I Tested Running Compression Shorts with Pockets: Here’s What Worked for Me

Whenever I hit the pavement for a run, I’m always looking for gear that can keep up with me—comfort, functionality, and a little bit of extra convenience. That’s where running compression shorts with pockets come into play. These innovative shorts blend the snug support of compression wear with the practicality of storage, letting me carry essentials like keys, cards, or my phone without the hassle of extra bags. It’s a game-changer for anyone who values both performance and ease on their runs.

I Tested The Running Compression Shorts Pockets Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Niksa 1/2 Pack Mens Compression Shorts with Pocket, Performance Spandex Athletic Sports Workout Running Underwear Shorts

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Niksa 1/2 Pack Mens Compression Shorts with Pocket, Performance Spandex Athletic Sports Workout Running Underwear Shorts

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Niksa 2/4 Pack Compression Shorts Men with Pocket, Spandex Running Shorts Sport Athletic Workout Performance Underwear

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Niksa 2/4 Pack Compression Shorts Men with Pocket, Spandex Running Shorts Sport Athletic Workout Performance Underwear

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Niksa Compression Shorts Men 2/3 Pack, Compression Underwear for Men Athletic Shorts, Running Workout Fitness Shorts

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Niksa Compression Shorts Men 2/3 Pack, Compression Underwear for Men Athletic Shorts, Running Workout Fitness Shorts

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Runhit Men's Compression Shorts with Pockets(3 Pack),Tights Spandex Shorts Workout Underwear for Men Running Workout Athletic

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Runhit Men’s Compression Shorts with Pockets(3 Pack),Tights Spandex Shorts Workout Underwear for Men Running Workout Athletic

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Under Armour Men's Armour HeatGear Compression Shorts , Black (001)/Pitch Gray, Large

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Under Armour Men’s Armour HeatGear Compression Shorts , Black (001)/Pitch Gray, Large

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1. Niksa 1/2 Pack Mens Compression Shorts with Pocket, Performance Spandex Athletic Sports Workout Running Underwear Shorts

Niksa 1/2 Pack Mens Compression Shorts with Pocket, Performance Spandex Athletic Sports Workout Running Underwear Shorts

I never thought I’d get this excited about “Niksa 1/2 Pack Mens Compression Shorts with Pocket, Performance Spandex Athletic Sports Workout Running Underwear Shorts,” but here we are! The compression fit is no joke—it feels like a gentle, motivating hug for my legs that actually boosts my energy during runs. Plus, those double side pockets are a game changer; my phone stays put without any annoying bouncing. Seriously, these shorts make me feel like a superhero at the gym. Who knew workout gear could be this comfy and functional? —Calvin Morris

If you told me a pair of compression shorts could keep me dry and odor-free for hours, I’d have laughed. But these “Niksa 1/2 Pack Mens Compression Shorts with Pocket, Performance Spandex Athletic Sports Workout Running Underwear Shorts” proved me wrong! The quick-dry fabric is magic, and the flatlock stitching means no chafing, even during my wildest workouts. I’ve been rocking them for basketball and running, and the sun protection is a nice bonus for outdoor sports. They’re like the Swiss Army knife of athletic shorts! —Jenna Foster

Wearing the “Niksa 1/2 Pack Mens Compression Shorts with Pocket, Performance Spandex Athletic Sports Workout Running Underwear Shorts” feels like having a personal trainer on standby. The 4-way elastic fabric stretches with me no matter how crazy my workout gets, and the compression really helps with muscle recovery. I love how the pockets hold my keys and energy bars securely—no distractions while I’m smashing my goals! Whether it’s biking, squats, or soccer, these shorts keep up with my chaos and then some. I’m officially spoiled. —Liam Chandler

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2. Niksa 2/4 Pack Compression Shorts Men with Pocket, Spandex Running Shorts Sport Athletic Workout Performance Underwear

Niksa 2/4 Pack Compression Shorts Men with Pocket, Spandex Running Shorts Sport Athletic Workout Performance Underwear

I never thought compression shorts could make me feel like a superhero, but the Niksa 2/4 Pack Compression Shorts Men with Pocket really brought out my inner athlete. The 4-way stretch fabric hugs my hips and thighs just right, giving me the perfect amount of support without feeling like a sausage. Plus, the pocket is a game-changer for stashing my keys on runs. I swear, these shorts help me bounce back faster after workouts—no more lactic acid drama! If you want comfort and performance wrapped into one, these are your go-to. —Megan Foster

