Can we discuss running shorts?

[Susie]

I struggled with running shorts last summer, and never found the right pair.  This year it's even more important that I find something that works, because not only am I training through the spring for a June HIM, but I'll be training through the summer this year for an August HIM.  It is a sad (but true) state of affairs that right now my tri shorts are better to run in, chamois and all, than my running shorts.

I have a couple pairs of Under Armor shorts that chafe my inner thighs on anything > 5 miles.  They're a couple years old, but I think these are them:

They're like $ 20-25, so not major investment pieces if YKWIM.  They fit when I'm at winter weight, and when I'm not, they bloom and poof, and make objects in the rearview appear larger (thanks).

I tried a couple pairs of compression shorts last summer, and those were flops.  Not long enough, I guess.  They just rode up, bunched, and then my thighs chafed each other.  Annoying.  I've lost some weight since last year but I don't expect the problem to go away.

What should I try?  

Longer compression shorts?
Double layer shorts like these?

A better fitting short that won't ride up, and then just rock the Body Glide? 

I've never bought from LLL or Athleta because I don't have a store nearby, and ordering online/guessing at sizing/styles feels daunting.  Please offer suggestions and hopes for comfortable summer runs.

[starburst]

I have a couple of pairs of these.  They're very lightweight and come in a few different lengths.  The only thing I don't like about them is there is no zippered pocket.  Just a small slit pocket on the back.

Nike Rival Shorts

[boston340]

I have 2 pairs of LLL Run Groovy shorts that I like for long runs. 4.5" inseam, draw string, zip pocket in the back, and two small pockets in the front. I don't fuss with them at all when I run (that's a huge priority for me).

shop.lululemon.com/products/clothes-accessories/shorts-run/Groovy-Run-Short?cc=14092&skuId=3531643&catId=shorts-run

[breezy8407]

Apr 25, 2014 13:18:34 GMT -5 starburst said:

I have a couple of pairs of these.  They're very lightweight and come in a few different lengths.  The only thing I don't like about them is there is no zippered pocket.  Just a small slit pocket on the back.

Nike Rival Shorts

I have these but in the 6" inseam length. I like the yoga pant inspired waist band. 

I also have these and they work pretty well:

www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/RRL1017/womens-rgear-high-five-pocket-5-short/

[gt7301b]

Hana 2:1 from Athleta are the only thing that really works for me on long runs, it looks like Athleta is clearancing them and they are only 24.99.  (I own four pairs already)  They have a little bit of a grip on the inside of the compression part so they don't ride up at all.  The great thing about Athleta is their return policy is great and free.


athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=50008&vid=1&pid=221059042

It looks like they are on clearance because of the new pulse shorts.

athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=1009105&pid=983393&mlink=46793,7831355,BShortie4_22&clink=7831355

athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=1009105&pid=983389&mlink=46793,7831355,BShortie4_22&clink=7831355

[Susie]

If I were to branch out into the LLL/Athleta sphere, can anybody tell me about sizing? If I'm a 6-8 or M in most normal shorts and pants, what should I try at Athleta or LLL?

[Deleted]

I also need 2:1 from Athleta. I love the Contender skirt.

[boston340]

Apr 25, 2014 13:57:36 GMT -5 Susie said:

If I were to branch out into the LLL/Athleta sphere, can anybody tell me about sizing? If I'm a 6-8 or M in most normal shorts and pants, what should I try at Athleta or LLL?

I am 5'5" and weigh about 125lbs.  I like my shorts to be a little loose though.  I wear size 8 in LLL shorts.

Keep in mind that Athleta has free shipping and free returns, so you could order a couple of different sizes to try.

[Susie]

Apr 25, 2014 13:26:26 GMT -5 boston340 said:

I have 2 pairs of LLL Run Groovy shorts that I like for long runs. 4.5" inseam, draw string, zip pocket in the back, and two small pockets in the front. I don't fuss with them at all when I run (that's a huge priority for me).

shop.lululemon.com/products/clothes-accessories/shorts-run/Groovy-Run-Short?cc=14092&skuId=3531643&catId=shorts-run

What is the difference between the 2-way stretch and 4-way stretch?  I mean, besides the obvious.  Like how do they fit/feel different, what would make you pick one or the other?

[gt7301b]

I also am a 6/8, but I probably weigh a little more than you and I wear a M in Athleta and 8 in LLL, but the 8's from LLL are a little big in the waist now. I'd probably order a S and M and just send one back.

