Quick answer
Our overall pick for the best running shorts with pockets is the Naarts Men’s 2-in-1 Athletic Running Shorts for its quick-dry fabric and functional pocket design. Other picks suit runners who prefer machine-washable shorts, a nylon shell, or dedicated compression shorts with a pocket.
Finding the best running shorts with pockets means balancing comfort, functionality, and fabric performance. A good pocket keeps essentials secure without bouncing, while the right material manages moisture and movement. We looked at manufacturer listings to compare key specs like fabric blend, pocket placement, and design features like built-in liners.
Our picks at a glance
Pros
- 2-in-1 design with outer short and compression liner
- Quick-dry, breathable fabric blend
- Drawstring closure for adjustable fit
- Product warranty is listed
Cons
- Hand wash only
- The listing does not mention the number or type of pockets
Pros
- Multi-pocket design with a liner phone pocket and side pockets
- Machine washable
- 2-in-1 design with compression liner
- Product warranty is listed
Cons
- The listing does not specify the short's inseam length
Pros
- Nylon shell fabric for durability
- Dedicated phone pocket and a back zipper pocket
- 2-in-1 design with a lightweight liner
- Lightweight, breathable fabric
Cons
- Hand wash only
- The listing does not mention a product warranty
Pros
- Machine washable
- 2-in-1 design with a snug, breathable liner
- Quick-dry fabric
- Product warranty is listed
Cons
- 100% polyester may be less stretchy than blends with spandex
- The listing does not mention any pockets
Pros
- Compression design for muscle support
- 4-way stretch fabric
- Includes a pocket
- Breathable and quick-dry
Cons
- Hand wash only
- Pull-on closure (no drawstring for fine-tuning)
- The listing does not mention a product warranty
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight, 4-way stretch fabric
- Perforated design for increased airflow
- Machine washable
- 2-in-1 design with a mesh liner
- Product warranty is listed
Cons
- The listing does not mention any pockets
How we chose
We compared manufacturer listings and specifications on Amazon as of October 2026. We did not test these products hands-on. Our selections are based on comparing listed features, fabric composition, pocket designs, and care instructions to identify shorts that meet different runner needs.
Best Running Shorts With Pockets: our picks in detail
1. Best overall: Naarts Men’s 2-in-1 Athletic Shorts
The Naarts Men’s 2-in-1 Athletic Running Shorts feature a quick-dry, breathable fabric blend of polyester and spandex designed to wick sweat. The 2-in-1 design includes an outer short and a compression liner. The listing highlights a soft, smooth finish and extra durability.
These shorts have a drawstring closure. The care instructions specify hand washing only. The listing includes a product warranty.
Best for: Runners wanting a classic 2-in-1 short with quick-dry performance.
Pros
- 2-in-1 design with outer short and compression liner
- Quick-dry, breathable fabric blend
- Drawstring closure for adjustable fit
- Product warranty is listed
Cons
- Hand wash only
- The listing does not mention the number or type of pockets
2. Best for multiple pockets: Kinglaman 1/4 Pack Men’s 2-in-1 Shorts
The Kinglaman Men’s 2-in-1 Lined Running Shorts are made from a polyester and spandex blend described as quick-dry. The design includes a built-in compression liner for support. The listing specifically mentions a multi-pocket design.
Features include a liner phone pocket and two side pockets. The shorts have a drawstring closure and are machine washable. The listing includes a product warranty.
Best for: Runners who need to carry a phone and small items in dedicated pockets.
Pros
- Multi-pocket design with a liner phone pocket and side pockets
- Machine washable
- 2-in-1 design with compression liner
- Product warranty is listed
Cons
- The listing does not specify the short’s inseam length
3. Best with a zipper pocket: Pudolla Men’s 2-in-1 Running Shorts
The Pudolla Men’s 2-in-1 Running Shorts use a shell fabric of nylon and elastane, with a polyester and elastane liner. The listing describes the fabric as lightweight, breathable, and soft for free movement. It features specific function pockets.
These include a phone pocket designed to prevent slipping and a back zipper pocket for secure storage. The shorts have a drawstring closure and require hand washing.
Best for: Runners who prioritize secure storage in a zippered pocket.
Pros
- Nylon shell fabric for durability
- Dedicated phone pocket and a back zipper pocket
- 2-in-1 design with a lightweight liner
- Lightweight, breathable fabric
Cons
- Hand wash only
- The listing does not mention a product warranty
4. Best for easy care: Tyzrdnac Men’s 2-in-1 Athletic Shorts
The Tyzrdnac Men’s 2-in-1 Athletic Shorts are made from 100% polyester fabric. The listing describes the inner lining as breathable, sweat-absorbent, and quick-drying. The outer layer is noted as washable and wear-resistant.
This 2-in-1 design aims to reduce skin friction. The shorts have a drawstring closure and are machine washable. The listing includes a product warranty.
