How do Under Armour shorts prevent chafing during runs. What features should you look for in lined running shorts. Which materials offer the best breathability and sweat-wicking properties. How can you ensure the perfect fit for maximum comfort.
The Importance of Proper Running Shorts
Running enthusiasts know that the right gear can make or break a workout. Among the most crucial pieces of equipment are running shorts. The perfect pair can significantly enhance your performance, comfort, and overall running experience. Under Armour, a leading brand in athletic wear, has developed shorts that claim to eliminate chafing and discomfort during runs. But what makes these shorts stand out, and how can you choose the best pair for your needs?
Inseam Length: Finding the Sweet Spot
When it comes to running shorts, inseam length plays a crucial role in comfort and performance. Shorter inseams, typically ranging from 3 to 5 inches, provide maximum freedom of movement. This allows your legs to swing freely through each stride, reducing the risk of fabric bunching or riding up.
Can shorter inseams really make a difference in your running performance? The answer is a resounding yes. By minimizing fabric interference, shorter inseams can help you maintain proper form and reduce fatigue over long distances. Brands like Under Armour, Nike, and Brooks offer a variety of short-inseam options designed specifically for runners.
Fabric Matters: Sweat-Wicking and Breathability
The material of your running shorts can significantly impact your comfort level during a workout. Sweat-wicking, breathable fabrics like polyester and nylon are essential for keeping you dry and comfortable.
How do these fabrics work? They pull moisture away from your skin, allowing it to evaporate quickly rather than getting trapped against your body. This process helps regulate your body temperature and prevents the discomfort of sweat-soaked shorts, which can lead to chafing and irritation.
Under Armour’s signature HeatGear fabric is an excellent example of a high-performance, sweat-wicking material. It’s designed to keep you cool, dry, and light, making it an ideal choice for runners looking to maximize comfort during their workouts.
The Benefits of Built-in Liners
One of the most effective features for preventing chafing in running shorts is a built-in liner. These liners provide an extra layer of protection against your skin, reducing friction and discomfort during your run.
What should you look for in a built-in liner? Opt for shorts with liners made of smooth, seamless fabrics. Some brands even incorporate anti-chafe treatments into their liners for added protection. Under Armour, Nike, and ASICS are known for producing high-quality lined shorts that offer both support and chafe prevention.
The Role of Compression in Running Shorts
For longer distances, many runners prefer compression shorts. These shorts provide added muscle support and can improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to working muscles. Under Armour and 2XU offer compression shorts with integrated liner briefs, combining the benefits of compression with chafe prevention.
Waistband Design: Comfort and Security
A comfortable and secure waistband is crucial for ensuring your shorts stay in place throughout your run. Wide, flat waistbands typically offer the best fit, distributing pressure evenly around your waist to prevent digging or chafing.
How can you ensure your shorts won’t slip during a run? Look for innovative waistband designs that use stretchy materials to conform to your body. Many brands also incorporate adjustable drawcords, allowing you to customize the fit for extra security.
Practical Features: Pockets and Reflectivity
When choosing running shorts, consider the practical features that can enhance your running experience. Side pockets, especially those with zippers, are invaluable for securely holding keys, energy gels, or your phone during a run.
Why are reflective elements important in running shorts? If you often run in low-light conditions, reflective details can significantly improve your visibility to drivers and other road users. Look for shorts with reflective logos, piping, or prints to boost your safety during early morning or evening runs.
Fabric Technology: Stretch, Seams, and Odor Control
Advanced fabric technologies can greatly enhance the comfort and performance of your running shorts. Four-way stretch fabrics allow for unrestricted movement in all directions, ensuring your shorts move with you rather than against you.
How do flatlock seams contribute to comfort? These seams create smooth, flat stitches on the inside of the shorts, minimizing skin irritation and chafing. If you’re particularly prone to chafing, look for shorts advertised as having flatlock construction.
To combat the inevitable odors that come with sweaty workouts, many brands now incorporate anti-odor technologies into their shorts. These treatments can help keep your shorts fresher for longer, even after intense runs.
