What are the benefits of running skirts?

Running skirts allow you to still feel stylish while running, especially when you're covered in sweat. They also offer a better range of motion and flexibility than some running pants. For runners who prefer bare legs, running skirts allow you to keep your legs clothes-free without any movement restrictions that a pair of shorts might have.

Do running skirts slow you down?

Running skirts are lightweight and designed to move as you run. They can feel heavy to some runners, though, depending on the type of material they're made of. Try a skirt out on a run to see how you like it. Whether or not it works for you is entirely up to personal preference.

How do you prevent chafing with running skirts?

To prevent chafing with running skirts, take some proactive measures, such as: Pick a skirt long enough to cover any area that chafes, such as your inner thighs. Make sure the skirt has flat seams or offers a seamless design. Wear a pair of shorts underneath the running skirt if it doesn't already have a pair attached. This gives you extra protection to keep your legs from chafing. Use an anti-chafing stick or lubricant cream on your legs and backside before you put on the running skirt.

The 8 Best Running Skirts for Running in Style

For many runners, finding the perfect piece of running apparel is often an uphill battle. Leggings can sometimes get too warm, and shorts can contribute to chafing. While not new, running skirts can help you switch up your workout look.

When buying a running skirt, look for one that is made from a lightweight, breathable fabric that allows you to move freely. Built-in shorts and pockets aren’t required, but most runners appreciate them. To find the best running skirts, we researched dozens of products and evaluated them for materials, comfort, price, and breathability. We also tested several products, assessing them in our regular running routines. Based on our research and testing, we've compiled a final list of recommendations for the best running skirts available on the market today.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

BALEAF Skorts at Amazon

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Best Skort :

Athleta Advantage Skort at Gap.com

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Best Size-Inclusive:

Girlfriend Collective Skort at Girlfriend.com

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Best Budget:

BLEVONH Shorts at Amazon

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Best Skapri:

ANIVIVO Women's Capri Yoga Leggings at Amazon

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Best for Long Runs:

Ultimate Direction Running Skort at Amazon

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Best Splurge:

Athleta Skort at Gap.com

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Best Sparkle:

Sparkle Athletic Sequin Running Skirt at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

Amazon

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Pros

Reflective details
Built-in mesh shorts
Breathable fabric

Cons

Lighter colors may be sheer
Runs small

With a breathable fabric and a sizable pocket to store your keys, BALEAF Women's Athletic Skorts with Shorts Pockets has earned a spot as our top pick. The shorts are made of flexible mesh that doesn't ride up and are comfortable for long-distance running. The sweat-wicking material keeps you dry and cool, with the outer layer covering the built-in mesh shorts. There are reflective details on the skirt that make them ideal for running in lower-light conditions.

There’s a side pocket on each leg to store your essentials, fitted with a headphone cable hole for easy access to headphones for music or audio workouts. The pocket material is stretchy enough to hold your ID, keys, credit cards, and larger cellphones.

The BALEAF Women's Athletic Skorts come in sizes XS-3XL and they're available in every color of the rainbow.

Price at time of publication: $28

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XS–3XL | Inseam Length: 4.4 inches | Material: Body: 90% Polyester / 10% Spandex; Mesh Lining: 95% Polyester / 5% Spandex | Pockets: Yes, side}

Athleta

View On Gap.com

Pros

Built-in shorts with pockets
Breathable fabric
Stylish look

Cons

Runs large

Whether you're running, walking, or hitting the tennis courts, Athleta's Advantage Skort is an easy, breezy option. The lightweight skort is made with sweat-wicking, quick-drying, recycled materials that make it perfect to wear for outdoor activities in the warm weather. Plus, it's rated UPF 50+ for those extra sunny days.

When testing this skort, we loved the flattering front silhouette and the classic plated backing that can elevate any outfit—for working out or daily wear. And we also appreciated the functional features, like built-in shorts with grippers so they don't ride up and pockets to store small valuables. We did find that the skort runs rather large, so we recommend sizing down to find a comfortable and compressive fit.

