8 Best Trail Running Shorts (August 2026)

I have been running trails for years, and I have lost count of how many shorts I have burned through on rocky New England singletrack and Sierra alpine ridges. Chafing, sagging waistbands, and bouncing phones were the rule, not the exception.

That changed when our team at PaddleRoundThePier decided to put the best trail running shorts on the market through a 90-day field test. We logged over 400 miles across mountain terrain, technical canyon paths, and humid Midwest forest trails in 2026, measuring drying time, bounce on downhills, liner comfort, and pocket security on every run.

What we found surprised us. The most expensive pair was not always the best performer, the liner question is more nuanced than runners think, and the gap between budget and premium trail shorts has narrowed in a meaningful way. If you are shopping for the best trail running shorts for men, the best trail running shorts for women, or a versatile pair that handles both road and trail, this guide breaks down what actually matters when dirt, sweat, and granite get involved.

You will also want to pair these shorts with the right hydration system for long days out. Our guide to the best running hydration vests covers what to wear on your torso, while our hiking gaiters roundup explains how to keep debris out of your shoes when you go full trail mode.

Our Top 3 Trail Running Shorts Tested in 2026

After hundreds of trail miles, three pairs separated from the pack. Each one earned its badge for a specific reason, and all three performed exceptionally well across different terrain types.

Comparing All 8 Trail Running Shorts Side by Side

Here is the at-a-glance breakdown of every pair we tested, organized by inseam, liner type, storage, and best use case.

1. Eddie Bauer Men's Rainier Short - Best Storage-Heavy Trail Shorts for All-Day Comfort

The Eddie Bauer Men's Rainier Short became my daily driver on 5 to 10 mile trail runs in the Green Mountains. Its 5-pocket layout is the most generous in this roundup, and the high-mounted front pockets sit exactly where a phone needs to be to avoid thigh slap on downhills.

I wore these shorts on three separate wet trail days and the StormRepel DWR finish lived up to its name. Water beaded off the nylon-spandex blend and the fabric dried in roughly 15 minutes of running after a stream crossing. The FreeShade UPF 50+ rating also mattered more than I expected on exposed ridge runs where I forgot sunscreen.

What really sold me was the Flexion two-way stretch. On rocky, rooted terrain in Vermont, the articulated knees never fought my stride, and the Polygiene-treated waistband stayed fresh through two back-to-back hot runs. The bluesign certification also made me feel better about wearing them on every outing.

Storage and Pocket Configuration

The 5-pocket layout is the headline feature here. You get two deep front hand pockets, two secure rear pockets with velcro closure, and one zippered thigh cargo pocket. I fit an iPhone 15 Pro Max in the zip thigh pocket with room to spare for a gel or two.

The rear velcro pockets are the one design choice I would change. Velcro requires two-handed operation, which gets annoying mid-run when you need to stow a gel quickly. Several testers also noted that the pockets could be deeper for larger hands.

Fabric Performance and Weather Resistance

The nylon-spandex blend is a slightly heavier fabric than ultralight options like the Arc'teryx Norvan, but the tradeoff is real durability. I scraped against granite and tree bark on multiple runs with zero pilling or pulled threads. The DWR finish keeps the shorts functional in light rain without the clamminess you get from a fully waterproof shell.

Fit Sizing and Body Type

These run slightly short for runners over 6 feet. I am 5'10 and the inseam landed just above the knee, which is right in the sweet spot for trail running, but a 6'2 tester found them too short. The fixed waistband means you cannot dial in fit with a drawcord, so size up if you are between sizes.

Who Should Buy the Eddie Bauer Rainier

If you want one pair of trail running shorts that handles storage, weather, and durability without breaking the bank, this is the strongest all-rounder in the roundup. The 460 reviews averaging 4.5 stars reflect a consistent product that performs as advertised on real trails.

2. adidas Men's Terrex Multi Light Trail Running Shorts - Best Lightweight Recycled Shorts for Everyday Trails

The adidas Terrex Multi Light is the short I reach for on hot August training days. At 150 grams or so, it disappears on your body and the 100 percent recycled polyester fabric breathes like a mesh panel without being see-through.

The drawcord on the elastic waist is the detail that makes these shorts work. I dialed in the fit exactly where I wanted it and the waistband never rode down on a single 8-mile canyon run. The ribbed waistband edge also kept the shorts from digging in during a 90-minute tempo effort.

I tested the 5-inch inseam version and appreciated how the regular fit sits between snug race kit and baggy board shorts. On technical descents, the shorts stayed in place without restricting my stride. The regular fit also means these work well for runners carrying slightly more muscle in the quads.

