When you’re heading to the beach, cooling off in a pool, or tackling a run near water, you might wonder: can running shorts double as swimwear? The answer is yes—with the right pair. Running shorts offer a great alternative to swimwear, especially for those impromptu dips. Let’s explore why they work and highlight some top choices for men and women.
Why Consider Running Shorts for Swimming?
Running shorts are designed for performance and comfort, and many of their features translate well to the water:
- Quick Drying: Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester or nylon are perfect for wet conditions.
- Comfortable Fit: Their relaxed design provides freedom of movement both in and out of the water.
- Versatility: They’re ideal for runners who want multifunctional gear for land and water activities.
Features to Look For
To get the most out of running shorts for swimming, look for these features:
- Material: Stick to synthetic fabrics like nylon or polyester for quick drying. Avoid cotton.
- Built-in Liner: A liner provides support and prevents chafing, doubling as swimwear.
- Secure Pockets: Mesh or zippered pockets prevent ballooning in the water.
- Length: Shorter inseams enhance freedom of movement and reduce drag.
Top Picks for Men
Patagonia Baggies (5″ or 7″)
- Material & Design: Crafted from quick-drying nylon with a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish, these shorts are versatile for various activities, including running and swimming.
- Features: They come with deep pockets that prevent items from falling out and a snap back pocket for secure storage.
- Purchase on Patagonai’s Website
- Nike Flex Stride Shorts (5″)
- Material & Design: These lightweight and breathable shorts feature a built-in brief liner for support, making them suitable for both running and swimming.
- Features: They include perforations for enhanced airflow and quick drying fabric..
- Purchase on Amazon
- Vuori Banks Shorts (7.5″)
- Material & Design: Made from recycled materials with 4-way stretch and a water-resistant finish, these shorts are ideal for both workouts and swimming.
- Features: They offer a comfortable boxer brief liner and a 6″ inseam, providing a balance between coverage and mobility.
- Purchase on Vuori’s Website
Top Picks for WomeN
Lululemon Fast and Free Shorts (4″)
- Material & Design: Designed with lightweight, quick-drying fabric, these shorts offer a flattering fit suitable for both running and swimming.
- Features: They come with a built-in liner for support and multiple pockets for convenience.
- Purchase on Lululemon’s Website
Athleta Run With It Shorts (3.5″)
- Material & Design: These moisture-wicking and quick-drying shorts feature mesh panels for added ventilation, making them suitable for swimming.
- Features: The wide waistband adds comfort and stability during activities.
- Purchase on Athleta’s Website
Outdoor Voices Hudson Shorts (2.5″)
- Material & Design: These shorts are made from lightweight, quick-drying recycled polyester fabric, featuring a comfortable knit waistband and built-in brief liner, suitable for both running and swimming.
- Features: They offer a relaxed fit with a 2.5″ inseam, providing freedom of movement.
- Purchase on Outdoor Voices’ Website
Potential Downsides
While running shorts are a great substitute for swimwear, they do have limitations:
- Chlorine Damage: Regular exposure to chlorinated water may degrade the fabric over time.
- Fit Differences: Running shorts are not as streamlined as swimwear for serious swimming.
- Durability in Rough Conditions: Rocks, pool edges, or rough waves can wear down the material.
Care Tips for Longevity
- Rinse Thoroughly: Wash off chlorine or saltwater immediately after use.
- Air Dry: Avoid the dryer to maintain fabric integrity.
- Rotate Usage: Use dedicated swimwear for heavy swimming days to preserve your running shorts.
Final Thoughts
Running shorts are an excellent dual-purpose solution for runners who want a mix of performance and versatility. With lightweight, quick-drying materials and comfort-focused designs, they let you transition seamlessly between running and swimming. Whether you’re diving into the ocean, cooling off in a pool, or hitting the trails, the right pair of running shorts can handle it all.
