When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, with no extra cost to you.
Written by our gear testing crew
Built for lifters, athletes, and anyone serious about what they wear in the gym—this guide is written by real coaches who prioritize performance over hype.
What to Look for in Gym Shorts for Women
Fit, Function, and Confidence in Every Rep
The right pair of gym shorts can make or break your workout. Whether you’re lifting, sprinting, squatting, or stretching, comfort and performance go hand in hand. But with hundreds of brands and styles out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Some ride up. Some fall down. And some just don’t hold up to real training.
So, what should you actually be looking for when buying gym shorts for women? Let’s break it down.
1. Fit That Moves With You
The first thing you should look for in women’s gym shorts is a fit that complements your movement, not restricts it.
Look for:
- High-waisted designs: These stay put during squats and deadlifts and give you more coverage.
- Seamless or flat seams: They reduce chafing during repetitive movements like running or cycling.
- Length that works for your training:
- 3-4 inch inseam for freedom of movement and hot-weather workouts.
- 5-6 inch inseam for more coverage and leg-day confidence.
- Longline biker shorts (7+ inches) for compression and secure coverage during yoga, lifting, or CrossFit.
If your looking to fore some specific products recommendations check out our top 3 recommended buys on Amazon below
2. Stretch and Compression
You want gym shorts that stretch with you and return to form without sagging. The ideal pair offers 4-way stretch and mild to moderate compression to support your muscles during training.
Key materials to look for:
- Nylon/spandex blends for smooth feel and stretch
- Polyester blends for durability and sweat-wicking
- Avoid 100% cotton—it gets heavy when wet and doesn’t hold shape
3. Waistband Security
A good waistband can make all the difference in performance and comfort.
What to check:
- Wide waistband: Prevents rolling or digging in
- Elastic with compression: Holds tight without squeezing your core
- No-slip designs: Some shorts have silicone grips or extra stitching to keep them from sliding down during intense workouts
4. Sweat-Wicking and Breathability
No one likes to feel soggy mid-set. Look for gym shorts that wick moisture away from your skin and dry fast.
Pro tip:
If you’re training in heat or doing HIIT, opt for ventilated panels or mesh inserts to improve airflow.
5. Pockets That Work
Whether you’re carrying a key, phone, or just want your hands free, functional pockets are a huge plus.
Popular options:
- Hidden waistband pocket (great for keys or cards)
- Side thigh pockets on biker shorts (perfect for phones during cardio or long walks)
- Zippered back pockets for extra security
6. Does It Ride Up?
Let’s be real: this is one of the biggest complaints about women’s gym shorts. A good pair should stay in place during dynamic movement.
Tips to avoid ride-up:
- Go for compressive fabrics with good stretch retention
- Longer inseams (5” and up) tend to ride up less
- Read reviews—some brands test their shorts with athletes to avoid this issue
7. Style Meets Function
You want shorts that look good and perform. Choose what gives you confidence: vibrant prints, subtle neutrals, contour stitching, or no front seam. Just make sure function still comes first.
Our Gear Testing Crew’s Go-To Gym Shorts Features:
✅ High-waisted for core support
✅ 4–6 inch inseam for freedom and coverage
✅ Moisture-wicking fabric
✅ Secure waistband that doesn’t fold or slide
✅ Pockets big enough for a phone
✅ No front seam (depending on preference)
✅ Doesn’t roll or ride up during lifts or cardio
Final Thoughts: The Right Pair Changes Everything
Once you find the right pair of gym shorts, everything improves—confidence, comfort, and performance. Don’t settle for something that shifts, sticks, or slides every time you move. Invest in shorts that work as hard as you do.
If your looking to find a product for your wardrobe, check out our top 3 recommended buys on Amazon below
If you found this post to be helpful, then you may be interested in the rest of our blog page here.