Fabletics Shorts Lined vs. Unlined: What's the difference?

The main difference between Fabletics Lined and Unlined Shorts lies in their construction and purpose. Lined shorts feature a built-in layer - often mesh or compression fabric - for extra support, coverage, and moisture-wicking during high-impact workouts. Unlined shorts are made from a single layer of lightweight fabric, offering a freer, more breathable feel more suitable for casual wear, lounging, or hot weather.

Here’s everything you need to know to decide if lined or unlined styles from Fabletics are the right fit for your activities.

Fabletics Lined Shorts

Fabletics Lined Shorts are designed for performance-driven activities, providing the functional benefits of built-in support. The inner liner acts as a second skin, helping to manage moisture, prevent chafing, and offer confident coverage, making them a popular choice for runners and gym enthusiasts who need shorts that keep up with intense movement.

• What it is: Activewear shorts featuring an integrated internal layer made of mesh or compression fabric for enhanced support and coverage.
• Key features: High-performance, moisture-wicking fabrics, a secure, often compressive-fit liner, athletic designs meant for movement.
• Price: $30–$45
• Materials/Construction: The outer short is typically a polyester and elastane blend, while the inner lining is crafted from mesh or a supportive, sweat-wicking compression material.
• Sizing/Fit: Available in sizes XS to 3X. The fit is generally true to size, but the built-in liner creates a snug, supportive feeling that holds you in during activity.
• Pros: Provides excellent support for high-impact workouts. Built-in liner wicks sweat and prevents chafing. Offers more coverage and security during dynamic movements. Can be worn without additional underwear.
• Cons: The extra layer can feel warmer than unlined options. Some may find the sensation of a built-in liner restrictive. Often priced slightly higher than unlined styles.

This style is perfect for runners, HIIT lovers, and anyone engaging in high-impact training who values coverage, compression, and anti-chafing benefits.

Shop Fabletics Lined Shorts: fabletics.com/products?product_line=shorts

Fabletics Unlined Shorts

Fabletics Unlined Shorts prioritize lightweight comfort and maximum breathability. Made from a single layer of fabric, these shorts often have a looser, more relaxed fit that is ideal for low-impact activities, everyday casual wear, or when you just want a minimal feel in hot weather. They give you the freedom to choose your own base layers.

• What it is: Single-layer activewear shorts without an internal liner, designed for a lightweight, breathable feel.
• Key features: Extremely lightweight construction, relaxed fits and cuts, versatile for both workouts and casual lounging.
• Price: $25–$40
• Materials/Construction: Constructed from single-layer, lightweight fabrics like polyester, nylon, or blends designed for breathability.
• Sizing/Fit: Available in sizes XS to 3X. The fit is true to size and typically features a more relaxed, looser cut for enhanced airflow and comfort.
• Pros: Superior breathability and lightweight comfort. Versatile enough for lounging, running errands, or light exercise. Provides a freer range of motion. Generally a more affordable option.
• Cons: Offers minimal support for high-impact workouts. Can feel less secure or modest during certain movements. May require specific seamless underwear to avoid lines.

This design is ideal for those who favor a minimal, airy feel for casual outings, warm-weather activities, or low-impact workouts like walking and yoga.

Shop Fabletics Unlined Shorts: fabletics.com/products?product_line=shorts

Fabletics Lined vs. Unlined Shorts Comparison

Support & Coverage

This is the most significant point of difference. Lined shorts offer built-in support and compression from the inner layer, holding your muscles and providing a secure feel during jumps, sprints, and squats. The liner also guarantees coverage, so you never have to worry about the outer short riding or shifting too much.

Unlined shorts provide no inherent support. Their fit is all about freedom and a relaxed feel. While they offer coverage, the lack of a liner means a strong gust of wind or a deep squat could lead to exposure if the fit is particularly loose. The level of support is entirely dependent on the underwear you pair them with.

Comfort & Breathability

Comfort is subjective, but it often comes down to fabric feel and temperature. Unlined shorts are the clear winner for breathability. The single layer of lightweight fabric allows for maximum airflow, making them perfect for hot, humid days or for anyone who runs warm.

Lined shorts, while made with performance moisture-wicking materials, are inherently warmer due to the second layer of fabric. However, many find the supportive, stay-put comfort of the liner a worthwhile trade-off, especially since it helps prevent uncomfortable inner-thigh chafing.

Price & Value

Fabletics is known for affordability, and both styles are competitively priced. Unlined shorts typically come in at a slightly lower price point, from $25 to $40, making them a great budget-friendly pick for casual activewear drawers. Lined shorts cost a little more, usually between $30 and $45.

The small price increase for lined shorts is justified by the added functionality - you're essentially getting a 2-in-1 garment with built-in compression and coverage. For serious athletes, this value might be more appealing, while casual wearers may find the unlined version offers better value for their needs.

Versatility & Use Case

Lined shorts are specialists. They are purpose-built for high-impact activities like running, cross-training, and HIIT. The technical features - support, moisture management, anti-chafing - are designed to enhance performance and comfort when you're working your hardest.

Unlined shorts are the versatile all-rounders. Their relaxed fit and simple design make them perfectly suited for a wide range of activities, from a low-impact yoga session or walk to running errands or simply lounging at home. They easily transition from a light workout to a casual coffee run without feeling overly technical.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both styles serve different but important roles in an activewear wardrobe.

Choose Lined Shorts if:

• You are a runner or participate in high-impact training sessions.
• You want built-in compression and muscle support.
• You prioritize security and modesty during dynamic movements.
• You are prone to inner-thigh chafing and want a solution that helps prevent it.

Choose Unlined Shorts if:

• Your primary need is maximum breathability and a lightweight feel.
• You plan to use them for lounging, casual wear, or low-impact exercise.
• You prefer the freedom of choosing your own underwear for workouts.
• You want a more budget-friendly and versatile pair of everyday shorts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the main difference between Fabletics lined and unlined shorts?

The primary difference is the construction. Lined shorts have a built-in inner layer for support and coverage, designed for athletic performance. Unlined shorts have a single, lightweight layer focused on breathability and casual comfort.

Are Fabletics shorts true to size?

Yes, most customers find that Fabletics shorts run true to size. However, always check the product description, as lined styles may have a "compressive" or "snug" fit through the liner, while unlined styles are often described as "relaxed" or "loose."

Which shorts are better for running?

Lined shorts are almost always the better choice for running. The snug liner provides muscle support, prevents chafing, and wicks away sweat effectively, keeping you more comfortable over long distances.

Do I need to wear underwear with Fabletics lined shorts?

This is a personal preference, but the built-in liner is designed to function like athletic underwear. It’s moisture-wicking and provides coverage, so many people choose to go without.

Are lined shorts hotter than unlined shorts?

Lined shorts can feel slightly warmer due to the extra fabric layer. However, they are made with performance materials designed to manage heat and sweat, so for many people, the difference is minimal during a workout.

Which style is more comfortable for lounging?

Unlined shorts are typically more comfortable for lounging. Their lightweight, single-layer design and relaxed fit provide superior breathability and a casual feel perfect for everyday wear around the house.

Do the lined shorts prevent chafing?

Yes, one of the main benefits of the compression-style liner is that it creates a smooth barrier between your thighs, which significantly helps in preventing uncomfortable friction and chafing during activities like running.

What is Fabletics's return policy for shorts?

Fabletics generally has a forgiving return window, often allowing returns within a few weeks of purchase. For VIP members, returns are usually free, making it easy to try different sizes or styles to find your perfect fit.