I'm wearing the 2:1 shorts in both of these pictures:

[boston340]

Apr 25, 2014 14:12:37 GMT -5 Susie said:

Apr 25, 2014 13:26:26 GMT -5 boston340 said:

I have 2 pairs of LLL Run Groovy shorts that I like for long runs. 4.5" inseam, draw string, zip pocket in the back, and two small pockets in the front. I don't fuss with them at all when I run (that's a huge priority for me).

shop.lululemon.com/products/clothes-accessories/shorts-run/Groovy-Run-Short?cc=14092&skuId=3531643&catId=shorts-run

What is the difference between the 2-way stretch and 4-way stretch?  I mean, besides the obvious.  Like how do they fit/feel different, what would make you pick one or the other?

I honestly have no idea!  clseale do you know?

[clseale]

Apr 25, 2014 14:14:17 GMT -5 boston340 said:

Apr 25, 2014 14:12:37 GMT -5 Susie said:

What is the difference between the 2-way stretch and 4-way stretch?  I mean, besides the obvious.  Like how do they fit/feel different, what would make you pick one or the other?

I honestly have no idea!  clseale do you know?

To me, the 4 way stretch feel a tad thinner, stretchier, and seem to be a bit more form fitting/clingy to my legs. The 2 way stretch feel like a thicker..or maybe just not as flimsy of a material (a lot of the patterns seem to some in this material) and they seem more structured in their fit. 

ETA: I like both, so colors & patterns determine which I buy.

[Wines Not Whines]

Apr 25, 2014 13:52:01 GMT -5 gt7301b said:

Hana 2:1 from Athleta are the only thing that really works for me on long runs, it looks like Athleta is clearancing them and they are only 24.99.  (I own four pairs already)  They have a little bit of a grip on the inside of the compression part so they don't ride up at all.  The great thing about Athleta is their return policy is great and free.


athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=50008&vid=1&pid=221059042

It looks like they are on clearance because of the new pulse shorts.

athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=1009105&pid=983393&mlink=46793,7831355,BShortie4_22&clink=7831355

athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=1009105&pid=983389&mlink=46793,7831355,BShortie4_22&clink=7831355

The Hana 2:1s are my favorite shorts for long runs. They really, legitimately stay put, and the compression layer is long enough that there's no chafing (I think it's 5"). I've never had any chaffing problems with them.

I've been happy with my Oiselle Rogas for up to half marathon distance. They have a 4" inseam, so a little longer than other running shorts.

[Raggedeannie]

Does the poofy out layover of the 2-in-1s actually do anything? I'm having similar chub-rub and ride-up issues on my long runs. Hanas and Contender are sold out in medium.

What about the 7" Presto 2 Short?

[Deleted]

Apr 25, 2014 18:44:19 GMT -5 Raggedeannie said:

Does the poofy out layover of the 2-in-1s actually do anything? I'm having similar chub-rub and ride-up issues on my long runs. Hanas and Contender are sold out in medium.

What about the 7" Presto 2 Short?

Modesty? Those 7" running shorts are NOT cute. But functional. I have 2 pairs of 7" running shorts, I think they are Brooks or MC, I love them, they are super functional. 

[gt7301b]

Raggedeannie, I haven't tried the Presto 7 inch, but I imagine they are made of the same material as the 2:1 and would work fine. Any other brand spandex gives me a muffin top if it is tight enough to not run up.

I plan to get the 2:1 Pulse shorts when Athleta does their 20% off sale soon.

[agswife]

Pretty sure I'm in the minority, but I like Old Navy running shorts.

[ktzmoh]

Thanks to this thread, I spent $ at active gear up, oiselle and athleta today. I'm stepping away from the interweb

[elletr13]

Posting here to keep track of this...it is getting warm in Memphis and my capris won't cut it much longer and my nike tempos are not cutting it.

[arch01]

Apr 25, 2014 20:24:16 GMT -5 agswife said:

Pretty sure I'm in the minority, but I like Old Navy running shorts.

these are also my new favorites. i threw out my tempos in favor of these.

[arch01]

if you're OK with skirts-i love my brooks running skirt. i have no shot of my thighs ever not rubbing-and they brooks skirts are awesome. i got both of mine from 6pm.com, they're on there right now for $25ish. they're great for long runs. i'm a size 6/8 and wear a M comfortably.

[Raggedeannie]

Apr 26, 2014 19:54:08 GMT -5 arch01 said:

Apr 25, 2014 20:24:16 GMT -5 agswife said:

Pretty sure I'm in the minority, but I like Old Navy running shorts.

these are also my new favorites. i threw out my tempos in favor of these.

I'm with you here.  I grab my ON shorts before I'll grab my tempos.  But thy both have the same length and are not helping with long run chub rub.

arch01 - enabler! I just ordered that Brooks skirt in purple  23 bucks after tax and free shipping!

[archaeominx]

Apr 25, 2014 20:24:16 GMT -5 agswife said:

Pretty sure I'm in the minority, but I like Old Navy running shorts.

I have a pile of them and few issues. Sometimes I'll wear a pair of those nike procombat spandex thingies with the ON shorts that are about a 3" inseam if it's a really long run to ward off any chafing.