Finding the Perfect Fit
The fit of your running shorts is paramount to both comfort and performance. Shorts that are too loose can lead to chafing and excess movement, while those that are too tight can restrict your stride and cause discomfort.
How can you ensure you’re getting the right fit? Start by carefully reading sizing charts, as men’s and women’s shorts often size differently. If you’re unsure, consider ordering multiple sizes to try at home. Remember, the perfect pair of running shorts should contour to your body without compressing or squeezing.
The Importance of Proper Liner Fit
When it comes to lined shorts, the fit of the liner is just as important as the fit of the shorts themselves. Quality liner briefs should be made of quick-dry, lightweight fabric that moves with you during your stride. Avoid liners made of cotton, as they tend to get wet and heavy as you sweat, leading to discomfort and potential chafing.
Style and Motivation: The Psychology of Running Gear
While performance and comfort are crucial, don’t underestimate the power of style when choosing your running shorts. Vibrant colors and fun prints can provide a psychological boost, motivating you to get out the door for your run.
How can your choice of shorts impact your running motivation? Wearing shorts that you love can increase your confidence and enjoyment of your runs. Additionally, bold colors and patterns can enhance your visibility on the roads, contributing to your safety during outdoor runs.
Choosing Shorts for Different Running Conditions
Consider the conditions in which you’ll be running when selecting your shorts. For hot weather, prioritize breathability and moisture-wicking properties. In cooler conditions, you might opt for slightly longer shorts or those with compression features to keep your muscles warm.
For trail running, look for shorts with durable fabrics that can withstand brushes with vegetation. Extra pockets can also be beneficial for carrying trail essentials like maps or energy bars.
Caring for Your Running Shorts
Proper care of your running shorts can extend their life and maintain their performance properties. Always check the care label for specific instructions, but generally, it’s best to wash your shorts in cold water and avoid using fabric softeners, which can interfere with moisture-wicking properties.
How often should you replace your running shorts? While this can vary depending on use and care, most high-quality running shorts should last for at least a year of regular use. Signs that it’s time for a new pair include stretched-out elastic, fading anti-odor properties, or any holes or tears in the fabric.
The Role of Technology in Running Shorts Design
As technology advances, so does the design of running shorts. Many brands are now incorporating smart fabrics that can regulate temperature, provide targeted compression, or even track your running metrics.
What future innovations can we expect in running shorts? Some companies are exploring biodegradable materials to create more sustainable options. Others are working on integrating wearable technology directly into the fabric of the shorts, allowing for seamless tracking of your running data.
The Impact of Sustainable Materials
With increasing awareness of environmental issues, many runners are looking for more sustainable options in their gear. Some brands are now offering running shorts made from recycled materials or using eco-friendly manufacturing processes.
How can choosing sustainable running shorts make a difference? By opting for shorts made from recycled materials or produced using environmentally friendly methods, you can reduce your carbon footprint while still enjoying high-performance gear.
Understanding the Price-Quality Relationship
When it comes to running shorts, you often get what you pay for. While it’s possible to find budget-friendly options, investing in a high-quality pair of shorts can pay off in terms of comfort, durability, and performance.
Why are some running shorts more expensive than others? Higher-priced shorts often feature advanced materials, superior construction, and innovative technologies that can enhance your running experience. However, this doesn’t mean you need to break the bank – look for sales or previous season models to get high-quality shorts at a more affordable price point.
The Value of Brand Reputation
When choosing running shorts, consider the reputation of the brand. Companies like Under Armour have built their reputation on producing high-quality athletic wear, and their running shorts often benefit from years of research and development.
How can you assess a brand’s reputation? Look for reviews from other runners, particularly those with similar needs and preferences to your own. Pay attention to feedback about durability, comfort, and performance in real-world running conditions.
Tailoring Your Choice to Your Running Style
Your choice of running shorts should reflect your individual running style and preferences. Sprinters might prefer ultra-light, minimalist shorts, while long-distance runners might opt for shorts with more storage options and comfort features.
