Best Shorts for Rectangle Shape

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.

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.

Versatile trail and gravel cycling shorts. Looser cut with a built-in liner — wear over bibs or on their own. Durable DWR coating for light rain.

Watch out: Not appropriate for activities other than cycling. Sizing inconsistency between ranges. Premium price.

Rapha's entry-level road cycling shorts. 4-way stretch fabric, 8-panel construction, and a medium-density chamois designed for women. Ideal for rides up to 3 hours.

Watch out: Not appropriate for activities other than cycling. Sizing inconsistency between ranges. Premium price.

Lightweight woven shorts with an inner liner. Relaxed fit with a 4" inseam. Freedom of movement for any workout.

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.

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.

Built-in compression with woven overlay. Drawcord waist. Side pockets.

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.

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.