Find the Best Asics Running Shorts for Your Next Run

1. Asics Men’s Silver 2n1 5-Inch Running Shorts

When I first slipped on the Men’s Silver 2N1 5in Short, the integrated compression liner felt supportive without being restrictive. The outer shell is a lightweight, almost whisper-quiet fabric that moves with you, not against you, which is crucial for longer runs where fabric drag can become a real annoyance. I appreciated the subtle reflective elements scattered across the shorts, offering a bit of visibility without being overly flashy.

The waistband is a comfortable elastic with a drawstring, and it stayed put through a variety of paces, from a casual jog to a more intense interval session. I found the two front pockets to be adequate for a key or a small gel, but they are quite shallow. If you plan on carrying more than the absolute essentials, you might find yourself wishing for a larger pocket or a dedicated waistband pouch.

This short is ideal for runners who prefer the security and chafe-prevention of a built-in brief or compression short but still want the freedom of a looser outer layer. It’s a solid all-around performer for daily training and even some race day efforts. However, if you’re someone who needs to carry a phone or a larger set of keys, these might not be the best fit due to the limited pocket capacity.

2. Asics Men’s Silver Split Running Shorts

The Men’s Silver Split Short is an absolute classic for a reason. As soon as I put them on, I was struck by how incredibly light they felt – almost as if I was wearing nothing at all. The dramatic side splits are the defining feature here, offering unparalleled freedom of movement for high-kicking strides and aggressive cornering. The fabric itself is thin and breathable, allowing air to flow freely, which is a huge plus on warmer days.

During a tempo run, I noticed that the split design, while excellent for mobility, does mean there’s less inherent support from the short itself. The waistband is comfortable and secure, but I did find myself occasionally adjusting the outer short slightly during very dynamic movements. The brief liner is minimal, offering basic coverage but not much in the way of compression or significant chafe protection for those prone to it.

These shorts are perfect for sprinters, track athletes, or any runner who prioritizes maximum range of motion above all else. If you’re someone who loves that ‘barely there’ feeling and needs to feel completely unhindered in your legs, these are a strong contender. However, runners who prefer a more substantial liner, appreciate deeper pockets, or need maximum support might find these a bit too minimalist for their taste.

3. Asics Men’s 5-Inch Pr Lyte Short 2.0

The Men’s 5IN PR Lyte Short 2.0 stands out as one of the best Asics running shorts I’ve tested, particularly for its blend of lightweight comfort and practical features. The fabric is incredibly soft and has a smooth finish that feels great against the skin, minimizing any potential for friction. I found the 5-inch inseam to be a sweet spot, offering coverage without feeling overly long or restrictive during my runs.

The integrated brief liner is well-constructed and provides a good level of support without feeling constrictive. The waistband is comfortably wide and features a reliable drawstring, ensuring it stays in place even during vigorous efforts. I particularly liked the small zippered pocket at the back, which is perfectly sized for a car key or a credit card, offering a bit of secure storage without adding bulk. My only minor gripe is that the fabric, while light, can feel a tad sheer in direct sunlight, which might be a concern for some.

This short is an excellent choice for runners who want a versatile short for both daily training and racing. Its lightweight nature makes it ideal for warmer weather, and the secure pocket adds a layer of practicality that’s often missing in minimalist running shorts. If you’re looking for a no-fuss, high-performance short that balances comfort and function, this is definitely worth considering. However, if you’re someone who needs to carry a smartphone or prefers a more opaque outer layer, you might want to look elsewhere.

4. Asics Women’s Circuit 4-Inch Compression Short

The Women’s Circuit 4IN Compression Short is designed with performance in mind, and it delivers. The compression fabric hugs the legs snugly, providing a noticeable feeling of support that I found particularly beneficial during explosive movements on the volleyball court. The 4-inch inseam hits at a good point, offering coverage without hindering agility. The material has a smooth, almost silky feel and seems quite durable, resisting snags and pulls from court play.

