Best Shorts for Apple Shape

Lightweight training short with inner brief. Four-way stretch recycled fabric, side pockets.

Watch out: Can feel loose and uncontoured on straight or athletic shapes. 7/8 length runs long for petite women — the biker short avoids this entirely.

Lightweight running shorts with integrated briefs. Breathable mesh panels. Great entry-level option for new runners.

Watch out: Less premium finish and feel. Some ranges feel cheap to touch even when they perform well. Limited aesthetic appeal compared to branded activewear.

Medium coverage running shorts with drawcord waist. Reflective details for low-light runs.

Watch out: Quality varies significantly between ranges — Pro products are worth it, some Dri-FIT basics feel cheap. Tight waistband on Pro styles can be uncomfortable for apple shapes.

Lightweight, sweat-wicking shorts with a brief liner. Side slits for range of motion.

Watch out: Quality varies significantly between ranges — Pro products are worth it, some Dri-FIT basics feel cheap. Tight waistband on Pro styles can be uncomfortable for apple shapes.

Lightweight training shorts with built-in brief. Drawcord waist. Recycled materials.

Watch out: Can feel loose and uncontoured on straight or athletic shapes. 7/8 length runs long for petite women — the biker short avoids this entirely.

Relaxed-fit training short with elasticated waist and side pockets. Lightweight woven fabric.

Watch out: Less forgiving than Sweaty Betty for pear shapes at the hip. Techfit range runs quite firm — size up if you prefer medium compression.

Biker-style short with a wide waistband and 5-inch inseam. Available in Original and Curve Fit.

Watch out: Original Fit waistband rolls for pear shapes who size for their hips. Expensive relative to quality compared to Sweaty Betty. US-influenced sizing runs narrow for UK women.

Lightweight running short with built-in liner brief. Anti-odour HeatGear fabric, 3-inch inseam.

Watch out: Less fashion-forward aesthetic than UK-native brands. Rush range runs quite firm — size up if you prefer moderate compression over maximum.

Lightweight woven running shorts with liner brief. 3-inch inseam, side splits.

Watch out: Waistband rolling for pear shapes who size up for hip room. Hip and thigh pull in woven ranges for anyone with hips above 40". Not recommended for apple shapes in the Adapt range.

Castelli entry-level women cycling short. KISS Air2 chamois, elastic-free leg gripper, UPF 50.

Watch out: Sizing is notoriously difficult. No utility outside cycling. Not suitable for pear or plus shapes without significant sizing up.

Castelli's top women's cycling short. KISS3 chamois, Progetto X2 Air seat, Lycra Freedom fabric for unrestricted movement. Trusted by WorldTour athletes.

Watch out: Sizing is notoriously difficult. No utility outside cycling. Not suitable for pear or plus shapes without significant sizing up.

Assos's benchmark women's cycling shorts. The TRAIL chamois is engineered specifically for female anatomy. 6-panel construction, laser-cut leg grippers. Built for 4-6 hour rides.

Watch out: Very narrow cut across the board. Extremely expensive. Sizing is unforgiving. No value outside dedicated cycling.