Best for: Runners seeking a simple, machine-washable 2-in-1 short.
Pros
- Machine washable
- 2-in-1 design with a snug, breathable liner
- Quick-dry fabric
- Product warranty is listed
Cons
- 100% polyester may be less stretchy than blends with spandex
- The listing does not mention any pockets
5. Best compression shorts: Niksa Compression Shorts with Pocket
The Niksa Compression Shorts are made from a polyester and spandex blend with 4-way stretch. The listing emphasizes compression support for muscles during exercise and recovery. The fabric is described as breathable and quick-dry.
These shorts feature a pocket and have a pull-on closure. They are designed as performance underwear or standalone shorts. The care instructions specify hand washing only.
Best for: Runners focused on muscle support and recovery from compression gear.
Pros
- Compression design for muscle support
- 4-way stretch fabric
- Includes a pocket
- Breathable and quick-dry
Cons
- Hand wash only
- Pull-on closure (no drawstring for fine-tuning)
- The listing does not mention a product warranty
6. Best for airflow: MaaMgic Men’s Ultra-Light Shorts
The MaaMgic Men’s Athletic Running Shorts are made from an ultra-lightweight polyester and spandex blend with 4-way stretch. The listing highlights a perforated design on the sides and crotch to increase airflow and regulate temperature. They feature a 2-in-1 design with a soft mesh liner.
The shorts have a drawstring closure and are machine washable. The listing includes a product warranty and notes they are designed for running and training.
Best for: Runners in warm conditions who prioritize maximum breathability.
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight, 4-way stretch fabric
- Perforated design for increased airflow
- Machine washable
- 2-in-1 design with a mesh liner
- Product warranty is listed
Cons
- The listing does not mention any pockets
Our picks for the best running shorts with pockets at a glance
| Short | Key Fabric | Pocket Features | Care | Design |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Naarts Men’s 2-in-1 | Polyester/Spandex | Not listed | Hand Wash | 2-in-1 with liner |
| Kinglaman 2-in-1 | Polyester/Spandex | Liner phone pocket, side pockets | Machine Wash | 2-in-1 with liner |
| Pudolla 2-in-1 | Nylon/Elastane shell | Phone pocket, back zipper pocket | Hand Wash | 2-in-1 with liner |
| Tyzrdnac 2-in-1 | 100% Polyester | Not listed | Machine Wash | 2-in-1 with liner |
| Niksa Compression | Polyester/Spandex | Hand Wash | Compression shorts | |
| MaaMgic Ultra-Light | Polyester/Spandex | Not listed | Machine Wash | 2-in-1 with mesh liner |
How to choose the best running shorts with pockets
The right running shorts combine comfort, functionality, and technical performance. Your choice depends on the length and intensity of your runs, what you need to carry, and personal preferences for fit and feel. The fabric is your first consideration; blends with spandex or elastane offer stretch for freedom of movement, while polyester and nylon are common for durability and moisture management. A 2-in-1 design with a built-in liner can prevent chafing and eliminate the need for separate underwear.
What to look for
- Fabric and Fit: Look for lightweight, breathable materials like polyester or nylon blends with spandex for stretch. Moisture-wicking and quick-dry properties help keep you comfortable. The fit should be secure but not restrictive.
- Pocket Utility: Consider what you carry. A secure zippered pocket is ideal for keys or cards, while a dedicated phone pocket on the liner or leg can prevent bounce. Multiple pockets help organize small items.
- Design and Care: Decide between traditional shorts, 2-in-1 styles with liners, or compression shorts. Check care instructions—some are machine washable for easy maintenance, while others require hand washing.
For more on fit and features, see our Running Shorts Buying Guide. Explore all your options in our Clothing category.
FAQ
What’s the advantage of a 2-in-1 running short?
A 2-in-1 running short has a built-in liner, usually made of a compressive or mesh material. This design aims to reduce chafing by eliminating seams from separate underwear and can provide light muscle support. It offers a streamlined fit under the outer short.
Are zippered pockets important for running?
Zippered pockets are valuable for securing small, essential items like keys, cards, or cash. They prevent items from falling out during your run, which is especially important for trail running or longer distances where losing something would be problematic.
Can I put running shorts with a liner in the dryer?
Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions listed for the product. Some shorts with synthetic fabrics and liners are machine washable and can be tumble dried on low, while others specify hand washing and air drying to preserve the fabric’s elasticity and shape.
What’s the difference between these and compression shorts?
Compression shorts, like the Niksa pick, are typically tighter-fitting and designed specifically for muscle support and recovery. They can be worn alone or under other shorts. The 2-in-1 shorts listed here combine a looser outer short with a compression or supportive liner as a single garment.
References
- Amazon product listings and manufacturer specifications (accessed October 2026)
- Running Shorts Buying Guide, Running Fit Sites
- Clothing Category, Running Fit Sites
