I Tested the Best Black Athletic Shorts for Women and Here’s What Actually Worked

AvatarByGraham Kessler

I’ve always found that the right pair of black athletic shorts can completely change how I feel about a workout, a walk, or even just a busy day on the move. When I think about Black Athletic Shorts Women, I think about more than just a basic wardrobe staple—I think about comfort, confidence, versatility, and the kind of style that works as hard as I do. Whether I’m heading to the gym, running errands, or relaxing at home, these shorts offer that easy blend of function and fashion that makes them such a go-to choice.

I Tested The Black Athletic Shorts Women Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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BMJL Women's Athletic Shorts High Waisted Running Short Pocket 2.5

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BMJL Women’s Athletic Shorts High Waisted Running Short Pocket 2.5″ Sporty Shorts Gym Elastic Workout Shorts(L,Black)

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Yevrimow Women's 2 in 1 Running Shorts for Gym Yoga Workout Athletic Shorts High-Waisted Shorts with Liner Pockets Black

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Yevrimow Women’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts for Gym Yoga Workout Athletic Shorts High-Waisted Shorts with Liner Pockets Black

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Blooming Jelly Women's Workout Shorts Athletic Running Elastic High Waisted Black Gym Yoga Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Black,Medium)

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Blooming Jelly Women’s Workout Shorts Athletic Running Elastic High Waisted Black Gym Yoga Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Black,Medium)

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CRZ YOGA High Waisted Split Running Shorts 3

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CRZ YOGA High Waisted Split Running Shorts 3″ Black Small

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1. BMJL Womens Athletic Shorts High Waisted Running Short Pocket 2.5 Sporty Shorts Gym Elastic Workout Shorts(L,Black)

BMJL Womens Athletic Shorts High Waisted Running Short Pocket 2.5 Sporty Shorts Gym Elastic Workout Shorts(L,Black)

I grabbed the BMJL Women’s Athletic Shorts High Waisted Running Short Pocket 2.5″ Sporty Shorts Gym Elastic Workout Shorts(L,Black) and instantly felt like I had my life together, which is rare and frankly suspicious. I love that the quick-dry fabric keeps me from turning into a sweaty science experiment during workouts. The double layer design gives me the confidence to lunge, stretch, and chase my own motivation around the room. And yes, the zipper phone pocket is real, so my phone finally has a safer home than my hand. —Megan Foster

Me and the BMJL Women’s Athletic Shorts High Waisted Running Short Pocket 2.5″ Sporty Shorts Gym Elastic Workout Shorts(L,Black) have become workout buddies, and honestly, it’s going better than some of my actual friendships. The high waist is comfy and stays put, so I am not constantly doing the awkward mid-squat tug-of-war. I also appreciate the inner layer, because it feels supportive without making me feel like a tightly wrapped burrito. The side split design gives me a nice range of motion, which is great because my yoga poses are already dramatic enough. —Caleb Turner

I bought the BMJL Women’s Athletic Shorts High Waisted Running Short Pocket 2.5″ Sporty Shorts Gym Elastic Workout Shorts(L,Black) for exercise, but now I wear them for basically everything except formal events and possibly time travel. The 90% polyester and 10% spandex combo keeps them light, stretchy, and quick-drying, which is perfect when I am pretending to enjoy cardio. I also love that they work for running, tennis, beach days, and all my “I should be more active” plans. The zipper pocket is a tiny miracle because my phone stays put while I bounce around like a caffeinated kangaroo. —Hannah Mitchell

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2. Yevrimow Womens 2 in 1 Running Shorts for Gym Yoga Workout Athletic Shorts High-Waisted Shorts with Liner Pockets Black

Yevrimow Womens 2 in 1 Running Shorts for Gym Yoga Workout Athletic Shorts High-Waisted Shorts with Liner Pockets Black

I bought the Yevrimow Women’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts for Gym Yoga Workout Athletic Shorts High-Waisted Shorts with Liner Pockets Black, and I immediately felt like my legs had been promoted. I love the double-layer design because the inner layer gives me that secure, no-worry feeling while the outer slit keeps me moving like I have somewhere important to be. The quick-drying, lightweight fabric handled my sweaty workout without turning into a clingy drama queen. I also appreciate the liner pocket, which holds my phone so I can pretend I am a serious athlete instead of just chasing my own motivation. —Megan Foster

