While running, you need to make sure that you pick the right set of gear to stay comfortable and motivated. This mainly includes running shoes and shorts.
However, one of the biggest problems while running is keeping your phone on you. Luckily, there are plenty of running shorts with a phone pocket.
If you’re looking for one of those and don’t know where to start or what to look for, this guide has got you covered.
Today, we’ll provide you with brief reviews of the best running shorts with pockets and walk you through everything you need to know before buying one. So without further ado, let’s dive right in!
Types of Running Shorts Available on the Market
While shopping for running shorts, the first thing you’ll notice is that there’s a wide range of styles out there.
In this section, we’ll take a quick look at each one of them, so you can pick the one that works best for you:
1. Regular Athletic Shorts
Regular running shorts are the most versatile type of shorts out there. This means that you can use these shorts for running, but you can always wear them while working out to the gym and they’ll still provide you with a decent performance.
While these shorts look like standard shorts, they have built in liners or inner shorts to prevent chafing and provide compression without having to wear underwear. These shorts come in a variety of sizes ranging from 3 inches and all the way up to 7 inches.
2. Split Shorts
Split shorts are more specifically designed for running than any other activity. These shorts are identified by the obvious split on the side of the short.
This indent or split design gives the runners a bit of a loose fit with a greater range of motion inside the shorts. Also, the design allows more air to cycle through the shorts, which helps the shorts dry up much quicker.
When it comes to length, these shorts are usually shorter than regular and compression shorts, with most models out there around 3 to
Split shorts exist in two different designs, which are standard split short and V-notch ones. The main difference between the two is that the indent in v notch shorts is overlapping each other and sewn together.
3. Compression Shorts
As the name suggests, the main distinctive feature of these shorts is the compression of the shorts. These shorts are usually made of elastic fabrics that provide a snug fit on the body, such as spandex.
These compression tights are great for supporting the muscles and skin tissue without limiting the range of motion. They’re also the best shorts for runners who suffer from chafing.
Most compression shorts are relatively around 5 to 7 inches in order to provide maximum comfort and performance.
What to Look for While Buying Running Shorts with a Phone Pocket
While buying running shorts, there are some features that you need to keep in mind. In this section, we’ll provide you with a brief overview of each of these aspects, so you can pick the one that suits you the most:
Material Used
Running shorts can be made of a variety of materials. Each one of them has its own features and drawbacks. Here’s a quick look at each one of them:
- Polyester:The most commonly used material and also the least expensive, especially recycled polyester. This material provides excellent moisture wicking and comfort despite being a bit flimsy
- Spandex: The stretchiest material, which is used in compression shorts and improves your range of motion while running. Spandex is often used in combination with other materials, except in compression shorts.
- Nylon: One of the most durable fabrics out there. Nylon is generally tough and sweat resistant, but it’s also quite pricey, so it’s rarely used alone.
Based on these properties, you can pick the ones that fit the bill for you. Luckily, some shorts use a combination of these materials, which makes the shorts more reliable and versatile.
Inseams
Choosing the right length of shorts’ inseams is critical in running shorts. As a rule of thumb, longer running sessions require longer inseams for better durability and support.
For instance, short runs usually require a 3-inch inseam while long runs require shorts inseams that are 7 to 7.2 inches
Liners and Moisture Management
To avoid chafing, most running shoes will have liners, which double as built-in underwear (so you don’t have to wear one). These liners are ideal for comfort and breathability.
Pocket Design
Since we’re choosing shorts with pockets, always make sure that the pocket will fit the size of your phone.
Most side pockets are large enough to fit most phone models out there. However, back pockets fit smaller phones only.
If your phone is generally small, make sure that the pockets are also zippered so they don’t fly out of your pocket while running.
Waistband
The waistband of the shorts should either be stretchy enough to provide a snug fit or come with a drawstring to allow you to adjust the fit as you like it.
In both cases make sure that the waistband is large enough that it won’t roll up or dig into your skin while running.
Top 7 Running Shorts with a Phone Pocket on the Market
Now that you know more about running shorts and what you need to keep in mind while picking one. Let’s have a quick look at some of the best options on the market that come with phone pockets:
1. OEBLD Quick Dry Men’s Running Shorts with Zipped Pocket
Kicking off the list with one of the best running short shorts for men out there! These shorts are made of polyester and spandex with a 9 to 1 ratio. This unique blend provides a relatively snug fit for proper support while giving a bit of flexibility while running.
