I Tested the Best Running Shorts for Athletic Body Types

I recently started running and have a whole new outlook on activewear. In this video, I try all the most highly recommended flowy running shorts in hopes of finding a short that works for an athletic build, smaller waist, and larger thighs. I try brands such as Lululemon, Brooks, Janji, and more!

Disclosure: This video is not sponsored. These items were purchased myself and all opinions are my own. I earn a commission from purchases made through these links and codes. Thank you for your support!

*Items mentioned*
CRZ YOGA High Waisted Dolphin Shorts High Split | Size S | $28

Janji 3” multi short | Size S | $78

Lululemon Hotty Hot High Rise Lined Short 4” | Size 4 & 6 | $68

CRZ YOGA High Waisted Shorts Mesh Liner Side Zipper- 3'' | Size S | $28

CRZ Mid Waisted Zipper Pocket Short | Size S | $28

CRZ High Waisted Zipper Pocket Short | Size S | $28

Brooks Chaser 5” Short | Size S | $64

Oiselle Long Roga shorts | Size 4 | $62

Oiselle High Rise Roga Short | Size 6 | $62

Oner active Unified double layer shorts | Size S | $47

Kiava Ready to Run Short | Size S | $54

Buffbunny Hot Girl Run Short | Size S | $48

*Timestamps*
0:00 Intro
1:25 Review metrics
2:37 Thick thigh science
4:12 Running test info
4:35 Category: Dolphin hem style shorts
4:40 CRZ YOGA High Waisted Dolphin Shorts High Split
8:19 Janji 3” multi short | Size S | $78
12:14 Category: 3-4” inseam shorts
12:19 Lululemon Hotty Hot High Rise Lined Short 4”
16:48 CRZ Mid Waisted Zipper Pocket Short
19:11 CRZ High Waisted Zipper Pocket Short
22:32 CRZ YOGA Women's High Waisted Running Shorts Mesh Liner
25:15 Category: 5”+ inseam shorts
25:23 Brooks Chaser 5” Short
29:36 Oiselle long roga shorts
34:43 Oiselle high rise roga short
37:53 Category: biker short lining
38:08 Oner Active Unified double layer shorts
42:42 Kiava Ready to Run Short
46:18 Buffbunny Hot Girl Run Short
49:05 Top picks

*FAQ*

*My Measurements*
Chest: 28.5”, 72.5cm
Bust: 36.5”, 92.5cm
Bra size: 32 DD/DDD
Waist: 26”, 66cm
Hip: 38.5”, 98cm
Thigh: 23”, 58.5cm
Calf: 15.5”, 39cm
Inseam: 31.5”, 80cm
Weight: ~150lbs
Height: 5'9", 175cm

*Links & Codes*
Alphalete: "KATHRYN" for 10% off

Buffbunny: “KATHRYN” for 10% off

P'tula: "Kathryn" for 10% off

Kamo Fitness: "Kathryn" for 5% off

Paragon Fitwear: "KATHRYN" for 10% off

Lazuli Label: "KATHRYN" for 10% off!

POPFLEX

Cocofloss: "KATHRYNM20" for 20% off

Colorfulkoala: "kath2021" for 10% off

Tier Activewear: "kath" for 10% off

Yvette Sports: "Kathryn15" for 15% off sitewide & "Kathryn20" for 20% off on orders $109+

CLS Sportswear: "Kathrynm" for 10% off

[KathrynMueller]

Leave your suggestions for biker style shorts for my next running review as a reply to this! I have some ready but want to make sure I review your favorites!

[ariromo]

Two things with this video/review:

1: you are the first workout/athleisure review girly I’ve come across that has done a review like this using actual running brands and not just influencer-style brands, so shocked hearing oiselle, and janji and loving it! I feel like you’re bridging that gap to those who mainly shop the buff bunny’s/oner/p’tula etc and those who shop the running/outdoor brands (like brooks, janji, etc).

2. First reviewer I’ve seen with this large of a platform that is reviewing running shorts for thicker thighs and chafing! I watch a lot of workout clothes reviewers and this one’s a first that hits all my boxes (thick thigh friendly, running, flowy, variety of short options).

