Higher State Men's 2 in 1 Running Shorts - SS20

Product Information

There are three main types of shorts. The first are looser shorts of various lengths, from very short split shorts to 5in or 7in shorts. These usually have an inner brief to add support in key areas. Then 2-in-1 shorts have the same outer layer, but instead of an inner brief they have a full set of tight, stretchy shorts underneath. Finally, half tights just have the inner layer. Consider floaty or tight: Running shoes come in two varieties: biker-like shorts and floaty, loose running shorts. Think about which type you'd prefer, suggests the trainer. "I would usually wear a shorter and freer flowing short for shorter and faster sessions. It is hard not to get a bit of friction between the legs when wearing these sorts of shorts for running."

Having endorsed several world-famous runners over the years, it's perhaps no surprise that Nike is one of the most established running brands out there. Available online and in-store, they offer an impressive range of expertly engineered fitness clothing - including running shorts, naturally. As mentioned, I own a few pairs of running shorts and I've put each of them through their paces over the last few years - taking them up to my longest distance outside of a race, 30km, alongside shorter running sessions, intervals, and other workouts. I also gathered a variety of pairs from across the market after enlisting the help of Anna Ward, a true specialist and marathon runner, to offer advice on choosing the best running shorts and some recommendations of her own. Anna Ward, a personal trainer and specialist running coach, also puts these among her favorites. "The Sweaty Betty Power shorts are perfect for longer runs as they have lots of built-in storage," says Ward. "They're also made of soft material, are high-waisted, and are six inches in length on the inseam, which isn't too long and I've found they prevent chafing well." It's entirely a personal preference from a comfort and style point of view as to whether you wear leggings or shorts. "I would always say to clients and friends, where what you find comfortable," says Ward. "The worst possible thing is being uncomfortable when running, so make this a priority as chafe isn’t fun, nor is hitching up your bottoms." Great liner comfort, thin breathable fabric, comfortable elastic waistband sits flat against the skinComfort: Arguably this is the most important factor to consider when it comes to choosing your running shorts. Shorts that ride up, chafe or otherwise sit uncomfortably just won't work. My top tip: don't be nervous about giving your shorts a proper test when you're trying them on, either in-store or at home. Jump around, lift your knees as high as you can, play around with the waistband, anything to make sure you're going to be comfortable in these shorts. Personally, we suggest wearing a pair of running shorts over your running tights, especially in cold weather. However, with a high-quality pair of running tights, this won’t make a huge difference in terms of warmth. How tight should my running tights be? Runner’s World recommends wearing running tights in anything colder than four degrees Celcius and certainly below freezing. This will reduce your risk of hypothermia while keeping your muscles nice and warm, also lessening your risk of pulling a muscle, increasing your performance, and of course, keeping you nice and toasty. How do I wear running tights? Ward, who is also the studio manager of Instate Fitness Wandsworth, loves them so much, she has two pairs."I find a cycling short is usually the best to prevent chafing," she adds. "However, for faster and shorter runs, I prefer a free-flowing short that doesn’t make me feel as restricted so I can speed and lengthen my stride."

As these shorts are biker style and a little longer than most, I was concerned they'd ride up as I was running - but this wasn't the case. Even on my 18km run, I found the shorts stayed in place both around the legs and waist. To secure them, there's a handy drawstring in the waistband that you can tighten and loosen as you like. I'd avoid pulling them up too high though as the seam through the middle increases the chance of accidental camel toe. While they initially feel very tight, after the first few wears it's almost as if the material molds into your body shape and they become much more comfortable. I tried and tested these running shorts both in the gym and out on the roads and found they really excelled in an indoor environment. The upper short is a couple of inches shorter than the biker short underneath, meaning it doesn't get in the way while you're lifting weights. It also provides just enough coverage if you'd otherwise be concerned about modesty with a traditional biker short like the Sweaty Betty Power Shorts. A padded-out waistband and drawstring cord offer extra support with these too, holding them in place. The advantage of 2-in-1 running shorts, like Nike's Flex Essential 2-in-1 Women's Running Shorts, is the compression offered by the biker short underneath. This presses against the skin and offers support without being too tight. The lightweight shorts over the top offer coverage and a stylish fit.

Why You Should Trust Us

When considering running shorts, you must weigh your desire for premium comfort and performance with the value that they provide you. All of the shorts we tested can provide a good running experience, but the higher-end models provide the highest quality materials and construction. However, you may be looking to buy more than one pair of shorts, and spending top dollar may not be what you're after. The Under Armour Launch SW shorts provide the best value with solid all-around performance and a relatively low price. Many other high-end models outperform the Launch but at nearly double the price. Waistband Comfort and Fit Unique standout designs that offer a great liner and waistband comfort, these are perfect shorts for tempo efforts with their streamlined design Support: Support means different things to different people. Some prefer biker shorts for compression around the hips, groin, and legs, while others will appreciate a looser, more free-flowing design. I've gathered a selection to offer a variety, including plenty of 2-in-1 options for those who want a little of both. Microscopic holes in the fabric make these the most breathable shorts we've tested. These shorts are great for hot and humid conditions without soaking up too much moisture