How can you determine which features are most important for your running style? Consider factors such as the distance you typically run, the terrain you run on, and any specific comfort issues you’ve experienced in the past. This will help you prioritize features like pocket space, compression, or specific anti-chafing technologies.
Adapting to Different Seasons
While shorts are primarily associated with warm-weather running, many runners wear shorts year-round. For cooler seasons, look for shorts that can be easily layered with tights or paired with warm tops.
What features are useful for year-round running shorts? Look for versatile options with moisture-wicking properties that work well in both hot and cool conditions. Some shorts also come with UV protection, which can be beneficial for sunny runs regardless of the temperature.
The Importance of Personal Trial and Error
While reviews and recommendations can be helpful, finding your perfect pair of running shorts often comes down to personal trial and error. What works for one runner may not work for another due to differences in body shape, running style, and personal preferences.
How can you efficiently test different running shorts? Consider buying from retailers with generous return policies, allowing you to try shorts on real runs before committing. Some brands even offer trial periods where you can test the shorts for a set number of days or miles.
Listening to Your Body
As you test different shorts, pay close attention to how your body feels during and after your runs. Even minor discomfort or chafing can become a major issue over longer distances, so don’t ignore small irritations.
What signs should you look out for when testing new shorts? Watch for any areas of rubbing or chafing, check if the waistband stays in place without needing constant adjustment, and assess how well the shorts wick away sweat during intense workouts.
Integrating Running Shorts into Your Overall Gear Strategy
Your running shorts are just one part of your overall running gear. Consider how they work with your other equipment, such as running shoes, shirts, and accessories like running belts or hydration packs.
How can you ensure your running shorts complement your other gear? Look for shorts that work well with any additional equipment you use. For example, if you use a running belt, you might prefer shorts with a smooth waistband that won’t bunch up underneath.
Building a Running Shorts Wardrobe
As you become more invested in running, you might find it beneficial to have multiple pairs of shorts for different types of runs or weather conditions. This can also extend the life of your shorts by allowing them time to fully dry and recover between uses.
How many pairs of running shorts do you need? This depends on how frequently you run and do laundry, but having at least 2-3 pairs is a good starting point for most regular runners. This allows you to always have a clean, dry pair ready for your next run.
Finding the perfect pair of running shorts can make all the difference on your runs. The right shorts allow your legs to move freely while providing support and eliminating dreaded chafing. If you’re in the market for new running shorts, here are 10 tips to help you find your ideal pair:
Look for shorter inseams for maximum range of motion
Shorter inseams, around 3-5 inches, give your legs more room to swing through each stride. Longer inseams can cause restriction and chafing as your legs rub together. Brands like Under Armour, Nike, and Brooks offer shorts with short inseams designed specifically for runners.
Focus on sweat-wicking, breathable fabrics like polyester or nylon. These fabrics keep you dry by pulling moisture away from your skin rather than trapping it. Sweat-soaked shorts lead to chafing and discomfort. Under Armour’s signature HeatGear fabric is an excellent sweat-wicking choice.
Seek built-in liners for support and chafe prevention
Lined running shorts provide an extra layer against your skin to minimize chafing while also offering light compression. Liners made of smooth, seamless fabrics are ideal. Some liners even have anti-chafe treatments built in. Under Armour, Nike, and ASICS all make quality lined shorts.
A comfortable, secure waistband ensures your shorts stay up without digging in. Wide, flat waistbands usually offer the best fit. Some brands also use innovative waistbands made of stretchy materials that conform to your body. Adjustable drawcords provide extra security and customization.
Opt for side pockets to hold keys and fuel
Look for shorts with zippered side pockets that can comfortably hold gels, your phone, keys, and other necessities on the run. Avoid shorts with only small interior waistband pockets that bounce around while you run.
Reflective elements like logos, piping, or prints boost your visibility when running in low light. Drivers will be able to see you more easily, especially at intersections or on winding roads.
