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10 Best Mens Workout Shorts

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.

Buying Guide for the Best Mens Workout Shorts

Choosing the right men's workout shorts can make a big difference in how comfortable and effective your exercise sessions feel. With so many options on the market, it’s easy to get lost in all the technical terms and styles. By focusing on the key features that affect comfort, flexibility, and practicality, you can find workout shorts that keep you motivated and comfortable. Think about the types of activities you’ll be doing and your personal preferences to narrow down your choices.
MaterialThe material of workout shorts affects breathability, comfort, and moisture control. Common materials include cotton, polyester, spandex, or blends. Cotton is soft but holds onto sweat, making it less ideal for intense workouts. Polyester and spandex blends are lightweight, wick away moisture, and stretch easily, providing a good fit for active movement. For gym sessions, running, or sports, prioritize synthetic blends for better performance. If you prefer leisurely activities or light stretching, cotton can be more comfortable. Your main activity should guide this choice—go for synthetic for high-sweat, high-movement, and consider cotton for casual, low-intensity use.
LengthShorts usually range from 5-inch to 9-inch inseams or even longer. Shorter shorts (around 5 inches) are often chosen for running or activities requiring maximum freedom of leg movement, as they provide better ventilation and range. Mid-length shorts (7 inches) strike a balance between coverage and mobility, making them versatile for most gym workouts and sports. Longer shorts (9 inches or more) offer more coverage and are sometimes preferred for modesty or style reasons, but may restrict movement during certain exercises. Think about your preferred coverage and mobility—the more dynamic your workouts, the shorter you might prefer, while for covered or less intense routines, longer is usually fine.
FitMen’s workout shorts can range from loose to slim-fit. Loose-fit shorts offer good airflow and comfort, which is nice for general training or casual sports. Slim-fit or compression shorts hug the body and are less likely to ride up or snag, making them suitable for running, cycling, or intense training. Your choice depends on comfort and freedom of movement—if you like feeling unrestricted, loose is good; if you want support and no distractions, try slim or compression fits.
Waistband TypeWaistbands are usually elastic, drawstring, or a combination of both. Elastic waistbands are easy to put on and take off, while drawstrings allow you to adjust the tightness for a secure fit. Shorts with both offer the most flexibility and security, especially during active workouts. If you do a lot of jumping or running, look for this combination to prevent slipping. If you prioritize convenience, elastic-only may be fine, but for personalized fit, a drawstring is helpful.
PocketsPockets can be handy for holding keys, phones, or cards during your workouts. Some shorts have zippered or deep pockets to prevent items from falling out, while others have minimal or no pockets for a streamlined design, often preferred by runners and cyclists. If you need to carry items, look for secure, deep, or zip pockets. If you don’t want extra bulk or intend to move a lot, minimal pockets or none may suit your needs better.
LinerSome workout shorts have a built-in liner, which is a lightweight layer inside the shorts, often made from mesh. Liners provide extra support and help wick away sweat, sometimes making underwear unnecessary. This is popular for running or high-intensity workouts. If you want extra support or convenience, choose shorts with a liner; if you prefer to wear your own underwear or want more flexibility in layering, go for unlined shorts.