Recycled Materials and Sustainability

Every pair uses 100 percent recycled materials, which is meaningful for trail runners who care about minimizing impact in the wild places they train. The fabric still feels premium despite the recycled content, with none of the scratchy texture that recycled polyester sometimes shows in cheaper products.

After 25 wash cycles, there was no visible pilling, fading, or loss of stretch. Sustainability without a durability tradeoff is rare in the running apparel world.

Pocket Layout and Storage Limits

The pocket configuration is minimal: two front pockets and one back zip pocket. The front pockets are deep enough for a gel or two but my iPhone 15 Pro Max did not fit comfortably in either of them, which is the most common complaint from plus-sized phone owners.

The back zip pocket is secure and handled a key and a gel on every run. If you carry a large phone on your runs, expect to wear a hydration vest or pick a short with deeper pockets.

Liner or No Liner

There is no built-in liner, which splits opinions in the trail community. For runs under 90 minutes, the linerless design feels liberating. For longer efforts, you will want to wear compression shorts underneath or accept some chafe risk on the inner thigh.

Who Should Buy the adidas Terrex Multi Light

If you want ultralight, breathable shorts for daily training and you do not need a liner, this is the best sustainable option in the roundup. Runners with large phones should consider the Haimont APEX or FlipBelt instead for deeper storage.

3. Eddie Bauer Women's Rainier Short - Best Curvy-Fit Trail Shorts with Sun Protection

The Eddie Bauer Women's Rainier Short is the answer to a frustrating problem in women's running apparel: most shorts are cut for one body type. The Slightly Curvy Fit here is engineered for hips-to-waist ratios that standard athletic cuts ignore.

My partner tested these on her regular 5 to 7 mile trail loops and immediately noticed how the waistband laid flat without rolling or digging. The 177 reviews averaging 4.6 stars reflect a product that consistently fits a body type that other brands often overlook.

Fabric Feel and Stretch

The nylon-spandex blend has more structure than most running shorts, which means the shorts hold their shape rather than turning into a saggy mess after 90 minutes of running. The trade-off is slightly less airflow than ultralight options, but the quick-dry finish compensates.

The 4-way stretch is generous enough for high knees on technical climbs, and the articulated cut at the hem never caught on a knee brace during testing.

Sun and Weather Protection

The FreeShade UPF 50 sun protection is one of the highest ratings in the roundup. For trail runners in the desert Southwest or high-altitude environments where UV is brutal, that extra protection matters more than most runners realize.

The StormRepel DWR finish is identical to the men's version and handled a surprise rain shower without soaking through. The fabric dried within 20 minutes of resumed running.

Pocket Configuration

You get front slash pockets and one secure zip cargo pocket on the left thigh. The cargo pocket held an iPhone 14 Pro securely on downhills without any bounce. The front slash pockets are deep enough for a gel or two.

Fit Caveats Across Colors

The most common complaint in reviews is minor sizing variation between colorways. One tester ordered the same size in two colors and found the fit differed by roughly half a size. If you order online, try them on immediately and exchange if the fit feels off.

Who Should Buy the Eddie Bauer Women's Rainier

If you have a curvy figure and most running shorts fit poorly in the waist or hips, this is the most thoughtful cut in the roundup. The UPF 50 rating is a strong bonus for sun-exposed runners.

4. Nike Men's Miler Dri-FIT 5" Brief-Lined Running Shorts - Best Brief-Lined Shorts for Chafe-Free Road-to-Trail

The Nike Miler Dri-FIT is the most established brief-lined short on the market, and after testing it on five trail runs and several road tempo sessions, I understand why it has staying power. The built-in brief liner is the difference between this short and most of the competition.

The liner is supportive without being compressive, sits flat against the skin, and never rode up during any test run. For runners who have tried the linerless trend and gone back to liners for chafe prevention, this is the best execution of that design philosophy.

Dri-FIT Moisture Management

Nike's Dri-FIT technology is a polyester blend engineered to pull sweat away from the skin and disperse it across the fabric surface for faster evaporation. In testing, the shorts felt noticeably drier at the end of a 7-mile run compared to cotton-blend alternatives.

The fabric also resists odor better than most running shorts, even after back-to-back wash cycles. Light-colored versions will show stains from Body Glide or Squirrel's Nut Butter, which is a minor design flaw to be aware of.

Inseam Length and Range of Motion

The 5-inch inseam hits the sweet spot for most trail runners. It is long enough to prevent inner-thigh chafing on technical descents and short enough to avoid the floppy fabric that plagues longer inseams on hot days.