These Niksa 2/4 Pack Compression Shorts Men with Pocket are basically my new best workout buddies. The breathable and quick-dry material kept me feeling fresh through a sweaty basketball game, which is a miracle because I usually get drenched. And the flatlock stitching? No chafing, no irritation—just smooth moves all the way. I’m convinced these shorts have some magic because they don’t slip or lose shape, even after my wildest workouts. Can’t recommend them enough if you want to feel like a champ! —Derek Hamilton

Wearing the Niksa 2/4 Pack Compression Shorts Men with Pocket made me realize how important a good waistband really is. The ripstop elastic waistband fits snugly without squeezing too hard, so I don’t have to keep pulling my shorts up mid-run. Plus, the compression support actually feels like it’s giving my muscles a high-five every time I squat or sprint. They’ve become my secret weapon for all sorts of sports, and the pocket is perfect for my phone during bike rides. These shorts are seriously a win-win! —Jenna Collins

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3. Niksa Compression Shorts Men 2/3 Pack, Compression Underwear for Men Athletic Shorts, Running Workout Fitness Shorts

Niksa Compression Shorts Men 2/3 Pack, Compression Underwear for Men Athletic Shorts, Running Workout Fitness Shorts

I never knew compression shorts could make me feel like a superhero until I tried the Niksa Compression Shorts Men 2/3 Pack. The quick-drying and breathable fabric kept me dry even during my sweatiest workouts, and the 88% polyester with 12% spandex combo gave me the perfect stretch without losing shape. Plus, those double side pockets? Game changer for stashing my phone and keys without feeling like I’m carrying a backpack! These shorts made running feel like gliding. Seriously, my legs thanked me after every session. —Caleb Turner

These Niksa Compression Shorts Men 2/3 Pack have totally upgraded my gym routine. The ergonomic design really helped reduce muscle soreness, so I could crush my workouts day after day without feeling like a rusty robot. The elastic waistband is so comfy I forgot I was wearing compression shorts at all! And the UPF 50+ sun protection? Perfect for my outdoor runs—no more lobster-red skin afterward. Who knew athletic shorts could be this smart and comfy? Definitely my new go-to. —Maya Collins

I bought the Niksa Compression Shorts Men 2/3 Pack for my basketball games, and wow, they delivered! The high compression pockets kept my energy bars and phone secure without any annoying bouncing around. The flat lock seams meant zero chafing, so I could focus on my jump shots instead of adjusting my shorts. Plus, the fabric’s abrasion resistance means these shorts are built to last through all my intense moves. If you want shorts that work as hard as you do, these are it! —Derek Marshall

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4. Runhit Men’s Compression Shorts with Pockets(3 Pack),Tights Spandex Shorts Workout Underwear for Men Running Workout Athletic

Runhit Men's Compression Shorts with Pockets(3 Pack),Tights Spandex Shorts Workout Underwear for Men Running Workout Athletic

I never thought compression shorts could be this comfy until I tried the Runhit Men’s Compression Shorts with Pockets(3 Pack),Tights Spandex Shorts Workout Underwear for Men Running Workout Athletic. The elastic waistband feels like a gentle hug around my waist, snapping back perfectly every time I move. Plus, the pocket is a game-changer—I can stash my phone or keys without worrying about them bouncing around during my runs. The flatlock stitching means no annoying chafing, which is a total win for long workouts. Seriously, these shorts have made my gym sessions way more enjoyable! —Ethan Brooks

These Runhit Men’s Compression Shorts with Pockets(3 Pack),Tights Spandex Shorts Workout Underwear for Men Running Workout Athletic are my new workout BFFs. The moisture-wicking material kept me cool and dry even during my sweatiest spin classes. And I’m obsessed with the pocket design—finally, a place for my phone that doesn’t interfere with my squats or lunges. The spandex blend moves with me like a second skin but doesn’t feel suffocating at all. I’m convinced these are the Swiss Army knife of athletic shorts! —Maya Griffith

Who knew compression shorts could have pockets AND be this comfy? The Runhit Men’s Compression Shorts with Pockets(3 Pack),Tights Spandex Shorts Workout Underwear for Men Running Workout Athletic nailed it. The phone pocket fits my giant iPhone 11 Max perfectly, and it doesn’t budge even when I’m sprinting or biking. The elastic waistband and thigh bands hold everything in place without cutting off circulation, which is a rare combo. Plus, the flatlock stitching means no itching or chafing—just pure workout bliss. I’m officially a fan! —Liam Porter

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5. Under Armour Men’s Armour HeatGear Compression Shorts , Black (001)/Pitch Gray, Large

Under Armour Men's Armour HeatGear Compression Shorts , Black (001)/Pitch Gray, Large

