Lined Vs Unlined Shorts: Which Should You Wear?
When choosing the right pair of shorts, one of the first decisions to make is whether to go for lined or unlined options.
Each type has distinct features that cater to different needs and personal preferences.
Lined shorts typically have an inner layer of fabric that can offer additional support, reduce chafing, and sometimes even have moisture-wicking properties.
Lined shorts are particularly favored by athletes or those engaging in intense physical activities.
On the other hand, unlined shorts are great for those who want a more relaxed fit and increased breathability.
They are often chosen for casual wear or when engaging in light activities where comfort and ease of movement are key.
Unlined shorts are also popular in warmer climates due to their lighter construction which helps keep you cool.
When choosing between lined and unlined shorts the decision comes down to personal preference and intended use.
With many designs and materials available in both categories, individuals have the flexibility to find the ideal pair that meets their style and functional needs.
But when it comes to lined vs unlined shorts is one better than the other?
Let’s find out.
Lined vs Unlined Shorts
As mentioned above, unlined shorts are great for everyday wear while lined shorts are often worn for physical activity.
However, both have their pros and cons.
Below we’ll go over the similarities and differences between these 2 different types of shorts.
Benefits of Lined Shorts
Support and Comfort
Lined shorts, particularly those with a compression liner, are designed to offer extra support, resembling the effects of supportive underwear.
This support is crucial for athletes who require a snug fit to ensure everything stays in place, thus enhancing comfort.
The built-in liner in athletic shorts also ensures that the shorts move seamlessly with the athlete’s body, allowing full range of motion without the hassle of managing separate pieces of clothing.
Enhanced Performance
Many running shorts feature lined options with sweat-wicking properties but there are many other sports in which athletes benefit from shorts with a liner.
For example, the best running shorts are made with a moisture-wicking fabric liner, which helps to wick sweat away from the skin.
This keeps athletes dry and comfortable, which can positively impact their performance.
For runners in particular, v-notch shorts with a liner are incredibly popular as the v-notch design and liner work together to provide the most comfort for runners.
Overall, lined shorts offer a distinct advantage by ensuring that moisture management is built directly into the clothing, allowing athletes to push their limits without being uncomfortable, no matter what type of workout you prefer.
Prevention of Irritation
A significant benefit of lined shorts is the reduction of skin irritation often caused by continuous movement.
The smooth, chafe-free underwear-like effect of the inner liner prevents the rubbing that can occur during extensive physical activity.
The materials used for the inner liner are typically soft and made with moisture-wicking fabric that keeps the skin dry, further minimizing the risk of chafing.
Accordingly, lined shorts provide excellent protection and can be a preferable choice for athletes seeking to avoid discomfort.
Added Coverage
Everyone has different preferences when it comes to clothing.
However, when looking for workout gear that has more coverage, lined shorts are the way to go.
The last thing anyone wants to deal with while working out is exposing their private parts/underwear and opting for shorts with a liner is an easy way to avoid that.
Women’s shorts in particular are often lined for this specific reason.
Although men can opt for boxer briefs instead of shorts with a liner, it’s often not as comfortable since there are 2 separate waistbands.
Many Options
There are so many great brands that now offer shorts with a liner.
My favorite place to get women’s styles is Amazon and the pair above is hands down my favorite.
Whether it’s a short run or a heavy lifting session, these lightweight shorts are amazing.
For men, this 7-inch pair of Pace Breaker shorts is arguably the most popular style on the market.
Benefits of Unlined Shorts
Freedom of Movement
Unlined shorts typically offer a greater range of motion due to less constriction from an extra layer of fabric.
The absence of an inner lining means there’s less material to restrict leg movements, making them a solid choice for activities that require agility.
The inseam length is also crucial; shorter inseams often found in unlined shorts enable a fuller range of leg movement.
Versatility in Use
Unlined shorts are versatile in their application.
They transition smoothly from casual wear to vigorous activities like swimming or running.
A pair of lightweight swim trunks without lining, for example, does not limit itself to water use; it can comfortably serve as casual wear as well.
The unlined version, due to its minimal design, adapts to various settings and different styles with ease.
Whether it’s a stroll in the park or a sprint on the track, unlined shorts are suitable for an array of different scenarios, keeping the wearer ready for spontaneous activity.
Material and Design Preferences
Personal preferences in material and design are another reason individuals might choose unlined shorts.
Natural fibers such as cotton or linen in unlined shorts provide a breathable fabric that is especially appreciated in warmer climates or during strenuous activity.
The light material of these shorts contributes to their comfort and appeal and may be more beneficial for those who deal with excessive sweating.
Moreover, wearers often have the option to wear underwear of their choice with unlined shorts, enabling them to decide on the level of support and coverage.
The versatility of design on the outside of the shorts creates the potential for a range of style expressions, allowing individuals to reflect their personal style in day-to-day wear or sports attire.
Considerations for Different Activities
Just as with any other type of clothing, certain shorts are best for certain activities.
Workouts and Training
For strength training and workouts that involve a wide range of motions such as squats or lunges, many prefer lined shorts.
While you can opt for a simple loose-fitting liner that is comparable to underwear, you can also find styles that are a liner made of a compression material.
Personally, my favorite gym shorts for lifting are loose-fitting lined options, not so much for range of motion, but for coverage depending on the exercise being performed.
For example, if you wear unlined loose-fitting shorts while performing a hip thrust, there’s a good chance those around you will be able to see your underwear.
Opting for a pair of shorts with a liner is a much better choice. unless you just opt for shorts with a tight fit.
Running and High-Impact Sports
During high-intensity workouts or running, the choice between lined and unlined shorts often comes down to personal preference and the need for reduced friction.
Lined shorts typically provide light compression and a tighter fit, which can prevent chafing on a long run.
On the other hand, unlined shorts are often lighter and offer a maximum range of motion, which is beneficial for sprints or short runs.
Some sports in which athletes wear lined shorts include weightlifting, boxing, hiking, gymnastics, etc.
Casual and Everyday Wear
For everyday use or casual activities where comfort is a significant factor, unlined shorts are generally the preferred option.
They provide a relaxed fit, allowing for better air circulation to keep the body cool and unrestricted movement throughout the day.
Style preferences come into play more when choosing a more casual everyday type of shorts.
What’s most important is finding the perfect fit with features that align with your needs.
Conclusion
Lined shorts offer coverage, reduction in irritation, comfort, and support, while unlined options offer freedom of movement, versatility in use, and more style and material options.
Lined shorts are great for sports and physical activity while unlined shorts are a popular choice for everyday and casual wear while also being worn for physical activity.
When it comes to lined vs unlined shorts the best choice is a matter of preference.
Both have many benefits and can be found in several color and style options.
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