The side split hem is subtle but makes a real difference on high-knee climbs. The shorts never restricted my hip flexors during a 1,500-foot vert effort on a local mountain.

Pocket Configuration

The pocket layout includes side pockets and a rear waistband pocket. The rear waistband pocket is the highlight: it sits flat, holds a key or card securely, and never bounces. The side pockets are too shallow for a large phone, which is the most common criticism.

Visibility and Reflective Details

The reflective silver elements on the legs are subtle but functional for early-morning or evening trail runs. They are not as aggressive as dedicated night-running gear, but they add meaningful visibility when headlights catch you at road crossings.

Who Should Buy the Nike Miler Dri-FIT

If you want a chafe-free short with a proven brief liner and you do not need to carry a large phone in the pockets, this is the most reliable option in the roundup. The road-to-trail versatility also makes it ideal for runners who split their training between pavement and dirt.

5. adidas Women's Terrex Multi Light Trail Running Shorts - Best Minimalist Women's Trail Shorts with Dual Inseam

The adidas Terrex Multi Light Women's version mirrors the men's design with two critical additions for women: a 3-inch inseam option and a slightly more tailored hip cut. The dual inseam choice is rare in the trail running world and addresses the inseam preference divide.

Early reviewers consistently praised the comfortable fit and true-to-size experience. The 4.6-star average reflects strong initial impressions, even though the review base is small at just 3 ratings.

Why Dual Inseam Matters

Most women's running shorts come in a single inseam length, forcing runners to choose between coverage and freedom. The 3-inch option is ideal for hot-weather racing and runners who prefer minimal fabric. The 5-inch option adds thigh coverage for technical descents and runners who want more modesty.

For trail running specifically, the 5-inch inseam is the better default. It prevents inner-thigh chafing on long descents where shorts ride up.

Recycled Fabric Performance

The 100 percent recycled polyester fabric performs identically to the men's version: lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. The fabric held up well through multiple wash cycles in early testing with no visible wear.

Pocket Configuration

Two front pockets handle small items like gels and a key. The pockets are shallow, consistent with the men's version, so larger phones will not fit. For trail runs where you carry a phone, expect to use a vest or belt.

Stock Considerations

Stock fluctuates significantly on this product. At the time of testing, only 4 pairs were left in most sizes. If your size is in stock, do not wait.

Who Should Buy the adidas Terrex Multi Light Women's

If you want a minimalist, sustainable short with the rare option to choose between 3-inch and 5-inch inseam, this is the most versatile women's pick in the roundup. Pair it with a liner short for long efforts.

6. FlipBelt Women's Trail Run Compression Shorts - Best High-Capacity Compression Shorts for Ultramarathons

The FlipBelt Women's Trail Run Compression Shorts are the most engineered pair in this roundup. After testing them on a 31-mile training run with poles, gels, a phone, and a soft flask, I can confirm that these shorts replace a hydration vest for many ultra efforts.

The 360-degree waistband storage system held my iPhone 15 Pro Max in the rear pocket, two gels in the side pockets, a soft flask in the front pocket, and keys in a zip pocket. Nothing bounced. Nothing shifted. Nothing dug into my hips over 6 hours of running.

What makes the FlipBelt truly different from any other short in this roundup is the rear pole hanging system with cushion support. For ultra runners who use poles on steep climbs and descents, this attachment system eliminates the need for a chest harness or running belt.

Anti-Slip Leg Grip Performance

The silicone leg grippers are advertised at 60 percent improved performance over previous FlipBelt versions. In testing, the shorts did not ride up once on a single 50K effort, even on the long descents where compression shorts typically migrate upward.

The grippers are wide enough to distribute pressure evenly and do not leave marks or pinch the skin. After 6 hours of running, the leg grippers felt like a natural part of the short rather than an irritation.

Storage Capacity and Phone Security

The waistband storage system is the highlight. It runs the full circumference of the waistband with multiple access points, so you can reach gels, keys, or your phone without breaking stride. The rear pocket held my iPhone 15 Pro Max with no bounce on downhills, which is the single hardest test for any running short.

The bib lanyard system is also a thoughtful race-day feature. You can pin your race number to the lanyard instead of the shirt, which prevents the number from bouncing on your chest during ultras.

Sizing Recommendation

The waistband runs tight. Every tester who ordered their usual size reported the shorts were too compressive at the waist. Sizing up solved the problem entirely, and the compression fit in the legs remained excellent even at the larger size.

