Running shorts usually come with liners already installed on them. Liners save the hassle of wearing underwear since it already acts as underwear.
It may feel weird at first when putting on shorts with liners, trust me, it felt unnatural when I first tried wearing one too.
But since then, I understand the benefits that come with it.
But people still ask me all the time, do you wear underwear with running shorts? In this article, I’ll tell you all the things that you need to know.
Should I Wear Underwear With Running Shorts?
Running shorts with synthetic fiber like polyester or nylon material can help prevent moisture from building up and keep your crotch area nice and dry.
So wearing underwear with running shorts is unnecessary. It also proves comfort while you’re running.
But if you use running shorts without the built-in liner, then wearing underwear is the way to go to support your buttocks and keep your skin from getting irritated.
Also Read: Are Hiking Shoes Good For Running?
What Are The Different Types Of Running Shorts?
Every athlete or runner that I have seen always wore different brands and different types of running shorts. This is due to the different conditions, needs, and preferences of the runner. So it’s important in choosing the right type that will benefit you.
What you want to look out for when choosing the right pair is the comfortability, flexibility, breathability, look, and feel of the shorts. Going inside stores to check them out is always better than looking at online stores.
Below are the different types of running shorts.
Compression Shorts
Compression shorts compresses and applies pressure on your leg muscles which reduces muscle soreness and increases your blood pressure, therefore helping your leg muscles to function well while running and recover faster.
If you still think of wearing any underwear with compression shorts, then the answer is no. It provides way too much pressure and discomforts you even just standing still.
Can you wear compression shorts for the whole day? Well, you can and there are no hazards in doing it. It manages moisture well but even then, with the tightness of the shorts combined with the excessive sweating, it may feel uncomfortable.
My Recommended Compression Shorts On Amazon are:
Under Armour Men’s HeatGear Compression Shorts at Visit the Under Armour Store.
Under Armour produces high-quality products because of the materials they use. The materials that are used in this particular compression shorts are polyester for tough, lightweight fabric, and provide performance benefits.
I had Under Armour shorts in the past and they lasted me for a long time, showing that they have good and durable products.

TELALEO 5/6 Pack Compression Shorts Men Spandex Sports Shorts Athletic Workout Running Performance Base Layer Underwear at Visit the TELALEO Store.
TELALEO is a brand that also makes quality shorts with quality materials. It also uses polyester and spandex fabric materials for breathability and keeps you dry.
Their compression shorts use an ergonomic design and 4-way stretch fabric which provides support for your leg muscles.
I recommend trying them out.

NELEUS Men’s 3 Pack Compression Short makes affordable and quality shorts with a comfortable fit and prevents skin from chafing and reduces muscle soreness and has pockets for your phone.

V-Notch Shorts
If you notice v-notch shorts, it has a cut on the side which looks like a V. This helps runners in their range of motion and allows better movement, and feels like you’re not even wearing anything because of the looseness of the shorts.
The lengths of v-notch shorts are different and have many various styles and designs and are one of the popular choices for runners.
My Recommended V-Notch Shorts In Amazon Are:
BOA Mens 3.75″ V-Notch Running Short at Brand: B.O.A. It has:
● Crepe and polyester material
● Drawstring closure
● 100% Stretchable polyester fabric
● Polyester crepe brief
● Inside drawstring
● Pocket at inside waist
● Overall a good pick for V-notch shorts and I use it from time to time.

Split Shorts
Similar to the V-Notch running shorts, it has a cut on the side of the shorts which allows your legs to have greater movement and range of motion. It gives more flexibility and mobility which gives more comfort while running.
This type of short has different lengths to choose from so pick the one that is perfect for you.
My Recommended Split Shorts In Amazon Are:
New Balance Men’s Impact Run 3 Inch Split Short at Visit the New Balance Store. This is what I use for running, at the gym, or any exercise-related activity as I can move quickly, and gives me comfort.
● 100% Polyester
● Pull-on closure
● NB DRY fast-drying technology pushes moisture away from your
body to keep your legs dry and comfortable.
● Flexible and easy movement
● Poly woven material for coverage and comfort

BOA Women’s 1″ Elite Split Solid Running Short at Brand: B.O.A. These are the shorts that my friend uses and she recommends using them.
● 100% Polyester
● Quick Drying
● Built for a comfortable running experience
● Inside Pocket

Adidas Men’s Own The Run Split Shorts at Visit the Adidas Store. Another split pair of shorts that I love using because of the looks and breathability that it gives.
● 100% Polyester
● Drawstring closure
● Delivers a comfortable balance between loose and fit
● Keep your legs dry and manages moisture

Are Running Shorts With Built-In Underwear Worth The Money?
Yes! They have many benefits and have been shown to improve runners’ running capabilities by providing comfort and more movement. They are worth the money especially when you’re running often and are serious about improving your mile time.
Running shorts are made to comfort you and give runners a better overall running experience. If you choose the right size and length, it will be the perfect shorts for running, jogging, marathons, and competitions.
So, Which Type Of Running Shorts Is The Best?
After trying them all, it goes down to what you prefer and what works best for you. There is no ‘best’ type of running shorts as all runners use different kinds of shorts depending on their size and the shape of their body.
I don’t like saying “You should wear this type of shorts for running or this type of shorts for when you’re in the gym”. It’s up to you to choose what works best for you. That’s why I said earlier to go into physical stores to try different types of shorts and to feel and see how you look in them.
What’s more important to think about is the materials used for the running short. Fabrics like polyester are one of the common materials used in running shorts because of their durability and are used by popular brands like Adidas, Under Armour, and Nike.
Running Shorts With Liner Or No Liner?
To be honest, I like wearing shorts with a liner as it provides many more benefits than shorts with no liner. Things like moisture management, comfort while running without any underwear, reduced chafing, and the thought of not worrying about what underwear to wear are a bonus.
If you have large legs, then the liners on running shorts can feel uncomfortable because of the tightness which can restrict your movement. The shorts with no liners would fit better and feel more comfortable.
Conclusion
To top it off, it’s up to you if wearing underwear with running shorts fits you. If you find wearing one comfortable, then do it. If not, then shorts with built-in underwear saves the day and there are a lot of options to choose from.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is It Worth Trying Shorts With Built-In Underwear?
Yes! It benefits you more than you think. It is moisture-wicking and very breathable. You feel at ease while running and keeps you cool and dry.
Q: Should You Wear Underwear With Running Shorts?
Built-in liners in running shorts are designed to feel like underwear and give you the support that you need. But again, it depends if you don’t like the feeling of built-in liners then wear underwear if it serves you well.
Q: Can You Wear Underwear With Compression Shorts?
No, because then it will get too tight and might give an uncomfortable feeling when running.
Q: Why Do Running Shorts Have Built-In Underwear?
To wick away the moisture and for your crotch area to breathe better and stay cool and dry.
Q: Why Is Wearing Breathable And Comfortable Underwear Important?
To avoid skin problems like rashes, skin irritations, and infections.

I’m Ramona, a specialist in Crossfit and functional training. I am passionate about helping people reach their fitness goals, and I have been actively involved in the CrossFit community for over eight years. I’ve trained with some of the best coaches in the world, traveled to many different countries to learn from different experts, and completed numerous certification courses. Regardless of your fitness goals, I am committed to helping you achieve them through comprehensive, challenging, and effective workouts tailored to your lifestyle.