Janji Pace Women’s Running Shorts Review
A lightweight, fitted road running short perfect for runners who need protection from chaffing
June 3rd, 2026
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Our verdict
For runners with curvier butts and thighs, biker-style or fitted shorts are a must to keep our legs from rubbing together. We tested the tight Janji Pace shorts with a 7-inch inseam (5-inch is also available), which prevented chafing from our legs rubbing together and stayed in place from the first step to the last, thanks to the inch of silicone grippers on the inside of the leg openings.
We wore these shorts on quicker runs around the neighborhood as well as slower-paced, 6-mile runs in the mountains with sunny weather and temperatures in the 70s. No matter the length of the run, the mid-level compression stayed supportive and even kept our phone in place with minimal bouncing in the side drop-in pockets.
There are two other pockets on the inside of the waistband and on the outside, but none have zippers to fully secure items. However, we fully recommend the Janji Pace shorts to anyone whose thighs rub together when they walk, for any length of run, and at any temperature—they have a cult following for a reason.
Janji Pace Shorts
7”
5”
For more of our favorite running shorts, check out our Best Women’s Trail Running Shorts. And if you’re looking for something warmer or with longer inseams, check out our Best Women’s Winter Running Tights guide.
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Janji Pace Shorts (7”) specifications
Price: $78
Sizes: XXS to XXXL
Inseam options: 5” and 7”
Fit: high compression, rise
Fabric: nylon, spandex, and polyester power mesh lining on waistband
Weight: 5 oz
Liner: no
Pockets: 4; two deep side drop-in pockets, internal small waistband pocket, back pocket that doubles as a pass-through pocket for extra layers (no zippers on any of the pockets)
Phone pocket: Yes
Waistband: elastic with drawcord
Split: No
Gusseted crotch: Yes
Quick-dry: Yes
Reflective elements: Yes
Best for
The Janji Pace shorts are great for runners of all experience levels for outings in moderate temperatures. Photo credit: Sarah Wallock
Long road or trail runs where you want pockets for a phone, fuel, and more
Runners needing mid- to high-compression
Runners of all experience levels, from beginner to experienced
Runners with thighs that touch who need protection from legs rubbing together
Any runner who likes ample pocket storage
Outings in moderate temperatures (not extreme heat)
Comparison table
| RUNNING SHORTS | WAIST RISE | COMPRESSION LEVEL | AVAILABLE SIZES | AVAILABLE LENGTHS | WEIGHT | POCKETS | MSRP* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Janji 7" Pace Short | Mid | Mid to high | XXS-XXXL | 5" and 7" | 5.0 oz | 4 | $78 |
| Arc’teryx Essent High-Rise Utility Short 6" | High | Mid to high | 00 - 16 | 6" | 4.8 oz | 4 | $90 |
| Bandit Stamina-V High Waist 5" Compression Short | High | High | XS - XL | 5" and 7" | 4.8 oz | 4 | $85 |
| rabbit Leggy Smashems 5" | Mid | Moderate | XS - XL | 5" | Not listed | 6+ | $70 |
What we liked
Accessible pockets; two side drop-ins, one internal on the back waistband, one external slide-through on the back waistband; the drop pockets fit an iPhone16 (with an Otterbox case and PopSocket attached) in our testing
Silicone grippers on the inside edge of the leg opening to keep the legs from rolling up
Available in both 5” inseams and 7” inseams (we tested the 7” inseam)
Mid- to high-compression was comfortable for a whole run and stayed after multiple washes
Inclusive sizing
What could be better
Can feel too warm on very hot days
No fully secured zipper pockets
Slightly higher price than similar options by Brooks or Rabbit
How we tested
No matter the type of run or distance, the Janji Pace shorts are supportive and don’t allow for any chafing. Photo credit: Sarah Wallock
We tested the women’s Janji Pace Shorts with a 7” inseam on road runs and trail runs around Boulder, Colorado, in the spring and early summer. Testers include body types with curves (read: ample butt and thighs), and more thinner, toned body types. Both runners wore a size medium and had no issues with fit, support, or chaffing.
Runs ranged from 3 to 10 miles, with average paces of faster 9-minute miles to slower 12-minute miles on the trail. The Pace shorts were worn in temperatures ranging from the mid-50s with clouds to 75 degrees Fahrenheit with pure sunshine. We carried our phones, a 12-ounce hard, insulated water bottle, Scratch Lab Energy Chews, and extra layers to see where the gear fit best and which pockets produced the least bounce.
The shorts were tested with a running vest and also while wearing the Ruffwear Trail Runner Belt around the waist.