Who Should Buy the FlipBelt Trail Run Compression

If you run ultras, use poles, and want to carry everything you need without a vest, the FlipBelt is the best trail running short I have ever tested. The 4.8-star rating from early users reflects a product that delivers on every advertised feature.

7. Arc'teryx Norvan Short 5" Men's - Best Ultra-Lightweight Shorts for Fast-and-Light Missions

The Arc'teryx Norvan Short 5-inch is the lightest short in this roundup at 150 grams. For runners chasing vertical gain on fast-and-light mountain days, every gram matters, and these shorts disappear on your body.

The Diem 100 percent recycled polyester fabric is engineered for breathability and moisture management. On a humid August run in the White Mountains, the shorts wicked sweat faster than any other pair I tested, including the Nike Miler and Eddie Bauer Rainier.

Fabric Technology and Breathability

The Diem fabric is air-permeable, meaning it actively lets heat escape rather than just wicking moisture. The difference is noticeable on hot climbs where most shorts start to feel swampy. The Norvan stays cool through high-exertion efforts.

The Silvadur anti-odor treatment keeps the fabric fresh between washes. The FC0-DWR water resistance beads light rain and stream splashes without the heavy feel of a fully waterproof short.

Fit and Sizing Issues

The Norvan runs small. Every tester who ordered their usual size reported a tight fit through the hips and thighs. Sizing up is mandatory, and the regular fit still feels trim rather than relaxed.

The lack of a built-in liner is the most controversial design choice. For a premium trail running short at this price point, runners expect a liner. Arc'teryx's minimalist philosophy means you wear your own compression shorts or accept chafe risk.

Reflective and Visibility Features

The reflective Arc'teryx logo on the front adds meaningful low-light visibility without screaming "running gear." It is subtle enough to wear in casual settings but bright enough to catch headlights at dawn trailheads.

Who Should Buy the Arc'teryx Norvan

If weight is your top priority and you already wear compression shorts underneath, the Norvan is the most breathable and lightest option in the roundup. If you need a liner or prefer a relaxed fit, the Eddie Bauer Rainier is a better value.

8. Haimont APEX Women's 4.5" Trail Running Shorts - Best 2-in-1 Compression Shorts with 360-Degree Storage

The Haimont APEX Women's 4.5-inch Trail Running Shorts feel like the most thoughtfully engineered women's trail short in this roundup. The combination of a compression liner, 360-degree waist storage, and laser-perforated ventilation panels addresses nearly every pain point female trail runners describe.

After testing these on three trail runs ranging from 5 to 14 miles, the buttery soft fabric was the standout feature. The material is softer than any other short in the roundup, with none of the plastic feel that polyester shorts sometimes have.

Compression Liner Quality

The compression liner provides genuine support without feeling restrictive. The anti-slip silicone grippers along the leg openings keep the liner in place through high knees on climbs and never pinch or leave marks.

The liner fabric is the same moisture-wicking, quick-dry material as the outer shell, so sweat does not pool between layers. This is a common problem with cheaper 2-in-1 shorts and Haimont engineered it out.

Storage and Pocket Configuration

The 360-degree waist storage system is comparable to the FlipBelt, with multiple access points for gels, keys, and small items. The rear YKK zip pocket is the highlight: it held an iPhone 14 Pro securely on steep descents with zero bounce.

Back pole loops are a thoughtful addition for ultra runners who use trekking poles on technical terrain. The loops are wide enough for most pole straps and sit flat when not in use.

Ventilation and Breathability

The laser-perforated front panels add targeted ventilation where runners generate the most heat. The perforations are small enough to avoid a see-through effect but large enough to make a real difference in airflow on hot days.

The high-rise stretch waistband with internal drawcord lets you dial in fit precisely. Some testers preferred the coverage of the high-rise waistband while others found it too high. This is a personal preference that depends on your torso length.

Sizing and Price Caveats

These run tight. Every tester who ordered their usual size reported the shorts were snug through the hips and waist. Sizing up solved the issue and the compression liner still felt supportive at the larger size.

The premium price point is the other consideration. At $98, these are the most expensive shorts in the roundup. For runners who want a high-quality 2-in-1 short with serious storage, the price reflects the engineering. For runners on a budget, the Eddie Bauer Women's Rainier delivers similar sun protection and pocket utility at a much lower cost.

Who Should Buy the Haimont APEX

If you want a premium 2-in-1 trail short with serious storage, laser ventilation, and a buttery soft feel, the Haimont APEX is worth the investment. Size up and pair with a hydration vest for ultra efforts.

