These Are the Best Women’s Compression Shorts for Running (2025)

Performance-driven compression shorts to power through your route.

Whether you’re logging the long-distance miles, training for speed, or simply out for some fresh air and easy strides, having the right running gear makes all the difference.

If you want a successful run, you’ll need a pair of shorts that’s distraction free.

And the best way to reduce any distraction or discomfort is to invest in a pair of quality compression shorts specifically designed for running.

The snug and smooth fit of compression offers superior coverage, comfort, and support for any running style or distance.

And a great pair of quick-drying and sweat-wicking compression shorts will keep you forging ahead through hot and humid conditions.

So, we’ve put together our list of the best women’s compression shorts for running.

Check it out, grab a pair, and don’t let anything slow you down as you power through your route.

Our top picks feature lightweight and breathable performance with secure storage options.

While it’s true that most any pair of compression shorts will keep you locked in while running, certain options are specifically designed to optimize your run in terms of comfort, convenience, and performance.

Once you’re laced up and ready to go, you don’t want anything holding you back or slowing you down.

So, be sure to look for these two key features from your compression shorts. 

1. A breathable design with sweat-wicking fabric.

When you’re running in hot weather, breathability and sweat-wicking capabilities need to be at the forefront of your compression short design.

Nothing will slow you down faster than overheating and nothing will ruin your focus quite like soggy sweat-ridden garments.

Look for features that tout breathability, such as strategic ventilation and mesh panels that improve airflow and move moisture away from your body.

2. Features that maximize comfort and minimize distraction.

The last thing you need on a run is gear that gets in the way or doesn’t hold up when the going gets tough.

Prioritize full mobility in the legs so you’re not restricted and stay-put waistbands and hems to cut down on adjustments.

Also, consider how much storage you’ll need for your essentials—compression pockets offer bounce-free storage for your phone and zipper pockets are great for small items.

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

1. Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Shorts

The Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Shorts pair a lightweight Nulux fabric for squat-proof weightless coverage with a seam-free inner thigh for smooth strides.

These compression shorts are sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and have a 6-inch inseam length.

Shop at Lululemon: Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Shorts

Lululemon’s Fast and Free High-Rise Shorts utilize a continuous easy-cinch drawcord and silicone grippers on the hem for a stay-put fit that won’t ride up.

These compression shorts have two drop-in pockets, three waistband pockets, and reflective details.

Why We Like It: Nothing beats Lululemon fabric when it comes to comfort and freedom of movement. You can count of these to look and feel amazing.

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.

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.

Why We Like It: Very likely to become one of your favorite pairs of compression shorts (as in all-time favorite). Luxe feel, super high-quality construction, and elite performance.

3. WOLACO Sprint Half Tights

The WOLACO Sprint Half Tights feature an aerodynamic design built for speed with lightweight ultra-luxe warp knit fabric.

These compression shorts sport a moderate compression fit for the perfect blend of comfort and performance.

Shop at WOLACO: WOLACO Sprint Half Tights

WOLACO’s Sprint Half Tights utilize two sweat-proof compression pockets for secure storage and a 1-inch hem cuff to eliminate ride-up.

These compression shorts have a luxe nylon elastic waistband and are available in both 4-inch and 7-inch inseam lengths.

Why We Like It: All the qualities that make WOLACO compression shorts superior in an extra lightweight and streamlined design that also has two sweat-proof pockets.

4. 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.

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.

Why We Like It: Seriously high-quality fabric and features to bring out your best in a stylish look with great storage options.

5. Bandit Stamina Compression Shorts

The Bandit Stamina Compression Shorts feature signature Stamina fabric with incredible stretch for unrestricted movement and ultra-fine micro poly fibers for a soft and smooth matte-finish.

These compression shorts sport an extra soft waistband with an external drawstring and ride-up prevention grip tape at the bottom hem for adjustment-free running.

Shop at Bandit: Bandit Stamina Compression Shorts (5")

Shop at Bandit: Bandit Stamina Compression Shorts (7")

Bandit’s Stamina Compression Shorts utilize moisture-wicking capabilities and a quick-dry finish for superior sweat management.

These compression shorts have phone-sized pockets on both sides, a clean-finished back zipper pocket, and subtle reflective detailing on the front and back.

Why We Like Them: A polished and classic look done well that’s all about smooth strides and peak performance with great pocket options and a luxe waistband.

6. Nike Pro 3” Shorts

The Nike Pro 3” Shorts are the classic athlete-favorite design with stretchy, sleek and supportive fabric with sweat-wicking Dri-FIT technology to keep you cool, dry, and comfortable.

Shop at Nike: Nike Pro 3” Shorts

Nike’s Pro 3” Shorts sport a snug distraction-free fit and a wide mid-rise elastic waistband that’s comfortable and supportive around your core.

These compression shorts are available in a wide variety of color options.

Why We Like It: Beloved by athletes the sports world over, Nike Pros are a high-performing classic that’s all about comfort and performance.

7. Adidas Own the Run Short Leggings

The Adidas Own the Run Short Leggings feature the perfect blend of comfort and high performance with Adiflex fabric for a sleek fit that’s cool to the touch.

These compression shorts sport AEROREADY technology to handle moisture and keep you dry and distraction free.

Shop at Adidas: Adidas Own the Run Short Leggings

Adidas Own the Run Short Leggings utilize side pockets on both sides for convenient storage and an elastic drawcord for a custom fit.

These compression shorts have a high rise fit, reflective details for visibility, and are available in three stylish color options.

Why We Like It: These boast high scores on the comfort scale and are also lightweight, versatile, and stylish.

8. Saucony Endorphin Hot Short

The Saucony Endorphin Hot Short features a nearly weightless performance design with extra lightweight material and body mapped perforations for superior breathability.

Shop at Saucony: Saucony Endorphin Hot Short

Saucony’s Endorphin Hot Short sports chafe-free bonded fabric and a sweat-wicking TurboWick waistband to keep you dry and comfortable.

These compression shorts have 3 exterior bonded back pockets that lay flat when not in use.

Why We Like It: Streamlined race day fit with super lightweight material and chafe-free bonded fabric.

9. Rabbit Speed Leggy Shorts

The Rabbit Speed Leggy Shorts feature a snug and lightweight performance fit with a full-coverage zero ride up design. These compression shorts are available in both a 2.5-inch inseam length and 4-inch inseam length.

Shop at Rabbit: Rabbit Speed Leggy Shorts (2.5”)

Shop at Rabbit: Rabbit Speed Leggy Shorts (4”)

Rabbit’s Speed Leggy Shorts utilize quick-drying fabric, a mid-rise waist, and 3 pockets for secure storage with 2 side stash that minimize bounce and a reflective back zip.

These compression shorts are available in multiple colors and patterns.

Why We Like It: A no-distractions performance design with full coverage and stylish prints (and rare to find secure phone pockets on a 2.5” inseam length!).

A great pair of compression shorts won't be the only running essential you'll need this summer, for more top picks check out our Runner's Page.