Pace Short vs Training Short: Which to Choose
By 3sixteen | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: Comparisons
Compare 3sixteen's Pace Short and Training Short for running, lifting, and training. Find out which running shorts suit your workout style.
Quick answer
Choose the Pace Short for lightweight, barely-there comfort with a built-in liner, or the Training Short for more pockets and a casual, unlined design that transitions from gym to daily wear.
Weight and feel matter for different activities
The Pace Short uses a featherweight nylon outer at 40gsm (about 1oz), making it feel almost weightless during high-intensity runs. The Training Short uses a heavier 100% polyester micro ripstop that provides more structure and durability for activities like lifting or cross-training.
If you prioritize a barely-there sensation for running, the Pace Short is the obvious choice. For a more substantial short that can handle gym sessions and casual wear, the Training Short delivers.
Pockets: convenience vs streamlined design
The Training Short includes two fatigue-style zip-closure pockets and three rear pockets (two snap closure, one zip), giving you ample secure storage for keys, phone, or wallet. The Pace Short has no external pockets, keeping the design minimal and reducing weight.
This trade-off means the Training Short is better for errands or activities where you need to carry items, while the Pace Short excels when you want zero distractions.
Liner vs unlined: comfort and versatility
The Pace Short has a built-in 4-way stretch half tight liner with flatlock seams for chafe-free running. The Training Short is unlined, giving you the flexibility to wear it with compression shorts or as a casual short without extra layers.
Runners who prefer a built-in liner will appreciate the Pace Short. Those who want to customize their base layer or wear the short casually should choose the Training Short.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Weight: Pace Short: 40gsm nylon, feels barely there. Training Short: heavier polyester micro ripstop, more durable.
- Pockets: Training Short: 5 pockets (2 zip, 2 snap, 1 zip). Pace Short: no external pockets.
- Liner: Pace Short: built-in 4-way stretch half tight liner. Training Short: unlined, wear with or without base layer.
Product facts
- Pace Short ~ Olive: The Pace Short uses a featherweight nylon outer at 40gsm (about 1oz) and has a built-in 4-way stretch half tight liner with flatlock seams. This makes it ideal for runners who want a barely-there feel and chafe-free comfort without needing extra layers.
Pace Short ~ Olive - Training Short ~ Umber Reflective: The Training Short features two fatigue-style zip-closure pockets and three rear pockets, made from 100% polyester micro ripstop fabric. The multiple secure pockets and durable fabric make it suitable for high-intensity training and everyday wear where you need to carry essentials.
Training Short ~ Umber Reflective
Which running short is right for you?
Best for
- Pace Short: runners and athletes who want a lightweight, liner-equipped short for running and high-intensity cardio.
- Training Short: those who need multiple pockets for storage and a versatile short that works for training and casual wear.
Not for
- Pace Short: if you need to carry phone, keys, or wallet during your run, this short lacks pockets.
- Training Short: if you prefer a built-in liner for chafe-free running without extra layers, this unlined short requires a base layer.
