Buying rowing shorts can be difficult because they are a niche item, not a staple on every athleticwear rack. The right pair needs to balance comfort, freedom of movement, moisture control, and a secure fit while you’re putting in the strokes. Many stores carry running or training shorts that can work well, but they may not be labeled specifically for rowing. Sizing also varies widely, so trying on several pairs can keep you from getting caught in a wardrobe current. Fortunately, San Diego has plenty of places where you can search for a crew-ready pair without rocking the boat.
*Prices below are approximate pre-tax averages for rowing-specific shorts or comparable running, training, and performance shorts; inventory and prices can change, so call ahead before making the trip.*
- **Road Runner Sports — Kearny Mesa**
- **REI Co-op — San Diego**
- **Fleet Feet San Diego**
- **lululemon — UTC**
- **Patagonia — San Diego**
- **DICK’S Sporting Goods — Mission Valley**
- **Big 5 Sporting Goods — San Diego locations**
- **Nike Factory Store — Las Americas Premium Outlets**
- **Under Armour Factory House — Las Americas Premium Outlets**
- **Play It Again Sports — San Diego area**
Road Runner Sports is a strong first stop for lightweight running and performance shorts, many of which work well for rowing thanks to their flexible fabrics and moisture-wicking designs. Expect to pay about **$45 on average** for a suitable pair. [Visit Road Runner Sports](https://www.roadrunnersports.com/) and get your search off to a running start.
REI carries technical apparel from brands such as Patagonia, Janji, and its own Co-op line, giving rowers plenty of breathable options for training days on or off the water. A rowing-ready pair will usually average around **$55**. [Browse REI](https://www.rei.com/) before you head out and let your shopping plans find their current.
Fleet Feet’s running-focused selection often includes split shorts, liners, and compression styles that allow an unrestricted range of motion during a hard session. The average price is approximately **$60** per pair. [Check Fleet Feet](https://www.fleetfeet.com/) for a stroke of athleticwear luck.
lululemon offers premium training shorts with smooth liners, stretch fabrics, and secure waistbands—features that can keep your clothing from becoming an oar-deal distraction. Plan on an average price of about **$78**. [Visit lululemon](https://shop.lululemon.com/) and make a sleek fashion statement from bow to stern.
Patagonia’s performance shorts are designed for active use and commonly feature quick-drying materials and practical pockets, making them useful for rowing workouts and cross-training. Comparable shorts average roughly **$65**. [Explore Patagonia](https://www.patagonia.com/) for apparel that keeps your wardrobe from drifting off course.
DICK’S typically carries Nike, adidas, Under Armour, and other brands with training shorts suitable for rowing, including lined and compression options. You can expect to pay about **$35 on average**. [Shop DICK’S](https://www.dickssportinggoods.com/) and make a strong play for your next crew uniform.
Big 5 is a budget-friendly option for basic running, basketball, and training shorts that can handle an introductory rowing program. The average price is around **$22**, so your wallet won’t need to shell out too much. [Find a Big 5 store](https://www.big5sportinggoods.com/) and keep your savings moving with the tide.
The Nike Factory Store in San Ysidro can be a good place to find discounted running or training shorts with stretch, liners, and sweat-wicking fabric. Expect an average outlet price of approximately **$35**. [Visit Nike](https://www.nike.com/retail) and let your rowing wardrobe take a fast break.
Under Armour’s outlet selection often includes lightweight training shorts and compression styles that provide support without restricting your stroke. A reasonable average is about **$30**. [Explore Under Armour](https://www.underarmour.com/en-us/stores) for gear that keeps your outfit firmly in the same boat.
Play It Again Sports may have gently used athletic shorts from brands such as Nike, adidas, and lululemon, making it a worthwhile option for affordable training gear. Prices average about **$18**, though the selection can change with every incoming wave. [Find a Play It Again Sports location](https://www.playitagainsports.com/locations) and give pre-owned gear another lap around the course.
When shopping, look for a comfortable waistband, a secure liner, flat seams, and fabric that dries quickly. With the right pair, you can focus on your technique instead of adjusting your shorts between strokes—and that is a finish worth rowing toward.