The 29 best women's gym shorts brands
Lululemon, Nike and Athleta lead our ranking of 29 women's gym shorts brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Women's Gym Shorts brands, ranked
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1
Lululemon
Premium four-way stretch fabric and tailored fits make these shorts a pricier pick than most rivals.
Website: shop.lululemon.com |Brands like Lululemon
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Nike
Dri-FIT fabric wicks sweat in its running and training shorts, with brief liners and mesh panels on many styles.
Website: nike.com |Brands like Nike
Popularity 9.7/10
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3
Athleta
Athleta focuses on performance pieces, with stretchy shorts suited to yoga, gym sessions and everyday wear.
Website: athleta.gap.com |Brands like Athleta
Popularity 5.9/10
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4
Under armour
Moisture-wicking, lightweight shorts built for training, with side pockets on many women's gym styles.
Website: underarmour.com |Brands like Under armour
Popularity 5.7/10
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5
adidas
Climalite and AEROREADY moisture-wicking shorts, with classic three-stripe trim and sizes running from XS to 2XL.
Top products: Pacer 3-Stripe Woven Shorts· Climalite Shorts
Website: adidas.com |Brands like adidas
Popularity 4.9/10
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6
Gymshark
Gymshark shorts are cut for lifting and squatting, with a fitted, sculpted look popular with gym-goers.
Website: gymshark.com |Brands like Gymshark
Popularity 3.9/10
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7
Fabletics
Subscription-style activewear at a lower price point, with leggings and shorts designed around everyday movement.
Website: fabletics.com |Brands like Fabletics
Popularity 3.0/10
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8
Victoria's Secret
Victoria's Secret Pink and VS sport shorts lean soft and fashion-forward, often sold alongside its lingerie.
Website: victoriassecret.com |Brands like Victoria's Secret
Popularity 2.9/10
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9
Free People
Free People's FP Movement line adds flowy, relaxed activewear with a boho streetwear feel rather than hard training cuts.
Website: freepeople.com |Brands like Free People
Popularity 2.9/10
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10
Reebok
Reebok's women's shorts often use stretch fabric and pull-on styles with a retro, sneaker-brand look.
Website: reebok.com |Brands like Reebok
Popularity 2.6/10
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11
Next Level
Next Level designs men's and unisex T-shirts and blank apparel. Its NLA line is built around organic cotton, and its Tri-Blend Collection uses soft, breathable fabric that holds print well. Wholesale unisex shirts come in sizes from XS to 6XL,...
Website: nextlevel.ws |Brands like Next Level
Popularity 2.5/10
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12
Champion
Champion's gym shorts use heavy cotton or polyester with its classic logo and a relaxed, athletic-fit cut.
Popularity 2.5/10
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13
Old Navy
Old Navy's budget-friendly shorts are casual, with value-priced cuts that suit light workouts and errands.
Website: oldnavy.gap.com |Brands like Old Navy
Popularity 2.4/10
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14
The North Face
The North Face shorts lean outdoor and hiking, with durable woven fabrics and practical pockets.
Website: thenorthface.com |Brands like The North Face
Popularity 2.4/10
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15
Fruit of the Loom
Having something authentic to wear in a world full of typical outfits is different. Fruit of the Loom introduces you to genuine and elegant clothing for all. First started in 1851, the company has experience serving customers with stylish and...
Website: fruit.com |Brands like Fruit of the Loom
Popularity 2.3/10
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16
Gildan
Gildan builds T-shirts, long sleeve shirts and men's basics in plain colours. The Canadian apparel maker started as a small knitting mill in Quebec and now produces blank garments sold for both everyday wear and printing projects. Its plain tees...
Website: gildan.com |Brands like Gildan
Popularity 2.1/10
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17
Avia
Avia is the most recent advancement in running and walking shoes. With so many styles, colors, and designs to select from, you'll be able to find a pair for everyone in your family, whether they're into jogging or want a...
Website: avia.com |Brands like Avia
Popularity 2.0/10
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18
Calvin Klein
Calvin Klein started his own company in 1968 when the fashion industry in New York was down in the dumps. At first, Klein manufactured simple clothing for suits and coats and slowly increased his line to include sportswear with interchangeable...
