Buying cheap running shorts can be surprisingly difficult because low prices do not always mean a good fit. Some pairs may leave your wallet light but your comfort even lighter. Others look like a great deal until you discover they lack pockets, breathability, or enough room to make a proper stride. Chattanooga shoppers also have to balance online bargains with local availability, since athletic stock can change faster than a sprint. The good news is that these ten stores can help you keep your costs on track without putting your wardrobe through a rough run. Prices below are approximate averages for budget-friendly running shorts and may vary by sale, brand, and season.

1. **[Walmart](https://www.walmart.com/store-finder)** — Walmart is often a strong starting line for inexpensive athletic wear, with basic running shorts commonly averaging **about $12**. Look for athletic house brands and seasonal clearance racks, where your savings can really pick up the pace. Check the Chattanooga store finder before heading out because sizes and styles can vary.
2. **[Target](https://www.target.com/store-locator)** — Target’s All in Motion and similar athletic lines typically put cheap running shorts at **around $17 per pair**. The designs usually offer a nice balance of comfort and style, so your shopping trip does not have to run out of steam. Sales and Circle offers may lower the price further.
3. **[Ross Dress for Less](https://www.rossstores.com/store-locator/)** — Ross can be a real bargain sprint, with discounted running shorts averaging **roughly $11**. Because its inventory changes frequently, you may need to race through several racks to find the right size and inseam. Brand-name athletic shorts sometimes show up at especially good prices.
4. **[Marshalls](https://www.marshalls.com/us/store/stores/storefinder/)** — Marshalls commonly carries budget athletic shorts for **about $13 on average**. Its rotating selection means every visit can be a new leg of the shopping journey, and clearance finds can stretch your dollars farther. Check the activewear section for moisture-wicking fabrics and liner shorts.
5. **[T.J. Maxx](https://tjmaxx.tjx.com/store/stores/store-finder)** — T.J. Maxx is another place where running shorts often average **around $13**. The store’s discounted name-brand selection can help your budget cross the finish line without sacrificing performance. Inventory is unpredictable, but that is part of the thrill of the chase.
6. **[Burlington](https://www.burlington.com/storelocator)** — Burlington typically offers inexpensive athletic shorts for **approximately $11 per pair**. Its low prices make it easier to stock up, so your laundry basket will not have to run a solo race. Browse both the activewear racks and clearance areas for the best deals.
7. **[Old Navy](https://oldnavy.gap.com/stores)** — Old Navy’s athletic shorts frequently average **about $16**, with promotions sometimes bringing them below that mark. Its lightweight fabrics and casual cuts make these shorts a comfortable choice for running errands or running miles. Keep an eye out for online-to-store deals so your savings do not miss a beat.
8. **[Academy Sports + Outdoors](https://www.academy.com/stores)** — Academy usually has budget running shorts averaging **around $16**, particularly through its house brands and sale sections. This is a good place to shop when you want athletic features without making your wallet do heavy lifting. Check local Chattanooga inventory online before making the trek.
9. **[DICK’S Sporting Goods](https://stores.dickssportinggoods.com/)** — DICK’S tends to be pricier, but its clearance and store-brand running shorts can average **about $25** when discounted. That may be a longer financial run than the other options, but you can often find better technical fabrics and performance features. Sale racks are where your budget may finally break the tape.
10. **[Five Below](https://locations.fivebelow.com/)** — Five Below can be one of the cheapest stops, with basic athletic shorts averaging **around $8 to $10**. They may not have the advanced features of premium running gear, but they are a solid choice for casual jogs, gym sessions, or beginning your running journey. At that price, your savings are practically doing a victory lap.

Before you buy, test the waistband, check for a liner and pockets, and make sure the fabric allows a full stride. A cheap pair that fits well is a great deal; one that chafes is a shortsighted purchase. Prices and stock change often, so checking each store’s website before visiting can help your shopping trip stay in the fast lane.