Whether for competition or merely for exercise purposes, many people are taking up running as part of their daily or weekly routine. When they do, among the major concerns that they need to deal with before starting their new routine is the search for the perfect pair of running shorts. Getting shorts of good quality is in fact almost as important as getting a good pair of running shoes. This article addresses some of the most questions and considerations in regard to the purchase and use of the ideal type of shorts for running.

The first thing you need to be aware of is that you are not supposed to use underwear with your running shorts, much like you do not wear anything under a swimsuit. This means that the shorts you buy must have an integral liner built in; otherwise, it cannot honestly claim to be suitable for running. Make sure that the shorts you choose has a liner that provides firm support, keeps the skin around your groin dry at all times and is able to maintain good airflow in the area. Liners made of lightweight material with the aforementioned properties work best to ensure that you suffer minimal skin abrasions.

Although there are several options to choose from, you have to make sure that the shorts itself is made of fabric that wicks moisture effectively. Wetness from perspiration is the primary cause of chafing, which is why it is important that your shorts' material can protect you from wetness. You are therefore advised against buying shorts made of nylon or cotton because these materials do not possess the necessary properties that prevent chafing. Durability and functionality are also important considerations, so make sure that your shorts give you enough freedom of movement and that it can stand the test of time. You may know someone who been into running for some time, and you may want to check if their shorts can still compare favorably to a brand new pair. If it passes the test then it is best for you to buy a similar pair.

The ideal pair of running shorts must also provide ample male support, such that it will no longer be necessary to use a jock strap. This, however, does not mean that you can automatically switch from running to lifting weights without adding a jock strap to your outfit. Weight lifting requires more effort and for this you will definitely need a jock strap. You also need to understand that there is a reason why most of these shorts are sold separately for men and women. The male and female figures have very significant differences, especially in the waist-to-leg areas and a good pair of shorts has to fit well. For this reason, consumers are discouraged from buying shorts in unisex styles.

There are also two common styles that cause a bit of confusion among would-be runners. There is the question of whether a split leg style is better than a v-notch style or if it is the other way around. With v-notch shorts, the seams are sewn throughout the length of the shorts' leg until it reaches half an inch from the edge. It is then notched into an inverted "v", hence its name. This style is more common but the split leg style, where the front panels are only overlapped over the back panels without sewing the seams, provides more flexibility and is more preferred by serious runners. There are also shorts that have seams sewn halfway through and then overlap the rest of the way -- a style called half split.

Length is also another consideration that new runners want to resolve in searching for the best pair of shorts. It may please you to know that length is mostly decided according to personal preferences and sense of modesty. Minor things to consider still relate to the issue of chafing. There are people whose legs have a natural tendency to constantly rub against each other and if you are one of these people then it is best that you buy a lengthier pair of shorts to protect you from chafing. The maximum length of shorts for running is seven inches, and anything beyond that will already put you in the realm of pop fashion rather than running. You may also want to take note that most runners choose a shorter pair for short/fast runs and a longer pair for long/slow runs.

Most of these shorts are also made with pockets on the inside of the waistband. These pockets are very useful for people who need to bring their keys or other important personal items when they go for a run. When you choose shorts with pockets, look for those wherein the pockets are sewn close to the waistband and which have a wider waistband as well. This is to ensure that there will be minimal bouncing of the items in your pocket when you run.

Running shorts have definitely evolved in style through the years. Where previously you can only see the same form-fitting shorts worn by all runners, individual runners can now choose from a wide array of styles, colors, and patterns. Loose, lengthy, bold and bright -- you can choose a style that aptly goes with your personality. But fashion can only have so much influence. In the end, runners will still consider functionality and comfort as more important considerations. Even price cannot dictate a runner's choice as much as these two considerations do. For as long as the shorts give the right amount of protection and can stand years of use, then it is well worth the price that you pay.