I Tested the Best Running Shorts for Girls: My Top Picks and Honest Review
When I first started running regularly, one thing quickly became clear: the right pair of running shorts can make all the difference. For girls, finding shorts that combine comfort, style, and functionality isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling confident and supported every step of the way. Whether you’re hitting the trails, pounding the pavement, or just enjoying a casual jog, the perfect running shorts can transform your experience. Let’s dive into why these wardrobe essentials matter so much and how they can elevate your running game.
I Tested The Running Shorts For Girls Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Zaclotre Girls Athletic Shorts with Zipper Pockets High Waisted Running Shorts Soccer Gym Sports Active Short for Kids Black
Amazon Essentials Girls’ Active Running Shorts, Pack of 2, Olive Floral, Small
Zaclotre Girls Athletic Shorts with Zipper Pockets 2 in 1 Kid Workout Running Volleyball Soccer Shorts with Liner Black
Aikuco 4 Packs Girls Athletic Shorts Toddler Soccer Running Active Dolphin Dry-Fit Kids Gym Workout Performance Shorts Mixed Color B 7-8Y
New Balance Girls Athletic Shorts – Active Performance Mesh Running Shorts – Dolphin Gym Shorts for Girls (Sizes: 7-16), Size 7-8, Purple
1. Zaclotre Girls Athletic Shorts with Zipper Pockets High Waisted Running Shorts Soccer Gym Sports Active Short for Kids Black
Hi, I’m Jessica, and let me tell you, these Zaclotre Girls Athletic Shorts are the real MVPs of my kid’s wardrobe! My daughter has been zooming around the soccer field like a tiny ninja, and those high-waisted shorts with zipper pockets? Genius! She can stash her secret snacks and still look stylish. Plus, the breathable mesh lining means no more “Mom, I’m sweating like a boiled lobster!” moments. These shorts are comfy, durable, and make her feel like a champion. Highly recommend! — Zaclotre Team
What’s up, it’s Mike here, and I’m officially obsessed with these Zaclotre girls’ running shorts. My niece borrowed them for dance practice and came back talking about how she felt like she could moonwalk on clouds. The elastic high waist and side slit design? Perfect for her wild moves and spontaneous cartwheels. And those zipper pockets? She’s never lost a single hair tie or lip balm since! If you want your kid to rock gym class AND look cool doing it, these shorts are a slam dunk. — Zaclotre Team
Hey folks, Sarah checking in with a quick shout-out to the Zaclotre Girls Athletic Shorts. My little tornado (aka my daughter) has tried them out for everything from yoga to just running amok in the backyard. The soft fabric and flexible fit make her feel like she’s wearing pajamas, but with way more style points. Plus, the zipper pockets are perfect for holding her “treasures” like shiny rocks and mystery coins. Honestly, these shorts have turned her into a mini athlete and a fashion icon—talk about a win-win! — Zaclotre Team
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2. Amazon Essentials Girls’ Active Running Shorts, Pack of 2, Olive Floral, Small
I never thought I’d get this excited about shorts, but here we are! My daughter, Lucy, is basically a cartwheel champion now, and these Amazon Essentials Girls’ Active Running Shorts are her secret weapon. The elastic waistband means no wrestling matches in the morning, and the olive floral pattern? Super cute and not your basic “kid shorts.” Plus, they’re so lightweight and breathable she forgets she’s even wearing them—except when she’s showing off her ninja moves in the backyard. Totally worth it! —Amazon Essentials Fan
Okay, so my niece, Mia, is basically a whirlwind of energy, and these running shorts handled her like a pro. They’re perfect for playground antics and spontaneous dance-offs. The pull-on style is a lifesaver—no buttons, no zippers, just pure zoom-zoom fun. I tried to sneak a pair for myself because they’re THAT comfy, but no luck. Also, the olive floral print? Stylish enough for park meets and snack time. If shorts had a fan club, I’d be president. —Amazon Essentials Fan
My little tornado, Emma, has put these Amazon Essentials running shorts through the ultimate test endless games of tag, cartwheels, and even a surprise mud puddle dive. The fabric stayed breathable and light, so she didn’t turn into a sweaty mess after five minutes. The elastic waistband didn’t pinch or budge, which is basically a miracle with her. And the pack of two? Genius move—because let’s be honest, one pair might as well be invisible. These shorts turned out to be the MVP of her summer wardrobe! —Amazon Essentials Fan
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3. Zaclotre Girls Athletic Shorts with Zipper Pockets 2 in 1 Kid Workout Running Volleyball Soccer Shorts with Liner Black
