20 Cheap Running Shorts For Optimal Performance

Whether you are an experienced runner training for a marathon or you are a rookie looking to hit the gym for the first time, the right set of shorts is essential. Many people do not realize that their choice of shorts can impact their performance. A lousy short can make you experience wedgies, riding up or chafing, all of which are very unpleasant for a runner. We realize that picking from the lot might be difficult even for the most seasoned runners because they come in different lengths, features, fabrics, and costs. Yes, the price is also a consideration, you don’t need to tear your pocket to land the best running shorts, and this post will ensure that.

We’ve compiled 20 of the cheap running shorts you can get at a reasonable price. Let’s get right to it

1. Champion Men’s Vapor 6.2 Running Shorts

This is an alternative to the Champion shorts known and loved by many and it’s just as good. You can be sure of a smooth run and a reward for your money whenever you set out on these shorts. It is made of 100% polyester which is comfortable. It is fitted with a drawstring closure for optimal performance. It is particularly lightweight with its breathable mesh fabric. With this short, you don’t have to worry about fitting because it has a quick internal cord that you can use to adjust the shorts to your fit. You also don’t have to worry about holding phones, wallets, and keys as you can safely store them in the side pockets sewn into it. They also have Champion women’s running shorts.

 

2. MJ Soffe Men’s Running Short

With its 100% Nylon Tricot, 100% Nylon liner an elastic waistband, you do not have to worry about its material makeup. The liner is built for maximum comfort so you can go a couple of blocks without any discomfort from these shorts. It also features an inside key pocket and a dolphin hem with taping. It is also machine washable. It has very likable moisture management technology for easy drying.

 

3. Nike Men’s 7″ Challenger Short

When you are looking for a lightweight, this is one short that stands out. It is made of the simple Nike Dry fabric. It also has pockets so you can go running without a waist bag. It comes fitted with a brief-lining that guarantees your comfort as you run. The lining also offers sweat-wicking functions, which I am sure you will need as you run. It is of the right length, so if you are not comfortable running with your thighs out, then this is the short for you. The short also has ventilation features that are made possible by the side panel mesh that comes with it.

4. Under Armour Men’s Raid 10″ Shorts

It is composed of 84% Polyester and 16% Elastane making it comfortable for running. It also has a drawstring closure which is also comfortable on the skin. It is made of HeatGear fabric, which is ultra-soft, very light, and smooth for extreme comfort. It comes fitted with the UPF 30 technology that protects your skin from harmful rays from the sun. This is one short that is perfect for activities that require stretching because of its 4-way stretch construction that allows for movement in every direction. You do not have to worry about sweat because it has sweat-wicking abilities, and it also dries fast. It also has an anti-odor technology that suppresses microbial growths responsible for odor. All these features is what makes it one of the cost-efficient cheap running shorts out there.

 

5. Saucony Interval 9-Inch 2-1 Shorts

If your routine requires lots of stretching, then you will find the stretch Ultrasilk 2.0 delightful. This stretch is made possible by its 83% Polyester and 17% Spandex makeup. It also has Hydralite Reneu, which is 100% Polyester.  The jersey liner (87% and stretch mesh liner are additional features that stand these shorts out. It has a waterproof zippered back pocket meaning that your phone can be moisture-free no matter how much you sweat. It is composed of a 4-way stretch fabric and an elastic closure. It is also suitable for machine wash.

6. BALEAF Men’s 5 Inches Running Athletic Shorts 

With its 95% Polyester and 5% Spandex, you know that you get both comfort and stretch. It is particularly perfect for activities that may require stretching. It also comes with drawstring closure for a better fitting. You are also covered on weight as it is made of a lightweight fabric that also has quick-dry features that keep you light, dry, and comfortable. You also get a supportive and breathable fit from the built-in mesh. The short comes with a reflective logo to aid visibility in low-light areas. You also get a zippered storage space provided by the two side pockets that come with these cheap running shorts. The short has inner drawcord that you can use to keep shorts from falling off your waist.

7. BALEAF Men’s 3 Inches Running Shorts Quick Dry Gym Athletic Shorts

This short gives you stretchy and sweat-wicking fabric made from 95% Polyester and 5% Spandex. The sweat-wicking feature ensures you are dry and comfortable. It also has an interior drop-in pocket at waist level so you can conveniently store your stuff. It has built-in briefs to grant you further comfort and support. It also has an elastic waistband that gives you a snug and adjustable fit so that it can grip you correctly. There is also the split-leg design that gives you an enhanced range of motion when you are on them. This means you can now run and move freely. It is also fitted with reflective elements to enhance visibility.

8. Lixada Men’s 2-in-1 Running Shorts Quick Drying Breathable Active Training Exercise Jogging Cycling Shorts

With this short, you get a super breathable short made from 100% polyester fabric. It is made breathable by the presence of mesh air vents on both sides of the shorts. It is built for performance with its double-reinforced stitching that ensures durability and performance. It also has moisture-wicking abilities, made possible by the built-in long mesh liner. This means that it dries quickly and is excellent for optimal comfort. It also has an elastic waistband and an adjustable internal drawstring for adjustability and fit. You also get the bonus reflective brand logo to keep you visible when you are running in low light areas. It is a 2 in 1 short.

