We have a fair few choices for workout pants nowadays, but when it comes down to the nitty gritty, it’s always a toss-up between shorts or leggings.
If leg day and back squats are on the menu, but it’s also super hot outside… do you wear shorts for the weather or leggings for the coverage?
There’s a lot to consider when it comes to making your choice between shorts or leggings when working out. Comfort, performance and workout type are big factors in your decision. Think about what you personally feel the best wearing and what option will be the most comfortable for the type of exercise you’re doing… loose short shorts won’t exactly be your best friend for squatting…
In this guide to shorts or leggings, we’ll talk you through everything to consider before you make your choice; including breathability, mobility, weather, comfort and personal preferences, and outline the best option for each workout.
The right workout gear can make a whole lot of difference to performing well and achieving your fitness goals, so let’s get it right before you hit the gym, and avoid workout-fit-regret.
Shorts vs Leggings: What To Consider
When it comes to shorts and leggings, neither option is objectively better for exercising in, but there are benefits and limitations to both. Is your priority leg warmth, modesty and support? Or is it the freedom of having your legs out that you enjoy? Whether it’s hot-weather training or comfort and confidence, here are the top things to consider about shorts vs leggings.
The Criteria
Breathability & Sweat Management:
Shorts: Shorts offer superior breathability and cool you down faster as more airflow can get to your legs. Your legs won’t feel sweaty and restricted by any fabric sticking to your skin which is a far more comfortable choice for some. For some workouts, however, having that extra fabric around your legs to brush away sweat can have its benefits, for example surprisingly, during hot yoga, excess moisture on your legs can make things a little slippy and uncomfortable.
Leggings: Full-coverage leggings can be a breathable choice if the fabric is lightweight or has moisture-wicking properties to help with sweat management. Many leggings also feature breathable dots or mesh panels for added airflow. However, the feeling of tight fabric all the way down your legs can feel quite hot and heavy to some gym-goers.
Freedom & Flexibility:
Shorts: Shorts can offer excellent mobility as there’s little fabric to restrict movement. This can have a liberating effect, especially for sports like running which benefit from you being able to use your full range of motion for extended periods of time. Tight shorts can also be very flexible, offering the same flexibility as leggings, but with the added benefit of less fabric.
Leggings: Leggings can offer more leg support during exercise, especially as compressive-fitting garments can help with muscle support and recovery. Many leggings are crafted with lightweight, stretchy materials to ensure full mobility. However, some gym-goers prefer shorts for unrestricted joint movement and a freer feel.
Weather Conditions:
Shorts: When it comes to staying cool in warm weather, nothing beats wearing shorts. The extra airflow helps with sweat evaporation and temperature regulation, especially during outdoor workouts.
Leggings: Thick leggings provide warmth for your legs while it’s cold, meaning your circulation is improved and muscles warm up properly for working out. They also offer protection against wind chill, UV exposure and even insect bites and bushy terrains during outdoor workouts.
Chafe & Support:
Shorts: Shorts are a great option for staying cool during workouts, but looser styles can cause chafing, especially for those with thicker thighs. To prevent this, wearing 2-in-1 shorts or layering compression shorts under a loose pair can provide added protection while maintaining breathability. Ultimately, the best choice comes down to personal comfort and preference.
Leggings: Leggings offer an advantage over shorts for providing muscle support and a compressive fit which can aid recovery. They also give shin protection against barbell scrapes (think deadlifts and cleans) and provide a barrier against friction to help prevent chafing.
Fit Preference:
At the end of the day, comfort and confidence matter the most. Some people feel more secure and covered up in leggings while others prefer the freedom of shorts. If modesty is a concern, high-waisted, thick leggings offer the best coverage for leggings, or if coverage is a worry when deciding on a pair of shorts, consider 2-in-1 shorts or cycling shorts that provide additional coverage while allowing for unrestricted movement.
Best Option for Different Workouts
Choosing between leggings and shorts isn’t just about personal preference, the best option can optimize your comfort, performance and confidence based on the workout you’re doing. Overheating, restriction and discomfort are high on our must-avoid list, so take a look at our breakdown of whether shorts or leggings are the best choice for your next workout.
Cardio Workouts (Running, HIIT)
Best choice: For cardio workouts, shorts are the best choice for breathability; whether you prefer 2-in-1, fitted, or loose styles. However, in colder conditions, sweat-wicking leggings provide warmth while keeping you dry.