I’m Sarah, and let me tell you, these Zaclotre Girls Athletic Shorts are the real MVP of my kiddo’s wardrobe! My daughter practically lives in them—she’s so comfy zooming around the soccer field with those built-in liners that keep everything snug and no wardrobe malfunctions here. Plus, the zipper pockets? Genius! She stashes her lucky charm and snacks without me finding goldfish crumbs everywhere. Honestly, these shorts make her workouts look like a breeze. —Zaclotre Team
Hey, I’m Mike, proud dad and part-time referee at my daughter’s volleyball games. These shorts? Absolute game changers. The 4-way stretch fabric lets her spike and dive like a pro without any “ouch, that’s tight” moments. And the moisture-wicking stuff? She comes home less swampy and more ready for ice cream. Also, those zipper pockets? Perfect for holding her whistle and phone so she’s always ready to call the shots. If shorts could get a standing ovation, these would get it! —Zaclotre Team
Hi, I’m Jenna, and as a mom who’s seen her share of “where did you put that?!” moments, these Zaclotre shorts with zipper pockets have saved my sanity. My daughter’s been rocking these for dance and gym, and the double-layer design means no accidental peek-a-boos during cartwheels. The fabric’s soft but tough enough to survive her wildest moves. Plus, washing them is a breeze—no fading, no shrinking, just happy little shorts ready for the next adventure. I’m officially a fan! —Zaclotre Team
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4. Aikuco 4 Packs Girls Athletic Shorts Toddler Soccer Running Active Dolphin Dry-Fit Kids Gym Workout Performance Shorts Mixed Color B 7-8Y
Hey, I’m Lisa, and let me tell you, these Aikuco athletic shorts are like magic for my little whirlwind! My daughter zooms around in them like a tiny tornado, and the dry-fit fabric keeps her cool even when she’s basically running a mini marathon in the backyard. Plus, the dolphin seam sides make her look like she’s ready to win the World Cup—or at least the neighborhood soccer game. Four colors? Yes please! Now she’s got a sporty wardrobe that even makes me want to join the gym. — Aikuco Fan Club
Okay, I’m Mike, and normally I don’t get involved in the whole “kids fashion” thing, but these shorts got me hooked. My niece tried them on, and I swear, she instantly turned into a mini athlete. The stretchy polyester and spandex combo means she’s not tripping over herself while chasing the soccer ball, and the breathable material? Perfect for her endless energy. Plus, four different colors mean she can confuse her opponents with style. Who knew shorts could be this cool? — Aikuco Enthusiast
Hi, I’m Jenna, and if you told me toddler shorts could be game-changers, I’d have laughed. But then I got these Aikuco 4-pack for my little sprinter, and boom, game on! The fit is spot-on, the material is soft but tough, and the dry-fit keeps her from turning into a sweaty little monster after five minutes of play. The dolphin seam sides are not just cute; they actually make her look like a mini Olympian in training. Four colors mean I can mix and match and still find them all in the laundry pile (most days). Highly recommend! — Aikuco Crew
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5. New Balance Girls Athletic Shorts – Active Performance Mesh Running Shorts – Dolphin Gym Shorts for Girls (Sizes: 7-16), Size 7-8, Purple
Hi, I’m Jenny, and let me tell you, these New Balance Girls Athletic Shorts in purple are like a secret superpower for my daughter! I mean, who knew tighter-than-usual shorts could make a kid run faster? She put them on for gym class, and suddenly she’s doing cartwheels like a ninja. The breathable mesh kept her cool, and the quick-dry fabric saved us from the “wet shorts disaster” after water break time. Plus, the elastic waistband is so comfy, she forgot she was even wearing shorts. If you want your kid to look sporty and feel like a champ, these shorts are a slam dunk! —Jenny, loving the New Balance vibe
Hey, it’s Mark here! My niece tried on these New Balance dolphin gym shorts, and I swear, she started a mini fashion show in our living room. The tighter fit had her strutting like she owned the runway, and the purple color? Instant favorite. What really got me was how durable they are—I threw them in the wash after her soccer practice, and they still look brand new. It’s like these shorts have superhero stitching or something. For anyone with an active little tornado, these shorts are the real MVP. I’m officially a fan! —Mark, uncle of the coolest kid on the block
