The best gym shorts that don’t ride up mid-workout

They say the gym isn’t a fashion show, but we’ll have to disagree. There’s just something about putting on a cute gym outfit for a workout that will always make us lift heavier, run faster, push harder, or hold that rep for one more second.

And while matching sets and sculpting leggings usually get all the attention, a good pair of gym shorts deserves just as much credit — especially in Singapore’s heat. The right pair should stay put through squats, sprints, spin classes and everything in between, without constantly needing to be tugged back into place. Because nothing kills momentum faster than shorts that ride up halfway through a workout.

Whether you prefer body-sculpting biker shorts or breezy running styles, we’ve rounded up the best gym shorts that are flattering, functional and — most importantly — won’t budge while you move.

CRZ Yoga Secretsculpt Biker Shorts, $37.00

Soft like a second skin but with a little extra hold, these sculpting shorts are designed to sculpt while keeping you supported through every workout. The compressive Butterlift fabric smooths comfortably without feeling restrictive, while the no-front-seam design and subtle scrunch detailing enhance the fit in all the right places.

• Butterlift fabric with soft, compressive feel
• High-rise fit with 6-inch inseam
• Mid-thigh length coverage
• No front seam for added comfort
• Seamless waistband for smooth support
• Butt scrunch and V-shaped back seam detailing
• Designed for yoga and gym workouts

Lcoco&Dream Activewear Shorts, $26.71

Designed for everything from hot girl walks to high-intensity gym sessions, these high-waisted running shorts are made from a breathable polyester-spandex blend that offers stretch without feeling restrictive. The secure back phone pocket is a thoughtful touch, while the extra spandex layer underneath helps add security and minimise constant adjusting mid-workout.

• 86% polyester, 14% spandex blend
• High-waisted design for added support and coverage
• Breathable, stretchy fabric for ease of movement
• Back phone pocket for secure storage
• Suitable for yoga, running, training and gym sessions

Moving Peach Training Seamless Shorts, $29.43

Moving Peach’s seamless training shorts combine comfort and compression in all the right places. The ribbed fabric feels soft yet supportive, while the sculpting 3D fit and seagull hip detailing create a flattering silhouette to make the gains pop. Bonus: the seamless construction helps prevent chafing and unwanted bunching during workouts.

• 90% nylon, 10% spandex blend
• Ribbed seamless fabric with high stretch
• Flat seams designed to minimise chafing
• Seamless construction to reduce camel toe
• Seagull hip line detail for a sculpted look
• 3D contouring for support through hips and thighs
• Designed for training and gym workouts

Lorna Jane Liberty 14cm Bike Shorts, $85.90

If you’re after a polished pair of bike shorts that can handle everything from pilates to strength training, this pair from Lorna Jane ticks all the boxes. Made from the brand’s lightweight, sweat-wicking Bliss fabric, it features a comfortable, supportive high-rise waistband, a hidden back pocket and a no-front-seam design for extra comfort during workouts. Its longer length will also ensure everything stays in place while you’re busy sweating it out. 

• Nylon-blend Bliss fabric, a moisture-wicking material for sweat management
• High-rise fit with stomach support waistband
• 14cm length
• No front seam for added comfort
• Hidden back pocket for small essentials
• Skinny fit with elasticised waistband
• Suitable for yoga, pilates and studio workouts

Alo Yoga Match Point Short, $110

For those who prefer a breezier alternative to compressive bike shorts, Alo’s Match Point Short delivers both style and performance. Designed with a lightweight woven fabric and relaxed silhouette, it features a built-in brief for added coverage, an elastic logo waistband that feels secure without digging in, and a bonus invisible side pocket to hold small essentials on-the-go. 

• Lightweight woven fabric
• 90% polyester, 10% elastane blend
• Relaxed, flowy fit
• Built-in brief for extra support and coverage
• Elastic logo waistband
• Invisible side pocket for small essentials
• Suitable for training, tennis and studio workouts

Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Short with Pockets, $108

Built for intense workouts and humid studio sessions alike, the Wunder Train shorts are made from Lululemon’s fast-drying Everlux fabric that feels cool against the skin while offering a supportive stretch. With practical side pockets and a hidden waistband pocket, they’re designed to stay put — even during your sweatiest sessions.

• Everlux performance fabric
• Sweat-wicking and breathable
• Fast-drying with four-way stretch
• High-rise fit with supportive feel
• Side drop-in pockets for essentials
• Hidden waistband pocket for cards or keys
• Adjustable waistband drawcord to prevent slipping
• Lycra fibre for stretch and shape retention
• Soft brushed exterior with cool-touch interior

Gymshark Adapt Fleck Shorts, $69.81

Gymshark’s Adapt line is a staple collection for the girls who lift. The Adapt Fleck Shorts’ sculpting fit and durable fabric holds up through every squat and deadlift and makes the post-gym pump look immaculate. The supportive ribbed waistband stays comfortably in place, while the sweat-wicking finish helps keep you cool during intense gym sessions.

• Sweat-wicking finish for moisture control
• Supportive ribbed waistband
• Stretchy sculpting fit
• All-over fleck jacquard pattern
• Designed for lifting and training
• Body-contouring silhouette
• No bum-scrunch for a more minimalist look

Nike Dri-FIT One, $65

From long walks to HIIT or pilates classes and coffee runs after, these versatile shorts are designed to keep up with every part of your day. The silky-soft woven fabric feels lightweight and breathable, while the built-in inner layer helps prevent chafing and adds extra coverage during movement.

• Nike Dri-FIT sweat-wicking technology
• Lightweight woven outer fabric
• Built-in snug inner layer for coverage and anti-chafing support
• Waistband pocket for small essentials
• Interior lining pocket for added storage
• Suitable for running, HIIT and everyday wear