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5 Perfect Running Skirts You Need Right Now
Take a break from the classic shorts and shirt combo and see what all the hype is about.
As someone whose closet is stacked with shorts and running leggings, I was a non-believer, if you will, when it came to running skirts. In my mind, skirts were left to sports like tennis, not running. I was fiercely opposed to them, and definitely questioned people who weren't.
But I was curious. I had so many questions. Were they comfortable? Were they heavy? Don't they ride up? And foremost: Why would anyone want to run in a skirt anyway? Why try to change a good thing? But as more women are embracing this look, I wanted to give it a try to, and so did the people in our office.
We wanted to see what all the hype was about, so we pulled on the skirts and hit the roads. Through our testing and trials, we discovered that 1) all running skirts are not created equal, and 2) these converts may be on to something.
We picked the five best that will help you train hard while leaving you chafe and wedgie-free (a runner’s dream!) in the summer heat. Whether you are a lover of the look, or enjoy sticking to your traditional gear, these skirts will have you feeling fast and looking fantastic.
Skirt Sports Jette Skirt
Worn by: Betty Wong Ortiz, Runner’s World Editor-in-Chief
With its pleated panels, this skirt will keep you light, fresh, and stylish during the summer heat. This short skort wicks away moisture and won't ride up, thanks to the rubber grips that keep the shorts in place. It even has pockets to store keys or an iPhone so you can run hands free! “It’s a light skirt-and-short combo that provided ample coverage.”
Buy Now: $28-$70, amazon.com
Asics Interval Running Skort
Worn by: Gina Kelchner, Senior Reference Librarian for Rodale Inc.
With this spandex and mesh combo, you get a flexible, sweat-free skirt that moves with you when you run. Designed to sit higher on your waistline, this skirt has mesh panels to keep you from over-heating and shorts that don’t ride up. As someone who wears running skirts frequently, Kelchner enjoyed how natural the skirt felt when running. “I was comfortable throughout the run,” Kelchner said. “For the right price, I would definitely buy it.” Overall: 9/10.
Buy Now: $50, amazon.com
Lululemon Circuit Breaker Skirt (Regular)
Worn by: Erin Benner, Art Director for Runner’s World
This slim-fitting skirt is perfect for the runner who wants an efficient yet sleek look. Made with breathable fabric, this skirt will keep you covered and the sweat stains at bay. “I've tried a bunch of running skirts over the years,” Benner said, “and this one is by far the best one in style, function, and comfort.” Benner said she would have preferred underwear over booty shorts underneath the skirt, but still gave it a 9/10.
Buy Now: $68, lululemon.com
New Balance Casino Skort
Worn by: Leah Polakoff, Associate Web Producer for Prevention Magazine
This skort pulls double-duty as a tennis and running skirt. Made with a super soft material and built-in boy shorts, this skirt has pleated panels on the back that keep you cool as you up your mileage. Polakoff said the skirt was very comfortable, and the shorts stayed in place after the first few miles. “I’m not one to pick out a skirt to run in, but if I had to wear one, it would be this,” Polakoff said. “It’s timeless and cute, and the small ruffles in the back were very flattering.” The final rating? 7/10.
Buy Now: $50, newbalance.com
Altra Women’s Performance Skort
Worn by: Maura Dalek, Wear Tester
Designed with cutting-edge flexible fabric made to withstand any weather, the Altra Women’s Performance Skort is perfect for the woman who wants a stylish yet dependable skirt. With an anti-odor full fitted short underneath, this skirt wicks away sweat while providing full coverage while you run. Though she wasn't entirely a fan of the ZeroLite fabric in the front, Dalek said it was comfortable and light. “It had a lot of pockets where you could store your gels, both the front and back, and a zip pocket too!” Dalek said. Final rating? 8/10.
Buy Now: $60, altrarunning.com
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