My Go-To Workout Shorts Are So Comfortable, I Almost Forget I'm Wearing Them

They have a high compression waistband that just won’t budge — even during runs.

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Composite image of two models styled in athletic wear on a peach pink background
Photo: Courtesy of Merchant

Finding a pair of running shorts that are so comfortable you actually forget you have them on seems like a workout wear urban legend. As someone who's been running consistently for the past six years, I've gone through my fair share of shorts that not only distract from my runs, but were so uncomfortable that they literally stopped me in my tracks. I'm happy to report that those elusive perfect shorts do exist, and I found them at Free People Movement.

They're called The Way Home Shorts, and they might be the most lightweight thing I've ever worn on the lower half of my body. The shorts have a high, structured elastic waistband that's smocked so it stays in place, and has a touch of compression to it while remaining stretchy enough that I can breathe and move easily in it. The nylon material below the waistband is cut in a roomy, relaxed fit that isn't boxy but also doesn't cling to my legs, even while sweating. They're a great length, the material doesn't ride up while I'm running or through HIIT workouts, and they fit easily over leggings for cold-weather runs, too. Plus, they're only $30 and come in 35 colors to suit nearly any style or aesthetic. (

Free People The Way Home Shorts
Free People

Buy It: Free People Movement The Way Home Shorts, $30, freepeople.com

With hundreds of positive reviews and an average rating of 4.5 stars, these shorts are popular among other Free People Movement shoppers, too. One said that "for the price and the stellar fit of these," they'd recommend grabbing "a pair or two," while another added that these are "incredible for running, rowing, and lifting."

Like me, another reviewer said that they were "tired" of the lower cut that seems to be standard among most running shorts. "Replace all your other shorts with these!" they wrote, adding that the waistband "holds you snug" and the fabric around the legs isn't tight. "Just amazing," they said, "1000/10 would recommend!"

Free People The Way Home Shorts
Free People

Buy It: Free People Movement The Way Home Shorts, $30, freepeople.com

Own the running shorts of your dreams by ordering the Free People Movement The Way Home Shorts in your favorite color today.

Free People The Way Home Shorts
Free People

Buy It: Free People Movement The Way Home Shorts, $30, freepeople.com

Free People The Way Home Shorts
Free People

Buy It: Free People Movement The Way Home Shorts, $30, freepeople.com

Free People The Way Home Shorts
Free People

Buy It: Free People Movement The Way Home Shorts, $30, freepeople.com

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