9 Best Women Gym Shorts | Pockets That Actually Hold Your Phone

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The 2-in-1 short that locks down your phone and never rides up.

This is the perfect pick for runners and high-cardio athletes who need total security. The outer layer is a feather-light, quick-dry fabric, while the inner layer is a compressive spandex short with anti-slip silicone dots (small bumps that grip your skin) that keep everything locked in place. No wedgies, no bunching, no mid-run adjustments. You get four pockets total — two zippered side pockets for a phone and keys and two drop-in pockets in the liner for a card or gel.

Owners who have taken these through half-marathons and heavy lifting sessions alike praise the stay-put liner and how the two-layer design eliminates the need for extra underwear. The 3-inch inseam hits a balance — short enough for freedom, long enough for confidence. Several buyers mention that the shorts run slightly large, so sizing down is the common advice if you are between sizes. The built-in shorts with anti-grip strips are the standout feature for anyone who has fought with riding inner liners before.

The only caution is that the drop-in liner pockets can bounce with a heavily loaded phone during fast runs — most owners find the zippered outer pockets the best spot for valuables. For a dedicated running short that breathes like air and holds everything tight, this is the one.

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The Bermuda-length short that works from the gym bench to the brunch table.

These 7-inch high-waisted shorts offer a generous, loose-leg cut that stops above the knee. The 4-way stretch fabric (it stretches vertically and horizontally) moves with your body without binding or clinging, and the soft, non-see-through material has a nice weight to it. You get three deep pockets — two side pockets and one rear zippered pocket — so you can stash your phone, keys, and a card. The no-ride-up design means they stay put during squats and lunges, and the fit is forgiving enough for anyone with fuller hips or thighs.

What owners rave about is the length — it offers the perfect coverage without being baggy, and it looks just as good with a crop top for errands as it does with a tank for leg day. The stretch is gentle and smoothing, not compressive, so your shape shows naturally. The fabric survived multiple washes with no fading, pilling, or fraying. “I purchased in 4 colors and I will probably purchase another two or three” is a typical sentiment from loyal buyers. The one catch is that the shorts can show panty lines on a heavier derriere, and the fit runs slightly small for some. For a comfortable, modest pair that transitions out of the gym smoothly, this is your pick.

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The scrunch-seam smooth short that lifts and holds through any squat.

This is the short for the heavy lifter. The smooth compression fabric is squat-proof — completely opaque even in the deepest squat — and the scrunch seam on the back creates a natural lift that owners love. The waistband is compressive but does not roll over or dig in, with a “no roll up” design that stays flat during dynamic movement. You can choose your inseam from 2.5 inches up to 6.5 inches, so you get the exact coverage you want. Unlike the BALENNZ 5-pack which has pockets, the AUROLA has none — a trade-off for the smooth feel.

Owners praise the perfect compression — snug enough to feel supported without restricting movement or causing muffin top. The fabric is thick and high-quality, and the shorts are designed for low-to-moderate impact activities like gym workouts, yoga, cardio, and HIIT (high-intensity interval training). The booty-lift effect is a major highlight, with many noting the shorts make the glutes pop. The only absence is pockets — there are none, so you will need to carry your phone separately or use an armband.

A few owners with curvy midsections note that the waist can feel too compressive in smaller sizes, so sizing up is recommended if you are between sizes. For a pocket-free, all-business gym short that flatters and performs, this one delivers.

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The buttery-soft, no-liner short that feels like a second skin.

Made from the brand’s Butterlift signature fabric (74% Polyamide and 26% Lycra), these linerless shorts offer a plush, thick compression that feels luxurious against the skin. The 3-inch inseam and high-waisted design create a smooth, smooth waistband that lies flat and does not dig in. You get two deep side pockets that easily hold an iPhone Pro Max, and the fabric is completely opaque.

Owners love the softness — “buttery soft” is the most common descriptor — and note that the shorts work perfectly for both gym sessions and casual errands. The smooth waistband offers a smooth second-skin feel, and the 4-way stretch allows full range of motion. The shorts run larger than the brand’s leggings, so sizing down is the universal advice from the owner community. Unlike the CRZ YOGA 2-in-1 which has double layers, the Butterlift is a single layer for a lighter feel. The only caveat is that the length can ride up for women with bigger glutes during intense workouts, making these better suited for yoga, casual wear, and light cardio than heavy squats.