I really appreciate your wide range of reviews 💕✨

[mansoor]

Kathryn your videos makes me so calm and peaceful, Thank you so so so much for making such a wonderful beautiful videos for us and I will always be your big supportive🥹💫💗

[blahhbee]

I'm convinced that whoever invented running shorts didn't actually run.
Everytime I tried running shorts they just rode up inbetweeny thighs or acted like they wanted to become underwear.
I had to wear spandex shorts that were atleast 7 inches or capris/leggings to not have issues.

[AsianIsMe]

I'm always amazed at how detailed and high-quality your videos are, considering you are almost a dentist full-time! Even if I am not looking for the product you're reviewing, your videos are always a joy to watch!

[bellatrixwand]

Curvy was hijacked and used as a word to positively describe overweight/obese, but curvy always meant hourglass-like, or large hip to waist ratio. I know this comment will trigger some, but it is the truth. It always results in defensive speaking or elaboration when women use the actual meaning, such as athletic ladies using it.

[Hannah-iqki]

Thank you for including shorts from running brands like Janji. It’s like you’re in my brain feeding me all the solutions to my running clothes problems.

[courtneymunoz]

Finally!! My husband is training for a marathon and I wanted to run some with him since working out together is our quality time so thank you for this! Reviews like this are hard to find with these brands. So thank you!

[singlucylu]

As an ultramarathoner I’ve tried my far share of these shorts. Janji shorts are always the ones I reach for first. You can find them on sale or use your REI discount during their sales if you aren’t picky about prints and colors. I used to *love* Rogas but they redesigned them a few years ago, which included taking away a drawstring, and I think the fit has been odd since.

[ambercollinsfitness]

This video is *PERFECT* timing!! I’m currently training to run an ultramarathon for this coming June, and all I can think about is which shorts to wear so that the skin on my thighs don’t rub completely off during the ultra 😂

[Fiona_tries_it]

Honestly, I cannot understand how your videos are not more hyped?! As a runner and data nerd I could not celebrate your reviews more 💖
Also I hope you running journey is going well!! 🤗

[TheGoodbyeGirl]

This was as ever so informative and in-depth, I run in bikers, I bought a running vest for my phone, cant stand things in pockets while running.

[Itsthegabaghoul]

I don’t run but running shorts are my favorite for long dog walks. Grateful for this video! When I have dabbled in running I’d go for 6+ inch biker shorts or men’s running shorts. The long shorts were not cute but I always felt vulnerable while running so I didn’t mind.

[Jazmin_Ortega]

Another great video. Your bra vid was awesome and I feel like I’m benefiting from your new running era 😆 If I may add a request I’ll ask for a running half tight/biker short review. EDIT: I see that you’re on it, amazing! 🙏🏼

[sindy]

You are the best, Kathryn!! Always staying a step ahead. I used to be a Nike running short gal, but they always rolled up and the brief lining always showed. However, ever since the cute 6-inch biker shorts became a trend, I have not gone back to any flowy running shorts. I don't have to use the anti chafing cream anymore. Super excited for your biker shorts review!! I'll keep an eye out for it!! Thank you for taking the time to make these very detailed videos.

[swimmingnwinning]

Yes! This is the video I’ve been waiting for. Never been a fan of biker shorts so running shorts are all I wear

[jennb]

Such a good video! The part where you said you got the tie stuck. Just wanted to share my hack for undoing drawstring ties (works great for bikini ties as well). Grab 2 bobby pins. Feed one side of each into either side of the knot. Once you get the Bobby pins in, you can use the pins to wiggle some space in and loosen the knot enough to get it untied.

[iiTsaFantasy]

i'm loooving all the running content! i love lifting/leg day with the CRZ YOGA High Waisted Dolphin Shorts High Split but also struggle with the thighs eating it up. can't wait for the biker shorts cause after watching this video and the struggles... you might've convinced me to try running in biker shorts

[CloudyBlush]

thank you so much for these videos, i’ve been going to the gym for 3 years and i’m a size small with bigger thighs so i really appreciate your videos 🫶🏻🫶🏻

[CamrynCarter-wxes]

love your channel so much!! you’re literally the best 🧡🫶🏻