#1 on this list
Strider Pro
Patagonia
The Patagonia Strider Pro is widely viewed by independent reviewers as the standard-bearer for dedicated trail running shorts. Built for big mountain miles and self-supported training days, it solves the challenge of carrying nutrition and light gear without the need for a separate waist belt. The fabric blends 90% recycled polyester with 10% spandex, creating a shell that moves naturally, sheds light moisture, and dries fast when soaked with sweat. What earns the Strider Pro top marks across gear labs is its waist storage system. The integrated envelope pockets wrap around the hips, distributing gels, trash, or a soft flask securely against the pelvis. A zippered center-back pocket provides secure storage for keys or a credit card. Reviewers note that when loaded reasonably, the waistband locks in place with minimal vertical bounce, making it practical for everything from marathon pace work to ultramarathon trail days. Trade-offs center on liner preference and price. The brief liner is snug and supportive for many runners, but those who lean toward compression liners or suffer from severe inner-thigh friction will miss the added thigh coverage. At roughly $89, it sits at the premium end of the market, but its durability and pocket execution justify the expense for serious endurance runners. **Highlights** - 90% recycled polyester shell with 10% spandex for natural mobility - Low-profile 3.8 oz weight that stays airy in hot conditions - Multi-pocket waistband design that carries nutrition with minimal bounce - Center-back zippered security pocket for keys or cards - Soft, lightweight brief liner designed for rapid drying **Watch-outs** - High price point compared to standard road running shorts - Traditional brief liner does not offer inner-thigh chafe protection
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#2 on this list
Twilight Shorts
Tracksmith
The Tracksmith Twilight Shorts target road runners who prioritize classic style, lightweight comfort, and unencumbered motion over heavy gear storage. Made from Tracksmith's micro-mesh fabric (89% polyester, 11% spandex), these shorts feel nearly weightless against the skin. Independent testers frequently highlight their breathable, silky drape, which shines during tempo efforts, track intervals, and midsummer road races. Unlike utility trail shorts that add heavy waistbands and bulky pockets, the Twilight stays intentionally minimal. The brief liner is soft and unobtrusive, and the waistband sits gently against the waist without digging in. For runners logging daily road miles or targeting personal bests in mild-to-warm weather, the lack of excess fabric and hardware translates into pure, distraction-free running. The clear limitation is carrying capacity. With only small drop-in internal pockets intended for a key or an energy gel, you cannot carry a standard smartphone or multiple flasks in these shorts. They are built for routes where you carry very little, making them less suitable for remote trail outings or unsupported multi-hour efforts. **Highlights** - Ultra-lightweight micro-mesh fabric with 11% spandex for full range of motion - Highly breathable weave that excels in warm, humid conditions - Clean, vintage-inspired aesthetic tailored for road training and racing - Comfortable, non-chafing internal brief liner - Minimalist elastic waistband with an internal drawstring **Watch-outs** - Very limited storage; cannot accommodate modern smartphones - Shell fabric is thin and less suited to abrasive, brushy trails
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Strider Pro | Twilight Shorts |
|---|---|---|
| Shell Material | 90% recycled polyester, 10% spandex | — |
| Weight | 3.8 oz | — |
| Liner Style | Internal brief | — |
| Pocket Layout | 4 envelope hip pockets, 1 zippered rear | — |
| Approximate Price | $89 | — |
| Primary Use | Trail and endurance running | — |
| Fabric Blend | — | 89% polyester, 11% spandex micro-mesh |
| Liner Type | — | Integrated internal brief |
| Storage | — | Internal drop-in gel pockets |
| Intended Terrain | — | Road running and track |
| Price Point | — | Around $75 MSRP |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Strider Pro
- Stable waistband storage carries nutrition and small flasks with minimal bounce
- Airy 3.8-ounce shell dries quickly and offers unrestricted leg movement
- Durable construction retains pocket stretch over sustained mountain miles
- Secure zippered center-back pocket keeps essential cards or keys safe
- Traditional brief liner provides zero inner-thigh chafe protection
- Premium $89 price point is high compared to standard road running shorts
- Overloading hip pockets can drag the waistband down on technical descents
Twilight Shorts
- Featherweight micro-mesh fabric provides exceptional warm-weather breathability
- Soft internal brief liner prevents chafing without restrictive elastic bands
- Fluid four-way stretch moves naturally through fast strides and workouts
- Clean, classic aesthetic avoids bulky hardware and excessive seam lines
- Minimal storage lacks room for modern smartphones or secure zipper items
- Thin micro-mesh shell is vulnerable to abrasion on rugged trails
- Premium price point for an intentionally stripped-down road short
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.