Tips For Finding the Best Running Shorts for Men
Are you interested in finding the best running shorts for men? We spoke with some
runners we know and came up with the following list of must-have items in
choosing a good pair of running shorts.
Things To Look For in Running Shorts
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Lining. A lining is key in running shorts. Linings negate the need for
underwear or jock straps and reduce the amount of moisture that can lead to
chafing. All good running shorts come with linings.
Fabric. Don’t choose a cotton or nylon based short. Neither functions well
with moisture and can cause chafing. Instead choose a synthetic material that
wicks moisture away. Synthetics also hold up much better and will last
longer than cotton or nylon.
Key Pocket. The best running shorts for men will have a small pocket up by
the waistband for holding keys and other necessities. You definitely don’t
want shorts with bigger pockets because items in large pockets tend to
bounce around when you run.
Price. Price is always an issue, so look for something between $15 and $35.
This is the average price range for many of the shorts we found online. Some
shorts are more expensive, but for the most part, the best running shorts for
men fall within this price range.
Styles of Shorts to Consider
Running shorts come in three different styles, and it really comes down to a
personal preference for the feel of each style.
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Compression Shorts. Some runners like to wear compression shorts when
doing speed workouts. Other runners prefer compression shorts for all of
their runs because they reduce chafing so well. Several different leg lengths
are offered in compression shorts, and your choice depends on your personal
style.
V-Notch Shorts. This is the most common style of running short. It simply
means that the side seam of the leg ends in an upside down V-shaped notch
that allows for greater mobility when running.
Split Leg Shorts. This style is becoming increasingly popular because it
offers the greatest mobility while running. The side seams are not sewn
together, but the front panel instead overlaps the back panel at the sides and
is stitched together only at the waistband. This offers full range of motion
while still allowing the leg to be covered.
Our Recommendations
We went online using the above characteristics to find the best running shorts for
men. Here are our recommendations.
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Under Armour Men's HeatGear® Sonic Compression Shorts. These
compression shorts have it all. They are made from a synthetic material that
wicks moisture away from your body and keeps you nice and cool on your
run. They have a specialized flat seam construction that prevents chafing and
also have a new technology called an AntiOdor Fabric that prevents odors
from occurring. They come in various sizes to afford different leg lengths, and
are priced right.
Soffe Men's Running Short. These are our favorite V-notch shorts. These
sleek shorts are made of an ultra-lightweight fabric (3.2 oz. shipping weight)
that is both breathable and durable. These are the same shorts that the U.S.
military uses for training soldiers. The Soffes come in various sizes and
colors, so you have your choice of looks. And again the price is right.
ASICS Men's Split Shorts. These split leg shorts have everything we found
important in running shorts. They offer the greatest range of motion and are
made from lightweight moisture-wicking synthetics. They also have
reflective qualities for those night runs when it’s hard to be seen by cars.
Finally, they come in various sizes and colors so you’re sure to find
something you like.
For further information about what to look for in running shorts for men, check out
these websites: http://www.marathontraining.com/articles/art_29th.htm and
http://www.theclymb.com/stories/buying-guide-item/how-to-buy-runningshorts/.