Price at time of publication: $89

^{Key Specs:

Sizes: XXS-3XL | Inseam Length: 4 inches | Material: Recycled Polyester, Spandex | Pockets: Built-in shorts with grippers and pockets}

View On Girlfriend.com

Pros

Built-in compression shorts
High rise
Sweat-wicking

Cons

Tight fit

The Girlfriend Collective Midnight Skort is an attractive but functional choice from a size-inclusive brand. It’s made from stretchy and breathable material which allows the garment to move around and multi-task, making it versatile enough to wear hiking, exercising, shopping, traveling, and more.

We love that the high-waisted active skirt is simple but sleek and integrates sweat-wicking compressive fabric that’s form-fitting but still comfortable. The built-in shorts have mesh pockets and help prevent thigh chafing, while the outer skirt provides coverage so you can run, walk, or bike with confidence.

The Girlfriend Collective Midnight Skort comes in a variety of colors—like Moon, Plum, Moss, and Midnight—and is available in sizes XXS-6XL.

Price at time of publication: $62

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XS-6XL | Inseam Length: 3 inches | Material: Recycled water bottles, Compressive fabric: 79% RPET, 21% Spandex | Pockets: Yes}

Amazon

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Pros

High rise
Large pockets

Cons

Runs small
Lighter colors may be sheer

If you want to stock up on apparel that’s easy, comfortable, flattering, and at a great price, we recommend the BLEVONH Women Tennis Skirts Inner Shorts. Avid runners who need an ample supply of running skirts in their wardrobe will appreciate the price point.

Form-fitting but flattering, this lightweight running skirt is perfect for everyday sports or hitting the golf course. They're available in sizes XS-XL. Whether you prefer bright solids or trendy prints, with the wide array of color choices, there's something for everybody, including a hip Blue Geometric and Blue-black Flower print.

Price at time of publication: $38

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XS–XL | Inseam Length: Not specified | Material: 87% Polyester, 13% Spandex | Pockets: Yes, side}

Amazon

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Pros

Soft fabric
Non-see through
Deep pockets

Cons

Sizes can be inconsistent

A skapri combines a running skirt with Capri-length leggings to make an ideal option for function with more coverage, especially for colder climates—paired with some shoes for walking on ice for frosty winter activities. The ANIVIVO Women's Capri Yoga Leggings have a three-quarter-length silhouette that will keep you warm and comfortable. We love that the spandex-blend fabric allows for ultimate stretch with moisture-wicking capabilities. Plus, the leggings underneath the skirt move with your body without bunching.

For those wishing to take small essentials on the go, this skapri includes two spacious pockets on the outside of each thigh. A wide waistband is also great for tummy control and comfort from one move to the next. Find them in 18 styles in sizes S-4XL.

Price at time of publication: $37

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: S-4XL | Inseam Length: 19.3 to 21.7 inches | Material: 90% Polyester, 10% Spandex | Pockets: Yes}

Amazon

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Pros

Built-in water bottle storage
Includes 2 custom 300ml water bottles
Hyper stretch knit

Cons

Doesn't come in many sizes
Only two colors

Whether you're running a 3K or just around the block, it's always a good idea to carry water with you, which is why we love the Ultimate Direction Women's Hydro Skirt Running Skort. It comes with two water bottle holsters, which can hold two bottles of 10.5 ounces each, and the waist adjuster helps support the bottles and keeps the skort in place.

If you're training for a long run, you'll appreciate the stretch mesh, which offers stability and comfort around the waist. The outer skirt is made with ultralight nylon with a pretty scalloped edging and a large center-back pocket holds an iPhone 8+, among other items like cash and keys.

The Ultimate Direction Women's Hydro Skirt Running Skort is available in XS or Large and comes in two colors—Blue Spruce or Onyx.

Price at time of publication: $43

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XS or L | Inseam Length: Not specified | Material: 86% Polyester, 14% Spandex | Pockets: Yes}

Amazon

View On Gap.com

Pros

Lightweight, breathable fabric
UPF 50+
Back secure zip pocket

Cons

No side pockets

Ideal for long or short distances, runners love wearing the Athleta Run With It Skort for hiking and running, but still think it's stylish enough to use for golf or sightseeing. We love that it's made with stretch fabric constructed with recycled polyester, providing a featherweight, sleek but “stay put” feel, perfect length, and flattering look.

