Women's running shorts and tights

Split shorts, 2-in-1 or leggings: which cut for which session

The split shorts greatly open up the sides of the thigh: the Adizero Road to Records Split, the Craft Hypervent Split or the Asics Core Split are suitable for interval training, tempo runs and road races in hot weather. The 2-in-1 shorts, like the adidas Formotion Iconic, adidas Essentials or Saysky Pace, hide a pair of leggings underneath a flowing short: the outer fabric does not ride up between the thighs and the silhouette stays covered. The leggings alone, from Adizero to The North Face Cambrena, hug the leg and support long runs like trail running.

A high waistband that stays in place

The waistband determines the comfort of women's running bottoms. A high and wide waistband, which sits above the navel, distributes pressure on the stomach and does not roll on itself when the upper body bends forward. Lower-rise, lighter models are suitable for runners who prefer to feel nothing on their abdomen. An internal drawcord allows you to adjust the fit after several washes, when the elastic has stretched slightly. On leggings, a flat waistband without thick seams avoids marks on the skin during long runs.

Short leggings or three-quarters depending on the season

The short leggings, which stop mid-thigh, allow for good ventilation and leave the knee free: they are suitable for warm days and fast sessions. The three-quarter leggings, like the Endurance Mahana, extend below the knee and keep the muscles warm in mid-season, while offering more support to the thigh. In both cases, the fabric should be dense to remain opaque when stretched: the test is to do a full squat in front of a mirror, in bright light. On cool days, three-quarters can also be worn under a loose short, to combine support and freedom of movement.

Recycled fibres and committed running brands

Several brands in the selection have made materials a key argument. Circle, founded in Paris in 2020, designs its shorts, including the Legend and Get Shorty, from recycled fibres. Saysky, born in Copenhagen in 2013, focuses on a clean style and lightweight technical fabrics. At adidas, the Adizero range targets performance with very thin fabrics, while the Adi365 range supports everyday training. A technical short can be washed at 30 degrees, inside out, without fabric softener that clogs the mesh, and air dries in less than an hour.

New arrivals and good deals

The new arrivals showcase the latest releases, the special offers feature previous versions at reduced prices, and items shipped in 24h are prepared and sent within 24 hours. The good deals, clearance, sales, and the Black Friday have their running page.

Frequently asked questions

How to prevent shorts from riding up while running?

A 2-in-1 short includes a pair of leggings that stays in place and prevents the outer fabric from riding up between the thighs. A short legging worn alone is another solution, as is a slightly longer short with a five-inch inseam.

How to run with your phone without it bouncing around?

Choose a legging with a side pocket on the thigh or a back pocket on the waistband: the phone stays firmly against the body. A thigh pocket limits bouncing much better than a front pocket on a loose short.

What size running shorts should I choose?

Take your usual trouser size and check your waist measurement on the brand's guide. Between two sizes, the smaller one is suitable for leggings, which should fit snugly, while the larger one works for loose shorts, which should float without being tight.

Shorts or leggings for a beginner runner?

The 2-in-1 short is often the best compromise to start: it covers, supports, and prevents chafing. Leggings alone are for runners who like to feel held, while split shorts suit those who prioritize freedom.

Can you run in leggings without shorts over them?

Yes, many female runners wear them alone, whether on the road or on trails. Choose a dense and opaque fabric, a waistband that stays up without rolling, and, if you wish, a mid-thigh or three-quarter length that covers more.