Website: calvinklein.us |Brands like Calvin Klein
Popularity 2.0/10
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19
Spanx
Shapewear for women forms the foundation of the Spanx line, which extends to leggings, tights and activewear. Some Spanx leggings are made from faux leather. Their belly-contouring panels are designed to smooth the figure, and the leggings, tights and activewear...
Website: spanx.com |Brands like Spanx
Popularity 2.0/10
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20
CALIA
CALIA provides a comprehensive collection of women's wear for the ladies with various dressing styles and accord. Here at CALIA, the focus is on providing the widest variety of wear possible. A bold collection of tops, bottoms, jumpsuits, bras, sportswear,...
Website: caliastudio.com |Brands like CALIA
Popularity 1.9/10
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21
Columbia
Outdoor apparel brand Columbia started in Portland, Oregon. It makes fleece, jackets for women and men, and short sleeve button up shirts. Its fleece pieces are a practical layer for cool weather, and its jackets cover everyday outdoor wear. Styles...
Popularity 1.8/10
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22
Vuori
Providing a new perspective for athletic clothing, Vuori is built to move and sweat in, designed for an active lifestyle. Learn more today
Website: vuoriclothing.com |Brands like Vuori
Popularity 1.8/10
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23
PUMA
The Dassler brothers had founded the Gebrüder Dassler Schuhfabrik in Germany, which, unbeknownst to them, served as the set-up for PUMA. The brothers used their parents' factory as a base for operations and obtained a proper factory five years later....
Website: us.puma.com |Brands like PUMA
Popularity 1.8/10
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24
B&C
BC Surf & Sport began in Florida over three decades ago by a group of surfers, snowboarders, and skaters. Since 1977, it has been involved in producing goods for surfing, snowboarding, skateboarding, and similar activities. Its products are designed to...
Website: bcsurf.com |Brands like B&C
Popularity 1.7/10
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25
Patagonia
Patagonia is dedicated to making the most refined product possible, decreasing its environmental impact, and supporting grassroots environmental organizations. Since 1973, they've been generating huge items that are both inexpensive and long-lasting. Its mission is to provide the most excellent...
Website: patagonia.com |Brands like Patagonia
Popularity 1.7/10
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26
New Balance
As people are getting healthier daily, the concept of workout is evolving simultaneously. Most people now opt for extreme workouts using the gym or within the comfort of their homes. To do a comfortable Workout session, people need proper accessories...
Website: newbalance.com |Brands like New Balance
Popularity 1.6/10
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27
Beyond Yoga
Beyond Yoga makes leggings, high waist leggings and athleisure built from soft, stretchy performance fabric. The brand manufactures locally and uses digital sublimation printing for its patterns, a waterless method. This printing approach needs no water, so the patterns are...
Website: beyondyoga.com |Brands like Beyond Yoga
Popularity 1.6/10
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28
Tek Gear
Dry Tek tops and workout sets are part of Tek Gear, an activewear line sold at Kohl's. The range includes women's workout tops, sports bras, athletic jackets and sweatshirts, along with men's solid T-shirts in bright and neutral colors. Its...
Website: tekgear.com |Brands like Tek Gear
Popularity 1.5/10
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29
Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices makes activewear for Doing Things daily — dog walks, runs, and yoga included. Free Shipping on orders over $75 + Free Returns.
Website: outdoorvoices.com |Brands like Outdoor Voices
Popularity 1.5/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lululemon | shop.lululemon.com | /lululemon | lululemon | @lululemon | – |
| Nike | nike.com | – | – | – | – |
| Athleta | athleta.gap.com | – | – | – | – |
| Under armour | underarmour.com | /UnderArmour | underarmour | @UnderArmour | underarmour |
| adidas | adidas.com | – | – | – | – |
| Gymshark | gymshark.com | – | – | – | – |
| Fabletics | fabletics.com | – | – | – | – |
| Victoria's Secret | victoriassecret.com | – | – | – | – |
| Free People | freepeople.com | /freepeople | freepeople | @freepeople | freepeople |
| Reebok | reebok.com | /ReebokUS | reebok | @reebok | – |
Women's Gym Shorts Buying Guide
Gym shorts are an essential workout gear for women. Finding the perfect pair can be challenging with the variety of designs, fabrics, and features available in the market. This guide will provide insights on the key factors to consider when buying women’s gym shorts.
