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Writer's pictureCompression Athlete

The Top 2-in-1 Shorts for Women 2024

Polished exterior meets performance interior.

Female athlete working out in 2-in-1 shorts.

If you set out to design the perfect pair of shorts for an individual with an active lifestyle, 2-in-1 shorts would be the result.


The 2-in-1 short design pairs a polished outer short that you can wear throughout the day with a performance ready liner short for comfortable compression support.


In other words, you’re ready for whatever and without sacrificing style.


Incorporating a pair of 2-in-1 shorts into your wardrobe is a great way to simplify your transitions throughout the day to the track or gym by eliminating the need to pause, change, and reset between activities, errands, and more.


The convenient 2-in-1 design provides coverage, support, and mobility in a distraction-free fit.


And the compression liner shorts provide a breathable base layer that’s quick-drying, sweat-wicking, and extra comfortable.


Here, we’ve put together a list of the Top 2-in-1 Shorts for 2024.


Check it out, grab a pair, and don’t let anything slow you down.



What Are the Benefits of 2-in-1 Shorts?


Just as the name implies, 2-in-1 shorts are essentially two pairs of shorts combined into one garment.


This design includes an outer short, typically a stretchy and lightweight fabric, and a compression inner short, which serves as a secure base layer.


While you could recreate this design on your own, layering athletic shorts over a pair of compression shorts, sometimes the result isn’t a perfect mix.


There’s often a little shifting or sliding around from the top layer if the fit and fabrics of the two shorts aren’t compatible.


The 2-in-1 design, on the other hand, helps everything stay securely in place and reduces any distractions, giving you the comfort and performance of compression shorts with a polished top layer that won’t ride up or shift around.


It’s no surprise that these shorts are continuing to grow in popularity, as they’re widely applicable across the athletic world and make for easy transitions.


2-in-1 shorts are great for running, training, and anytime you plan on being active (or simply want to be prepared for it).


Secure storage options for 2-in-1 shorts.

Many 2-in-1 short designs also include compression pockets to help solve the dilemma of what to do with your valuable items—phone, keys, credit card, etc.—while you’re active.


Nobody likes the feel of things bouncing around in their pockets while trying to focus on the task at hand.


Kick up the intensity on your workout and those items will start banging all around like crazy.


So, if you’re looking for an option that doesn’t require any extra garments, superfluous fabric, or additional items to wear on your body, then opt for a pair of compression shorts with pockets, like those you can find in most 2-in-1 options.


The stretchy and snug compression fabric secures the pocketed item tightly and comfortably against your leg or waistband.


This way the item wont shift or bounce around, throwing off your concentration or causing you discomfort.


Keys and other small objects store perfectly in the zippered and fold-in waistband pockets that many 2-in-1 shorts have.


And the best part about a compression pocket is that you’re still able to move freely with the pocketed item.


The compression fabric snuggly fits the item against your body while its stretchy properties allow your body a full range of motion.



Note: Featured products are independently selected and reviewed by Compression Athlete. If you purchase through our links, we may earn commission.



1. Lululemon Track That Lined Shorts


The Lululemon Track That Lined Shorts feature a signature water-repellent Glyde fabric with a seersucker texture and a soft liner that’s sweat-wicking and quick-drying. These 2-in-1 shorts are designed to handle long running strides with a little extra room in the leg opening.


Athlete wearing Lululemon Track That Lined Shorts.


Lululemon’s Track That Lined Shorts have a high-coverage design and a side zippered pocket to stash essential items. These 2-in-1 shorts utilize a lie-flat waistband that doesn’t dig in and a continuous drawcord for a custom fit.



2. Lululemon Hotty Hot High-Rise Lined Shorts


The Lululemon Hotty Hot High-Rise Lined Shorts feature lightweight Swift fabric with four-way stretch and mesh ventilation panels. These 2-in-1 shorts have a comfortable built-in liner for extra coverage with a secure stash pocket.


Athlete wearing Lululemon Hotty Hot Lined Shorts.


Lululemon’s Hotty Hot High-Rise Lined Shorts sport an easy-to-cinch drawcord, a discreet zippered pocket, and reflective details for improved visibility. These 2-in-1 shorts are sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and are also available in Low-Rise.



3. 2XU Aero 2-in-1 Shorts


The 2XU Aero 2-in-1 Shorts pair a perforated lightweight stretch woven outer for enhanced ventilation with a powerful PWX compression inner for optimal muscle support. These 2-in-1 shorts are available in two color options.


