E'S FAVORITE THINGS: Shorts

Fall is finally here but that doesn’t mean it’s time to put away your favorite running shorts just yet. Typically you want to dress like it’s about 10 to 15 degrees warmer outside than it actually is when you head out for a run. This accommodates for the heat that your body generates when you start to pick up the pace. In other words, now is as good of a time as any to spruce up your shorts game. In fact, you may be able to snag some of my favorite styles on sale if you shop smart. Here are some of my go-to pairs of shorts:

[Editor’s note AKA Emily’s note: I’m a tight-fitting, Spandex-style shorts gal. While I love the way a looser style looks, for me it just has never been practical as I’ve got a lot of love in the thigh and booty area. No shade, I embrace my curves. But in order for me to stay comfortable — and chafe-free — on the run, these are the types of styles I lean toward.)

Lululemon Invigorate 6-inch Short (Lululemon.com, $68): This short comes in three different inseams — 6-, 8-, and 10-inch. It’s without-a-doubt my favorite new pick from 2021, with three different pockets (one on each side, plus back storage) that create a no-budge sitch for whatever you stash inside. They’re also high-rise, and made of a super soft fabrics that moves with you whether you’re in downward dog or tackling a 20-mile run.

WOLACO North Moore Biker Short (Wolaco.com, $56): For years, this was my one-and-only run short. It’s reliable and no frills, a mid- to high-rise with 7-inch inseam. It’s also got one large no-budge pocket on the right and a smaller pocket on the left, perfect for stashing your keys and cards. The seams don’t chafe, and the waistband won’t slide. 

Alo High-Waist Catch the Light Short (AloYoga.com, $72): I love a good two-in-one short, but it’s difficult to find the right style — complete with a long enough liner and overshort that doesn’t make the whole thing look like a diaper. This pair from Alo passes both of those tests, and comes in black and gray. 

Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket II 5-inch Short (Athleta.com, $59): Similar to the Invigorate short, this Athleta pick is a staple with good storage. It’s a tad shorter on the inseam (I have some friends who don’t deal with thigh chafe like me and swear by 3- or 4-inch styles) — but still provides enough coverage for me to feel confident on the run. 

Tracksmith Allston Short (Tracksmith.com, $72): This short does have one pocket for storage on the back side, but I usually wear it when I don’t want to be toting my phone around with me (AKA, track workouts, park yoga, running errands). It’s a 5-inch inseam, but I feel as though it wears a little longer. Love the compressive feel, which gives that oh-so-good squished, secure feeling.