Keeping covered has never been so cool.
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Dedicated pants wearers, we see you—and we also worry for you on your runs when summer temperatures reach their peak. While we won't try to force you into a pair of split shorts or daisy dukes, opting for a longer short can help you stay comfortable while providing ample coverage as you run.
When looking for a longer short, the magic number is a 7-inch inseam. A 7-inch inseam short will give you great coverage while still being breezy and breathable, and they're less likely to ride up than shorter styles. Since there are so many shorts to choose from out there, we gathered up our favorite 7-inchers to help make your shopping experience a breeze. Note—the first three shorts are women's shorts while the following three are men's shorts.
The Best 7-Inch Inseam Running Shorts
1
2
3
Best Biker Short
Outdoor Voices Flow 7-Inch Short
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4
5
Most Secure
Nike Men's Flex Stride 2-in-1 Running Shorts
Read more
6
What to Consider
Running shorts are usually relatively short, so for styles with inseams that measure 5 inches or longer, you will want to make sure that they will allow for enough movement. The best way to ensure this with long inseams is a slight split on the side, and a wide leg. The material is also important—you will want it to be moisture-wicking and have at least a slight stretch so that it moves with you and won't cause chafing or discomfort.
How We Selected
To find the best options among the many 7-inch inseam running shorts out there, we researched some of the most popular shorts available through Amazon, department stores, and retailers specializing in athletic gear. We then took into account price, materials, sizing, range of motion, and comfort. Finally, we consulted reviews written by people who’ve bought these models on sites like Amazon, to settle on the running shorts you'll find below, all of which have average customer ratings of 4 out of 5 stars or higher.
Looking for some more options? Check our out top running short picks for men and women.
Key Specs
- Materials: Polyester, spandex
- Sizes: XS–XXL
- Colors: 8
These shorts may have a lot of fabric, but they are breezy to run in and won’t fall down thanks to a thick, supportive waistband. They have two deep pockets as well as a zippered back pocket and front key pocket—plus the liner is super soft and moisture-wicking.
2
Bunch Resistant
Brooks Women's Chaser Shorts
Key Specs
- Materials: Recycled polyester, spandex
- Sizes: 2–16
- Colors: 6
These shorts are specifically designed to not ride up on you. The angled design allows for more fabric on the inside of the leg which prevents chafing and bunching, and these have a slight split on the side for increased mobility.
Key Specs
- Materials: Polyester, spandex
- Sizes: XXS–3XL
- Colors: 4
If you prefer something with a closer fit, or simply want a more versatile pair of shorts for rest days, this super soft biker short is the way to go. It is great for casual runs, yoga, or running errands, and the heathered design keeps sweat from showing.
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Key Specs
- Materials: Polyester, spandex
- Sizes: S–XL
- Colors: 3
These shorts have a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from a handful of Amazon customers and they have been tested and loved by RW editors, as well. They have a baggy fit, which allows them to sit far from the skin and remain breezy and comfortable, as well as having a super soft liner that's both stretchy and moisture-wicking.
5
Most Secure
Nike Men's Flex Stride 2-in-1 Running Shorts
Key Specs
- Materials: Polyester
- Sizes: S–XXL
- Colors: 9
These shorts have a longer compression liner, which gives them a secure fit, and prevents anything from moving around or falling out. They have a tie at the waist for extra security, and they come in a range of fun, bright colors.
6
Best Budget
Under Armour Launch Stretch Woven Shorts
Now 18% Off
Key Specs
- Materials: Polyester
- Sizes: S–3X
- Colors: 27
These shorts are affordable, comfortable, and come in 27 different color options. They have a breathable mesh liner that can help keep you cool, and the ultralight polyester fabric is breezy and quick drying.
Gabrielle Hondorp
Before joining Runner's World, Gabrielle Hondorp spent 6 years in running retail (she has tested top gear from shoes, to watches, to rain jackets which has expanded her expertise—and her closets); she specializes in health and wellness, and is an expert on running gear from head-to-toe. Gabi began her journalism career as a Digital Editorial Fellow for Runner’s World and Bicycling Magazine, and has since advanced to a Runner's World Editor specializing in commerce. She has a double degree in English and Media and Communication from Muhlenberg College where she also ran cross country and track.
