Imagine this: You’re ready to hit the pavement, feeling energized and excited for your run. But then you look down at your shorts, and they’re either too tight, too loose, or just plain uncomfortable. Sound familiar? Finding running shorts that fit well and make you feel good can be a real challenge, especially when you’re plus-size.
Many plus-size runners face the same problems. Shorts often ride up, chafe, or lack enough room for comfortable movement. It’s frustrating when you just want to focus on your workout, but your clothing gets in the way. You deserve gear that supports you and lets you enjoy every stride.
This blog post is here to help! We’re going to dive into what makes a great pair of plus-size running shorts. You’ll learn about different features to look for, like fabric, waistband styles, and inseam lengths. By the end, you’ll feel confident about choosing shorts that will help you run comfortably and powerfully.
Our Top 5 Plus Size Running Shorts Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Plus Size Running Shorts Detailed Reviews
1. Under Armour Womens Fly by Shorts
Rating: 9.1/10
The Under Armour Women’s Fly By Shorts in Black/White/Reflective (X-Large) are a fantastic choice for anyone who loves to stay active. These shorts are designed to keep you cool and comfortable, whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or just enjoying a casual day out. They offer a great blend of style and performance, making them a go-to option for your workout wardrobe.
What We Like:
- The woven fabric feels super light and comfortable. It’s also really tough, so it will last a long time.
- These shorts are great at soaking up sweat and drying super fast. You’ll feel dry and fresh.
- Mesh panels are placed in key areas. They let air flow through, keeping you extra cool.
- A built-in brief gives you extra coverage and support.
- The mid-rise waistband has a soft feel. An internal drawcord lets you adjust the fit for maximum comfort.
- There’s a handy invisible zip pocket on the right side. It’s perfect for small items like your keys, a credit card, or headphones.
- The main fabric uses recycled polyester, which is good for the planet.
- Reflective details help you stay visible if you’re out when it’s dark.
What Could Be Improved:
- The inseam is only 3 inches, which might be a bit short for some people.
These shorts are a win for comfort and performance. They will quickly become your favorite pair for any activity.
2. Yevrimow Women’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts for Gym Yoga Workout Athletic Shorts High-Waisted Shorts with Liner Pockets Black
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to conquer your workouts with the Yevrimow Women’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts. These versatile shorts are designed to keep you moving freely and feeling comfortable, whether you’re hitting the gym, the yoga mat, or the open road.
What We Like:
- The 2-in-1 design offers a built-in liner for extra support and coverage, giving you more freedom to move.
- The outer layer has side slits that let you stretch and run without feeling restricted.
- Made from a great material that’s quick-drying and wicks away sweat, so you stay cool and dry.
- The fabric is lightweight and soft, making them super comfortable for any activity.
- An elastic waistband with a drawstring ensures a perfect fit every time.
- The handy liner pocket is perfect for your phone or keys, keeping them secure while you move.
- These shorts are super versatile and work for running, yoga, gym workouts, hiking, and even just lounging around.
What Could Be Improved:
- The liner pocket is only on one side, which might not be ideal for everyone.
These Yevrimow shorts are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for comfortable and functional activewear. They offer great support and freedom of movement for all your fitness adventures.
3. Under Armour Women’s Fly by 2.0 Running Shorts
Rating: 9.2/10
These Under Armour Women’s Fly by 2.0 Running Shorts in Black are designed for serious comfort and performance. They offer a loose fit, meaning you get plenty of room to move. Whether you’re hitting the track or going for a long jog, these shorts are built to keep you cool and dry.
What We Like:
- The fabric is super light and strong. It feels great and lasts a long time.
- Sweat is no problem. The material pulls sweat away from your skin and dries very quickly.
- Mesh panels help a lot. They let extra heat escape to keep you cool.
- A built-in brief gives you extra coverage and support.
- The waistband is really soft and comfy. It has a drawcord inside to adjust the fit.
- The hem is shaped and crosses over. This gives you a sleek, streamlined look.
- The inseam is 3.5 inches, which is a good length for running.
- The loose fit means you have a lot of space to move freely.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the loose fit is great for comfort, some runners might prefer a more snug fit for racing.
These shorts are a fantastic option for any woman who loves to run. They provide excellent comfort and features that support your active lifestyle.
4. Aurefin High Waisted Athletic Shorts for Women
Rating: 9.0/10
The Aurefin High Waisted Athletic Shorts for Women are designed to keep you comfortable and supported through all your workouts. Whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or just enjoying a casual day out, these shorts offer a great blend of style and function. They come in a classic black and a 3X size, making them a versatile choice for many active women.
What We Like:
- These shorts are made from a lightweight and breathable polyester fabric, perfect for staying cool.
- The high-waisted design offers a comfortable and flattering fit, making your body look great.
- A built-in liner provides extra coverage and prevents chafing, so you can move freely.
- The handy side zipper pocket securely holds your phone and cards, so nothing falls out.
- They are suitable for many activities like running, yoga, hiking, and everyday wear.
What Could Be Improved:
- The liner material, while good for support, might feel slightly less breathable for some users in very hot weather.
- While a great feature, the single zipper pocket might not be enough for those who need to carry more than just a phone and card.
Overall, these Aurefin athletic shorts are a solid choice for any woman looking for comfortable and functional workout wear. They deliver on support and convenience for a variety of active pursuits.
5. JUST MY SIZE Womens Active Woven Run Athletic-shorts
Rating: 8.9/10
We’re checking out the JUST MY SIZE Women’s Active Woven Run Athletic Shorts in Black, size 2X US. These shorts are designed for movement and comfort, making them a great pick for your workout routine. They’re from JMS by Hanes, a brand you might already know.