9. Neleus Men’s Lightweight Workout Running Athletic Shorts with Pockets

The shell is made of 100% polyester mesh fabric. The brief lining is also made of 100% Polyester. The mesh fabric grants you extra ventilation. The material is also a moisture-wicking fabric, and you are sure that sweat can be released from your body. The material is also a fast drying one. It has an elastic closure to guarantee your freedom of movement. You also get pockets on both sides for the storage of valuables while you run. You are sure of a good fit because this short also has an elastic waistband and an adjustable internal drawstring. It is fitted with an odor-resistant liner.

10. Malavita Men’s Workout Running Shorts 2 in 1 with Zipper Pockets

This short is made with a breathable fabric that is stretchy and ultra-light. These features grant you superior mobility and lightness. It is made of a material that wicks sweat and dries fast when wet. It comes with an elastic waistband for a perfect grip. This short also has pockets for holding your things while you exercise.

11. Souke Sports Men’s Workout Running Shorts

It is stylish and comfortable. Think of a short built for comfort. It is made with a highly breathable fabric that is comfortable on the skin so you can be cool and comfortable. It also has functional stretch abilities granting you freedom of movement. It comes with an inner lining that gives you support and comfort.

 

12. Nike Women’s Dri-fit Tempo Track 3.5 Short

It comes with Nike’s Dri-Fit technology, which is excellent for moisture management, especially in hot conditions. Women’s running shorts have never been any better. It comes with the Schnürung closure and an adjustable and elastic waistband to give you a perfect fit and comfort. It also comes with briefs that will make you comfortable when you run. It also has internal key pockets and mesh panels for breathability.

13. RIBOOM Women Workout Fitness Running Shorts 

The comfort and elasticity of this short are not in doubt with its 96% Polyester 4% Spandex fabric makeup. It also comes with an elastic closure for more flexibility. It comes with a quick-dry technology for moisture-wicking and drying. It also has a flexible inner layer design for free movement and comfortable run.

It is also very light, and it comes with elastic waistband and a drawstring for a better fit.

These women’s running shorts are quite affordable at its current price.

14. VALINNA Athletic Workout Shorts

I know how women like their shorts stylish, and this is a great choice for that. It is stylish because of its sleek design and sexy look. It is not just stylish, but it is comfortable as well. The comfort is partly due to the great texture of the fabric, which is 87% Polyester and 13% Spandex and partly due to its breathability. These women’s running shorts are popular for a good reason.

15. ARSUXEO Men’s Active Training Running Shorts 2 in 1

If you want exceptional performance and durability in your running shorts, here’s the perfect pair for you. It is made of Polyester and spandex making it perfect for athletics. It allows for 4-way stretch. It is light and can dry fast due to its quick-drying technology and moisture-wicking abilities. It is highly adjustable because of its elastic waistband and drawcord. It also has a reflective logo for safety in darkness.

16. MECH-ENG Men’s 2 in 1 Shorts

It is composed of 95% Polyester and 5% Spandex making it both comfortable and stretchy. It comes with an elastic closure and quick-dry features since it is made of a mesh material. It is a 2 in 1 short with the built-in one prepared to offer you a tight fit to save you from friction.  The outer short comes with a pocket for your valuables. It also has a towel loop at the back where you can suspend your towel when exercising.

17. YAWHO Men’s Workout Running Shorts

It is made of a combination of Polyester and elastane, and it comes with an elastic closure. For this reason, this short is highly light and breathable. The fabric of make is ultra lightweight and durable at the same time. It can wick away moisture, and it can dry fast too. It comes with two deep zippered pockets on both sides for holding your stuff. This cheap running shorts can be yours today.

18. New Balance Men’s Accelerate 5in Short

It is made of 100% Polyester fabric with elastic closure. It boasts of both style and comfort because of its sleek design. Don’t worry about fitting, the elastic waistband, and the inner drawstring is got that covered. It also has a brief liner for support. It has New Balance’s technology for pushing sweat away from your boy and initiating rapid evaporation. This keeps you cool and comfortable.

19. Oalka Women’s Short Yoga Side Pockets High Waist Workout Running Shorts

This short is comfortable, functional, and durable. It is designed to give you tummy control and good coverage during stretchy exercises. It grants you a 4-way stretch. It is very comfortable due to its comfortable fabric and a gusseted crotch. It has pockets.

20. Augusta Sportswear Women’s Junior Fit Pulse Team Short

The shell and mesh lining of this short is made of 100% Polyester. It has an elastic closure. It is fitted with liners that wick moisture away. It also has a drawcord for adjustment. It also has an elastic key pocket. It is machine washable.

There you have them, the most PR-worthy cheap running shorts that you will love. In every human endeavor, the importance of the right set of equipment cannot be overemphasized. Running is not an exception, do not just pick up any shorts your hand can find and hit the road on them. You can achieve that body of your dream, you can win that marathon, but you don’t have to put yourself in an awkward position to do that by selecting the wrong gears for the job.