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How To Choose Running Shorts

By Matt GerholdLast update: 2023-12-31

Running shorts are known to be specialized shorts for runners. They typically feature shortcuts of the track, which provide maximum breathability and movement, ensuring a neat pant leg that doesn't get in the way of the runner's knees.

Although the look of running shorts is simple, they provide you with freedom of movement with many different styles of pants. So whether you're into smooth running, walking the local trails or the rough roads, here's the right running shorts for your needs. To start learning how to choose a running short for you, it is important to pay attention to the following characteristics: length, lining or compression layer underneath, the type of material used to make the product. Follow us below.

1. Length of running short

Short length: Most of the shorts that extend to the thighs usually provide good ventilation and mobility when running. All runs are popular with athletes, and are perfect for sprinting and marathon running. This efficiency is based on the product's structural engineering, light weight and unlimited length mode will make them work with full performance. And usually about 3 inches in length.

Long length: Shorts are suitable for shorter runs and can vary with conditions such as trail running, giving you protection from debris or shrubs, often worn by men. For this design, you should look for sweat-wicking and breathable fabrics to ensure they don't react against the user's pressure. Cases with shorter running distances with shorter distances will be given priority. Either way, make sure the material used doesn't trap heat or moisture and this will affect comfort. Besides, this type has many pockets for quick and easy storage.

Medium length: They offer a balance between the aggressive competition of shorts and the durability of long shorts, the medium length giving you both. In terms of style, quite popular for runners, it is also considered a versatile pants for modern runners and suitable for those who practice a variety of races.

2. Types of running shorts

2.1 Compression running short

How To Choose Running Shorts

Primarily body-hugging, compression shorts are similar to biking chamois (except that they have padding). Because of its tight body characteristics, it feels warmer when worn, while supporting muscles and preventing chafing. In addition, they provide stretch that allows for flexibility. However, compression shorts length differs in style between men and women. Usually women's compression shorts will be shorter in length with a length of only 1 inch to thigh level. Men's compression shorts are typically long from mid-thigh to the knee and are worn shorter below. While the leg seams can vary, because the versatility of the shorts comes from the stretchy, snug fit, it's the leg seams on compression shorts that should always be considered when purchasing.

2.2 V notch running short

These are the most popular running shorts, because they get the name V because of the upside down V-cut on the outside leg seams, starting about half an inch from the hem. This cut allows the runner to have a wider range of movement. They also have extra roomy fit features. However, they still resemble compression shorts, women's V shorts tend to be slightly shorter.

2.3 Split running short

For split shorts that are often confused with V-slotted shorts. They also feature a generous fit and the foot seams have an upside down V cut on the bottom, instead of having part of the leg seams, and the shape created by the front panel overlaps the face after. As a result, the actual seams will often be as short as the waistband, providing a wide range of motion for runners, and go with shorter soles, starting around 1 inch for men and women.

2.4 Genders running short

Men’s running short: Tailor-made for men's bodies. Features typically longer insoles and built-in linings that provide more support in the groin (jock laces are not needed) to prevent discomfort and chafing.

Women’s running short: Features a cut-out women's shorts that better fit the waist, hips, and thighs and offer maximum comfort, with less room and restriction in the groin, and a shorter sole for shorter legs.

Unisex running short: The combination with both cuts of men's and women's running shorts. But they will lack male and female-specific support features. Therefore, they do not provide comfort and prevent chafing in the long run.

3. Materials of running short

How To Choose Running Shorts

In general, running shorts and their lining are usually made from synthetic or natural fibers.

Synthetic fibers: Most running shorts are made of synthetic fibers made of polyester, polyester-spandex blend, or nylon blend. Know that polyester blends provide a good fit, stretch and especially manage moisture to prevent chafing and discomfort. In addition, they offer durability and long service life.

Natural fibers: For running shorts made from natural fibers such as cotton, they can stretch and move freely, but do not hold moisture well, which can cause chafing. Noting, if using them for a long time at high temperatures, it is easy to sweat, which makes them spoil quickly.

4. Underwear (liner) of running short

How To Choose Running Shorts

Running shorts have an inner lining and as a rule, you can't wear underwear underneath because the excess fabric causes discomfort and cracking. The lining fabric will provide moisture management to absorb sweat as you work out, helping to stay dry and prevent infections and chafing. In addition, the linings are designed to provide support and compression for men so they don't need a strap.

5. Types of activities for running short

How To Choose Running Shorts

For the trail runner: People who choose to run trails and urban areas tend to choose stiffer suits. And the shorts are a two-in-one that offers protection from the elements and comfortable support even over the longest distances.

For the track runner: For athletes, they always choose ultralight shorts to provide freedom of movement, ultralight can be for sprints or long distance runs.

For the road runner: Runners on the road need a flexible garment that protects from the weather whether it is sunny or rainy, and they are highly effective in both respects.

6. Sun protection

Clothing with a UV protection factor (UPF) is recommended, this will protect your skin from exposure and against UV radiation and aid in reducing your overall UV exposure. . It is known that UPF is the rating system used for apparel. Similar to SPF (Sun Protection Factor), the system is for rating on sunscreen products. The higher the UPF, the better the quality of the sun protection. It is recommended to choose clothes with a UPF 50 index, maybe

Blocks more than 98% of UVA and UVB rays. However, they are not a substitute for applying sunscreen, so applying sunscreen will help you avoid direct sunlight on the skin and protect deep inside the skin.

7. Pocket for running short

How To Choose Running Shorts

Convenient for storing essentials such as phones, gels, or iPods, look for running shorts that have a small zip pocket sewn into the waistband. Moreover, some pockets will be big enough to hold keys, while many others can hold a phone. This gives you peace of mind and comfort when running or moving.

8. Reflection of running short

Different from individual working hours, they will have many time frames for sports practice. Some of them have to start work very early, so most of their free time they will practice in the evening, but some of them will practice in the morning because the nature of their work starts later. Working out in the evening is also prone to some unexpected problems, so a lighter color or type of running shorts with reflective details for easy visibility will help you when needed. , safe to run at night. However, some people on demand prefer to wear brightly colored running shorts as a show of style or to attract attention.

Conclusion

Know that there are a lot of factors to consider when you're deciding on running shorts based on personal needs and preferences. So you need to take the time to read at our website giving some necessary information for you before choosing a product.

"I'm Matt, love travelling, sports especially climbing. The more I climb, the more resilient I am, that's not only apply for my hobbies but also true for everything in my life. I'd love to be here, a part of Gearinstant to share my experience, guides, tips and especially any gears that work for you."


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