What We Like:
- These shorts are super lightweight. The woven polyester fabric with mesh panels lets air flow through to keep you cool.
- The built-in brief liner helps wick away sweat from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable.
- You don’t have to worry about a tight waistband. It’s wide and has a drawstring inside so it won’t pinch or dig into you.
- There’s a small pocket inside the waistband. It’s perfect for holding your keys or ID while you run or exercise.
- The shorts are shaped for running. They have curved sides and a 4-inch inseam, which is a classic length for athletic shorts.
- They look sporty with white trim and a classic running short style.
- JMS by Hanes suggests washing them in cold water. This is a good way to save energy.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the inseam is a classic length, some runners might prefer a slightly longer or shorter option.
- The inner pocket is handy for small items, but it might not be big enough for a phone.
Overall, these JMS by Hanes shorts offer good comfort and features for active women. They’re a solid choice for those who value breathability and a comfortable fit during their workouts.
Find Your Perfect Fit: A Guide to Plus Size Running Shorts
Running is fantastic for your health, and everyone deserves to feel comfortable while doing it. If you’re looking for plus-size running shorts, this guide will help you find a pair that makes you feel great and perform your best.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for plus-size running shorts, keep these important features in mind:
- Waistband Comfort: A wide, stretchy waistband is key. It should sit comfortably without digging into your skin. Look for options with a drawstring so you can adjust the fit.
- Inseam Length: Shorts come in different lengths. Shorter inseams (like 3-5 inches) offer more freedom of movement. Longer inseams (6-9 inches) provide more coverage and can help prevent chafing.
- Liner: Many running shorts have a built-in liner. This can wick away sweat and offer support. Some liners are like underwear, while others are more like a brief. Consider what feels best for you.
- Pockets: Do you need to carry keys or a gel pack? Look for shorts with pockets. Some have small zippered pockets, while others have larger ones that can hold a phone.
- Reflective Details: If you run in low light, reflective elements are a must. They help drivers see you.
Important Materials
The fabric your shorts are made from makes a big difference in comfort and performance.
- Polyester: This is a very common material. It’s durable, dries quickly, and is good at wicking away sweat.
- Spandex/Elastane: This is what gives shorts stretch. A little bit of spandex makes shorts move with you and feel more comfortable.
- Nylon: Like polyester, nylon is strong and dries fast. It’s also smooth and can feel nice against the skin.
- Mesh: Some shorts use mesh panels. This helps with ventilation, keeping you cooler when you’re working hard.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain details can make your running shorts last longer and feel better.
- Stitching: Well-made shorts have strong, flat seams. This prevents irritation and makes the shorts more durable. Poor stitching can lead to seams coming apart.
- Fabric Quality: Thicker, more robust fabrics generally hold up better over time and through many washes. Thin, flimsy fabrics might wear out faster.
- Waistband Elastic: A good quality elastic in the waistband will keep its shape and stretch without becoming too loose. Cheap elastic can lose its snap.
- Durability: Look for shorts that feel well-made. Check the stitching and fabric. Shorts that are designed for athletic wear are usually more durable.
User Experience and Use Cases
Plus-size running shorts are designed to help you enjoy your runs.
- Comfort: The best shorts will feel like a second skin. They won’t ride up or chafe. They will allow you to focus on your run, not on adjusting your clothes.
- Performance: Good running shorts help you move freely. They wick away sweat to keep you dry. This means you can run longer and feel better.
- Versatility: While designed for running, many plus-size shorts are also great for other activities like walking, gym workouts, or even just lounging.
- Confidence: When you wear shorts that fit well and feel good, you’ll feel more confident. This can make your running experience much more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best inseam length for plus-size running shorts?
A: The best inseam length depends on your preference. Shorter inseams (3-5 inches) offer more freedom, while longer inseams (6-9 inches) provide more coverage and can help prevent chafing.
Q: Should I look for shorts with a built-in liner?
A: Many runners prefer shorts with a built-in liner. They can wick sweat and offer support. It’s a matter of personal comfort and what you prefer.
Q: How do I choose the right size?
A: Always check the brand’s size chart. Measure your waist and hips and compare them to the chart. Don’t be afraid to try different brands, as sizing can vary.
Q: What is the best material for running shorts?
A: Polyester and nylon are excellent choices because they are durable, dry quickly, and wick away sweat. Adding a bit of spandex provides stretch and comfort.
Q: How can I prevent chafing?
A: Look for shorts with flat seams and a comfortable waistband. Longer inseams can also help. Wearing moisture-wicking underwear and using anti-chafing balm can also prevent irritation.
Q: Are reflective details important?
A: Yes, if you run in low light conditions. Reflective details help make you more visible to others, which is important for safety.
Q: Can I wear plus-size running shorts for other activities?
A: Absolutely! Many plus-size running shorts are versatile and work well for walking, gym workouts, or casual wear.
Q: How do I care for my running shorts?
A: Always follow the care instructions on the label. Generally, washing them in cold water and air-drying them will help them last longer.
Q: What if the waistband feels too tight?
A: Many plus-size running shorts have a drawstring. You can adjust this to make the waistband more comfortable. If it’s still too tight, consider trying a size up or a different brand.
Q: Where can I find good quality plus-size running shorts?
A: You can find them at sporting goods stores, specialty running shops, and many online retailers. Reading reviews from other plus-size runners can be very helpful.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.