Let’s be honest-finding clothes that fit during pregnancy can feel like a part-time job. One day your favorite shorts are fine, the next they’re cutting into your growing bump like a warning sign. I’ve been there, staring into a drawer full of nothing-to-wear, feeling more frustrated than fabulous.
That’s why I took a deep dive into the world of maternity shorts. I wanted to cut through the noise and find the ones that truly deliver on comfort, support, and style-without breaking the bank. After testing and analyzing the top contenders, I’ve narrowed it down to the very best options for lounging, working out, or just looking put-together when you run errands.
Here are my honest, hands-on reviews of the best maternity shorts you can buy right now.
Best Shorts for Pregnancy – 2026 Reviews

CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Maternity Biker Shorts 6" – Over The Belly Pregnancy Yoga Workout
These biker shorts redefine comfort for pregnancy with an incredibly soft, buttery fabric that feels luxurious against your skin. The U-shaped belly panel is engineered to expand with your bump and stay put without rolling down, making them perfect for yoga, lounging, or daily wear.
They offer gentle support that eases pressure without feeling restrictive, a rare find in maternity activewear.

HOFISH Maternity Shorts Over Belly – Affordable All-Day Comfort
Proof that great maternity basics don’t have to cost a fortune. These shorts offer reliable belly support and everyday comfort with a soft, stretchy polyester-spandex blend. The deep side pockets are a hugely practical bonus for carrying your phone or keys.
They’re a no-fuss, reliable option that works wonderfully, especially in the later trimesters.

FITGLAM Women's Maternity Shorts Over Belly – Lounge & Sleep Essential
A longtime favorite for a reason, these cotton-blend shorts are the epitome of cozy. The full over-belly panel provides snug, all-around support, and the inclusion of side pockets makes them perfect for lazy days around the house or quick trips out.
Think of them as the upgraded, maternity-specific version of your most beloved sleep shorts.

BONVIGOR Buttercloud Maternity Shorts 5" – Plus Size Friendly
Specifically designed with extended sizes in mind, these shorts offer cloud-like softness and a thoughtful adjustable waist with an inner drawstring. The seamless construction helps prevent chafing, and the fabric is lightweight and breathable for summer pregnancies.
They provide excellent support that helps lift the belly and reduce pressure.

POSHGLAM Womens Maternity Shorts – Double-Layer Workout Ready
Built for active moms, these shorts feature a unique double-layer design with a mesh liner for cool, chafe-free movement during workouts. The quick-dry fabric wicks moisture, and a handy hidden pocket keeps small essentials secure.
They strike a great balance between sporty performance and pregnancy-specific comfort.

DALAVCH 4 Pack Maternity Yoga Shorts – Value Bundle
This multi-pack offers outstanding value, giving you several pairs of reliable, over-the-belly biker shorts for the price of one premium pair. The fabric is opaque and has good four-way stretch, making them suitable for yoga, walking, or as everyday basics.
It’s a smart way to build your maternity wardrobe essentials without overspending.

BONVIGOR Buttercloud Maternity Shorts 8" – Longer Inseam Support
With an 8-inch inseam, these shorts offer more thigh coverage and a classic biker short silhouette. The Buttercloud fabric is soft and breathable, and the U-shaped belly panel provides gentle, all-around support that’s perfect for low-impact activities and lounging.
They’re a great option if you prefer a bit more length for modesty or comfort.

MAZUSPORTS Women's Maternity Yoga Shorts with Pockets
These shorts focus on delivering a super soft, four-way stretch fabric that moves with you. They come with two deep side pockets and a full belly panel designed to alleviate pressure. The nylon-spandex blend is breathable and suitable for year-round wear.
They are a solid all-arounder for casual wear and light exercise.

