Running shorts were a staple in the ’70s. With pipe-trim edges and mesh details, if you weren’t rocking shorts (most likely with tube socks), you just weren’t one of the cool kids.
Their popularity wax and waned for a bit (raise your hand if you owned a pair of Umbros in the ’90s….)—and then the activewear boom hit. The aughts could best be described as the era of the legging, with fun prints and oh-so-comfortable fabrics that made them the new pants. (Seriously, even denim took a hit.)
But with summer temperatures rising above 90 degrees—hello, heat dome!—it’s easy to fantasize about taking scissors to your beloved Wunder Unders and unleashing your legs. But don’t: because running shorts are back, and more stylish than ever.
Version 2.0 ups the cool factor with unexpected silhouettes and fabrics (I’m talking to you, faux leather), not to mention serious functionality. It makes you think that running shorts just might—okay, maybe temporarily—replace leggings.
Scroll down to see 10 of the hottest shorts of the season.