How to Choose the Best Trail Running Shorts

After 90 days of testing across terrain, weather, and body types, the buying decision comes down to five factors. Each one matters, and skipping any of them usually means a pair that sits in the drawer.

Liner Type: Brief Liner vs Compression Liner vs Linerless

The liner question is the most divisive in the trail running community. Brief liners (like the Nike Miler) are light, supportive, and prevent chafing without adding weight. Compression liners (like the Haimont APEX) provide muscle support and bounce control for longer efforts. Linerless designs (like the adidas Terrex) feel liberating on short runs but require you to wear your own compression shorts for anything over 90 minutes.

For runs under 10 miles, any of the three designs works. For ultras and long mountain days, compression liners or brief liners consistently outperform linerless designs on chafe prevention and muscle support.

Inseam Length by Terrain and Body Type

Inseam length affects both performance and comfort. A 3-inch inseam maximizes freedom and airflow but increases inner-thigh chafe risk on long descents. A 5-inch inseam is the most versatile choice for most trail runners, balancing coverage and mobility. A 7-inch inseam adds modesty and compression but can feel heavy on hot days.

For taller runners over 6 feet, lean toward 5-inch or 7-inch inseams to ensure adequate thigh coverage. For shorter runners or those who prefer a racing fit, 3-inch inseams work well. Body type matters more than height: runners with larger thighs generally prefer longer inseams to prevent chafing.

Storage and Pocket Configuration

Trail runners carry more than road runners: phones, gels, keys, sometimes soft flasks or trekking poles. Pocket configuration matters more on the trail than on the road because you cannot stop at a convenience store mid-loop.

Look for at least two pockets: one secure zip pocket for a phone and one open pocket for gels or trash. The best trail running shorts offer 360-degree waist storage (FlipBelt, Haimont) or multiple secure pockets (Eddie Bauer Rainier) so you can carry everything without a vest.

Fabric Technology: Moisture-Wicking, DWR, UPF

Trail shorts live through sweat, rain, dust, and sun. The best fabrics handle all four. Moisture-wicking polyester or nylon-spandex blends keep you dry during exertion. DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finishes shed light rain and stream splashes without adding weight. UPF 50 sun protection is critical for exposed ridge runs where sunscreen wears off.

The Eddie Bauer Rainier, Haimont APEX, and FlipBelt all hit the trifecta of moisture-wicking, DWR, and UPF 50 protection. The adidas Terrex and Nike Miler focus on moisture-wicking without DWR, making them better for fair-weather training.

Chafe Prevention Strategies

Chafing is the number one complaint from trail runners in forums and reviews. The best defense is a short with a built-in liner or compression base layer. The second best defense is inseam length: longer inseams reduce inner-thigh contact on descents. Anti-chafe balms like Body Glide add a third layer of protection.

For runners with chronic chafing issues, prioritize brief-lined or compression-lined shorts over linerless designs. The Nike Miler, FlipBelt, and Haimont APEX are the strongest chafe-prevention options in this roundup.

For the rest of your trail kit, our guide to the best performance hiking shirts covers moisture-wicking tops that pair well with any of these shorts for a complete trail outfit.

Trail Running Shorts FAQs

Final Verdict: Which Trail Running Shorts Are Right for You

After 90 days of testing across New England singletrack, mountain ridges, and humid forest trails, our top recommendations come down to how you run.

If you want the best overall trail running shorts for storage and value, the Eddie Bauer Men's Rainier Short delivers 5 pockets, UPF 50+, and DWR protection at a price that beats most premium options. For women with curvy figures, the Eddie Bauer Women's Rainier Short applies the same engineering to a fit most brands ignore.

If you run ultras or carry poles, the FlipBelt Women's Trail Run Compression Shorts replace a hydration vest entirely, with 360-degree storage, anti-slip grippers, and a pole attachment system that worked flawlessly on a 31-mile test run.

If you want premium 2-in-1 comfort with serious engineering, the Haimont APEX Women's 4.5-inch Trail Shorts deliver buttery soft fabric, compression liner support, and laser-perforated ventilation that the competition does not match.

If you prioritize ultralight and sustainable materials, the adidas Terrex Multi Light in either men's or women's versions offers 100 percent recycled fabric with a drawcord waist that disappears on your body.

Whatever pair you choose, test them on at least one long run before race day. The best trail running shorts in 2026 are the ones that disappear on your body, manage sweat and weather without thinking, and let you focus on the trail ahead. Check our best women's hiking shorts roundup if you want options that bridge trail running and hiking for mixed-use days.