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  • Writer's pictureCompression Athlete

The Best Women’s Compression Shorts with Pockets 2023

Securely store important items while you’re active.

Female athlete wearing compression shorts with pockets.

Whether you’re walking, running, working out, or active in any other way, if you’re looking to securely store important items while you exercise, a compression pocket is the way to go.


The snug and smooth fit of compression shorts fit like a second skin against your body and their pockets offer comfortable and secure storage for your phone, keys, and other personal items during activity.


You’ve likely already noticed how the pockets on looser-fitting garments shift and bounce around as your legs move.


Not only is this distracting but it can also be painful having those items repeatedly bang against your thighs.


Compression shorts offer a unique solution to this.


The stretchy fabric lays tight against your body while allowing a full range of motion, so your stored items stay in place and move with you, eliminating any bouncing or shifting around.


Compression pocket secure storage options.

Not only do you get this superior storage for your things, but you’ll also enjoy the many benefits that compression shorts have to offer.


For example, the snug and smooth fit of compression that’s great for secure storing also reduces the possibility of chafing and provides comfort for extended wear.


Additionally, the compressive pressure supports your muscles as you exert energy and the moisture-wicking fabric keeps you cool, dry, and comfortable while you sweat.


Here, we’ve put together a list of the best women’s compression shorts with pockets.


Grab a pair to secure your items and don’t let anything slow you down.



Note: Featured products are independently selected and reviewed by Compression Athlete. If you purchase through our links, we may earn commission.



1. WOLACO North Moore Shorts


The WOLACO North Moore Shorts feature ultra-luxe performance fabric with moderate compression for extended comfort. These compression shorts are moisture-wicking and provide two compression pockets with 360-degree waterproof protection.


Athlete wearing WOLACO North Moore Shorts.

Shop at Wolaco: WOLACO North Moore Shorts


WOLACO’s North Moore Shorts utilize durable anti-pilling fabric and a comfortable elastic waistband. These compression shorts have a chafe-free ergonomic fit with 1-inch hem cuffs for a no-ride-up design and are available in 4-inch, 7-inch, and 9-inch inseam lengths.



2. WOLACO Distance Half Tights


The WOLACO Distance Half Tights feature premium double-layered fabric that’s extra comfortable, sweat-wicking, and chafe-reducing. These compression shorts have a signature high-stretch modesty layer in front and are 100% opaque and squat-proof.


Athlete wearing WOLACO Distance Half Tights.

Shop at Wolaco: WOLACO Distance Half Tights


WOLACO’s Distance Half Tights provide two sweat-proof side compression pockets and two high-stretch back pockets for convenient no-bounce storage. These compression shorts sport a 10-inch inseam length and a drawcord waistband with silicone stay-put grip.



3. Under Armour Run Stamina ½ Tights


The Under Armour Run Stamina ½ Tights feature super smooth structured free cut fabric that’s supportive, comfortable, and offers superior coverage. These compression shorts sport an expandable center-back Speedpocket for water-resistant, no-bounce phone storage.


Athlete wearing Under Armour Run Stamina ½ Tights.

Shop at Under Armour: UA Run Stamina ½ Tights


Under Armour’s Run Stamina ½ Tights utilize sweat-wicking and quick-drying fabric with mesh panels and strategic laser perforations for increased breathability. These compression shorts have a 6-inch inseam length, secure side drop-in pockets, and a high-rise stay-put waistband.



4. Under Armour Fly Fast 3.0 Half Tights


The Under Armour Fly Fast 3.0 Half Tights feature lightweight and quick-drying HeatGear fabric with mesh side panels for added breathability. These compression shorts have a 6-inch inseam and streamlined design for a locked-in feel.


Athlete wearing Under Armour Fly Fast 3.0 Half Tights.

Shop at Under Armour: UA Fly Fast 3.0 Half Tights


Under Armour’s Fly Fast 3.0 Half Tights have sweat-wicking material with four-way stretch and reflective details for low-light conditions. These compression shorts feature a high-rise waistband with an interior drawcord for a stay-put fit and a side drop-in pocket for storage.



5. Under Armour Meridian Heathered Bike Shorts


The Under Armour Meridian Heathered Bike Shorts feature an incredible combination of comfort and performance with a sweat-wicking knit fabric that’s stretchy and extra soft. These compression shorts are lightweight, breathable, and quick drying.


Athlete wearing Under Armour Meridian Heathered Bike Shorts.

Shop at Under Armour: UA Meridian Heathered Bike Shorts


Under Armour’s Meridian Heathered Bike Shorts have an 8-inch inseam, built-in side pockets for storage, and a wide and flat waistband that comfortably stays put. These compression shorts feature 4-way stretch for a full range of motion and extended wear comfort.