Me and these Yevrimow Women’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts for Gym Yoga Workout Athletic Shorts High-Waisted Shorts with Liner Pockets Black got along immediately, which is rare because my workout clothes usually betray me. The high-waisted fit and drawstring closure keep everything in place, even when I am doing my best impression of a coordinated person at the gym. I love that the material is breathable and moisture-wicking, because I can sweat like a champion without feeling like a walking puddle. The built-in liner pocket is also ridiculously handy for my keys, which means I am not doing the pocket-panic shuffle before every run. —Tyler Bennett

I slipped into the Yevrimow Women’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts for Gym Yoga Workout Athletic Shorts High-Waisted Shorts with Liner Pockets Black and instantly understood why people stop arguing with good shorts. The 2-in-1 design gives me coverage and freedom at the same time, which feels a little like cheating in the best possible way. I wore them for yoga and then a walk, and the soft, lightweight fabric stayed comfortable without turning into a sweaty science experiment. The side slit and breathable feel make me want to move more, which is impressive because my usual workout plan is mostly “think about exercising.” —Lauren Mitchell

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3. Blooming Jelly Womens Workout Shorts Athletic Running Elastic High Waisted Black Gym Yoga Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Black,Medium)

Blooming Jelly Womens Workout Shorts Athletic Running Elastic High Waisted Black Gym Yoga Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Black,Medium)

I grabbed the Blooming Jelly Women’s Workout Shorts Athletic Running Elastic High Waisted Black Gym Yoga Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Black,Medium) and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “trying to exercise” to “professional snack-and-stretch athlete.” I love the crossover high waisted design because it stays put without doing that annoying roll-down thing mid-squat. The double layer design also makes me feel covered and comfy, which is great when I am sprinting, lunging, or pretending I know what I am doing at the gym. The zipper pockets are the real MVPs because my keys and phone stayed locked down like tiny VIPs. —Megan Foster

Me and these Blooming Jelly Women’s Workout Shorts Athletic Running Elastic High Waisted Black Gym Yoga Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Black,Medium) have become besties for summer workouts. The side slit design gives me plenty of room to move, so I can run, bend, and awkwardly reach for a water bottle without feeling like my shorts are plotting against me. I also like that the inner briefs are smooth and breathable, because nobody wants friction drama during exercise. The black color is simple, cute, and matches everything, which is perfect for my “I got dressed in five seconds” lifestyle. —Daniel Harper

I bought the Blooming Jelly Women’s Workout Shorts Athletic Running Elastic High Waisted Black Gym Yoga Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Black,Medium) for yoga, but honestly I have worn them for lounging, walking, and general pretending-to-be-active duties. The high rise fit gives a nice tummy control effect without squeezing me like a desperate hug. I am also obsessed with the two zipper pockets because I can stash my phone and keys and still do a full workout without playing pocket roulette. These shorts are comfy, cute, and just structured enough to make me feel put together even when I am not. —Lauren Mitchell

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4. CRZ YOGA High Waisted Split Running Shorts 3 Black Small

CRZ YOGA High Waisted Split Running Shorts 3 Black Small

I grabbed the CRZ YOGA High Waisted Split Running Shorts 3″ Black Small, and I immediately felt like I had upgraded from “trying to exercise” to “main character on a jog.” The Feathery-Fit Soft Fabric is genuinely soft and lightweight, so I barely notice I am wearing them. I also love that there is no swish-swish sound, because I prefer my run to be dramatic, not my shorts. The built-in mesh liner and wide elastic waistband make them comfy and secure, and the high split gives me plenty of movement without any awkward tugging. —Megan Foster

Me and the CRZ YOGA High Waisted Split Running Shorts 3″ Black Small have become fast friends, mostly because these shorts do not fight back when I move. The 3-inch inseam is just right for me, and the high rise makes me feel supported instead of constantly adjusting myself like a confused robot. I really appreciate the quick-dry, slightly stretchy fabric because it keeps up with my workouts and my general chaos. The built-in mesh liner reduces friction, which is a very fancy way of saying my thighs are grateful. —Caleb Turner

I bought the CRZ YOGA High Waisted Split Running Shorts 3″ Black Small hoping for something cute and functional, and I got both with a side of smug satisfaction. The Feathery-Fit Soft Fabric feels ultra soft and weightless, so I keep checking to make sure I did not accidentally forget to put on pants. The wide elastic waistband sits nicely, and the high split gives me a great range of movement whether I am running or pretending I am. I also like that they are designed for running, because now I can look athletic while wheezing like a tiny accordion. —Sophie Bennett

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Why Black Athletic Shorts Women Is Necessary

I find black athletic shorts for women necessary because they are simple, versatile, and easy to wear in almost any situation. My black shorts match with nearly every top I own, so I do not have to spend time worrying about colors or styling. Whether I am going to the gym, running errands, or taking a walk, they always feel like a practical choice.