See if the shorts offer four-way stretch fabric that moves with you in every direction. The best running shorts feel like a second skin, rather than restricting your stride. Stretchy technical fabrics allow for a full range of motion.
Get the right fit – not too tight or too loose
Baggy shorts will sag and ride up as you run. Excess fabric also leads to more chafing. On the other hand, shorts that are too tight will constrict your legs. Buy shorts that contour to your body without compressing or squeezing.
For longer distances, some runners prefer compression shorts that give muscles added support. Compression can also improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to the working muscles. Under Armour and 2XU make compression shorts with integrated liner briefs.
Flatlock seams create smooth, flat stitches on the inside of the shorts to prevent skin irritation and chafing. Look for shorts advertised as having flatlock construction if chafe-free comfort is your top priority.
Check out anti-odor technologies to minimize smell
Sweaty runs can lead to some stinky shorts! To combat odors, some brands treat their shorts with anti-microbial or anti-odor coatings. After a long run, these shorts will still smell much fresher.
Vibrant colors and fun prints help motivate you to get out the door for a run. There’s a psychological boost from wearing shorts you really love. Bold shorts also increase your visibility on the roads.
If you run with your phone, look for shorts with zippered back pockets versus open pockets. Zippers will ensure your phone stays securely in place and is protected from sweat.
Read sizing charts carefully and buy a few different sizes to try at home if you aren’t sure. Men’s and women’s shorts size differently. Getting the right fit is key to comfort and chafe prevention.
Quality liner briefs are made of quick-dry, lightweight fabric that moves with you during your stride. Avoid liners made of cotton that will just get wet and heavy as you sweat.
With all the different running shorts available today, it can take some trial and error to find your perfect pair. Focus on the features that matter most to you, whether that’s pockets, compression, or reflectivity. Be sure to consider inseam length, waistband comfort, and fabric breathability. Read reviews from other runners with similar needs. With the right shorts, you can eliminate discomfort and focus on your miles!
When it comes to running shorts, breathability and sweat-wicking abilities should be top priorities. You want shorts that will keep you cool, dry, and comfortable mile after mile.
Focus on breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics like polyester
Polyester and poly-blend fabrics lead the way when it comes to drawing sweat off your skin and allowing maximum airflow. Unlike cotton, polyester dries extremely quickly and won’t get weighed down with moisture. Brands like Under Armour and Nike use proprietary poly blends in shorts designed specifically for runners.
Under Armour’s HeatGear shorts, for example, are made from an ultra-breathable, lightweight polyester fabric. It’s designed to keep you cool by wicking sweat away from your skin to the outer layer of the shorts, where it can evaporate. I’ve worn HeatGear on summer runs when the temperature is in the 80s, and they keep me as cool and dry as shorts can.
Nike’s Dri-FIT shorts perform similarly thanks to a microfiber poly construction. The material practically feels like it’s pulling the sweat off your skin. After a sweaty 10 mile run, my Nike Dri-FIT shorts were damp on the outer layer while completely dry against my legs.
Mesh panels boost breathability
Many running shorts styles also incorporate mesh panels along the sides or in strategic areas. Mesh fabrics have a loose weave that allows maximum airflow circulation. The panels help vent the heat and humidity generated during your run.
I like shorts that have mesh panels along the sides of the outer legs or built into the liner brief. Under Armour often adds mesh to their multi-material shorts. It lets fresh air flow through the shorts, cooling you down.
Moisture-wicking liners prevent chafing
Inner liner briefs are a smart choice for preventing thigh chafing and irritation. Opt for liners made from moisture-wicking fabrics rather than cotton underwear. Liners like Under Armour’s HeatGear boxer briefs are ultra smooth and keep skin dry, eliminating rubbing and hot spots.
Compression shorts made by Under Armour, Nike, and others take it a step further by providing muscle support and recovery benefits. Tighter fitting fabrics move moisture away from the skin. I prefer compression for half marathons or longer runs.