OVRUNS Women Maternity Jean Shorts – Denim Style
For days when you want to feel a little more put-together, these denim shorts offer a classic jean style with a stretchy over-belly band. They feature a rolled cuff, five pockets, and a cotton-rich blend for breathability.
They’re designed to give you that casual, trendy look without sacrificing maternity-specific comfort.
Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different
You’ve probably seen a dozen “best of” lists that all recommend the same products. We wanted to do better. To find the real standouts, we put 9 top-selling maternity shorts through a rigorous evaluation, drawing insights from over 11,600 real customer reviews.
Our scoring isn’t arbitrary. 70% of each score is based on real-world performance-how well the shorts actually fit a growing belly, their day-long comfort, and their versatility. The remaining 30% rewards genuine innovation, like unique fabrics, clever pocket placements, or designs that solve common pregnancy aches.
Take our top pick, the CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Shorts, which scored a 9.5 for its exceptional softness and no-roll waistband. Compare that to our excellent Budget Pick, the HOFISH Shorts at 9.0. The 0.5 point difference represents the trade-off between premium, buttery fabric and outstanding affordability-both are fantastic, just for different priorities.
We’ve clearly defined what these scores mean: 9.0-10.0 is “Excellent” to “Exceptional” and represents a top-tier, highly recommended product. This process ensures we’re highlighting shorts that truly work, not just ones with the best marketing.
Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose Maternity Shorts for Comfort and Support
1. Material & Feel: The Foundation of Comfort
This is your number one priority. Look for blends with spandex or elastane for essential stretch. Cotton blends (like in the FITGLAM shorts) are breathable and cozy for lounging. Technical fabrics (like in the POSHGLAM or CRZ YOGA options) made of nylon or polyester with spandex offer moisture-wicking and a slicker, more athletic feel. The softest ones often use branded fabrics like “Butterluxe” or “Buttercloud.”
Touch matters more now than ever. Avoid anything with a rough seam or that feels stiff-it won’t get better with washing.
2. Belly Support Design: Over-Belly vs. Side-Ruche
There are two main styles. A full over-belly panel (found on most of our picks) provides complete, snug coverage that can help support your back and lift your bump. It’s great for all-day wear. A side-ruched or mid-rise waist sits under the belly and expands with it, often feeling less restrictive and cooler. Your choice depends on personal comfort and the stage of your pregnancy; many women prefer full panels in the second and third trimesters.
3. Length & Inseam: From Sleep Shorts to Biker Length
Consider where and how you’ll wear them. Short inseams (2-3 inches) are perfect for sleep and super-casual lounging at home. Mid-length (5-6 inches), like a classic biker short, is the most versatile for workouts and daily wear. Longer lengths (8 inches+) offer more thigh coverage and can feel more secure and modest. Think about chafing-a longer inseam or a gusseted crotch can help prevent it.
4. Functional Features: Pockets, Layers, and Waistbands
Don’t underestimate the power of a good pocket. Deep side pockets are invaluable for carrying your phone during walks. Some shorts even have hidden inner pockets for security. Look for flatlock or seamless seams to prevent irritation. A double-layer or mesh liner (like in the POSHGLAM shorts) can be a game-changer for preventing thigh chafe during workouts. An adjustable drawstring in the waistband is a premium feature for a custom fit as you grow.
5. Versatility & Care: Getting the Most for Your Money
The best maternity shorts work hard for you. Can you wear them for yoga, then to the grocery store, and later to lounge on the couch? Versatile, neutral colors like black, grey, or navy maximize wearability. Also, check the care instructions. Machine-washable and able to withstand frequent washing without shrinking or losing shape is non-negotiable. Your maternity basics will be on heavy rotation!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When should I start wearing maternity shorts?
There’s no set rule! Most women find they need them sometime in the second trimester, as their regular waistbands become uncomfortable. However, if you’re experiencing early bloating or just want more comfort, there’s no harm in starting earlier. The stretchy panels are designed to accommodate you from a small bump to a full-term belly.
2. Can I wear these maternity shorts after I have the baby?
Absolutely, and many are designed for it. The over-belly panels provide gentle postpartum support and can help hold everything in comfortably as your body recovers. They’re fantastic for those early weeks when you’re still not ready for your pre-pregnancy clothes. Many women continue to wear them as comfy lounge or workout shorts long after.
3. How do I choose the right size in maternity shorts?
Always, always check the brand’s specific size chart. Don’t go by your pre-pregnancy size. Most brands size maternity shorts by your hip measurement, as your waist measurement is changing constantly. As a general rule, if you’re between sizes or want them to last through your entire pregnancy, sizing up is a safe bet to ensure room for growth and maximum comfort.
4. Are there maternity shorts that aren't see-through?
Yes, but you need to look for specific features. Darker colors are almost always more opaque. Fabrics described as “substantial,” “non-see-through,” or with a high nylon content (like the MAZUSPORTS or DALAVCH shorts) tend to perform better. A good test mentioned by many reviewers is to do a squat in front of a mirror-if the brand has positive notes on opacity in the reviews, that’s a great sign.
Final Verdict
After living in and analyzing all these options, the winner is clear. For the perfect blend of luxurious comfort, intelligent support, and reliable performance, the CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Maternity Biker Shorts earn our top spot. They simply feel better and work smarter than the rest. But if your budget is the main concern, you will be overwhelmingly happy with the incredible value and comfort of the HOFISH Maternity Shorts. No matter your choice, prioritize softness, a secure belly panel, and features that fit your lifestyle. Your comfort during this special time is worth the investment.