Athlete wearing 2XU Aero 2-in-1 Shorts.

 

2XU’s Aero 2-in-1 Shorts utilize a back zip pocket for secure storage, a flat elastic waistband with an internal drawcord, and reflective logos and trim.



4. Under Armour Vanish 2-in-1 Shorts


The Under Armour Flex Woven 2-in-1 Shorts feature a lightweight, comfortable, and durable stretch-woven fabric with built-in soft knit compression shorts. These 2-in-1 shorts utilize Storm technology that repels water while remaining breathable.


Athlete wearing Under Armour Flex Woven 2-in-1 Shorts.

Shop at Under Armour: UA Vanish 2-in-1 Shorts


Under Armour’s Vanish 2-in-1 Shorts sport a 3-inch inseam outer layer with a 3-inch inseam base layer. These 2-in-1 shorts have a wide and flat waistband, a secure compression drop-in pocket, and 4-way stretch for a full range of motion.



5. Under Armour Play Up 2-in-1 Shorts


The Under Armour Play Up 2-in-1 Shorts feature a cool and comfortable knit fabric with mesh panels for added breathability. These 2-in-1 shorts utilize sweat-wicking and quick-drying material with an anti-pill finish for extra durability.


Athlete wearing Under Armour Play Up 2-in-1 Shorts.

Shop at Under Armour: UA Play Up 2-in-1 Shorts


Under Armour’s Play Up 2-in-1 Shorts have a soft and lightweight knit fabric outer short with a 3-inch inseam and a supportive knit compression inner short with a 5.5-inch inseam. These 2-in-1 shorts utilize a soft elastic waistband and side hand pockets.



6. Under Armour Fly-By 2-in-1 Shorts


The Under Armour Fly-By 2-in-1 Shorts pair a lightweight and durable woven fabric outer layer with a supportive knit compression inner layer. These 2-in-1 shorts sport super breathable mesh panels for enhanced ventilation.


Athlete wearing Under Armour Fly-By 2-in-1 Shorts.

Shop at Under Armour: UA Fly-By 2-in-1 Shorts

 

Under Armour’s Fly-By 2-in-1 Shorts utilize sweat-wicking material that dries quickly and a ruched mid-rise waistband with an internal drawcord. These 2-in-1 shorts have an invisible side zip pocket for small item storage.



7. Nike One Dri-FIT Fitness 2-in-1 Shorts


Nike One Dri-FIT Fitness 2-in-1 Shorts pair an incredibly soft woven fabric outer layer that’s sweat-wicking and silky smooth with a snug compression base layer that supports and prevents chaffing.


Athlete wearing Nike One Dri-FIT Fitness 2-in-1 Shorts.


Nike’s One Dri-FIT Fitness 2-in-1 Shorts have waistband and interior lining pockets for small item storage, as well as Dri-FIT technology to keep you dry and comfortable.



8. Nike Dri-FIT Swift 2-in-1 Shorts


Nike Dri-FIT Swift 2-in-1 Shorts pair an extra soft and lightweight outer layer for a barely-there feel with a snug compression base layer for ultimate coverage and chafe-prevention. These 2-in-1 shorts have a drawcord mid-rise waistband and reflective graphics.


Athlete wearing Nike Dri-FIT Swift 2-in-1 Shorts.


Nike’s Dri-FIT Swift 2-in-1 Shorts sport a zippered left hip pocket, an internal stash pocket, a center back waistband pocket, and a right thigh compression drop-in pocket. These 2-in-1 shorts also have Dri-Fit technology and a bungee loop for your keys.



9. Nike Flex Essential 2-in-1 Shorts


The Nike Flex Essential 2-in-1 Shorts provide optimal flexibility paired with sweat-wicking technology to keep you comfortable and dry. These 2-in-1 shorts have a standard fit outer short with a pocket on the right for storage.


Athlete wearing Nike Flex Essential 2-in-1 Shorts.


Nike’s Flex Essential 2-in-1 Shorts have a relaxed and woven outer short that stretches with your body and a stretchy compression inner short for support and sweat-wicking capabilities. These 2-in-1 shorts are available in three classic colors.



10. Adidas Training 2-in-1 Shorts


The Adidas Gym Training 2-in-1 Shorts pair a soft and lightweight woven outer layer with a moisture-wicking AEROREADY compression inner layer. These 2-in-1 shorts are available in 3 stylish color options.