Antimicrobial technology prevents odors
It’s common for running clothes to get a little stinky from sweat after logging lots of miles. However, shorts treated with antimicrobial technology can help minimize odors. The antimicrobials prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria on the fabric’s surface.
Brands like Under Armour use antimicrobial treatments like their signature “Anti-Odor” technology to fight odors in athletic clothing. I’ve noticed my Under Armour shorts tend to stay fresher post-run compared to untreated shorts.
While no shorts will ever be completely odor-proof, antimicrobial treatments can keep smells in check. It’s useful on long runs where you’re building up major sweat in the shorts.
Ventilated waistbands increase airflow
Don’t forget to check out the waistband design too. Some running shorts incorporate ventilated waistbands to allow air circulation and cooling. This is key since the waistband rests directly against the sweat-prone lower back and stomach.
Ventilated waistbands may be made from moisture-wicking mesh or laser-cut with tiny perforations. This small detail makes a surprising impact on comfort and sweat management.
The perfect running shorts for you will tick all the boxes: sweat-wicking technology, strategic mesh panels, antimicrobial properties and waistband ventilation. When you feel cool and dry mile after mile, you can achieve your flow state uninterrupted by discomfort.
Next time you need new running shorts, put breathability at the top of your checklist. Fabrics like polyester and mesh panels channel airflow where you need it most. Moisture-wicking liners and antimicrobial treatments provide backup to keep sweat, odor and chafing at bay.
When it comes to preventing chafing and discomfort during runs, a quality liner brief built into your shorts is key. Seek out running shorts with integrated liner shorts made of seamless, anti-chafe fabric for the ultimate in comfort.
Seek built-in liners for support and chafe prevention
Inner liner briefs provide a protective second layer between your thighs to eliminate chafing and irritation caused by skin-on-skin friction. Integrated liners are preferable to wearing separate underwear which can bunch up and cause new chafe spots.
Built-in liner shorts are designed specifically for running and made of smooth, seamless fabrics that glide smoothly against your skin. Under Armour’s signature HeatGear liner fabric is very soft and chafe-resistant.
Compression liners increase support
Some liners provide light compression which gives muscles extra support. This helps combat fatigue and aids recovery. Under Armour’s HeatGear compression shorts are my go-to for long distance runs. The snug fit also prevents bouncing and discomfort.
Seamless construction prevents irritation
Look for shorts with liners featuring seamless construction, as traditional sewn seams can cause skin irritation and rubbing. Seamless liners have flatlocked or bonded seams on the inside for next-to-skin comfort.
Under Armour seamlessly engineers many of their liner briefs to create smooth, contouring compression and zero distractions from irritating seams. A seamless liner really makes a big difference in comfort over the miles.
Anti-chafe treatments are game-changers
Some high-performance liner briefs feature built-in anti-chafe treatments to create an exceptionally smooth fabric surface. Under Armour’s signature Iso-Chill fabric has an anti-chafe coating to prevent friction hot spots before they start.
Silicone patches or dots on the inside of liner shorts can also help minimize skin rubbing and discomfort. Look for these extra anti-chafe additions to maximize your chafe-free mileage.
Moisture-wicking ability prevents wetness and heat
Advanced liner brief fabrics quickly wick moisture away from the skin to keep you dry as you sweat. Wet fabric leads to chafing, so dry liners are critical. Under Armour’s HeatGear liner fabric incorporates moisture-wicking technology to rapidly evaporate sweat.
Bonus tip: talcum powder can further minimize chafing by keeping the skin dry. Apply it before longer runs in warm weather when chafe is likely.
Ultimately, the ideal running shorts have built-in liner briefs that check all the boxes: seamless construction, sweat-wicking fabric, compression support, and anti-chafe properties. When your liner stays in place, keeps skin dry, and glides smoothly, you can fully focus on your pace rather than discomfort.
A secure, comfortable waistband is a make-or-break detail when it comes to running shorts. You want a waistband that stays put through every stride without squeezing or digging in.