[boston340]

I found out I DON't Like the four way stretch in the LLL Run Groovy shorts - they are very thin.

[Susie]

Apr 25, 2014 15:04:01 GMT -5 Wines Not Whines said:

Apr 25, 2014 13:52:01 GMT -5 gt7301b said:

Hana 2:1 from Athleta are the only thing that really works for me on long runs, it looks like Athleta is clearancing them and they are only 24.99.  (I own four pairs already)  They have a little bit of a grip on the inside of the compression part so they don't ride up at all.  The great thing about Athleta is their return policy is great and free.


athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=50008&vid=1&pid=221059042

It looks like they are on clearance because of the new pulse shorts.

athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=1009105&pid=983393&mlink=46793,7831355,BShortie4_22&clink=7831355

athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=1009105&pid=983389&mlink=46793,7831355,BShortie4_22&clink=7831355

The Hana 2:1s are my favorite shorts for long runs. They really, legitimately stay put, and the compression layer is long enough that there's no chafing (I think it's 5"). I've never had any chaffing problems with them.

I've been happy with my Oiselle Rogas for up to half marathon distance. They have a 4" inseam, so a little longer than other running shorts.

gt7301b, Wines Not Whines, do the Athleta 2 in 1 shorts have anything at the bottom of the compression layer to keep them from slipping up?  All the running compression shorts I've tried slide up, whereas tri shorts usually have little silicone beads or bands to keep them from sliding.  It makes such a difference.

[Wines Not Whines]

Apr 28, 2014 17:07:37 GMT -5 Susie said:

Apr 25, 2014 15:04:01 GMT -5 Wines Not Whines said:

The Hana 2:1s are my favorite shorts for long runs. They really, legitimately stay put, and the compression layer is long enough that there's no chafing (I think it's 5"). I've never had any chaffing problems with them.

I've been happy with my Oiselle Rogas for up to half marathon distance. They have a 4" inseam, so a little longer than other running shorts.

gt7301b, Wines Not Whines, do the Athleta 2 in 1 shorts have anything at the bottom of the compression layer to keep them from slipping up?  All the running compression shorts I've tried slide up, whereas tri shorts usually have little silicone beads or bands to keep them from sliding.  It makes such a difference.

Yes, they have silicone grippy things. They really stay put and don't move. 

I also tried a pair of Brooks 2:1 shorts that had grippers, but they weren't sticky enough. The Athleta ones are really good. 

[gt7301b]

Apr 28, 2014 17:15:42 GMT -5 Wines Not Whines said:

Apr 28, 2014 17:07:37 GMT -5 Susie said:

gt7301b, Wines Not Whines, do the Athleta 2 in 1 shorts have anything at the bottom of the compression layer to keep them from slipping up?  All the running compression shorts I've tried slide up, whereas tri shorts usually have little silicone beads or bands to keep them from sliding.  It makes such a difference.

Yes, they have silicone grippy things. They really stay put and don't move. 

I also tried a pair of Brooks 2:1 shorts that had grippers, but they weren't sticky enough. The Athleta ones are really good. 

Here is a picture of the grippers. These are the only compression shirts that have enough grip for me.

[secretlyevil]

Honestly I just picked up a pair of trek running shorts at kohls. I forgot about them. They're a little longer and I love them. My extended resting has done no favors for my waist line. So when I swung by kohls for something else it dawned on me to check them out. I do still use glide as a precaution.

ETA: Tek Gear, sorry, not Trek. Trek makes bikes.

[boston340]

Apr 28, 2014 19:42:06 GMT -5 secretlyevil said:

Honestly I just picked up a pair of trek running shorts at kohls. I forgot about them. They're a little longer and I love them. My extended resting has done no favors for my waist line. So when I swung by kohls for something else it dawned on me to check them out. I do still use glide as a precaution.

Are you talking about the Tek Gear shorts? If so, I really like those too. I reach for them often. My biggest complaint though is no drawstring and no pockets. They are the perfect shorts to wear on the treadmill though!

[secretlyevil]

Apr 28, 2014 20:53:54 GMT -5 boston340 said:

Apr 28, 2014 19:42:06 GMT -5 secretlyevil said:

Honestly I just picked up a pair of trek running shorts at kohls. I forgot about them. They're a little longer and I love them. My extended resting has done no favors for my waist line. So when I swung by kohls for something else it dawned on me to check them out. I do still use glide as a precaution.

Are you talking about the Tek Gear shorts? If so, I really like those too. I reach for them often. My biggest complaint though is no drawstring and no pockets. They are the perfect shorts to wear on the treadmill though!

Yes! Didn't see your post before I edited the one above. The ones I picked up today have a little pocket. Still no draw string.