNZ 5 Pack because it nails the two things that matter most — a fit that works across body types and zippered pockets that hold your phone securely. If you want the softest, most flattering compression short for the gym, grab the YEOREO SoftHue. And for guaranteed no-ride-up runs with four pockets, the CRZ YOGA 2 in 1 is the one to reach for.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of August 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
As an Amazon Associate, Calories Fit earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.