Ever feel like your workout shorts are holding you back? Maybe they ride up when you run, or feel too tight when you’re lifting weights. Choosing the right pair of men’s fitness shorts can be tricky. There are so many styles, lengths, and materials out there, and what works for one guy might not work for you.
The wrong shorts can make you feel uncomfortable and distracted during your workout. You want gear that moves with you, keeps you cool, and supports you through every squat, sprint, and stretch. That’s where this guide comes in! We’re here to help you navigate the world of men’s fitness shorts.
By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll break down the key features of great workout shorts, from fabric types to inseam lengths. Get ready to find your perfect pair and boost your performance and comfort!
Our Top 5 Men’S Fitness Shorts Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Men’S Fitness Shorts Detailed Reviews
1. BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear
Rating: 9.3/10
Looking for workout shorts that can keep up with you? The BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men are designed to help you perform your best. They offer a great mix of comfort and practicality, making them a solid choice for any active guy.
What We Like:
- These shorts feel super soft against your skin.
- They have a 10-inch inseam, which is great for all sorts of sports.
- You can carry your phone or keys in the handy pockets on both sides.
- The fabric breathes well and dries quickly, so you stay cool and dry.
- The elastic waistband with a drawcord ensures a snug and comfortable fit.
- They stay put no matter how hard you train, without sliding around.
What Could Be Improved:
- The color selection might be limited.
- The material might be a bit thin for very rough activities.
These BALENNZ shorts are a reliable option for your workouts. They provide the comfort and features you need to focus on your fitness goals.
2. Gaglg Men’s 5″ Running Shorts 2 Pack Quick Dry Athletic Workout Gym Shorts with Zipper Pockets Black/Green
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready to conquer your workouts with the Gaglg Men’s 5″ Running Shorts 2 Pack. These shorts are designed for comfort and performance, making them a great addition to your activewear collection. Whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or playing sports, these shorts will help you stay cool and focused.
What We Like:
- These shorts are made from lightweight, premium polyester fabric that feels good and drapes well.
- The quick-dry and breathable material keeps you cool and dry during tough workouts.
- They feature a relaxed fit with a unique cut-off hem for both style and freedom of movement.
- Dual concealed zipper pockets safely store your small items like keys or cards.
- A comfortable elastic waistband with an invisible drawcord ensures a secure fit without slipping.
- Breathable elastic panels and mesh fabric between the sides and inner seams boost ventilation and flexibility.
- These shorts are built to last and maintain their great condition.
- They are versatile and suitable for many activities like running, training, basketball, and cycling.
What Could Be Improved:
- The sizing chart is based on ranges, so choosing the right fit might require careful measurement.
These Gaglg shorts offer a great combination of comfort, style, and durability for any fitness enthusiast. You’ll appreciate their performance and how well they hold up through your toughest training sessions.
3. Kinglaman 4 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Workout Shorts with Liner
Rating: 9.3/10
Gear up for your next workout with the Kinglaman 4 Pack of Men’s 2-in-1 Running Workout Shorts. This pack gives you four pairs of shorts in classic colors: two black, one blue, and one gray. They are designed to keep you comfortable and supported whether you’re hitting the gym, running trails, or just enjoying an active day. The 2-in-1 design means you get the best of both worlds: breathable outer shorts and supportive built-in compression liners.
What We Like:
- The 2-in-1 design is awesome. The outer mesh shorts are quick-drying.
- The built-in compression shorts feel great. They support your leg muscles during exercise.
- You get a lot of pockets! There’s a special pocket for your phone on the liner.
- There are also two side pockets for small items and a back zipper pocket for your keys or money.
- The fabric is lightweight and breathable. This helps you stay cool and dry.
- These shorts are good for many different sports and activities.
What Could Be Improved:
- The compression liner might feel a bit tight for some people.
- While quick-drying, they might not be as durable as some heavier-duty workout shorts.
Overall, these Kinglaman shorts offer great comfort and practicality for any active guy. They’re a solid choice for anyone looking for versatile workout gear.
4. BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts – Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear
Rating: 9.4/10
Looking for comfortable and affordable workout shorts? The BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts are a fantastic option for anyone who wants to stay cool and dry during exercise or just relax at home. These black shorts are designed for comfort and performance, making them a great addition to any active wardrobe.
What We Like:
- Incredibly soft and comfortable fabric that feels great against the skin.
- The 5-pack deal offers excellent value for your money.
- Lightweight design means you can move freely without feeling weighed down.
- The elastic waistband with a drawstring ensures a perfect, snug fit that stays put.
- Two large pockets are super handy for your phone, keys, or wallet.
- Strong seams mean these shorts are built to last and won’t rip easily.
- The quick-dry, moisture-wicking material keeps you dry and comfortable, even during intense workouts.
- Versatile enough for the gym, running, basketball, or just lounging around.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the black color is classic, a wider variety of color options would be a nice addition.
These BOOJO shorts are a winner for comfort, durability, and price. They’re a smart choice for all your athletic and casual needs.
5. NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts 7″/ 5″/ 9″ Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball Tennis Hiking Exercise Black L
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to move with the NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts. These shorts are designed for comfort and performance, whether you’re hitting the gym, the trails, or just relaxing. They’re made with a special fabric that keeps you cool and dry.
