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Should Running Shorts Be Tight Or Loose? (An Expert's Take)
Should running shorts be tight or loose? New runners need help deciding what to shop for, and what to avoid. I’ll help you buy the right gear right away, and if you want to know how tight running shorts are, this guide will help you get the right size.
When it comes to the age-old debate of should running shorts be tight or loose, the answer just isn’t a yes or no. That’s because both options come with a way-over variety of options that come with a fair share of features.
If your runs cause you fatigue or shorts chafe, you’re rocking the wrong shorts. I’ve had my fair share of bad running shorts before. If you’re shopping for the right size but don’t know where to begin, I’ll make sure to help you fix up the right running wardrobe.
Tight Shorts Vs Loose Shorts: Which One Is Better?
The debate on running shorts tight vs loose shorts has been going on for too long. Luckily, in this post, I will give you an unbiased view on which one is good, or bad, and Should women’s running shorts be tight or loose? Keep on reading to learn more:
Related Article: “7 Intriguing Reasons Why Running Shorts Are So Short“
What are Some of the Features and Drawbacks of Tight Shorts?
1. Can Soak Up Moisture
Manufacturers make tight shorts from synthetic materials like polyester and nylon, making them a great moisture-wicking choice.
2. Better Blood Circulation
Perfectly fit tight shorts can improve your blood flow, reducing the chance of muscle cramps. This means a better delivery of oxygen and healthy nutrients to your overworked muscles.
3. Can Reduce Muscle Vibration
Tight shorts can be a great option to reach an athlete’s peak They reduce muscle vibration which means bigger leaps, and better squats. Also, they offer improved aerodynamics, so that’s a plus!
4. Increased Self-Esteem and Confidence
Overtime, researchers have observed that the athletes wearing tight shorts are more confident and focused during their training sessions.
A survey with more than 2300+ participants revealed that the runners or athletes wearing tight fitting clothes were perceived to be better runners as compared to the ones with loosely fitted clothes.
Related Article: “9 Best Men’s Running Short Tights (+ Buying Guide)“
Drawbacks of Tight Shorts
1. Limits Movement
Tight shorts can fold up the groin and belly, which can restrict your movement badly. There are many types of running shorts but my personal preference is Crz Yoga Women’s Shorts.
Related Article: “9 Best Women’s Running Shorts With Pockets [2024 Guide]“
2. Heat Retention
Unlike cool and comfortable loose shorts, tight ones trap heat, and increase your body temperature. If you are a summer runner rocking tights, you could get exhausted from all the sweat trickling down the waist.
3. Applies Pressure
Tight shorts can apply pressures around the elastic bands. This could mean discomfort and chafing, or worst-case scenario, nerve compression that can lead to injury.
Related Article: “9 Best Women’s Running Underwear To Prevent Chafing [2024]”
4. Fitting Issues
Tight shorts can be super tight, and if you care less about it, they can dig through your skin and put-up bulges and wrinkles. That’s why so many runners prefer tights or baggy shorts.
5. Hygiene Sinister
Tight shorts trap sweat, fungi, and bacteria on your skin. This could mean skin infections and bad acne. If you’re a tight short person, make sure to rinse them after every sweaty run. Should men’s running shorts be tight or loose, that’s up to you.
What are Some of the Features and Drawbacks of Loose Shorts?
Compression shorts stand as a great option for support and range of motion. According to a study, compression garments can greatly aid in speeding up the recovery process after intense running.
Here’s why many runners love loose shorts over running shorts:
1. Better Airflow
Loose shorts are the buyer’s top choice for better airflow. Their relaxed design helps you regulate body temperature and sweat management.
A study conducted at National Institute of Sports Medicine, found that athletes wearing loose shorts experienced a 25% increase in airflow around the lower body compared to those wearing tight-fitting shorts
2. Move With Freedom
Loose shorts let you do run, jumping, agility drills, and many flexible exercises. If you’re a seasonal athlete or a fitness guru, you’d find them a good fit. If you love to cool off, I recommend going for split shorts.
3. Versatility
Be it an intense workout in warm weather or a jumping rope for fun, loose shorts are versatile. Their relaxed fit makes them flexible to wear for everyday stuff.
4. Hygiene
What sets loose shorts apart is the hygiene factor. Their fabric choice and cool air flow keep you from bacterial and fungal growth and bad odor.
Loose running shorts might not fit well but they are comfortable and easy to maintain. Also, they prevent chafing, so consider that pointer while shopping for running shorts.
Related Article: “9 Best 2-In-1 Men’s Running Shorts (Tested By Runners)“
Drawbacks of Loose Shorts
1. Can’t Be Compressed
Loose shorts have a baggy factor which means it isn’t a great moisture-wicking pick and can be a let-down for serious runners.
2. Can Snag Up Easily
They come with pockets that make them snaggy and are incompetent for running or other physical activities.
3. Not A Fashion Statement
Loose shorts aren’t runner-friendly. The baggy feel isn’t a great option for breaking sweat.
4. Can Ride Up Easily
Loose shorts might ride up more than usual during running or doing too many squats. This can be awkward and be a hindrance in working out. That’s where shorter shorts are preferable
5. Doesn’t Fit Nicely
If you’re dealing with injuries or joint problems, loose shorts won’t be a good option.. Also, they will give you an awkward feeling, and reduce your muscle movement while running.
So, if you ask should running shorts be tight or loose, my final verdict is either. Both types of shorts have a fair share of features, and it’s up to you to pick the one that best fits your needs
Conclusion
Runners work outdoors, so getting the right shorts for the right weather is super crucial. If your shorts give you wedgies or sunburn. It’s time to switch up. Should running shorts be tight or loose, find the answers in the guide.
Also, if you love what you read, and want to learn more. Do check out Running Shorts: A Collection of Stories and Advice For Anyone Who Has Ever Laced Up a Pair of Running by Joe Muldowney.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. Tight running shorts come with a variety of features. A tight fit can reduce muscle vibration and is a great option to avoid muscle fatigue. Also, running shorts are tight so go for the ones that fit the best and have better airflow.
Workout shorts should fit the size without having to be super tight. Good running shorts should have a 1.5-inch extra room for the crotch, and they fit the waist without any irritation. When you’re rocking solid wear, do try to lift one leg to the hip and see if the shorts are tight from the thighs or butt.
No, not all running shorts are baggy. It all depends on the material. Some running shorts may offer a relaxed form factor while some are loose. I recommend going for a pick that lets you run speedily and confidently.