Additionally, polyester is great at wicking moisture away and dries up very easily, so you won’t have to worry about sweat accumulating in the shorts fabric.
Polyester and spandex also don’t wrinkle, so you can easily wash them and wear them as soon as they dry up.
The short’s inseam is 3 inches with a large split. This gives the runner a larger range of motion, which allows you to skip without restrictions no matter how fast you go.
The shorts come with a zippered pocket on either side, which allows you to store and secure your mobile phone so it doesn’t fall while sprinting.
The short has an elastic waistband that doesn’t roll over as many other shorts on the market do. The waistband also has a drawstring that helps you adjust the shorts to fit the way you like them.
Another aspect that we’ve noticed is that this short is really thin and lightweight, which is ideal for sprinters that count every ounce of their gear.
The short shorts are available in a decent range of colors as well as size, starting from size Small all way to XX-Large. The only drawback of this model is that it lacks a built-in liner and is a bit see-through, so you’ll have to wear underwear with it.
Top Features
- Decently durable with elastic materials that dry up quickly and don’t wrinkle
- The waistband doesn’t roll up
- Stylish design with a wide range of sizes
- Features a zipper pocket on both sides for security and easy access
What People Say
The vast majority of users are generally satisfied with the overall quality and reliability of these shorts. Some users complained about the short drawstrings, which makes them sink inside the waistband, especially if you pick a smaller size.
Click here for more reviews on Amazon
2. Soothfeel Women’s 3 Inch Quick-Dry Running Shorts with Zip Pocket
The Soothfeel women’s shorts are an excellent option for those who like V-notch split shorts, which provide an excellent range of motion for running.
The shorts are made of soft fabric that is quite breathable and lightweight. The breathability of the shorts, combined with their moisture wicking properties, make them ideal for sports in general.
Although they don’t have a lot of flexibility, they’re excellent for running while staying comfortable and can be used for various activities.
The shorts feature a 3 inch inseam, which is ideal for short and medium length running sessions. The shorts have a built-in mesh brief, so you don’t have to wear extra layers of fabric on these shorts.
The waistband of the shoes is quite durable and flexible. The wide flat design of the waistband prevents it from rolling in or out if you’re wearing the right size.
The phone pocket on these shorts is fitted within the waistband itself, which actually helps in fortifying the band!
Speaking of size, the shorts come in sizes that range from X-Small all the way to X-large, so it suits a wide range of runners.
Top Features
- Stylish and lightweight shorts
- Large elastic waistband
- Available in a huge range of colors and various sizes
- Features a built in liner for optimal comfort
What People Say
Many users praised these running shorts for how reliable and comfortable they are. Some users with large phones noticed that the back pocket can be a bit small, although it can fit other items so you have to keep that in mind.
Click here for more reviews on Amazon
3. Blooming Jelly Women’s Quick-Dry Running Shorts with Pockets
Next up, we have the Blooming Jelly running shorts, which is a great option for those who are looking for a larger pocket to fit their phone.
Similar to the previous running shorts, these shorts are also split short. However, these shorts have a pocket on the side rather than on the back, although we’d have loved it if the pocket was also zippered.
The Blooming Jelly running shorts are made of polyester and nylon. Polyester is quite comfortable and wicks moisture and sweat away while nylon provides the shorts with durability to stand the test of time and continuous use.
The shorts feature built in compression lines, which don’t only prevent chafing but also add a lot of support. They’re even made of nylon and spandex to combine balance between flexibility and durability.
This design makes the shorts suitable for various purposes in addition to running, such as gym workout, cycling, and even yoga.
The running shorts feature a high and thick waistband that is double stitched to stay flat and doesn’t roll up without compromising its stretchiness.
Top Features
- Durable yet flexible running shorts
- Come in a huge range of colors and a lot of sizes
- Features a built in compression liner
- Roomy shorts that provide a wide range of motion
What People Say
Most users found the shorts remarkably comfortable and stylish. The stitched waistband is also a favorite among many users.
Click here for more reviews on Amazon
4. BALEAF Women’s Quick Dry Running Gym Shorts with Pockets
If you’re on a tight budget and looking for quick drying and comfortable women’s running shorts with pockets, you should consider this one from BALEAF.
