The 10 Best Workout Shorts That'll Make You Reconsider Leggings For Good

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Have you ever tried to take off a pair of workout leggings while you're sweaty and hot? It's pretty impossible and, blatantly put: miserable. To combat this entirely avoidable phenomenon, we've started transitioning away from pants to workout shorts. After all, there's a pair for every type of sweat sesh, from stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking to cycling to long-distance running. And who doesn't like when your activewear is specially designed to match your workout?

To help you meet your match, we rounded up some of our favorite workout shorts for every activity. You'll be able to crush your workout in them or just hang out in them without feeling restricted or too hot (because, yes, you'll want to wear them outside of the gym, too). From classic black bike shorts to a pair of social media-famous running shorts that come in 20 colors, there's something for everyone. Keep scrolling to shop our picks ahead.

Additional reporting by Angela Elias

01
Best Budget-Friendly Workout Shorts
walmart.com

Best Budget-Friendly Workout Shorts

Normov Seamless Workout Shorts ($17)

These workout shorts have almost 3,000 reviews and a 4.3 rating on Amazon. The opaque and strong fabric passes the squat test with flying colors. Reviewers love that the waistband stays put and that the fabric is sturdy yet comfortable. "I do heavy weights and a lot of squats at the gym and this is one of the only pairs of shorts that don't really roll down!" writes one reviewer. They come in 15 patterns and solid colors.

02
Best Workout Shorts For Yoga
shop.lululemon.com

Best Workout Shorts For Yoga

Lululemon Align™ High-Rise Short 6" ($64-$74)

These shorts were designed for yoga, but we can almost guarantee you'll wear them outside of class, too. They're made of the brand's ultra-weightless and breathable Nulu fabric, with a hidden waistband pocket that fits a card or key without getting in your way. Good luck choosing just one color out of the 12 options.

03
Best Workout Shorts For Sun Protection
athleta.gap.com

Best Workout Shorts For Sun Protection

Athleta Trekkie North Short ($50-$59, originally $59)

If you burn easily but still need a pair of athletic shorts to keep you cool during outdoor activities, look for a pair with built-in sun protection. These shorts are made from recycled nylon and have UPF 50+ sun protection. They have zippered pockets to keep valuables in check. They're quick drying and machine washable, so you can easily wash them in a hotel room and lay them out to dry — a suitcase staple if you like to hit the gym when you travel.

04
Best Lightweight Workout Shorts For Running
freepeople.com

Best Lightweight Workout Shorts For Running

Free People The Way Home Shorts ($30)

Surely you're familiar with these social media-famous shorts, a great option for running because they stay in place while you move while looking really stylish. They're known for their airy, high-rise silhouette, boasting a boldly smocked waistband and a split hem. They're made of 100 percent nylon and come in a whopping 20 colors.

05
Best Workout Shorts That Feel Like Sweats
oldnavy.gap.com

Best Workout Shorts That Feel Like Sweats

Old Navy High-Waisted Dynamic Fleece Sweat Shorts ($13-$21, originally $30)

If you like the feeling of working out in something soft and loose, consider these shorts the warm weather equivalent of your favorite pair of lightweight sweats. They're stretchy with a tag-free label inside and have zippered pockets for convenience. Choose from four different colors or grab one of each.

06
Best Workout Shorts For Cycling
universalstandard.com

Best Workout Shorts For Cycling

Universal Standard: Next—to—Naked Bike Shorts ($78)

These shorts live up to their name in that they're so lightweight that you'll forget you're wearing them. They have a long eight-inch inseam to prevent chafing and two deep pockets in the front that will comfortably fit your iPhone.

07
Best Workout Shorts For Tennis
outdoorvoices.com

Best Workout Shorts For Tennis

Outdoor Voices Court Skort™ 4.5" ($58)

One of the biggest trends of spring is the exercise skort, so it just had to make the cut. This one features built-in shorts that peek through and a phone pocket so you have a place to store it during your workout. We love this as a tennis option, but it's also perfect for walking the dog or everyday-wear.

08
Best Workout Shorts For Lifting
gymshark.com

Best Workout Shorts For Lifting

Gymshark Training Shorts ($28)

These shorts are sleek and sporty, baring the brand's logo on the banded waistband, with a high-rise fit, a four-inch inseam, and a squat-proof design made of 78 percent polyester and 22 percent elastane.

09
Best Workout Shorts For Long-Distance Running
nike.com

Best Workout Shorts For Long-Distance Running

Nike Pro 365 High-Rise 7" Shorts ($35)

You'll love wearing these shorts on long runs because they have a tight fit that won't budge as you rack up miles. They're made of the brand's Dri-FIT technology that helps keep you feeling dry, comfortable and supported, with a high-rise exposed elastic waistband baring its famed logo.

10
Best Workout Shorts For Crossfit
fleo.com

Best Workout Shorts For Crossfit

Fleo Summer Breeze True High Original ($45)

In the CrossFit world, the brand to know is Fleo. These are a great starter pair because they move with your body and never get in the way. They have a tight fit, high-rise, and a 2.5" inseam. They have 35 reviews and a perfect five-star rating.