Choose a comfortable waistband that stays put
The ideal running short waistband lays smooth and flat against your lower back. It should provide a custom fit without pinching or constricting. Brands design waistbands specifically for athletic activity and motion.
Wide waistbands prevent rolling
Look for shorts with a wide waistband, usually around 2 inches thick. The extra width helps prevent the waistband from rolling as you move. A wider band also distributes pressure more comfortably over a larger surface area on your torso.
Under Armour uses wide waistbands on shorts like the men’s UA Raid 10” Shorts to keep them perfectly in place as you run. The flat, smooth waistband conforms to your body without squeezing or irritation.
Stretch fabrics allow a customized fit
Innovative stretch fabrics add flexibility and comfort in waistbands. Under Armour’s shorts feature waistbands made from lightweight, stretchy materials that move with you. The UA Qualifier Speedpocket Shorts have an external elastic waistband for a truly custom fit.
Flexible, stretchy waistbands expand during inhales and contract during exhales. The result is a custom, second-skin feel rather than rigid compression.
Adjustable drawcords lock in security
For extra security and fit customization, look for shorts with adjustable interior waist drawcords. You can cinch the shorts to your perfect fit and prevent them from sliding down mid-run. Drawcords are especially useful for fluctuating waist sizes.
Under Armour designs many shorts with adjustable drawcord waists. Just be sure not to overtighten the drawcord to maintain comfort and circulation.
Don’t settle for shorts with a flimsy elastic waistband that pinches or shifts up and down as you run. Seek out shorts with waistbands made of flexible, breathable fabrics cut wide enough to lay smoothly against your lower back. The result will be shorts that stay perfectly in place mile after mile.
Convenient side pockets in your running shorts allow you to easily carry essentials like nutrition, keys, and your phone. Look for shorts with secure zippered pockets rather than open pockets prone to bouncing and shifting.
Opt for side pockets to hold keys and fuel
The last thing you want while running is to constantly hold items in your hands. Side pockets let you stash must-haves so your hands are free. Many shorts place pockets on the outer thighs for accessibility without impediment.
Zippered pockets prevent bouncing
Secure zippered pockets keep items safely contained and bounce-free. Search for shorts with at least one zip pocket, like the Under Armour Qualifier Speedpocket shorts. The zipper keeps gels and other small items from falling out.
For phones, zippered pockets are a must. The zip enclosure protects your phone from sweat and keeps it from popping out. Under Armour’s Escape 3″ Shorts have a water-resistant zip pocket perfect for smartphones.
Avoid shallow, open pockets
Some running shorts have open pockets without closures along the waistband. However, these shallow pockets allow items to slip out, and the open tops allow sweat transfer onto your phone or keys.
Also avoid shorts with only tiny interior stash pockets. These put pressure directly on your lower back and don’t provide enough secure storage.
Extra storage for longer runs
If you tackle ultra distances, look for shorts with multiple side pockets to carry more fuel and gear. The Under Armour Rush Run Shorts offer large side zip pockets plus an interior drop-in pocket for max storage.
Side pockets let you ditch armbands and waist packs for accessing phone, fuel, cash, and keys on the run. Seek shorts with at least one zippered, sweat-resistant pocket to secure your essentials minus the annoying bounce.
Reflective details on running shorts are crucial for keeping visible during low light runs. Look for shorts with strategically placed reflective elements to catch drivers’ attention when running at dawn, dusk or night.
Look for reflective details for visibility
Being seen is a top priority for safe running. Reflective details on your shorts reflect light back to drivers, pedestrians and cyclists when natural light is low. Reflective accents increase the chance that others will notice you.
Reflective logos and prints
Many running shorts styles incorporate reflective logos, prints and patterns. Under Armour, for example, adds reflective logos up front on shorts like the UA Rival Shorts for a useful dash of visibility.
