ODODOS High-Waist Women’s Biker-Style Running Shorts

Running shorts generally fall into two categories: short and loose or compression. The first kind is designed to provide increased breathability and a wider range of motion. The inseams generally range from 3 to 6 inches and can be V-notch or split shorts. The V-notch styles are like regular shorts, with V cutouts on the sides. Split shorts have two panels, with the front one overlapping the back.

Compression shorts are made to support and compress, which can improve blood flow and decrease muscle oscillation. You will find these with longer inseams, generally from 5 to 8 inches. Note that these are different from bicycle shorts that are made to be worn by bicyclists. Those have padding on the insides, which is not appropriate for running.

Loose running shorts are breathable because more air can get into the wider leg openings. Look for shorts with built-in liners; otherwise, your undergarments might show. They are not great for keeping you warm, and some find the material can chafe against the skin. Compression shorts are not as breathable and can restrict runner movement. Still, they provide more warmth, and some people feel that compression styles help with endurance.

Modern running shorts come in endless colors, patterns and styles; many have strategically-placed zippers for keys, phones and other small things. It’s good to have storage options like this. The looser versions can have elastic waistbands and drawstrings, but you won’t see the latter on compression shorts. The choice is up to you.

• Compression shorts have higher waistbands, while looser styles hit below the waist.
• Look for soft, breathable materials that have stretch.
• Vaseline and anti-chafing balms can help with chafing.
• Running shorts come in women’s, men’s and unisex designs.
• You don’t have to wear underwear if the shorts have a full liner.
• Many runners wear compression shorts under looser shorts.
• If you run at night, wear bright-colored running tops and bottoms.
• Compression shorts are great for yoga, other activities and floor work exercises. If you do those movements in loose shorts, the material will move around and reveal more skin.