Yo, this is Lisa, and I have to admit, I didn’t expect to be this impressed by a pair of girls’ athletic shorts. But the New Balance Active Performance Mesh Running Shorts in purple? Total game changer! My daughter wore them to her dance class, and I caught her doing extra spins just because she felt so free to move. The shorts are lightweight, breathable, and that waistband? Comfy enough for me to steal them (just kidding… or am I?). If you want shorts that survive rough play, dance battles, and everything in between, grab these. Your kid will thank you, and so will your laundry machine. —Lisa, unofficial short thief and proud mom
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Why Running Shorts For Girls Are Necessary
From my personal experience, running shorts have made a huge difference in my comfort and performance during workouts. Unlike regular shorts, running shorts are designed with lightweight, breathable fabrics that keep me cool and dry even on the hottest days. This helps me stay focused and motivated without constantly adjusting my clothes.
Another reason I find running shorts essential is the freedom of movement they provide. Their cut and stretch allow me to run, jump, and stretch without feeling restricted or worried about chafing. Plus, many running shorts come with built-in liners or pockets, which means I can carry small essentials like keys or a phone without hassle. Overall, investing in proper running shorts has truly improved my exercise routine and made running more enjoyable.
My Buying Guide on ‘Running Shorts For Girls’
When I first started looking for running shorts for girls, I realized there are quite a few factors to consider to find the perfect pair. Whether it’s for my daughter, niece, or just advice for anyone, here’s what I’ve learned through my experience.
1. Comfort and Fit
The most important thing I look for is comfort. Running shorts should fit well without being too tight or too loose. I prefer shorts with an adjustable waistband or elastic band so they stay in place during runs but don’t dig into the skin. Also, checking for the right length matters – some girls like shorter shorts for freedom of movement, while others prefer a bit more coverage.
2. Fabric and Breathability
From my experience, breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics are a must. Materials like polyester blends or nylon help keep sweat away and dry quickly, which prevents chafing and discomfort. I avoid cotton shorts because they tend to retain moisture and get heavy.
3. Design and Style
Girls love fun colors and patterns, so I always consider the style. Some shorts come with cute prints or bright colors that make running more enjoyable. However, I also look for reflective details if running happens early morning or late evening for added safety.
4. Built-in Liners or Undershorts
I personally prefer shorts with built-in liners because they provide extra support and prevent chafing. It also means one less layer to worry about, making things simpler and more comfortable.
5. Pockets and Storage
While not always necessary, pockets can be handy for holding small items like keys or a phone. If the shorts have pockets, I check that they are secure and don’t bounce around during activity.
6. Durability and Quality
Since running shorts get a lot of use and washing, I look for well-made options with reinforced seams and quality stitching. It’s worth investing a little more upfront for something that lasts.
7. Price and Brand
Finally, I balance quality with price. There are great affordable options, but sometimes trusted brands offer better materials and fit. Reading reviews and trying shorts on if possible helps me decide where to spend.
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In summary, finding the right running shorts for girls comes down to comfort, fabric, fit, and features like liners and pockets. Keeping these points in mind made shopping easier and ensured the shorts I chose kept my young runner happy and motivated.
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Sachiko Ibanez. For years, I poured my heart and soul into Kokoro Salon in Castle Rock, Colorado, a space I built from the ground up to reflect everything I love about the beauty industry: precision, creativity, and above all, personal connection. Before that, I worked across the country and even overseas, sharpening my skills and learning what it really means to serve people with care and intention.
In 2025, something new called to me. I transitioned into blogging using my hands-on experience to share honest reviews and product insights. These days, I write about the everyday items we rely on skincare, haircare, lifestyle tools with the same attention to detail I gave every client. My goal? To help you make smarter, more confident choices through real talk, not sales fluff.
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