Ever felt like your gym shorts are holding you back? Maybe they’re too tight, too loose, or just plain uncomfortable. You’re not alone! Finding the perfect pair of men’s gym shorts can feel like a workout in itself. They need to handle your toughest exercises, wick away sweat, and most importantly, make you feel good as you push your limits.
The wrong shorts can distract you, chafe, or even prevent you from moving freely. This is why choosing wisely matters. You want shorts that support your active lifestyle, not hinder it. Whether you’re hitting the weights, pounding the pavement, or flowing through yoga, the right pair makes a huge difference.
In this post, we’re going to dive deep into the world of men’s gym shorts. We’ll explore what makes a great pair, look at different styles, and give you the tips you need to find the ones that will become your new workout best friends. Get ready to upgrade your gym bag and your performance!
Our Top 5 Mens Gym Shorts Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Mens Gym Shorts Detailed Reviews
1. BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to conquer your workouts with the BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men. These shorts are designed to keep you comfortable and focused, no matter your activity. Their smart features help you perform your best.
What We Like:
- The soft fabric feels great against your skin. It gives you the perfect mix of comfort, breathability, and stretch. You’ll stay comfortable during any exercise.
- The 10-inch inseam offers good coverage. These shorts work well for many sports like gym, cycling, running, basketball, football, and tennis.
- Pockets on both sides are super handy. You can keep your phone, wallet, or keys safe and close by.
- They are breathable and quick-drying. The shorts move sweat away from your body. This keeps you feeling dry and comfortable while you push your limits.
- The elastic waistband with a drawcord ensures a great fit. These shorts stay put, so you don’t have to worry about them sliding up or down.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 10-inch inseam is good for many, some athletes might prefer a shorter or longer option for specific sports.
- The current color selection might be limited, leaving some users wanting more choices to match their style.
These BALENNZ shorts are a solid choice for any active guy. They offer great comfort and practical features for all your fitness needs.
2. BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts – Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear
Rating: 9.3/10
BOOJO’s 5-pack of athletic gym shorts offers a versatile solution for any active man. These black shorts are designed for comfort and performance, whether you’re hitting the gym, the basketball court, or just enjoying a casual day out. Their quick-dry technology and breathable fabric ensure you stay cool and dry through any activity.
What We Like:
- The fabric feels really soft and comfortable, perfect for any workout.
- They are lightweight and fit well, staying in place without sliding.
- The shorts have large pockets to hold your phone and other small items.
- Strong seams mean these shorts are built to last and won’t tear easily.
- The quick-drying material keeps you dry and comfortable by wicking away sweat.
- They are great for many different activities like running, basketball, or just relaxing at home.
- The elastic waistband with a drawstring provides a great, adjustable fit.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the inseam is 9 inches, some users might prefer a slightly shorter or longer option for different sports.
- The “black” color is classic, but a wider range of color options could appeal to more people.
BOOJO’s gym shorts deliver on comfort and functionality for everyday active life. They are a solid choice for anyone needing reliable and comfortable athletic wear.
3. Gaglg Men’s 5″ Running Shorts 2 Pack Quick Dry Athletic Workout Gym Shorts with Zipper Pockets Black/Green
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to conquer your workouts with the Gaglg Men’s 5″ Running Shorts 2 Pack. These shorts are designed for comfort and performance, keeping you cool and dry whether you’re hitting the gym, the track, or the basketball court. The lightweight fabric and relaxed fit allow for easy movement, while the quick-dry technology wicks away sweat, making them a reliable choice for any fitness enthusiast.
What We Like:
- The lightweight, breathable polyester fabric feels great and lets air flow, keeping you cool.
- Double lock stitching ensures these shorts are built to last through tough workouts.
- Dual concealed zipper pockets are perfect for safely storing your keys, phone, or wallet.
- The comfortable elastic waistband with an invisible drawcord offers a secure and adjustable fit.
- Unique cuts and streamlined design look stylish for various fitness activities.
- Breathable elastic panels and mesh fabric enhance ventilation and flexibility for better training.
- These shorts are versatile and suitable for running, gym workouts, basketball, cycling, and more.
What Could Be Improved:
- The sizing chart relies on ranges, which might make choosing the perfect fit a little tricky for some.
These Gaglg shorts offer a winning combination of style, comfort, and durability for your active lifestyle. You can be confident they’ll keep up with your every move.
4. 3 Pack Gym Basketball Mens Shorts – Quick Dry Black Workout Athletic Shorts with Pockets for Casual Running (S-6XL)
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your workout wardrobe with this 3-pack of BOOJO Men’s Gym Basketball Shorts. These black athletic shorts are designed for comfort and performance, making them a versatile choice for all your active pursuits. They are made from a lightweight and breathable polyester fabric that keeps you cool and dry, even during intense workouts. The quick-drying material ensures you stay comfortable no matter the activity. With a secure drawstring and elastic waistband, these shorts offer a perfect fit that stays put. You’ll also appreciate the convenient deep pockets, ideal for carrying your essentials like your phone or keys.
What We Like:
- The polyester fabric is very soft, breathable, and stretchy, making them super comfortable.
- Quick-drying material keeps you cool and dry during any activity.
- Deep, secure pockets are great for storing your phone, keys, or wallet.
- The elastic waistband and drawstring provide a snug and comfortable fit that doesn’t slip.
- A 9-inch inseam gives you plenty of room to move freely and reduces friction.
- These shorts are perfect for many different activities like basketball, running, lounging, or even sleeping.
- Getting a 3-pack is a great value for your money.
What Could Be Improved:
- While they are great for many activities, some users might prefer a slightly longer or shorter inseam depending on their personal preference.
