#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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#3 on this list
Pace
Janji
The Janji Pace addresses one of the most common issues in running: the friction and ride-up that can plague traditional loose-shell shorts. Built in a fitted, biker-style profile, the Pace relies on a sturdy nylon-spandex blend that offers moderate compression without feeling restrictive. Review outlets consistently rank it as a standout option for women who want secure coverage on technical terrain or during long, hot road outings. The compression design completely prevents inner-thigh chafing, which makes the Pace a favorite for ultramarathon distances and warm-weather training. Instead of a traditional liner, the entire garment functions as a supportive unit. Testers frequently praise the pocket implementation, which includes deep side drop-in pockets that secure a large smartphone flat against the thigh, preventing the annoying bounce typical of loose shorts. At 5.1 ounces, the Janji Pace is noticeably heavier than ultralight split shorts, and the heavier fabric holds more heat on muggy days. However, the trade-off in carrying stability, thigh protection, and chafe prevention makes it one of the most functional endurance shorts on the market. **Highlights** - Fitted biker-style silhouette that eliminates inner-thigh friction - Supportive nylon and spandex blend with moderate muscle compression - Deep side drop-in pockets that hold large phones securely against the leg - Additional pass-through or stash waistband storage options - High-rise, secure waistband that resists rolling down during strides **Watch-outs** - Heavier 5.1 oz build runs warmer than loose, vented shorts - Compression fit is less airy for runners who prefer maximum ventilation
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Twilight Shorts | Pace |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric Blend | 89% polyester, 11% spandex micro-mesh | Nylon and spandex compressive knit |
| Liner Type | Integrated internal brief | — |
| Storage | Internal drop-in gel pockets | Dual thigh drop-in pockets, waistband stash |
| Intended Terrain | Road running and track | — |
| Price Point | Around $75 MSRP | — |
| Weight | — | 5.1 oz (145 g) |
| Silhouette | — | Fitted biker short |
| Waistband | — | High-rise with internal continuous drawcord |
| Retail Price | — | Around $78 |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
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
Pace
- Completely eliminates inner-thigh chafing on long runs
- Deep thigh pockets hold large smartphones securely with zero bounce
- Wide high-rise waistband stays anchored without rolling down
- Abrasion-resistant nylon blend handles rugged trail use
- Dense 5.1-ounce knit runs warmer than loose running shorts
- Absorbs more sweat and dries slower in high humidity
- Fitted silhouette lacks the breeze of open split shorts
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.