Fabric
The fabric is a critical factor to consider when buying gym shorts. The ideal fabric for workout shorts should be breathable, moisture-wicking, and stretchy.
Breathable fabric
When you work out, your body generates heat, and you sweat. If the fabric is not breathable, it traps heat and moisture and makes you uncomfortable. Breathable fabrics allow air to circulate freely and keep your body cool during workouts. Polyester, nylon, and spandex are some of the materials that are breathable and popularly used for women’s gym shorts.
Moisture-wicking fabric
Moisture-wicking fabric is designed to draw moisture away from your skin and keep you dry. This is important because wet clothing can lead to chafing, irritation, and a higher risk of infections. Look for gym shorts made of materials that have moisture-wicking properties, such as spandex and polyester.
Stretchy fabric
Your gym shorts should be stretchy to allow freedom of movement during workouts. Look for shorts made of materials such as spandex and elastane which are stretchy and offer flexibility and comfort during high-intensity workouts.
Comfort and Fit
Women’s gym shorts should be comfortable and provide a good fit. The shorts should allow freedom of movement without being too baggy or too tight.
Length
The length of gym shorts is a personal preference, but it affects the level of comfort and performance during workouts. Shorts that are too short may ride up, causing discomfort and self-consciousness, while shorts that are too long may restrict movement. Mid-thigh length shorts are ideal for most women as they offer both comfort and mobility during workouts.
Waistband
The waistband is another crucial factor that affects the comfort and fit of gym shorts. Choose shorts with a waistband that sits comfortably on your waist and does not dig in or slide down during workouts. Some gym shorts have a high waistband that offers support and compression around the tummy, which can make you feel more comfortable and confident during workouts.
Compression
Compression shorts are form-fitting and offer support to the muscles during workouts. They improve blood circulation, reduce muscle vibration, and help prevent muscle fatigue and soreness. However, they may not be suitable for all women as they can be tight and uncomfortable. Choose compression shorts that fit comfortably, and do not restrict your movement or breathing.
Design and Style
Gym shorts come in different designs and styles. Choose a design and style that suits your preference and workout needs.
Pockets
Gym shorts with pockets are convenient for carrying essentials such as keys, phone, and cash during workouts. Look for shorts with pockets that are deep enough to prevent items from falling out during workouts.
Drawstring
Some gym shorts have a drawstring that allows you to adjust the waistband for a more comfortable and secure fit. This feature is useful if you have a smaller or larger waist than your hip measurement.
Lining
Some gym shorts have a built-in lining that provides extra coverage and support. The lining is also moisture-wicking, which helps keep you dry during workouts.
Patterns and Colors
Gym shorts come in various patterns and colors. Choose a color and pattern that reflects your style and personality. Bright color shorts are also helpful for outdoor workouts, as they make you visible to motorists.
Care and Maintenance
Care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity of your gym shorts. Proper washing and drying methods can prevent damage and maintain the quality of the fabric.
Washing
- Wash your gym shorts in cold water to prevent shrinkage and color fading.
- Avoid using fabric softeners as they can clog the fabric pores and reduce the moisture-wicking properties of the shorts.
- Wash your gym shorts separately from other clothes and avoid washing them with towels, as the rough texture of towels can damage the fabric.
Drying
- Air dry your gym shorts instead of using a dryer, as the heat can damage the fabric and elastic.
- If using a dryer, use low heat or the delicate cycle to avoid damaging the fabric and elastic.
Conclusion
Women’s gym shorts are essential workout gear that should be functional, comfortable, and stylish. Consider the factors discussed in this buying guide, such as fabric, comfort, fit, design, and care, when buying gym shorts. With the right pair of gym shorts, you can enjoy a comfortable and efficient workout session.