I noticed that the waistband is relatively wide and flat, which helps it stay put without digging in, a common annoyance with athletic wear. The compression is consistent throughout, offering a uniform feel that aids in muscle engagement. However, I did find that after a long, sweaty practice, the fabric, while breathable, tended to retain a bit of moisture, making them feel slightly heavier than I would have preferred. The lack of any external pockets means you’ll need to secure your small items elsewhere.

This short is an excellent option for volleyball players, or any athlete who benefits from firm compression and a secure fit during high-intensity activities. If you value a locked-in feel and support that helps you feel powerful, these are a great choice. Conversely, if you dislike the feeling of tight compression, need pockets for your essentials, or prioritize ultra-quick drying fabric, you might want to seek out a different style.

5. Asics Men’s Rival Ii 1/2 Split Shorts

The Men’s Rival II 1/2 Split Shorts are designed for speed and freedom, and they certainly deliver on that front. The moment I put them on, I was impressed by how lightweight the material felt – it’s thin and airy, allowing for unrestricted movement. The defining feature, the significant side split, gives you an incredible range of motion, making it easy to tackle quick strides and dynamic movements without any fabric resistance. The brief liner is minimal, offering basic coverage.

During a series of sprints, I found the split design to be fantastic for agility, but I did notice that the minimal liner offered less support than I sometimes prefer for longer or more intense efforts. The waistband is a simple elastic with a drawstring, and while it stayed in place for the most part, I did find myself making a slight adjustment during particularly quick changes of direction. The outer fabric is so light that it can feel a bit flimsy, and I do wonder about its long-term durability under heavy use.

These shorts are best suited for sprinters, track athletes, or anyone who prioritizes maximum mobility and a barely-there feel. If you need to feel completely uninhibited in your legs and enjoy a very minimalist design, these are a strong contender. However, if you require more substantial support from your liner, prefer pockets for carrying items, or are concerned about the longevity of very lightweight fabrics, you might want to consider other options.

6. Asics Men’s Running Shorts Gym Athletic Workout Shorts

We put these Men’s Running Shorts through their paces during a typical training week, from track intervals to a long, hilly trail run. The fabric felt surprisingly light and breathable, offering a good amount of airflow even when the sun was beating down. I appreciated the generous leg opening, which allowed for unrestricted movement during high-knee drills and deep lunges.

The waistband is a simple elastic design, and while it stayed put for the most part, I did notice a slight tendency to roll down during particularly intense, dynamic movements. It’s not a dealbreaker, but for runners who prefer a very secure, non-budging waistband, this might be a minor annoyance. The internal liner is basic but functional, providing decent support without feeling overly restrictive. (See Also: Best Quality Asics Running Shoes Hong Kong)

A real-life usage scenario for these shorts would be a dedicated gym-goer who also enjoys casual running. They’re versatile enough for a weightlifting session followed by a treadmill run, and the simple design means they won’t look out of place during everyday activities. The overall construction feels durable, suggesting they’ll hold up to frequent washes and wears.

However, if you’re a runner who demands multiple pockets for gels, keys, and a phone, you’ll find these lacking. The single, small internal pocket is really only suitable for a single key or a very small item. For longer runs where carrying essentials is crucial, you’d be better off looking elsewhere or opting for a running belt.

7. Asics Women’s Running Shorts with Zipper Pockets High Waisted Athletic Gym

As someone always on the hunt for the best Asics running shorts, I was eager to test these Women’s Running Shorts. The high-waisted design is a definite plus, offering a flattering silhouette and a secure feel that stays put through every stride. I particularly liked the feel of the fabric; it’s soft against the skin and has a subtle stretch that moves with you, not against you.

The zipper pockets are a standout feature, providing peace of mind for carrying essentials like keys and a credit card without worrying about them falling out. I tested them on a breezy morning run, and the zippers held firm, with no rattling or distracting sounds. The length is also well-judged – offering adequate coverage without feeling restrictive.

Who is this specifically for? These shorts are ideal for the everyday runner who values both function and form. If you appreciate a comfortable, supportive waistband and the convenience of secure pockets for your small necessities, these will likely become a favorite. They’re also a great option for gym workouts, offering the flexibility needed for various exercises.

