How to Choose Running Shorts for Men and Women
By Houdini Webbutik | Houdini Sportswear Official | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: Buying Guides
Find the perfect running shorts for men and women with our guide covering fit, fabric, and features for different activities like trail running and hiking.
Quick answer
Choose ultralight shorts for hot weather running and yoga, or durable chore shorts with multiple pockets for hiking and everyday wear.
Why fabric weight matters for running
Running generates heat and sweat, so fabric weight directly affects comfort. Ultralight materials like Liquid Rock (used in Wadi Shorts) feel like wearing almost nothing and won't weigh you down. They are ideal for high-output activities in warm, humid climates. Heavier fabrics offer more durability but can feel warmer and less breathable.
Pockets and storage for different activities
Trail runners often need to carry keys, a phone, or snacks. Shorts with multiple well-placed pockets (like the Corespun Chore Shorts) act like a multitool, keeping essentials secure without a pack. For road running or gym sessions, fewer pockets reduce bulk and chafing. Consider how much you typically carry before choosing.
Decision rules for running shorts
- Activity intensity and climate: For hot, humid conditions or high-output activities (trail running, yoga), choose ultralight shorts like Wadi Shorts. For mixed use including hiking or casual wear, a more durable fabric like Chorespun Weave is better.
- Pocket preference: If you need to carry phone, keys, or snacks without a pack, look for shorts with multiple pockets like the Corespun Chore Shorts. If you prefer minimalism, ultralight shorts with fewer pockets reduce chafing.
- Fit and length: Running shorts should allow full range of motion. Wadi Shorts have a slim, athletic fit that works for running and climbing. Corespun Chore Shorts offer a more relaxed fit suitable for hiking and everyday activities. Try both styles to see which cut feels best for your typical movement.
Product facts
- W's Corespun Chore Shorts: Made from lightweight yet durable Chorespun Weave fabric that is soft against the skin thanks to a unique spinning technique. This combines the toughness needed for hiking and everyday wear with the comfort required for active use.
W's Corespun Chore Shorts - W's Wadi Shorts: Created for hot weather and warm humid climates using ultralight Liquid Rock fabric that gives a feeling of wearing almost nothing. Ideal for trail running, yoga, and hiking in heat where every gram of weight and breath of air matters.
W's Wadi Shorts
How to decide
Best for
- Runners who prioritize ultralight weight and breathability for hot weather
- Hikers and everyday users who need durable shorts with ample pockets
Not for
- Cold-weather running (consider tights or layered shorts)
- Swimming or water sports (these shorts are not designed for submersion)