We tested these shorts alongside other similar shorts, including the Arc’Teryx Essent High-Rise Utility shorts with a 6” inseam and the Patagonia Maipo shorts with an 8” inseam from our upcoming Best Road Running Shorts guide.
Performance in the field
Fit and movement
The Janji Pace shorts have a tight fit that isn’t restrictive but does add plenty of support. They fit true to size and are extremely comfortable, with a very soft, sleek feel. Photo credit: Sarah Wallock
The Janji Pace shorts are among the most comfortable I’ve run in. They fit true to size with mid-to-high compression, meaning they are tight enough to limit added bounce or movement while I run, but not so tight that they're impossible to get on or dig into my stomach or thighs.
The waistband stays in place, as do the leg openings, so I didn’t chafe or have to adjust mid-run. They are made from a stretchy, soft fabric that moves with each stride without bunching. The compression also held up during runs lasting for a few hours and stayed tight after multiple washes.
Waistband behavior
The drawcord on the Janji Pace running shorts doesn't bunch, but can easily come out in the wash. Photo credit: Sarah Wallock
The waistband is 3 inches in length and sits right at the belly button. It’s double layered, which provides good compression around the waist on runs, but it was still easy to pull on over my butt and hips. With the compression, I never had to use the drawstring—it also came out easily in the wash, so I might just pull it out and ditch it. I never found the waistband rolling down during longer runs (more than 6 miles).
Pocket usability
We could easily slip in our extra layer in the back, pass-through pocket on the Janji Pace running shorts. Photo credit: Sarah Wallock
The pockets on the Pace shorts are what make these one of our favorite running shorts. There are four pockets in total, more than most other road running shorts, which usually have two side pockets or one waist pocket. On these, you get a slip-through pocket on the back of the waist to stuff in extra layers, as well as a small internal pocket on the waistband. This small pocket doesn’t zip or have an envelope closure, so I’d be cautious of putting anything super important in there, but lip balm or gels fit perfectly.
The two side drop-in pockets were very compressive, so my iPhone 16 didn’t bounce around at all, but it was still easy to get in and out mid-run to change up my podcast. These side pockets also run almost the full length of the legs, so you really could stuff quite a bit in there if you had to. And, the pocket on the right leg has an attached elastic loop to clip in a key.
Breathability and heat management
Even though a 7-inch inseam could feel a bit long on a really hot day, the lightweight, breathable fabric of the Pace shorts made for a very comfortable run. On sunny days with temperatures in the mid-60s, while heading uphill, I never felt too hot or swampy. The shorts were breathable, with no unnecessary extra fabric on the side pockets or waistband.
Chafe prevention
Silicone grippers should be on every pair of tight shorts. The silicone grippers on the Janji Pace running shorts are ample and meant the hems didn’t ride up at all during any run. Photo credit: Sarah Wallock
These shorts are also our favorite road running shorts because of their anti-chafe construction, which includes silicone grippers on the inside bottom hem. As a runner with thighs that rub together when I walk, I can only properly run in shorts if they are tight, biker-style shorts like these.
However, not all tight shorts work, either, as some have too short of an inseam or immediately ride up. The Pace Shorts with a 7-inch inseam were perfect for my legs and are now my go-to for any run, especially my longer runs on the weekends. They literally never moved an inch thanks to the grippy hem.
I’ve found that with my body shape, 7-inch shorts work the best compared to 5-inch inseams, but the Janji Pace shorts come in both lengths, so you can pick what works best for you. The seams are sewn flat, so I also didn’t get any rubbing or hotspots.
Durability
We found no wear on the Janji shorts after at least four testing runs and multiple years of use. Seams stayed intact with no fraying, and the overall compression and stretchiness remained after many washes.
Features
There isn’t a zipper pocket on the Janji Pace running shorts shorts, but the key loop is secure and the drop-in pockets are tight so nothing can tumble out. Photo credit: Sarah Wallock
Built-in liner
These shorts are compression shorts, so they do not have a built-in liner.
Elastic waistband with drawcord
The waistband is a double-layered, 3-inch waistband with a drawcord that, unfortunately, could easily slip out in the wash.
Zip or stretch pockets
On the sides are two drop-in phone pockets with angled entries to keep the phone from falling out (one of these pockets has a loop to attach keys to); one slide-through pocket on the back to stuff in extra layers; and one small, slip-in internal pocket on the back waistband for keys or cards. None of the pockets uses a zipper closing.
Phone pocket
The drop-in side pockets on the Janji Pace shorts easily fit my iPhone (with an Otterbox case and a PopSocket attached). The fabric is tight enough that nothing bounced around during runs, even speed work or when going uphill. Photo credit: Sarah Wallock
The side pockets easily fit an iPhone 16 with an OtterBox case and a PopSocket; we found no bouncing during runs.
