Women's Shorts
Women's shorts for running, training, hiking and summer days, from light, breathable running shorts to versatile styles for the trail and travel. Our range features shorts from On, Swiss-engineered for comfort at pace.
Choose running shorts with a built-in brief and a short inseam for speed, or a longer, sturdier short with pockets for hiking and everyday wear. Look for a waistband that stays put and a phone pocket that does not bounce, and pair them with a breathable tee or tank for warm days.
Order online for fast, tracked delivery across New Zealand, or click and collect from our Grey Lynn store or Westgate collection point at 4B Topere Way.
Frequently asked questions about women's shorts
What inseam length is best for women's running shorts?
Most women's running shorts have a 3 to 5 inch inseam, which gives freedom of movement and keeps you cool. Shorter inseams suit racing and hot days, while 5 to 7 inches gives a little more coverage and can reduce chafing for some runners. Choose by comfort, and consider 2-in-1 shorts if you want more coverage without extra bulk. Inseam is measured from the crotch seam to the hem, so compare the number on each product page rather than going by how the shorts look on a model.
Do women's running shorts have a built-in brief?
Many do. A built-in brief provides support and reduces chafing, so you can run without separate underwear. Some styles use a longer compression liner instead, which helps prevent inner-thigh rubbing. If you prefer your own underwear or want shorts for walking and travel, look for an unlined style. Briefs are usually made from a soft, quick-drying mesh, so they stay comfortable when wet. Wash lined shorts after every run to keep the liner fresh.
How do I stop shorts riding up when running?
Fit is the main fix: a snug but comfortable waistband, a liner or compression short that stays in place, and the right inseam length for your build. Shorts with a silicone gripper on the hem or a longer compression liner are designed to stop ride-up. Avoid shorts that are too loose through the leg, which tend to bunch. A wider, flat waistband also spreads pressure and stays put better than a thin elastic one, especially if you carry a phone or gels in the pockets.
Are 2-in-1 shorts worth it?
For many women, yes. A 2-in-1 short pairs a loose outer short with an inner compression short, so you get freedom of movement with extra coverage and less chafing. The inner layer often has a phone pocket too. They are popular for running, gym sessions and hiking, especially on longer outings. Check the inner short length, as a slightly longer liner gives the best protection against inner-thigh chafing on long, hot runs.
Which shorts work for hiking and travel?
Choose durable, quick-drying shorts with a little stretch, a mid-length inseam and secure zip pockets. They should handle scrambling over rocks, dry quickly after a swim and look tidy enough for town. A neutral colour makes them easy to pair with tops in a travel bag. A 5 to 7 inch inseam gives good coverage for scrambling and sitting on rocks, and a gusseted crotch lets you step up high without the shorts pulling. A wide, comfortable waistband sits well under a pack.
Do women's shorts have pockets for a phone?
Many running and hiking shorts now include a phone pocket, either in a compression liner, a side panel or a zip pocket at the back of the waistband. Check the pocket position and size before buying, as some only fit smaller phones or keys. A pocket that sits close to your body bounces far less on the run. For hiking and travel, a deep side pocket that fits a large phone and closes with a zip or flap is the most secure choice.
Can I hike in running shorts?
On easy, well-formed tracks and hot days, light running shorts are comfortable and dry quickly. For longer hikes, scrambles and bushy tracks, a more durable hiking short with a longer inseam protects your legs better, carries more in its pockets and stands up to rock and pack straps. Running shorts with a compression liner can also help prevent chafing on long, warm days.