Made with Nike Dry wick-away material to keep you cool and comfortable. Inseam length is 3 inches and won't ride up during running. Convenient waterproof zip pocket is located at the rear waistband. Available in nearly two dozen colors.

Cons

Some reports that the sizing is a bit off, and it's recommended to size up.

Best Bang for the Buck

Nike

Performance 3.75" Game Shorts

Fitted Design

Top choice if you prefer snug-fitting shorts that aren't bike shorts.

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Fitted Design

Bottom Line

Top choice if you prefer snug-fitting shorts that aren't bike shorts.

Pros

Wide waistband is comfortable during activity, especially bending for weight training. Material has a good amount of give and dries quickly. Snug fit means these shorts won't shift, ride up, or chafe. Popular pick for team training gear with its extensive color assortment.

Cons

The waistband was a bit wide for many wearers, and there's no way to tighten it.

Nike

Pro 5" Shorts

Secure Waistband

Touted by extreme fitness enthusiasts as the most versatile shorts they have.

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Secure Waistband

Bottom Line

Touted by extreme fitness enthusiasts as the most versatile shorts they have.

Pros

Designed with Nike Pro fabric to hug curves and flex in the right places. Waistband is mid-rise and doesn't dig into hips. With a 5-inch inseam, it's the ideal length to accommodate most wearers. Washes well and dries quickly. Popular for hiking or travel wear.

Cons

Waistband flips over during squats, which wearers found distracting and uncomfortable.

Nike

Victory Training Shorts

Smooth Seams

Well-made training shorts that are a top pick for Tough Mudder or Spartan races.

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Smooth Seams

Bottom Line

Well-made training shorts that are a top pick for Tough Mudder or Spartan races.

Pros

Lightweight, Dri-Fit fabric keeps sweat at bay. Designed with chafe-free flat-lock seams, making them ideal for those with sensitive skin. On the thinner side, so they're popular for layering. Fit is true to size and shorts don't stretch out like other polyester/spandex blends.

Cons

Occasional issues with the waistband seams popping and pulling away from the shorts.

Nike

Pro 3" Compression Shorts

Anti-Fatigue

Ideal pick for endurance training with its compressive design.

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Anti-Fatigue

Bottom Line

Ideal pick for endurance training with its compressive design.

Pros

Offers a decent amount of support and compression without being uncomfortable or restrictive. Breathable design features mesh panels for additional ventilation. Two-way waistband can be worn up to reveal the logo or rolled down for a low-cut fit.

Cons

Shorts run small, but sizing up means they might be a bit too loose to be effective at compression.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews

HOW WE TESTED

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First Reviewed

August 25, 2020

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