All-over reflective prints also create 360 degree visibility. The Under Armour Rival Patterns Mens Shorts feature pixelated, reflective jacquard fabric for high visibility.
strategic placement
Look for shorts with reflectivity placed on the front and back to shine when headlights hit you. Side leg reflectivity is also great for visibility when crossing intersections.
Under Armour’s Rush Run Shorts have reflective logos on the front and back for visibility coming and going. I also love the wide reflective stripe on the sides of the UA Qualifier Speedpocket shorts.
Add LED lights for added safety
For maximum visibility on night runs, add clip-on LED lights to your shorts’ waistband or back pocket. LEDs are ultra bright to drivers and flash to really get attention. No one will miss you with LEDs blinking from shorts like Under Armour’s Rival Shorts.
Reflective details allow you to run confidently knowing drivers can see and react to your presence in low light. When shopping shorts, check that reflectivity is smartly placed for 360 degree visibility on the roads.
The best running shorts move and stretch with your body, never restricting your natural stride. Prioritize unimpeded flexibility by looking for shorts made of stretch-friendly technical fabrics.
Prioritize stretch and flexibility for full stride
Restrictive shorts that limit your range of motion negatively impact performance and can even lead to injury. Seek out shorts made of flexible, stretchy fabrics that allow free movement.
Four-way stretch allows motion
Look for fabrics offering four-way stretch. This means the material stretches smoothly in all directions as your legs pump through each stride. Shorts with four-way stretch feel almost like a second skin.
Many Under Armour shorts feature fabric technologies enabling four-way stretch. The UA Speedpocket Run Shorts have an ultra-stretchy fabric blend that moves seamlessly in every plane.
Unimpeded stride for any distance
Technical stretch fabrics found in running shorts retain their shape stride after stride. They won’t lose their compression and become saggy or loose mid-run. Under Armour’s Iso-Chill fabric has a proprietary stretch-retention technology.
Whether you’re running a 5k or marathon, your shorts shouldn’t restrict your mechanics or cadence. Keep flexibility top of mind when choosing fabrics.
Stretch liners for total mobility
Inner liner briefs should also offer four-way stretch for chafe-free comfort. Avoid bunching liners that impede motion. Under Armour’s HeatGear liner briefs are ultra smooth with stretch that mirrors the outer short fabric.
Test shorts by doing deep squats, high kicks, and lunges. If range of motion feels impeded, keep looking for adequate stretch and mobility.
Running shorts that move with your body help optimize every facet of performance. Seek out technical blends offering four-way stretch for a fully unrestricted stride. When your shorts allow freedom of movement, you can focus energy on speed and distance rather than discomfort.
Finding the ideal fit is crucial when selecting running shorts. You want a cut that contours to your body without constricting or sagging as you move. Focus on a tailored fit that’s not too tight but also not too loose.
Get the right fit – not too tight or too loose
The best running shorts fit like a second skin, moving with you rather than restricting you or slowing you down. Look for a contoured, athletic cut designed for motion.
Avoid tight waistbands
High waistbands that dig into your stomach will be distracting and uncomfortable. Make sure the waistband lays smoothly without squeezing you or cutting into your torso.
Under Armour designs shorts with stretchy, flexible waistbands that sit comfortably on the hips without restrictive compression around the waist.
Prevent thigh chafing
Loose shorts allow too much thigh movement, leading to chafing. Look for shorts that fit close to the legs without hugging too tightly. A tailored fit prevents skin irritation.
Under Armour’s Escape 3” Shorts use an athletic cut to contour the thighs without constricting range of motion as you run.
No sagging shorts
Shorts that are too baggy will slowly sag downward as you pick up mileage, which is distracting and impacts your stride. Seek a secure fit with straightforward sizing.
Size up if between sizes for a comfortable fit. Under Armour includes detailed size charts to help you select the right shorts in your usual size.
Test shorts by jogging and doing lunges. Make sure you have full range of motion without tight restriction or loose sagging. The goal is shorts that move seamlessly with your body for ultimate comfort.
For runners looking for extra muscle support and recovery benefits, compression shorts are a great option. Light compression can help reduce fatigue and energize muscles.