6. Nike Pro Dri-FIT Training Shorts


The Nike Pro Dri-FIT Training Shorts feature a supportive performance design with smooth and stretchy fabric. These compression shorts have 2 breathable knit side drop-in pockets that can hold your phone or keys.


Athlete wearing Nike Pro Dri-FIT Training Shorts.

Shop at Nike: Nike Pro Dri-FIT Training Shorts


Nike’s Pro Dri-FIT Training Shorts utilize Dri-FIT technology to wick away sweat and keep you dry and comfortable. These compression shorts have a 3-inch inseam and a high-rise Nike Pro waistband that stays put.



7. Nike Pro High-Waisted Training Shorts


The Nike Pro High-Waisted Training Shorts feature stretchy performance fabric with mesh panels on the legs for extra breathability during high-intensity workouts. These compression shorts have side drop-in pockets for secure storage.


Athlete wearing Nike Pro High-Waisted Training Shorts.

Shop at Nike: Nike Pro High-Waisted Training Shorts


Nike’s Pro High-Waisted Training Shorts sport a wide elastic waistband for extra support and sweat-wicking Dri-FIT technology to keep you dry and comfortable.


8. Nike Mid-Rise Ribbed-Panel Running Shorts


The Nike Mid-Rise Ribbed-Panel Running Shorts feature a snug and stretchy design with soft and stylish ribbed panels. These compression shorts utilize sweat-wicking Dri-FIT technology to keep you dry and comfortable.


Athlete wearing Nike Mid-Rise Ribbed-Panel Running Shorts.

Shop at Nike: Nike Mid-Rise Ribbed-Panel Running Shorts


Nike’s Mid-Rise Ribbed-Panel Running Shorts have an internal drawcord for a personalized fit, as well as secure drop-in side pockets and a back zippered pocket for convenient storage.



9. Adidas DailyRun 5-Inch Short Leggings


The Adidas DailyRun 5-Inch Short Leggings feature sleek and lightweight Adiform fabric that’s both comfy and supportive. These compression shorts utilize moisture-absorbing AEROREADY technology to keep you dry and comfortable.


Athlete wearing Adidas DailyRun 5-Inch Short Leggings.

Shop at Adidas: Adidas DailyRun 5-Inch Short Leggings


Adidas’ DailyRun 5-Inch Short Leggings have secure drop-in pockets and a back waist phone pocket. These compression shorts sport an elastic drawcord waistband and reflective details for low light conditions.



10. 2XU Aero Mid-Rise Compression Shorts


The 2XU Aero Mid-Rise Compression Shorts utilize ventilated PWX Dash Mesh panels for ideal breathability and flatlock seams to reduce chafing. These compression shorts feature a reflective logo, as well as flexible and lightweight PWX fabric that dries quickly.


Athlete wearing 2XU Aero Mid-Rise Compression Shorts.

Shop at 2XU: 2XU Aero Mid-Rise Compression Shorts


2XU’s Aero Mid-Rise Compression Shorts have a 6-inch mid-thigh length to help prevent ride-up and a mid-rise power mesh waistband for a secure fit. These compression shorts have a zip back pocket and a side pocket for secure bounce-free storage.



11. 2XU Light Speed Mid-Rise Compression Shorts


The 2XU Light Speed Compression Shorts are designed with Muscle Containment Stamping technology to reduce muscle movement, damage, and fatigue. These compression shorts feature flexible, lightweight, and quick-drying PWX fabric.


Athlete wearing 2XU Light Speed Compression Shorts.

Shop at 2XU: 2XU Light Speed Compression Shorts


2XU’s Light Speed Compression Shorts use flatlock seams to reduce chaffing and 360-degree stretch for extra comfort. These compression shorts have a large phone pocket and an adjustable drawstring waistband with multiple pockets for storage.



12. New Balance Impact Run Shorts


The New Balance Impact Run Shorts feature a stretchy and comfortable poly knit material in a streamlined silhouette that provides a full range of motion. These compression shorts have a 6-inch inseam length and a mid-rise design that sits just below the waist.


Athlete wearing New Balance Impact Run Shorts.

Shop at New Balance: NB Impact Run Shorts


New Balance’s Impact Run Shorts utilize secure drop-in hip pockets, a back zippered pocket, and a storage tunnel to store your layers. These compression shorts have moisture-wicking NB DRYx technology and reflective branding and taping for visibility.



13. New Balance Q Speed Shape Shield Shorts


The New Balance Q Speed Shape Shield Shorts feature soft and lightweight Shape Shield fabric that provides superior stretch and coverage. These compression shorts sport a speedy and streamlined style in a high-rise design for added comfort and coverage.


Athlete wearing New Balance Q Speed Shape Shield Shorts.