These BOOJO shorts are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for comfortable and functional athletic wear. They offer great value and versatility for a wide range of activities.
5. Kinglaman 4 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Workout Shorts with Liner
Rating: 9.3/10
Meet the Kinglaman 4 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Workout Shorts, a fantastic option for active guys. This pack comes with four pairs in classic colors: two black, one blue, and one gray, all in size Large. They are designed to keep you comfortable whether you’re hitting the gym, running, or just out and about.
What We Like:
- The 2-in-1 design is smart. The outer mesh shorts are quick-drying, and the inner compression shorts hug your thighs for support. This helps your muscles perform better and feels good.
- Plenty of pockets are included! There’s a special pocket for your phone on the liner, two pockets on the sides for small items, and a zippered pocket in the back for your money or cards.
- These shorts use advanced quick-dry technology. They wick away sweat so you stay dry and fresh all day.
- The shorts are super lightweight and breathable. This lets air flow freely, keeping you cool. The quick-dry feature also stops sweat from building up.
- They are very versatile. You can wear them for almost any sport or activity.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the liner pocket is handy for phones, some users might find it a bit snug depending on their phone size.
- The compression liner, while supportive, might feel a little tight for those who prefer a looser fit in their workout gear.
Overall, these Kinglaman shorts offer great comfort, support, and convenience for any active man. They are a solid choice for your workout wardrobe.
Your Go-To Guide for Awesome Men’s Gym Shorts
Finding the perfect gym shorts makes your workouts much better. You want shorts that feel good, let you move freely, and look great. This guide will help you pick the best ones for your training needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for gym shorts, keep these important things in mind:
- Fit: Shorts should not be too tight or too baggy. They need to allow for a full range of motion. Look for styles that offer a comfortable fit around your waist and legs.
- Inseam Length: This is the length of the shorts from the crotch down to the hem. Shorter inseams (like 5-7 inches) are great for running and agility. Longer inseams (8-10 inches) offer more coverage and are good for weightlifting or general gym use.
- Pockets: Do you need pockets? Some shorts have deep pockets for your phone or keys. Others have small pockets or none at all. Think about what you carry to the gym.
- Waistband: A good waistband stays put. Look for elastic bands that are wide and comfortable. Some shorts also have drawstrings for extra security.
- Ventilation: Breathable shorts help keep you cool. Mesh panels or perforations in the fabric let air flow through, which is super important during intense workouts.
Important Materials
The fabric of your gym shorts makes a big difference in how they feel and perform.
- Polyester: This is a popular choice because it’s durable, dries quickly, and resists wrinkles. Polyester blends are common and offer good stretch.
- Nylon: Similar to polyester, nylon is strong and quick-drying. It often feels a bit smoother and is used in many athletic shorts.
- Spandex (or Lycra/Elastane): This material adds stretch. It lets the shorts move with you, which is essential for exercises like squats or lunges. You’ll often see it blended with polyester or nylon.
- Cotton: While comfortable for everyday wear, pure cotton can absorb sweat and become heavy. It’s better to choose blends with cotton for gym shorts, or avoid it altogether if you sweat a lot.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things tell you if gym shorts are well-made.
- Stitching: Look for strong, neat stitching. Double stitching in high-stress areas like the seams and waistband means the shorts will last longer. Poor stitching can lead to tears.
- Fabric Weight: Lighter fabrics are great for cardio and hot weather. Heavier fabrics might offer more durability or coverage for lifting.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known athletic brands often invest more in quality materials and construction. This can mean a higher price, but also better performance and longevity.
- Zippered Pockets: If you choose shorts with pockets, zippered pockets are a big plus. They keep your belongings safe and prevent them from falling out during movement.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your gym shorts matters.
- For Running: Lightweight, breathable shorts with a shorter inseam are ideal. They prevent chafing and allow for maximum leg movement.
- For Weightlifting: You might prefer shorts with a bit more length and a relaxed fit. This gives you comfort and coverage during heavy lifts.
- For Cross-Training: Versatile shorts are best. Look for a balance of stretch, breathability, and durability that can handle a variety of exercises.
- For Casual Wear: Some gym shorts are so comfortable you’ll want to wear them around the house or for quick errands. Look for soft fabrics and a relaxed style.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best material for gym shorts?
A: Polyester and nylon blends with spandex are usually the best. They are breathable, quick-drying, and stretchy.
Q: How should gym shorts fit?
A: They should fit comfortably. Not too tight and not too baggy. They need to let you move easily.
Q: Should I get shorts with pockets?
A: It depends on what you need. If you carry a phone or keys, pockets are useful. Zippered pockets are safer.
Q: What inseam length is best for running?
A: A shorter inseam, like 5-7 inches, is usually best for running. It allows for more freedom of movement.
Q: Are cotton gym shorts a good choice?
A: Pure cotton shorts are not ideal because they hold sweat and get heavy. Blends with a little cotton might be okay, but synthetic fabrics are generally better for workouts.
Q: How do I know if gym shorts are good quality?
A: Look for strong stitching, good fabric, and a reputable brand. Well-made shorts will last longer.
Q: Can I wear gym shorts outside the gym?
A: Yes, many gym shorts are comfortable enough for casual wear. Look for soft fabrics and a stylish design.
Q: What is an inseam?
A: The inseam is the length of the shorts from the crotch to the bottom hem. It tells you how long the shorts are.
Q: How important is breathability in gym shorts?
A: Breathability is very important. It helps keep you cool and dry during workouts, making them more comfortable.
Q: What’s the difference between polyester and nylon shorts?
A: Both are strong and quick-drying. Nylon can sometimes feel a bit smoother than polyester.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.