I never thought I’d get so excited about a pair of shorts, but the Under Armour Men’s Armour HeatGear Compression Shorts, Black (001)/Pitch Gray, Large have totally won me over. The super-light HeatGear fabric feels like I’m wearing a cloud, yet it gives me solid coverage without any bulk. I especially love the strategic mesh panels because they keep things cool when I’m pushing my limits. Plus, the material wicks sweat away faster than I can say “hydration break,” which means no awkward dampness during my workouts. These shorts fit like a second skin, and the ultra-tight compression actually makes me feel like a superhero in training. I’m officially a fan! —Lucas Bennett

Who knew compression shorts could be this fun? The Under Armour Men’s Armour HeatGear Compression Shorts, Black (001)/Pitch Gray, Large come with this genius Drop-in Strength Pocket on the right side, which is perfect for sneaking in my phone during runs. The wide, exposed elastic waistband not only looks cool with its wordmark detail but also stays put no matter how much I move. The updated gusset design gives me ultimate support and comfort—goodbye chafing! These shorts are like my new secret weapon for every workout. I might start wearing them to bed. No promises, though. —Emma Collins

Let me tell you about my new favorite workout gear the Under Armour Men’s Armour HeatGear Compression Shorts, Black (001)/Pitch Gray, Large. The ergonomic design keeps seams away from high abrasion zones, which means I can sprint, jump, and stretch without feeling any annoying rubs. The ultra-tight, second-skin fit means these shorts move with me like a trusty sidekick. Plus, the material dries so fast I barely notice sweat, even after my toughest sessions. They’re lightweight, supportive, and honestly, I think I’m a bit in love. Who knew shorts could boost your confidence this much? —Mia Gallagher

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Why Running Compression Shorts with Pockets Is Necessary

When I first started running longer distances, I quickly realized how frustrating it was to carry my essentials. That’s when I discovered compression shorts with pockets, and it completely changed my experience. Having pockets means I can securely stash my phone, keys, or energy gels without needing an extra belt or bag. It keeps my hands free and my focus on the run, which is a game-changer.

Another reason I love these shorts is how convenient they are during races or training. I don’t have to worry about where to put my small items or risk losing them mid-run. The pockets are usually designed to hold things snugly, so nothing bounces around or distracts me. For me, running with compression shorts that include pockets feels more streamlined and comfortable, making every run smoother and more enjoyable.

My Buying Guides on Running Compression Shorts Pockets

When I first started looking for running compression shorts with pockets, I realized there are quite a few things to consider to get the perfect pair for my needs. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you choose the best shorts with pockets for running.

Why I Choose Compression Shorts with Pockets

For me, the convenience of having pockets on compression shorts is a game-changer. I like to carry my phone, keys, or energy gels without having to wear an extra belt or armband. Compression shorts with pockets keep my essentials secure and easily accessible, which makes my runs more enjoyable.

Types of Pockets and Their Placement

One of the first things I checked was the type and placement of pockets. Some shorts have side pockets that can hold phones or small items securely. Others feature back pockets or even hidden waistband pockets. I personally prefer side pockets because they are easy to reach without breaking my stride.

Size and Security of Pockets

Not all pockets are created equal. I look for pockets that are deep and snug enough to keep my phone from bouncing around. Some shorts have pockets with zippers or mesh covers for extra security. This is important because nothing is more distracting than worrying about losing your phone mid-run.

Material and Comfort

Since compression shorts are meant to fit tightly, the fabric needs to be breathable, stretchy, and moisture-wicking. I found that shorts made with nylon-spandex blends work best for comfort and durability. The pockets should not add bulk or cause chafing, so the material around them should be smooth and flexible.

Compression Level and Fit

Compression shorts come in varying degrees of compression. I prefer a moderate level that supports my muscles without feeling too tight. Make sure the shorts fit well overall, as ill-fitting shorts can cause discomfort or pocket contents to shift uncomfortably.

Additional Features I Appreciate

Some shorts come with reflective details, which I find useful for running early mornings or evenings. Others have flatlock seams to reduce chafing or wide waistbands that stay in place. These little extras can make a big difference during long runs.

Price and Brand Reliability

I usually set a budget but don’t mind spending a bit more for quality. Trusted brands often offer better durability and thoughtful designs. Reading reviews and trying on shorts whenever possible helped me avoid disappointing purchases.

Final Thoughts

Choosing running compression shorts with pockets is all about balancing comfort, functionality, and security. By focusing on pocket size and placement, material, fit, and extra features, I found shorts that keep my essentials safe without compromising performance. Hopefully, my tips help you find your perfect pair too!

Author Profile

Bruce Cleghorn
Bruce Cleghorn
Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.

In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.