Despite being highly affordable when compared to other options on the list, these shorts still pack a punch when it comes to reliability.
These shorts are made of a blend of polyester and spandex and have a standard split design, which gives you a lot of room to move around.
Polyester is also an excellent material for those who sweat a lot, as it wicks moisture easily and dries up quickly to keep you comfortable while running.
The shorts feature pockets on either side. Despite not being zippered, the pockets are deep enough with a tight entrance to keep your belongings secure. The pocket is also large enough to hold most phones, even many of the noticeably large ones.
Top Features
- Stitched waistband for securing and preventing roll-ups
- Relatively large side pockets
- Adjustable fit with a huge range of sizes and colors
What People Say
Users enjoyed the size variety and sleek cut of the shorts, which makes them remarkably roomy without looking bulky.
Click here for more reviews on Amazon
5. Pinkbomb Men’s 2 in 1 Running Athletic Shorts with Phone Pocket
These shorts are among the best men’s running shorts on the market. The shorts have a longer inseam at about 7 to 7.2 inches, which makes them ideal for running medium to long distances.
Additionally, you can use the shorts for various activities, including Crossfit and working out at the gym.
This one features an inner short that provides a lot of compression for proper support while sprinting and prevents chafing.
In addition to the two side pockets of the short. The inner compression shorts also have a tight-fitting pocket to store your phone and prevent it from falling off.
Since the shorts come in various sizes and colors, you won’t have any trouble choosing your perfect fit, although you still need to check the sizing chart in order to pick the right one for you, as it comes in sizes up to 3X-Large.
Top Features
- Ideal for intermediate to long running sessions
- Features 3 pockets for extra storage and security
- The inner short’s phone pocket has a headphone jack hole for easy connection
What People Say
Durability and reliability are the two most commonly praised features of these shorts. Many users claimed that the shorts have been going strong for several months of continuous use!
Click here for more reviews on Amazon
6. Stelle Women’s Compression Shorts High Waisted with Side Pockets
If you’re seeking compression over loose fitting shorts, the stelle women’s compression shorts are a great pick for you.
One of the best things about compression shorts is that they’re remarkably affordable, especially when compared with other types of shorts.
Not only that, but you can also use them for various activities besides running, such as yoga and working out. Moreover, they can double as bike shorts.
What’s unique about these shorts is that they have snug-fitting side pockets that can hold a wide range of mobile phones.
Top Features
- High waisted design that doesn’t roll up or dig into the skin
- Affordable price
- Versatile design that works for many purposes
What People Say
Users found these shorts extremely comfortable and versatile, which makes them ideal for many uses. The small pockets are also flexible, so they can still hold phones.
Click here for more reviews on Amazon
7. SILKWORLD Men’s Running Compression Shorts with Pockets
The SILKWORLD shorts are the male alternative to the Stelle shorts. These shorts are designed for all activity purposes, so you can also use them as cycling shorts among other uses.
The shorts are excellent for chafing prevention and running long distances. The shorts are made of spandex to retain their flexibility for a long time, although the elastic band on the waist might start rolling up with time.
The shorts come in a wide range of size options, and you can also go one size down in order to increase the compression on your thigh muscles.
The SILKWORLD is available in a variety of sizes and has a large side pocket that can fit most phones on the market easily.
Top Features
- Tight shorts with an excellent level of compression
- Lightweight design that is ideal for sprinting and interval running
- Features a wide pocket to hold most phones on the market
What People Say
Most users have pretty positive experiences with these shorts. Runners found them comfortable and lightweight with great compression, although the stitching would’ve used some fortifying.
Click here for more reviews on Amazon
Final Thoughts On The Best Running Shorts with a Phone Pocket in 2022
With that said, you now have a complete guide that walks you through everything you need to know before buying the best running shorts with a phone pocket for your needs!
As you can see, there are plenty of great options out there that you can choose from, which mainly depends on your preferences, comfort, and the distance of your run.
If you’re a beginner who’s looking for comfortable running shorts with enough storage to keep your belongings, we recommend the Soothfeel Running Shorts for women or the OEBLD Running Shorts for men. These shorts are reliable and great for relatively short runs!
However, if you’re looking for shorts with some compression for long runs, you should go with the Stelle Women’s Compression Shorts or SILKWORLD Men’s Running Compression Shorts with Pockets.