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A five-pack built for the gym floor with zippered pockets and a secure waistband.

This is another strong value five-pack with a focus on gym-friendly features. Each pair comes with two zippered pockets, a built-in brief liner, an elastic high-waist band, and a side split design for extra leg mobility. The fabric is lightweight, quick-drying, and opaque, so you never worry about being see-through during a stretch. The high-waist band is wide and supportive, helping to smooth the midsection without rolling over.

Owners highlight the deep zippered pockets that easily hold a large cell phone without bulging. The fit is true to size for most, though a few buyers report it runs slightly small, especially in the thigh area. The built-in liner is comfortable and stays put, and the shorts wash well with no fading or pilling. For a five-pack that you can throw in the rotation for volleyball practice, gym workouts, and daily errands, this is a solid pick — with more side split than the BALENNZ for extra leg movement. The main thing to watch is the sizing if you have fuller hips — order up if you prefer a looser fit through the legs.

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The flowy skort that combines the look of a skirt with the utility of biker shorts.

This 2-in-1 design pairs a flowy, high-waist outer layer with a built-in biker spandex short underneath. The wide elastic waistband includes a drawstring and offers generous tummy control, smoothing the silhouette without being restrictive. You get a single side pocket in the inner biker shorts — right side only — big enough for a phone and keys. The fabric is incredibly soft, breathable, and stretchy, with a luxurious feel that owners compare to Lululemon.

The fit is a major highlight — the flowy hem flutters beautifully while the inner shorts keep everything secure. Taller women (5’10″+ owners) praise the length and coverage, and the shorts stay in place during runs and racket sports. The inner liner does ride up for some, though the outer seams prevent any exposure, and a few owners note the pocket is on the right side only, which is a minor inconvenience for left-handed users. For a comfortable, versatile short that works for tennis, hiking, golf, and the gym, this is a top pick. The only trade-off is that the inner liner can ride up, making quick phone retrieval difficult.

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The barely-there, feather-light short that mimics Lululemon for a fraction of the cost.

With a 2.5-inch inseam, these low-waisted shorts offer maximum leg freedom and a barely-there feel. The feather-light fabric is ultra-breathable and moisture-wicking, keeping you cool during the hottest runs. The built-in liner is tight and supportive, and the small zippered pocket is perfect for a key or card. Reflective details on the side add visibility for early morning or evening runs. At just one-third the inseam of a 7-inch short, this is the polar opposite of the full-coverage Bermuda style, offering unrestricted mobility for every stride. Unlike the BALENNZ which has two large zippered pockets, the MCEDAR has only one small one.

Owners frequently call this a fantastic Lululemon dupe, praising the fit, the stretchy waistband, and the flattering cut that hugs the hips. A 5’2″, 137-lb owner says size M fits perfectly, and shorter reviewers (under 5′) love that the short length does not hit at an awkward knee point. The retro sporty look is a big draw, and the fabric holds up well after washing. The only common complaint is the zippered pocket is small and sits at the back — not ideal for a large modern smartphone.

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The classic running short you already know, with Dri-FIT technology and a reliable fit.

Nike’s Tempo Dri-FIT short is a proven performer. The Dri-FIT technology (a fabric treatment that pulls sweat away from your skin so it evaporates fast) keeps you dry and comfortable. The mid-rise waist and brief-lined construction offer a secure fit that stays in place. The reflective Swoosh on the left thigh improves visibility in low light, and a small hidden waistband pocket lets you store a key or a card. The lightweight material has a little stretch and a lot of breathability.

Owners appreciate the consistent quality — the shorts hold their shape after washing without fading or pilling, and the fit is true to size for most. At 5’4″ and 115 pounds, one owner found the size small perfect for both workouts and leisure. The shorts work well for running, training, and casual wear, though the waistband pocket is too small for a modern phone. The sizing can be hit or miss for some, and the brief liner may not suit everyone. For a reliable, brand-name short that you can trust to perform, the Nike Tempo is your safe bet.