MIER's two best-selling men's shorts share the same 5-inch inseam and nearly the same price, but they are built for different runners. The SprintDry 2-in-1 adds a compression liner with a phone pocket; the PaceLite Linerless skips the liner for maximum airflow and adds three zip pockets and reflective details. Here is a side-by-side comparison using MIER's official product information.
Comparison table
| Product | Best for | Buy |
|---|---|---|
1 MIER Men's SprintDry 2-in-1 Running Shorts 5"Best for Support & Phone Carry |
Runners who want a liner and a dedicated phone pocket | $32.99 |
2 MIER Men's PaceLite Linerless Short 5"Best for Airflow & Zip Pockets |
Runners who prefer unlined shorts and secure zip storage | $33.99 |
Best for Support & Phone Carry
#1 · Best for Support & Phone Carry
MIER Men's SprintDry 2-in-1 Running Shorts 5"
Quick-dry outer short plus a compression liner (11% spandex) with a phone pocket and mesh vents. Two slant pockets, one with a small hidden pocket for keys or cards.
Best for: Runners who want a liner and a dedicated phone pocket
Pros
- Compression liner with phone pocket
- Built-in support, no underwear needed
- XS–3XL, 10 colors
Cons
- No zip pockets
- No reflective details listed
- Liner
- Compression (4-way stretch, 11% spandex)
- Pockets
- 2 slant side + hidden key pocket + liner phone pocket
- Sizes
- XS–3XL
- Colors
- 10
Best for Airflow & Zip Pockets
#2 · Best for Airflow & Zip Pockets
MIER Men's PaceLite Linerless Short 5"
A very light 80 gsm 4-way stretch short with no liner, two side zip pockets, a back zip pocket, reflective elements and micro air mesh panels.
Best for: Runners who prefer unlined shorts and secure zip storage
Pros
- Three zip pockets
- Reflective elements for low light
- Very light 80 gsm fabric
Cons
- No liner or built-in support
- Sizes start at S
- Liner
- None
- Pockets
- 2 side zip + 1 back zip
- Sizes
- S–3XL
- Colors
- 8
From$33.99
Check Price on MIERQuick verdict
- Choose the SprintDry 2-in-1 if you want built-in support, a dedicated phone pocket and one less layer to think about.
- Choose the PaceLite Linerless if you prefer the airiest feel, want zip pockets to secure keys and cards, or often run in low light.
Side-by-side comparison
| SprintDry 2-in-1 5" | PaceLite Linerless 5" | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $32.99 | $33.99 (was $37.99) |
| Inseam | 5" | 5" (also sold in 7") |
| Liner | Compression liner, 11% spandex, mesh vents | None |
| Phone storage | Dedicated liner phone pocket | Not specified |
| Pockets | 2 slant side + hidden key pocket | 2 side zip + 1 back zip |
| Zippers | No | Yes (3) |
| Reflective details | Not listed | Yes |
| Fabric | SprintDry™ quick-dry, water-resistant | 80 gsm 4-way stretch, quick-dry |
| Ventilation | Mesh air vents in liner, side-split hem | Micro air mesh panels, side splits |
| Waist | Elastic + internal drawstring | Elastic + internal drawcord |
| Sizes | XS–3XL | S–3XL |
| Colors | 10 | 8 |
The key differences
1. Liner vs no liner
This is the deciding factor. The SprintDry 2-in-1 has a fitted compression liner under the outer short; MIER says it is designed to support the thigh muscles, and many runners choose this style to reduce chafing. The PaceLite Linerless has no inner layer at all, which gives the most airflow and lets you choose your own underwear or compression shorts.
2. How you carry your stuff
The 2-in-1 has a dedicated phone pocket in the liner, plus a small hidden pocket inside the right side pocket for keys or cards. The Linerless has three zip pockets (two side, one back), which are better for securing keys and cards, though MIER does not say whether they fit a phone.
3. Visibility
The PaceLite Linerless lists reflective elements for low-light conditions. MIER does not list reflective details on the SprintDry 2-in-1.
4. Size range
The 2-in-1 starts at XS, the Linerless at S. Both go up to 3XL.
What they have in common
Both are 5-inch, quick-drying, stretchy running shorts with an elastic waistband and internal drawcord, side splits for movement, and versatile use for running, gym and everyday wear. Both cost about $33, and both are covered by MIER's free 30-day returns.
Still undecided?
Many runners own both: a 2-in-1 for long runs and gym days, and a linerless pair for hot days. With MIER's free shipping over $60, buying the two together qualifies. See all five best sellers in our best MIER running shorts guide, or read the full SprintDry 2-in-1 review.