Brutally Honest Flowy Running Shorts Review...
Price, Features, Pockets, Bum Coverage, Worth It??
Hi Friend!! Welcome back to the Big Adventure Club. I hope the sun is shining wherever you are!
This weekend, I’m running my 9th half marathon, and we’re deep into the peak weeks of my marathon training. Back-to-back 20+ mile long runs are officially on the calendar. It’s a little wild, a little tiring, but mostly exciting. I can’t wait to see how all the training comes together at my June marathon!
Today’s post is all about one of my favorite pieces of gear for training and racing... let's get into it!
If you’ve been eyeing the trendy flowy running shorts but wondering are they actually good for running or will my butt hang out, this one’s for you.
Today, I’m breaking down the most popular pairs (and a few hidden gems) by:
Price point
Features
Bum coverage (or lack of)
High vs low rise
My final thoughts: fashion or function?
A little context before we dive in:
I’ve basically lived in flowy running shorts for over 20 years, running through every season. This year alone, I’ve logged over 600 miles (and counting). Safe to say, I’m picky about what makes the cut for real running, not just cute photos.
P.S. A common question I get: how do you wear shorts without thigh chafing?
For any run over 2 miles, I always apply an anti-chafe balm like Body Glide. It’s a game-changer.
Want a full look at the shorts? Watch my video here where I show how each fits!
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FP Movement Get Your Flirt On Shorts
Rise: High-waisted
Fit: Bum hangs out, thighs bunch up
Verdict: Fashion over function.
Price: $40
Want to try the FP Movement vibe? Shop them here
Aerie Flirty Shorts
Rise: High-waisted
Fit: Built-in under shorts with side pockets
Verdict: Impressive for the price & my go-tos.
Price: $29
Affordable and cute? Shop Aerie Flowy Shorts here
Lululemon Hotty Hot Shorts
Rise: Mid-rise
Fit: Great bum coverage, minimal ride-up
Verdict: These last FOREVER with no pilling. Worth the investment.
Price: $68
Ready to invest in a forever pair? Hotty Hot Shorts here
Lululemon Fast and Free Shorts
Mid to high waisted
Fit: Splits rides up & showcase everything…
Verdict: 50-50. Cute, but not the most functional.
$68
For a breezier long-run option, shop Track That Shorts
FP Movement Easy Tiger Shorts
Rise: High-waisted
Fit: Thighs bunch, loose around waist
Verdict: Another case of fashion over function
Price: $48
Want something bold and fun? Easy Tiger shorts are here
Aerie Crossover Flowy Shorts
Rise: High-waisted
Fit: Built-in under shorts with side pockets
Verdict: Same great features as the OG Aerie Flowy Shorts, with a crossover waistband
Price: $29
Affordable and cute? Shop Aerie Flowy Shorts here
Aerie Pleayed Flowy Shorts
Rise: High-waisted
Fit: Built-in under shorts with side pockets
Verdict: Fun pleated look without sacrificing coverage
Price: $29
Affordable and cute? Shop Aerie Flowy Shorts here
LSKD Accelerate Shorts
Rise: Low-waisted
Fit: Split rides up quickly
Verdict: Material pills after just 20 miles. Disappointing for the price.
Price: $75
Like the split short look? Check out LSKD Accelerate Shorts
Janji AFO Middle Shorts
Rise: Low-waisted
Fit: Legs not truly split, fabric stays put
Verdict: Best tech short if you want pockets and zero fuss
Price: $64
Shop my favorite techy trail-ready shorts
Bandit Split Shorts:
Rise: Low-waisted
Fit: Split rides up
Verdict: Like LSKD Accelerate shorts, but with better tech (pockets included)
Price: $88
Final Thoughts:
Some flowy shorts are really just for the cute 'fit pics. Others can actually handle real training.
If I had to pick my go-to running options:
Best Overall: Lululemon Hotty Hot Shorts
Best Budget Pick: Aerie Flowy Shorts
Best Tech Features: Janji AFO Middle Shorts
With over two decades in flowy shorts and hundreds of miles run just this year, I can say with confidence: not all shorts are created equal. I hope this helps you find your next favorite pair!
Leaving Notes
I hope this guide helps you find a pair of flowy shorts that actually makes you excited to get dressed for your runs, walks, and everyday adventures.
If you’re enjoying the Big Adventure Club and want to support me for free, here’s how you can:
Like this post or reply and tell me your favorite running short
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Save this review for the next time you’re ready to upgrade your running wardrobe
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Thank you for being part of this community. Your support, excitement, and kind messages never go unnoticed.
See you next time for more adventures, reviews, and reflections.
P.S. Want me to review sports bras or running tanks next? Reply and let me know!
Happiest Outside,
Lauren 💙
Great review! I'd love a review of running tanks and shirts.