Shop at New Balance: NB Q Speed Shape Shield Shorts


New Balance’s Q Speed Shape Shield Shorts have a 4-inch inseam length and sweat-wicking NB DRYx technology to keep you dry and comfortable. These compression shorts provide a secure hip pocket for storage and reflective accents for improved visibility.



14. Saucony Fortify Shorts


The Saucony Fortify Shorts feature a stylish and performance driven design with ultra-stretchy fabric that’s supportive and fits like a second skin. These compression shorts stay-put as you’re active while also providing a full range of motion.


Athlete wearing Saucony Fortify Shorts.

Shop at Saucony: Saucony Fortify Shorts (3-Inch)

Shop at Saucony: Saucony Fortify Biker Shorts (8-Inch)


Saucony’s Fortify Shorts have a comfortable power waistband with storage pockets to keep everything secure. These compression shorts have a mid-rise design and are available in 3-inch and 8-inch inseam lengths.



15. Athleta Salutation Stash Shorts


The Athleta Salutation Stash Shorts feature a signature buttery soft Powervita fabric with gentle compressive support. These compression shorts utilize breathable fabric with minimal seams for a smooth and flattering fit.


Athlete wearing Athleta Salutation Stash Shorts.

Shop at Athleta: Athleta Salutation Stash Shorts (5-Inch)

Shop at Athleta: Athleta Salutation Stash Shorts (7-Inch)


Athleta’s Salutation Stash Shorts sport side stash pockets for secure storage and are available in 5-inch and 7-inch inseam lengths. These compression shorts are sweat-wicking and quick-drying to keep you cool, dry, and comfortable while you sweat.



16. Baleaf Laureate High Rise Shorts


The Baleaf Laureate High Rise Shorts feature a soft and breathable performance fabric with a body-contouring flat lock seam construction that provides a flattering chafe-free fit.


Athlete wearing Baleaf Laureate High Rise Shorts.

Shop at Baleaf: Baleaf Laureate High Rise Shorts


Baleaf’s Laureate High Rise Shorts have a wide waistband for maximum coverage, a gusseted crotch to eliminate camel toe, and a 3-pocket design with 2 drop-in side pockets and 1 hidden waistband pocket.



17. Brooks Method 8-Inch Shorts


The Brooks Method Shorts feature an 8-inch length design that can handle both speed and long distances. These compression shorts have a supportive stay-put fit with a lightweight feel for comfortable performance.


Athlete wearing Brooks Method Shorts.

Shop at Brooks Running: Brooks Method Short Tights


Brooks’ Method Short Tights feature a smooth and sleek feel with quick-drying fabric that wicks sweat and provides unrestricted movement. These compression shorts have an adjustable drawcord and 3 convenient pockets for storage.



How to Keep Your Phone and Keys Secure When Running


Here’s a dilemma that every runner is faced with at least one time or another. What to do with your valuable items—phone, keys, credit card, etc.— while you’re out running.


Holding items in your hand is risky. Tucking them in your waistband, bra strap, or shoelaces isn’t a great or all-too-comfortable fix.


And nobody likes the feel of things bouncing around in their pockets while trying to focus on the task at hand.


Even just walking you might find the feel of your phone or keys sliding back and forth kind of irritating.


Kick up the intensity on your workout and those items will start banging all around like crazy.


Thankfully, there are a few different solutions that have popped up over the years to combat this problem.


Female runners wearing secure storage options.

For example, some people prefer to use a running arm band, like this running arm band from Lululemon, as a way to secure their phone to their body while running.


Another option is the running belt or fanny pack, like this stylish option from Nike.


And for those that are going for distance and require storage and hydration along for the ride, a running vest, like this running vest from Nike, is a popular choice.


However, it’s worthwhile to note that each of these options adds an additional garment to your body.


And while they’re designed to minimize bulk and not interfere with your movements, many runners prefer the less is more approach.


So, if you’re looking for an option that doesn’t require any extra garments, superfluous fabric, or additional items to wear on your body, then a pair of compression shorts or tights with side drop-in pockets and waistband pockets is the best choice.


The side drop-in pockets on compression shorts and compression tights, like those in the picks listed above, are a great way to securely store your phone.


The stretchy and snug compression fabric secures the pocketed item tightly and comfortably against your leg or waistband.


This way the item wont shift or bounce around, throwing off your concentration or causing you discomfort.


Keys also store well in drop-in pockets; though, many compression shorts and tights also provide a zippered or fold-in waistband pocket that’s perfect for storing smaller objects.


And the best part about a compression pocket is that you’re still able to move freely with the pocketed item.


The compression fabric snuggly fits the item against your body while its stretchy properties allow your body a full range of motion.



For more great running short options, check out our list of the Best Compression Shorts for Running.


And if you’re looking for additional help on picking out a great pair of compression shorts, check out our Comprehensive Guide to Compression Shorts.

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