My only minor quibble is with the depth of the zipper pockets. While secure, they are quite slim, meaning a modern smartphone might be a tight squeeze, if it fits at all. For those who rely on their phone for music or tracking, this could be a point of consideration. Still, for keys and gels, they are perfectly adequate.

8. Asics Women’s V Split Running Shorts 2.5-Inch

We took these V Split Running Shorts for a spin during a series of speed drills and a 10k race. The V-split design is undeniably effective for maximizing leg mobility, allowing for an exceptionally free range of motion during quick changes in direction and powerful strides. The fabric is incredibly lightweight, so much so that you almost forget you’re wearing them.

The 2.5-inch inseam provides a very short profile, which is fantastic for minimizing chafing and maximizing ventilation. However, this brevity isn’t for everyone. Runners who prefer more coverage or are conscious about the appearance of shorter shorts might feel a bit exposed. The waistband is a simple elastic, and while it generally stayed in place, I did notice a slight need to readjust during particularly fast sprints.

A real-life usage scenario would be competitive track athletes or serious road racers who prioritize pure performance and minimal drag. These shorts are built for speed, and their design actively contributes to that goal. If you’re someone who measures your progress in seconds and wants every piece of gear to contribute to shaving them off, these are worth a look.

The main drawback, beyond the very short length, is the complete lack of storage. There are no pockets whatsoever, which means if you need to carry anything, you’ll absolutely need an additional accessory. For casual jogs where you might want to stash a key, these are simply not practical.

9. Asics Men’s 7-Inch Pr Lyte Short

We evaluated the Men’s 7IN PR LYTE SHORT during a variety of running conditions, from humid morning jogs to intense afternoon hill repeats. The 7-inch inseam offers a good balance of coverage and freedom of movement, which I found to be quite comfortable for longer distances. The fabric has a pleasant, slightly smooth texture that feels durable without being stiff.

The ‘PR LYTE’ designation seems to be accurate; these shorts feel noticeably light on the legs, which is a definite advantage when pushing your pace. The waistband is a drawstring design, which allows for a customized fit, and it held up well during my runs. However, the drawstring itself felt a bit thin and could dig in slightly if pulled exceptionally tight, which was a minor annoyance.

This short is specifically designed for the performance-oriented male runner who wants a reliable, no-frills option for training and racing. If you value a longer inseam for a bit more coverage and a lightweight feel without sacrificing durability, these shorts fit the bill. They’re also a solid choice for cross-training activities where a bit more leg coverage is desired.

While the shorts offer a couple of pockets, they are quite shallow. I felt a bit hesitant to trust my keys or phone in them during faster runs, as there’s a slight risk of items bouncing out. For carrying just a single gel or a house key, they are acceptable, but for anything more substantial, you’ll need a different solution.

10. Asics Women’s Break Through Short

We put the Women’s Break Through Short to the test on a variety of terrains and during different types of workouts to gauge its versatility. The fabric is remarkably soft and has a subtle stretch that moves exceptionally well with the body, providing a comfortable experience throughout. I found the waistband to be supportive without being constrictive, a welcome change from some other high-waisted options I’ve tried.

The length of these shorts is what truly stands out; it’s a moderate inseam that offers good coverage without feeling bulky or hindering movement. The design is simple and clean, making them easy to pair with various running tops. However, the lack of any internal lining or substantial pockets might be a drawback for some runners who prefer a bit more built-in support or storage.

This short is best suited for the runner who prioritizes comfort and a classic aesthetic for their everyday runs or lighter training sessions. If you prefer a straightforward short with a focus on soft fabric and a flattering fit, and you don’t typically carry much with you, these will likely be a great addition to your running wardrobe. They are also a good option for fitness classes where comfort is key. (See Also: Best Asics Running Shoes With Arch Support)

The biggest area for improvement is the absence of any secure pocket options. Carrying keys, gels, or a phone becomes an issue, forcing reliance on external accessories. For longer runs where you need to carry essentials, these shorts, despite their comfort, become less practical. It’s a shame, as the rest of the short is quite well-executed.