Best Shorts for Running, Gym & Exercise – by Style & Fit

Here’s a breakdown of the best-performing types of activewear shorts, with links to brands that offer them—and how to find your right size via Tellar.co.uk.

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1. Compression Shorts (Great for High-Impact & Weight Training)

Best For: Squats, HIIT, gym classes, spin, boxing

Style Advice: Look for a high waistband, sweat-wicking fabric, and non-slip hem. Compression fabric should feel like a second skin without digging in.

Try:

• Gymshark Adapt Shorts – sculpted seams, seamless waist

• Nike Pro Shorts – reliable fit, breathable mesh panel

• Lululemon Wunder Train Shorts – fastest drying and high performance

• Adanola – ultra-flattering cut for all body types

✅ Use Tellar’s Gymshark Sizing Guide to see exactly what size fits your waist, hips, and leg length.

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2. Biker Shorts (Ideal for Running & Everyday Athleisure)

Best For: Long runs, errands, summer training, layering under oversized tops

Style Advice: Mid to long inseam prevents thigh rubbing. Choose smooth flatlock seams to avoid friction.

Try:

• Alo Yoga High-Waist Biker Short – designer look with performance function

• H&M Move Go Shorts – budget-friendly and surprisingly supportive

• Pangaia Stretch Shorts – sustainable and functional

✅ Compare fit and inseam recommendations at Tellar’s Pangaia Fit Breakdown

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3. 2-in-1 Shorts (Layered Look + Coverage)

Best For: CrossFit, circuits, outdoor running, trail workouts

Style Advice: Built-in compression liner offers muscle support and keeps everything in place. Ideal for curvier thighs or when modesty is key.

Try:

• Under Armour Fly By 2.0 Shorts – ultralight and breathable

• Sweaty Betty Double Time Shorts – high-quality liner and external split short

✅ Find your real Sweaty Betty size instantly with Tellar’s Tool

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4. Loose-Fit Performance Shorts (Freedom + Breathability)

Best For: Pilates, dance cardio, summer circuits, post-gym cool-down

Style Advice: Choose mid-rise or high-rise elastic waists. Loose styles suit pear or hourglass body types especially well, avoiding compression on fuller hips.

Try:

• New Balance Accelerate Shorts

• Lorna Jane Fit Shorts

• Zara Sports Shorts

✅ Not sure if you’re in between sizes? Use Tellar to compare waist vs. hip match

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Fabric Tips: What to Look For

Workout shorts that last—and support your movement—rely on the right fabric blends:

If your shorts constantly roll or dig in, it’s not your body—it’s the brand’s cut. Tellar.co.uk shows where your measurement sits relative to each brand’s sizing system, even if they run small or large.

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Best Brands for Exercise Shorts – High Street to Boutique

Tellar.co.uk helps you shop across every brand with real-time fit guidance.

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Say Goodbye to Guessing – Use Tellar.co.uk

Finding the right gym shorts shouldn’t mean ordering 3 sizes and returning 2. With Tellar.co.uk, you only need your chest, waist, and hip measurements—and we’ll tell you your correct size in 1,500+ fashion brands instantly.

✔ Print your free measuring tape

✔ Store your profile

✔ Get the right fit every time

✔ No guessing, no returns

Start here:

👉 Create Your Free Sizing Profile

👉 Compare Sizes Across Brands

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