The skort is available in sizes XXS-3XL and comes in classic colors, like standard black and white, and in more fun colors, like Sequoia Blue and Agate Purple.

Price at time of publication: $59

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XXS-3XL | Inseam Length: 2 inches | Material: Recycled Polyester, Spandex | Pockets: Back zip pocket}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Great for themed races
Elastic closure
Doesn't cling

Cons

Doesn't have shorts underneath
Lower quality material

With more races like fun runs encouraging costumes, you need a sequined skirt to show your fun side while crossing the finish line. This skirt is made from polyester fabric woven with foil sequins that won’t fall off and it’s light, comfortable, and short enough that it won’t get in your way during a race. However, this skirt needs to be worn over running shorts or leggings as it doesn’t have an integrated panty or shorts.

The runners who've bought the skirt say they got plenty of compliments during their race. The sizes are available from XS-XL in bright, playful colors, like Royal Blue, Turquoise, and Purple.

Price at time of publication: $33

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XS–XL | Inseam Length: Not specified | Material: 100% Polyester | Pockets: No}

How We Selected and Tested the Best Running Skirts

To find the best running skirts on the market, we searched for the best options by reading reviews and evaluating the highest-rated options from multiple retailers. We also tested several products, and as popular brands launch new styles, we'll continue testing and updating this list. We chose our top picks based on the quality of material, fit, length, sizes available (including plus sizes), design (including pockets!), and waistband details.

What to Look for in a Running Skirt

Material

Choose a running skirt with a cool, mesh fabric or synthetic wicking material to keep your legs and backside from overheating. Also used for workout underwear, these materials pull sweat and other moisture (such as rain) away from you, so you stay as dry and cool as possible. This is important in staving off hypothermia or hyperthermia, especially when running in inclement weather.

These materials also offer other functionalities—they work to keep you chafe- and blister-free, creating a more comfortable running experience.

Fit

You want a running skirt that fits tight enough so that you aren't constantly pulling it up as you run, but loose enough to allow for full range of motion for your legs. If possible, try the running skirt on and jog a few steps to see if the apparel stays put on your body.

If your body shape is larger on the bottom half, you might want to go up one size in a running skirt from your shirt size. This can help ensure that your running skirt won't be so tight that you experience chafing and also doesn't slide down during your run.

Some runners also prefer running skirts with a zipped pocket in the back to store keys or gels.

Color

If you run in warmer temperatures, a black running skirt can absorb heat. You might want to have a couple of options, black for the winter and a lighter color for summer running.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of running skirts?

Running skirts allow you to still feel stylish while running, especially when you're covered in sweat. They also offer a better range of motion and flexibility than some running pants.
For runners who prefer bare legs, running skirts allow you to keep your legs clothes-free without any movement restrictions that a pair of shorts might have.
Do running skirts slow you down?

Running skirts are lightweight and designed to move as you run. They can feel heavy to some runners, though, depending on the type of material they're made of. Try a skirt out on a run to see how you like it. Whether or not it works for you is entirely up to personal preference.
How do you prevent chafing with running skirts?
To prevent chafing with running skirts, take some proactive measures, such as:
- Pick a skirt long enough to cover any area that chafes, such as your inner thighs.
- Make sure the skirt has flat seams or offers a seamless design.
- Wear a pair of shorts underneath the running skirt if it doesn't already have a pair attached. This gives you extra protection to keep your legs from chafing.
- Use an anti-chafing stick or lubricant cream on your legs and backside before you put on the running skirt.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Wendy Bumgardner has walked over a thousand 10-kilometer events, over 100 half-marathons, seven marathons, two Breast Cancer 3-Day Walks, and one Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. Wendy holds a Bachelor of Science in medical technology from the University of Portland. Wendy has a Leki Nordic Walking Instructor certificate and is an RRCA-certified marathon coach.