Athlete wearing Adidas Gym Training 2-in-1 Shorts.

 

Adidas’ Gym Training 2-in-1 Shorts sport a high-rise elastic waist, a secure compression stash pocket, side slits for improved mobility, and bonded hems for comfort.

 

 

11. Adidas Own the Run 3-Stripes 2-in-1 Shorts


The Adidas Own the Run 3-Stripes 2-in-1 Shorts pair a lightweight and breathable outer with a supportive inner compression layer. These 2-in-1 shorts sport moisture-wicking AEROREADY to keep you dry and comfortable.


Athlete wearing Adidas Own the Run 3-Stripes 2-in-1 Shorts.

 

Adidas’ Own the Run 3-Stripes 2-in-1 Shorts have a drawcord elastic waistband, secure side pockets on the inner tights, and reflective details for improved visibility in low light conditions.



12. Baleaf Laureate High-Rise 2-in-1 Shorts


The Baleaf Laureate High-Rise 2-in-1 Shorts pair a lightweight, soft, and breathable outer layer with a snug compression base layer that provides a full range of motion. These 2-in-1 shorts feature 2 compression side pockets for secure storage.


Athlete wearing Baleaf Laureate High-Rise 2-in-1 Shorts.


Baleaf’s Laureate High-Rise 2-in-1 Shorts have a 3-inch inseam length and a fashionable crossover hem for a streamlined look. These 2-in-1 shorts sport flatlock seams for a no-chafe fit and a wide waistband for superior comfort and coverage.


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13. New Balance RC Printed 2-in-1 Shorts


The New Balance RC Printed 2-in-1 Shorts pair a lightweight stretch-woven fabric outer layer with a seamless compression inner layer. These 2-in-1 shorts utilize quick-drying, sweat-wicking NB DRY technology to keep you focused.


Athlete wearing New Balance RC Printed 2-in-1 Shorts.

Shop at New Balance: NB RC Printed 2-in-1 Shorts

 

New Balance’s RC Printed 2-in-1 Shorts have extra comfortable stay-put leg hems, internal drop-in pockets, and a center-back zipper pocket.



How Are You Supposed to Wear 2-in-1 Shorts?


The 2-in-1 short design might seem a bit peculiar at first to the unfamiliar.


Because it’s essentially two pairs of shorts combined, an outer short and liner short, you might be wondering if you’re supposed to wear underwear with your 2-in-1 shorts.


In short, the answer is no, there’s no need to wear underwear with your 2-in-1 shorts. This is because the inner short, or liner short, is designed to be worn as a baselayer right against the skin.


In other words, you wear 2-in-1 shorts just like how you wear a pair of compression shorts.


Note, however, that if you prefer an additional garment under your compression shorts, this is okay too.


While you may lose some of the benefits that compression has to offer, it’s always important to go with what’s most comfortable for you.


Also, keep in mind that if you do opt to wear underwear with your 2-in-1 shorts be sure to choose a pair well-suited to fit under compression, so as not to cause irritation.


Look for an underwear choice that is form-fitting, breathable, and has a minimal or no-seam design, like these seamless thong and seamless brief options.



The Benefits of Wearing Compression in Hot Weather


When the temps and humidity rise, having the right gear becomes essential for athletes.


Whether you’re training, competing, or just out for some endorphin-boosting exercise, compression garments are the best available clothing choice for hot weather.


The unique fabric blend of compression dries quicker than any other fabric choice, which is helpful when you’re pouring out sweat.


This way there’s no trudging along in sweat-soaked garments that can hamper your range of motion and cause chafing.


Additionally, the breathability and sweat-wicking capabilities of compression will help you stay cool, comfortable, and dry.


Compression fabric is not only lightweight and breathable, but it also moves sweat away from the body to allow for proper body temperature regulation, which is especially important in warm conditions when overheating can occur.


Another beneficial element of compression wear that shouldn’t be overlooked is improved muscle oxygenation.


Whenever you’re moving, exercising, training, competing, or whatever it may be, the muscles in your body start working harder and demand an increase in oxygen.


Compression can assist your body in this process, as the compressive pressure is designed to increase the levels of oxygen your muscles receive through improved blood flow.


This improved muscle oxygenation helps athletes perform at a higher level for longer periods.


There’s also the added benefit that better muscle oxygenation can lead to faster muscle recovery.



For additional help on picking out a great pair of compression shorts, check out our Comprehensive Guide to Compression Shorts.

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