What We Like:
- Super light and breathable fabric keeps you cool.
- The material is stretchy and durable, so you can move freely.
- Stylish design with breathable holes on the sides looks great.
- Comfortable elastic waistband with a drawstring for a perfect fit.
- Flatlock seams prevent rubbing and keep you comfortable.
- Two reflective strips on the front and back make you more visible in the dark.
- Three zippered pockets are perfect for storing your phone, keys, and wallet.
- UPF 50+ fabric protects your skin from the sun.
- Mesh pocket cloth adds extra breathability.
- Great for many activities like tennis, hiking, running, and travel.
What Could Be Improved:
- No belt loops are included.
These NORTHYARD shorts are a fantastic option for active guys. They combine comfort, style, and useful features for all your adventures.
Your Go-To Guide for Men’s Fitness Shorts
Finding the right fitness shorts makes a big difference in your workout. They keep you comfortable and help you move freely. This guide will help you pick the best pair.
Key Features to Look For
Comfortable Fit
Good shorts fit well. They shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. You need to move easily during exercises. Look for shorts with an elastic waistband and a drawstring. This lets you adjust the fit perfectly.
Breathability
Sweat is a part of working out. Shorts made of breathable material let air flow. This helps keep you cool and dry. It also stops your skin from getting too hot.
Durability
You want shorts that last. Well-made shorts can handle tough workouts. Check the stitching. Strong seams mean the shorts won’t fall apart easily.
Moisture-Wicking
This is a very important feature. Moisture-wicking fabric pulls sweat away from your skin. It moves the sweat to the outside of the shorts. Then, it dries faster. This keeps you comfortable and prevents chafing.
Pocket Size and Placement
Do you need to carry keys or a phone? Look for shorts with pockets. Consider where the pockets are. Side pockets are common. Some shorts have a small zippered pocket for extra security.
Important Materials
Polyester
Polyester is a popular choice. It is strong and resists wrinkles. It also dries quickly, which is great for sweat.
Spandex (Elastane)
Spandex adds stretch to shorts. This gives you more freedom to move. It helps shorts keep their shape too.
Nylon
Nylon is another durable fabric. It is also lightweight and dries fast. It’s good for intense workouts.
Cotton
Cotton is soft and comfortable. However, it can absorb a lot of sweat. This can make shorts heavy and slow to dry. It’s better for lighter activities or casual wear.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improved Quality
- Good Stitching: Double-stitched seams make shorts last longer.
- Quality Zippers: If pockets have zippers, make sure they are smooth and strong.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known sports brands often use better materials and have better quality control.
- Fabric Blend: A mix of polyester and spandex usually offers the best balance of comfort, stretch, and moisture-wicking.
Reduced Quality
- Thin, Cheap Fabric: This can tear easily and may not be breathable.
- Poor Stitching: Loose threads or weak seams will cause shorts to fall apart quickly.
- No Moisture-Wicking: Shorts that don’t handle sweat well will make workouts uncomfortable.
- Uncomfortable Waistband: A waistband that digs in or slides down is a sign of poor design.
User Experience and Use Cases
Gym Workouts
For lifting weights or cardio machines, shorts that allow a full range of motion are best. Breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics are essential here.
Running
Runners often prefer lightweight shorts with a comfortable liner. Pockets for gels or keys are a plus. Good airflow helps keep runners cool on long distances.
Cross-Training
Activities like CrossFit require shorts that are both durable and flexible. They need to withstand burpees, jumps, and squats without restricting movement.
Casual Wear
Some fitness shorts are stylish enough for everyday wear. You can wear them for errands or just relaxing.
Choosing the right men’s fitness shorts means thinking about comfort, performance, and how long they will last. Consider your workout routine and pick shorts that will support you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature in fitness shorts?
A: Moisture-wicking ability is very important. It keeps you dry and comfortable during your workout.
Q: Should I choose shorts with a liner?
A: Liners offer support and can prevent chafing. Many runners and athletes prefer them.
Q: How do I know if shorts are the right size?
A: They should fit comfortably around your waist and not feel too tight or too loose when you move.
Q: Can I wear cotton shorts for working out?
A: Cotton can be okay for light exercise, but it holds sweat. For intense workouts, synthetic materials are better.
Q: What does “moisture-wicking” mean?
A: It means the fabric pulls sweat away from your skin to the outside of the shorts so it can dry faster.
Q: How important is the waistband?
A: A comfortable, adjustable waistband is crucial for keeping your shorts in place during movement.
Q: Are pockets necessary?
A: Pockets are useful for carrying small items like keys or a phone, but not essential for all workouts.
Q: How do I care for my fitness shorts?
A: Follow the washing instructions on the label. Usually, washing in cold water and air drying helps them last longer.
Q: What material is best for stretching?
A: Shorts with spandex or elastane are best for stretching because they have more give.
Q: Can I wear the same shorts for running and weightlifting?
A: While you can, shorts designed for running are usually lighter. Shorts for weightlifting might be more durable. Choose based on your primary activity.
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.