Why?: For running, or high-intensity movements like burpees, jumping and skipping, shorts allow for freedom of movement and keep your legs cool. For cold-weather training, however, swap to full-length moisture-wicking leggings to provide warmth and reduce muscle fatigue over longer distances.
Extra Tip: If you’re prone to thigh chafing, opt for longer-length cycling shorts or leggings to provide long-lasting comfort during long runs and intense cardio workouts.
Strength Training
Best choice: Choose high-waisted leggings or fitted shorts that won’t catch on any gym equipment.
Why?: Compression-fit leggings support your muscles and can help reduce muscle fatigue. They provide full coverage which can improve confidence during squats and deadlifts. Fitted shorts provide similar waist support, but with less fabric on the legs for those who prefer a shorter style to show off their quad gains.
Extra Tip: Ensure your leggings or shorts have a snug waistband to prevent constant adjusting during each rep. Avoid loose shorts to prevent exposure when performing deep movements like Bulgarian split squats and RDLs.
Yoga & Pilates
Best choice: Soft, lightweight leggings are ideal in the studio for coverage and grip. Mid-thigh-length stretchy shorts are a great alternative for warmer sessions.
Why?: Leggings offer both stretch and flexibility for the dynamic movements in Yoga and Pilates. When you’re in deep poses, stretching or bending, leggings can be a better option than shorts to prevent fabric bunching and riding up and for extra coverage. This will help reduce any distractions so you can focus on your flow.
Extra Tip: When selecting your pilates outfit look for leggings with minimal seams and ultra-soft stretchy fabrics to avoid discomfort in prolonged seated or floor poses.
Outdoor Training
Best choice: Make your choice depending on the location: leggings for protection in the cold weather, 2-in-1 shorts for warm weather breathability.
Why?: Leggings protect your skin from the elements, including wind, UV rays and bug bites and also prevent scratches if you’re running or hiking on trails. For outdoor workouts when it’s warm, double-layered shorts offer the breathability of shorts with the added coverage of a built-in shorts to prevent chafing. Look for pockets for added convenience for carrying essentials like keys and energy gels.
Extra Tip: If you’re hiking or training in extreme or unpredictable weather conditions, opt for thermal leggings or convertible pants that can be zipped into shorts to adapt to the changing weather.
Hybrid & Functional Training
Best choice: Lightweight leggings or fitted shorts are your best choice for hybrid training, which combines multiple workout styles.
Why?: Functional workouts require gear that supports movement in multiple directions. Lightweight leggings provide a stay-put fit and unrestricted stretch, making them perfect for dynamic movements like sprints, burpees and ball slams. High-waisted leggings and fitted shorts that grip around the thigh will fit securely ensuring minimal distractions and discomfort through your intense training sessions.
Extra Tip: If you do a lot of deadlifts and cleans, you might prefer leggings over shorts to give you some shin protection from the bar. Otherwise, we’d recommend wearing long weightlifting socks if you choose to wear shorts.
Sizing: Unsure of what size you are? Take a look at our size guide charts to measure for leggings and shorts.
FAQ
Is it better to work out in shorts or leggings?
As we’ve covered, it does all depends on your workout type and preferences. Some people work out in shorts all year round, while other people will only wear leggings. Shorts are always going to be a great choice for breathability and keeping cool, while leggings can feel more stylish, and supportive and offer more coverage, which is why a lot of people feel more comfortable working out in leggings.
Why do people prefer leggings for the gym?
Many lifters, in particular, prefer leggings in the gym for their added compression, muscle support, and flattering fit. They can also be the more comfortable choice if chafing is an issue and provide warmth in cooler climates.
Are leggings or shorts better for running?
Shorts offer better airflow and keep you cool during hot weather runs, but when it comes to the colder weather, it’s a different story. Wearing shorts when in the winter can result in cold muscles which leads to stiffness and tightness. Therefore leggings will provide the most warmth and muscle support so you can perform your best during cold runs.
Should men wear leggings for workouts?
Definitely! Many men wear compression leggings for added leg support, coverage, and warmth. They’re often paired under shorts, especially for outdoor workouts.
Final Thoughts
With this guide, we hope you feel more confident in your choice between shorts or leggings for working out. It all comes down to what makes you feel the most comfortable, confident, and supported. Whether you like the feeling of less fabric constricting you or like the full-coverage shorts offer, ensure you adapt your workout gear to your training and get the most out of your workout with the right pair of shorts or leggings for the job.
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