Lightweight fabric
The shorts are made from a lightweight, stretchy nylon-and-spandex blend that provides medium-to-high compression.
Quick-dry material
The shorts are made from a quick-drying material.
Gusseted crotch
There is a gusseted crotch on the Pace shorts. A gusseted crotch means a small triangle or diamond of fabric is added between the main crotch seams; this improves fit and mobility by adding extra flexibility so the seams are pulled from multiple directions when you run, rather than just front-to-back.
Reflective elements
Janji placed reflective elements on the front right leg and on the back left leg. If you’ll be running in the dark, check out our Best Reflective Gear for Running in the Dark guide.
Warranty
Janji Run Everywhere Guarantee: If a Janji product rips, tears, or breaks within five years due to any defect in workmanship or material, Janji will repair, replace, or give store credit.
Sustainability/ethics
These are made from Groundwork Knit (a blend of spandex and nylon), which uses significantly tighter-woven filaments than standard synthetics, so there is technically less microfiber shedding. It also adds to durability for a longer lifespan. Groundwork Knit fabric is also bluesign certified.
Should you buy the Janji Pace running shorts?
The Janji Pace shorts are for any runner that wants to prevent chafing. Photo credit: Sarah Wallockon for any
Buy if you often chafe from your inner thighs rubbing together or if you tend to carry a lot of different items on your longer runs
Skip if you want a pair of shorts for extreme heat, prefer loose shorts rather than fitted, or don’t need all the features and are looking for shorts at a lower price.
Where to buy the Janji Pace Running Shorts
The Janji Pace road running shorts are popular, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.
REI
Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.
Evo
Pros: 365 day returns, store locations in ski towns for easy last-minute pick-up, may offer rentals if you want to try before you buy, earn 10% back in Rewards
Janji
You can sometimes find more options when purchasing directly from the retailer. Sometimes, purchasing directly from the retailer can make it easier if you need to make a warranty return, such as if there is a defect.
Advice on where to buy
In general for apparel, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns, like REI. If your funds allow, many people find it is faster to order two sizes and return whichever one didn't fit as well. Additionally, check reviews to see whether other users recommend sizing up or down.
Similar road running shorts
Arc’teryx Essent High-Rise Utility Short
Price: $90
Sizes: 00 to 16
Inseam options: 6”
Fit: High compression
Fabric: Nylon, spandex; polyester power mesh lining on waistband
Weight: 4.8 oz
Pockets: Two side drop-in pockets, back waistband pocket with key loop, front waistband pockets for fuel
The Acr’teryx Essent High-Rise Utility shorts are very similar to the Janji Pace shorts. They are lightweight, stretchy and move with you and have a similar compression style. The Essent shorts are 1 inch shorter in the inseam compared to the Janji Pace, but we’ve found no chafing with these, even on longer runs.
These shorts also have a similar silicone gripper at the hem, but the leg openings dig in slightly more than those of the Janjis. There are two side drop-in pockets, a large back waistband pocket (with a key loop), and another slip-in pocket on the front waistband. Some testers found this pair too tight around the waist, possibly due to the longer 4-inch waistband.
Arc’teryx Essent High-Rise Utility Short
Price: $85
Sizes: XS to XL
Inseam options: 5”
Fit: High compression
Fabric: Polyester, recycled polyester, elastane
Weight: 4.8 oz
Pockets: Two side drop-in pockets with a waterproof interior, two waistband gel pockets
The Bandit Stamina-V shorts have a compression similar to the Janji Pace shorts and a thick line of silicone grippers at the leg opening, which kept the legs in place for all runs while testing. They are only 5 inches long, so we did have some chafing from our legs rubbing together, but nowhere else, as the seams are flat and minimal.
This is also the only pair of shorts we've tested that didn’t have a seam running up the front groin area, which allowed for a slightly more comfortable fit if you did need to pull these up higher on your waist and hips. They don’t come in as many larger size options, though.
Bandit Stamina-V High Waist 5" Compression Short
Why you should trust us / About the authoR
Based in Boulder, Colorado, Mattie specializes in writing about outdoor adventures, gear, travel, fitness, health, and education/parenting, with more than 10 years of experience. Her areas of expertise include trail running, camping, backpacking, snowboarding, and hiking.
Mattie's favorite part of living in Boulder is the easy access to so many trails—whether that’s hiking, trail running, or road running, she gets outside by any means with her dog, Imogene. Every summer, she trains for some sort of trail race in Colorado; in past years, she has run the Imogene Pass Run in Ouray, the West Line Winder in Buena Vista, and the Crested Butte Ultra. You can read more of Mattie’s work at her website or on her author page.