Consider compression for muscle support
Compression shorts provide a snug fit that increases blood flow, improves oxygen delivery to muscles, and helps clear metabolic waste like lactic acid. The result can be less fatigue and better endurance.
Graduated compression targets legs
Look for shorts using graduated compression, meaning more compression around the calves tapering up the thighs. This helps circulate blood and lymphatic fluid to energize working leg muscles.
Under Armour’s high-tech Rush line incorporates graduated compression. After long runs, my legs feel fresher in the Rush shorts.
Compression for recovery
Wearing compression shorts after strenuous workouts helps muscles recover faster. Increased blood flow to muscles delivers nutrients and oxygen to repair damaged tissue.
I love slipping on Under Armour HeatGear compression shorts after a tough interval session. My legs feel rejuvenated for the next day’s run.
Moisture-wicking compression
Look for compression shorts made of sweat-wicking fabrics like polyester blends. Wet compression can cause chafing. Under Armour’s HeatGear compression shorts have smooth compression with rapid moisture-wicking.
Test compression shorts on short runs first before trying for races. Compression isn’t for everyone. Make sure the fit isn’t too constricting.
Runners tackling marathons and other long distances may benefit from compression shorts. Consult reviews and try different brands like Under Armour to find the right level of compression that energizes your muscles.
The type of stitching used in running shorts can make a real difference in preventing irritation and chafing. Seek out shorts made with flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort.
Go for flatlock stitching to avoid irritation
Traditional stitched seams on the inside of shorts can cause skin irritation during repetitive motion from running. Flatlock stitching creates flat, smooth seams to prevent this irritation.
Low friction seams
Flatlock stitching eliminates bulky seam edges on the interior of shorts. This greatly reduces friction and minimizes spots prone to chafing. Under Armour commonly uses flatlock stitching in their HeatGear liner briefs.
Flat seams also have more stretch for better range of motion. The smooth interior moves comfortably against your skin when running.
Strategic seam placement
Look for shorts with seams thoughtfully placed in less abrasive areas. Side leg seams and inseams see less contact versus inner thigh seams.
Under Armour locates flatlock side leg seams away from main chafe points on shorts like the UA Raid 10” Shorts.
Seamless compression
For the ultimate in seamless comfort, seek out compression shorts with bonded seams. This seam construction eliminates chafing by essentially sealing the edges together into one smooth piece of fabric.
Flatlock stitching optimizes shorts for chafe-free comfort run after run. When seams glide rather than rub, you can rack up more miles happy and irritation-free.
It’s no secret that running shorts get pretty stinky from all the sweat! Look for shorts featuring anti-odor technologies if minimizing odors is a priority for you.
Check out anti-odor technologies to minimize smell
Let’s be honest – runners sweat a lot, especially in hot weather. Unfortunately this can lead to some pretty funky smelling shorts. Brands now offer shorts treated with anti-odor technologies to help combat smells.
Anti-microbial treatments
Many shorts feature anti-microbial treatments to inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria in the fabric. This prevents the bacteria from multiplying and producing foul smells.
Under Armour uses anti-microbial “Anti-Odor” technology on shorts like the UA Rival to keep smells in check after sweaty runs.
Moisture prevention
Moisture-wicking fabrics also cut down on odors by keeping sweat off the skin and drying quickly. Bacteria grows more readily in a damp environment.
Under Armour’s HeatGear liner fabric wicks moisture while mesh panels ventilate to prevent excess sweat buildup.
Odor-blocking treatments
Some brands use odor-blocking treatments to trap smells rather than letting them escape the fabric. Nanotechnologies are being used to prevent odor transmission.
A good wash routine also helps keep shorts fresh. Soak in baking soda and vinegar or use odor-fighting detergent. Air dry shorts between runs.
Look at the fabric technologies before buying shorts if odor prevention is a priority. Under Armour, Nike, and others now make shorts utilizing advanced anti-odor treatments to keep smells at bay.