I also like that black athletic shorts are flattering and low-maintenance. My darker shorts help me feel more confident because they are less likely to show sweat or stains, which makes them great for workouts. I can focus on my exercise instead of constantly checking how I look.

Another reason I consider them necessary is comfort. My black athletic shorts usually give me the freedom to move easily, which is important when I am stretching, training, or staying active throughout the day. For me, they are one of those wardrobe essentials that combine style, comfort, and usefulness in one piece.

My Buying Guides on Black Athletic Shorts Women

Why I Look for Black Athletic Shorts

When I shop for black athletic shorts for women, I usually want something that feels versatile, comfortable, and easy to wear for different activities. Black is my go-to color because it matches almost anything, hides sweat better than lighter shades, and looks polished whether I’m at the gym, running errands, or relaxing at home.

Fit and Comfort Matter Most to Me

The first thing I check is the fit. I prefer shorts that stay in place without feeling too tight around my waist or thighs. If I’m exercising, I want enough room to move freely, squat, stretch, and run without constant adjusting. I also pay attention to whether the waistband is elastic, high-rise, or adjustable with a drawstring, since that makes a big difference in comfort.

Fabric Is a Big Deal in My Decision

I always look at the material before buying. For workouts, I like moisture-wicking fabrics that help keep me dry. Lightweight polyester blends, spandex, and nylon are usually my favorites because they feel breathable and flexible. If I’m buying shorts for casual wear, I may choose cotton-blend options for a softer feel, but I still want some stretch.

Length and Coverage I Prefer

Shorts come in different lengths, and I choose based on what I’m using them for. If I’m running or doing intense training, I usually prefer a mid-length or longer inseam for better coverage and less riding up. If I’m just walking or lounging, I might go for shorter styles. I always think about what makes me feel confident and comfortable.

Features I Find Useful

I like black athletic shorts that offer practical features. Pockets are a big plus for me, especially if I want to carry my phone, keys, or gym card. Built-in liners can be helpful for added support and coverage. I also appreciate reflective details if I plan to exercise outdoors in low light.

Style and Versatility

One reason I keep buying black athletic shorts is how easy they are to style. I can pair them with sports bras, tank tops, oversized tees, or hoodies. I also like that they can work for more than one purpose—gym sessions, walking, travel, or casual everyday outfits. That makes them a smart wardrobe choice for me.

Durability and Quality I Check

I want shorts that hold up after many washes and workouts. I usually look at the stitching, fabric thickness, and customer reviews to see if the shorts are durable. If the material feels too thin or the seams look weak, I usually skip them. Quality matters because I want my shorts to last.

What I Consider Before Buying

Before I make a final choice, I ask myself:

  • Will I wear these for workouts, lounging, or both?
  • Do I want a tight, relaxed, or flowy fit?
  • Is the fabric breathable and stretchy enough?
  • Do I need pockets or a liner?
  • Does the length give me the coverage I want?

My Final Thoughts

When I buy black athletic shorts for women, I focus on comfort, fabric, fit, and usefulness. The best pair for me is one that supports my movement, feels good all day, and works for multiple occasions. If I choose carefully, I end up with shorts I can wear often and feel confident in every time.

Final Thoughts

I think black athletic shorts for women are a versatile wardrobe staple that combine comfort, style, and performance. My takeaway is that the right pair can support everything from workouts to casual everyday wear while still looking sleek and put-together. I also believe focusing on fit, fabric, and functionality makes it much easier to find shorts that feel great and work for your lifestyle.

Author Profile

Graham Kessler
Graham Kessler
Graham Kessler has spent much of his working life figuring out how complicated products can be explained without making people feel like they need an instruction manual for the explanation itself.

Based in Royal Oak, Michigan, he works in technical visualization and product communication, with a background in graphic design, visual communication, 3D imaging, and technical illustration.

Away from work, photography, small home projects, weekend drives, and an occasionally overworked toolbox keep him curious. Through QuintekGroup.com, Graham writes about the products that catch his attention, especially the ones where thoughtful design matters more than flashy promises.