Top 5 Cheap Gym Shorts: Your Budget Workout Guide

Do you ever feel like your workout clothes hold you back instead of helping you push harder? You’re not alone. Finding gym shorts that feel good, look good, and don’t cost a fortune can feel like a real challenge. So many choices flood the stores, and it’s easy to get lost trying to figure out what actually works for your active life.

You want shorts that let you move freely, wick away sweat, and maybe even look decent enough to grab a smoothie in afterward. But the price tags can sometimes make you want to skip the gym altogether! That’s where this post comes in. We’re here to help you navigate the world of affordable gym shorts without sacrificing comfort or performance.

By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what to look for to snag the best deals. We’ll break down the key features that matter, and show you how to find shorts that will make your next workout your best one yet, all while keeping your wallet happy. Get ready to upgrade your gym gear without emptying your bank account!

Top Cheap Gym Shorts Recommendations

No. 1
AKAWOOKO 5 Pack Men's Athletic Gym Shorts with Pockets Quick Dry Activewear Workout Running Shorts for Men
  • 【SOFT & BREATHABLE】:The men's athletic shorts are made with soft, breathable, lightweight fabrics, making you feel comfortable during your workout.
  • 【Quick Drying】 Men's casual basketball shorts are made of moisture wicking fabric, which can absorb sweat from the skin and dry gently and quickly, so that you can stay comfortable and dry when exercising, home activities and sports.
  • 【ELASTIC WAISTBAND & INTERNAL DRAWCORD】: The elastic waistband coupled with adjustable internal drawstring, our men's athletic shorts stay comfortably in place whether running or training without sliding up or down.
  • 【LARGE POCKETS】: The men's gym shorts are designed with pockets on both sides that provide the perfect fit for your wallet, smartphones, keys and more.
  • 【Multiple Occasions】: Men's athletic shorts you can use as gym shorts, running shorts, basketball shorts or home leisure shorts, all of which can bring you a comfortable experience.
No. 2
BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear
  • BOOST PERFORMANCE: We use soft fabric to bring you sports shorts for men that offer just the right balance of softness, breathability, and stretchiness to keep you comfortable throughout your workouts
  • 10-INCH INSEAM: Whether you're working out at the gym or running on the track, our men's gym shorts have you covered. They are suitable for all your sports and workout activities including gym, cycling, running, basketball, football, tennis and more
  • POCKETS ON BOTH SIDES: Thanks to the hand pockets, you can easily carry your wallet, smartphone, and other small accessories when working out or traveling. These mens athletic shorts can be paired up with other clothing to create your own look
  • BREATHABLE & QUICK DRYING: Our breathable sports shorts for men wick moisture away from the skin while being gentle and quick-drying so you can workout, train and push your limits while staying comfortable and feeling dry
  • GET THE RIGHT FIT: Our men's workout shorts feature an encased elastic waistband which coupled with the inner drawcord makes sure you get the great fit every time. Our shorts stay comfortably in place whether running or training without sliding up or down
No. 3
NY Threads Men's Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Loose-Fit Lightweight Running Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets, Large, Black
  • Size - You have chosen the size "Large", Please refer to the 'Size Chart' for detailed measurements.
  • High Quality – Made of the finest polyester, it is stretchable, wrinkle-resistant, moisture-wicking, and breathable, allowing unrestricted movement and ease. Perfect finishing and look that boost confidence.
  • Strength & Comfort – A blend of durability and Lightweight that helps athletes go the extra mile. Perfect for indoor and outdoor sports.
  • Versatile Comfort – Shorts feature 2 Pockets with an incredibly adaptive design to store Essentials and an adjustable Drawstring elastic waistband for a perfect fit. Features an 8 inches inseam for ideal coverage and mobility.
  • Care Instructions – Advisable to machine-wash with cold water and like colors. Use only non-chlorine bleach when needed. Avoid dry clean.
No. 4
2 Pack Mens Gym Basketball Shorts - Athletic Black Workout Quick Dry Shorts with Pockets for Casual Running
  • Value Pack of 2: Get 2 gym shorts for men in 1 pack, offering more value than buying individually, saving you more on every purchase. Enjoy a cost-effective shopping experience, balancing comfort and affordability for a worry-free purchase
  • Soft and Breathable Fit: Crafted from premium polyester, men’s basketball shorts are soft, non-see through, stretch, and quick dry, offering all-day comfy while preventing chafing, the moisture wicking material keeping you cool during any sports
  • Flexible Waistband Design:The running shorts for men feature a durable elastic waistband and adjustable drawstring, accommodates various body shapes and sizes, ensuring a secure and personalized fit for all-day comfort. A high waisted adapts to your movements, preventing slipping during exercise like workout running, training, or lounging
  • Convenient Pocket Design: Barjneel workout shorts with 2 large, deep pockets, designed to securely hold your essentials like phones, keys, wallets, etc. With ample storage space, keep your belongings secure, easily accessible, and hands-free. whether at the gym, running, casual wear, or outdoor activities
  • From Gym to Casual: Barjneel athletic mens shorts feature a versatile design that effortlessly pairs with various outfits and any occasion. Whether gym work out to basketball, running, bike, hiking, cycling or lounge at home, they transition seamlessly between activities. Designed for both active and everyday wear
No. 5
BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts - Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear
  • 【Soft & Comfortable】Men's athletic shorts are made with soft fabric, upgraded in comfort, breathability and stretch, making you feel comfortable during your workout.
  • 【Fit & LightWeight】 Our men's gym shorts feature an elastic waistband with an inside drawstring. Whether you're running or training, our shorts stay comfortable and don't slide up or down, ensuring you get the perfect fit every time.
  • 【Large Pockets & Strong Seams】 Two side pockets are designed to take the hassle out of backpacking for you, you can carry your smartphone, wallet or other essentials when you workout or go out. Upgraded shorts stitching and 9 inch inseam, so you can avoid the embarrassment of torn shorts.
  • 【Quick Drying & Breathable】 Men's casual basketball shorts are made of moisture wicking fabric, which can absorb sweat from the skin and dry gently and quickly, so that you can stay comfortable and dry when exercising, home activities and sports.
  • 【Multiple Occasions & Customer Service】BOOJO men's athletic shorts you can use as gym shorts, running shorts, basketball shorts or home leisure shorts, all of which can bring you a comfortable experience, if you have any questions about our products, please contact us!
No. 6
BOOJO 7 Pack Mens Athletic Shorts - Gym Basketball Running Workout Quick Dry Black Shorts with Pockets for Casual Performance
  • Comfortable & Soft: Designed for all-day ease, these men’s shorts are made from ultra-soft, lightweight fabric with a four-way stretch for unrestricted movement. The breathable, quick-drying material keeps you cool and comfortable.A versatile essential for casual wear or active lifestyles.
  • Fit & LightWeight: Our shorts for men feature an elastic belt design, inclusive of a drawstring. It enables the adjustment of the waist tightness based on personal preferences. Whether during sports or leisure time, it will not shift up and down, providing a very relaxed experience.
  • Deep pockets design: The mens basketball shorts have two functional pockets, which are convenient for storing small items such as phones and keys. You don't need an extra backpack when going out. And the pocket lines have been upgraded, so they won't easily break even after multiple uses.
  • Multi-color selection: 7 pack of mens gym workout casual shorts, with a variety of colors, such as black, dark gray, navy, light gray, army green, etc., enjoy a variety of colors at one time, whether it is with casual short sleeves or shirts, you can find the right color.
  • Scene Application: Athletic shorts men, suitable for different scenarios, can let you sweat in the gym, busy in the office, running outside, and enjoy leisure time at home or outdoors. They can be the ideal choice, bringing comfort, breathability and convenience to life.
No. 7
BOOJO 3 Pack Gym Basketball Mens Shorts - Quick Dry Black Workout Athletic Shorts with Pockets for Casual Running(S-6XL)
  • 【LIGHTWEIGHT & BREATHABLE】BOOJO athletic shorts are designed with premium polyester for softness, breathability, and stretch. These lightweight shorts offer a comfortable texture, eliminating any irritation. With quick-drying properties, they ensure cool and comfy wear for any activity.
  • 【SECURE POCKETS & COST-EFFECTIVE】Our gym shorts offer both affordability and convenience. They feature deep, secure pockets that ensure comfortable wear and unrestricted movement. Safely store essentials like your phone, keys, or wallet, allowing you to focus on your activities
  • 【PRACTICAL DRAWSTRING】Our men's workout shorts feature a highly elastic waistband and a practical drawstring for a secure and comfortable fit. Designed for excellent performance during lounging, exercise, or basketball, they stay in place for unparalleled comfort without slipping or sliding.
  • 【MAXIMUM FLEXIBILITY & COMFORT】The running shorts, with a 10-inch inseam, provide maximum flexibility and comfort. Designed to minimize friction during various activities, they suit different sports. Whether in intense workouts or casual outings, enjoy the freedom and comfort our shorts offer.
  • 【MANY OCCASIONS】The men's shorts are designed to suit a variety of activities, including basketball, lounging, casual wear, walking, sleeping, yoga, training, athletics, jogging, running, tennis, or travel. Available in a range of colors, our shorts deliver unmatched comfort while catering to your diverse style preferences.

Your Guide to Awesome & Affordable Gym Shorts

Finding the right gym shorts doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. You can get great shorts that feel good and work well for your workouts without breaking the bank. This guide will help you pick the best cheap gym shorts for your needs.

1. Key Features to Look For

When you shop for gym shorts, keep these important things in mind.

Comfort is King

Your shorts should feel soft and not rub or scratch. Good shorts let you move freely. Look for shorts with a comfortable waistband that doesn’t dig in. A drawstring is helpful to make sure they stay up.

Length Matters

Gym shorts come in different lengths. Some are short and good for running. Others are longer and offer more coverage. Think about what kind of exercises you do. If you do a lot of squats, you might want longer shorts.

Pockets are Handy

Do you need pockets? Some shorts have them, and some don’t. Pockets are useful for holding your keys or a small phone during a workout. But, pockets can sometimes add bulk.

Breathability is Best

You want shorts that let air flow through. This helps keep you cool and dry when you exercise. Shorts that don’t breathe well can make you feel hot and sweaty.

2. Important Materials

The fabric of your gym shorts makes a big difference in how they feel and perform.

Polyester is Popular

Polyester is a common material. It’s strong and dries quickly. Many good gym shorts use polyester because it handles sweat well. It also doesn’t wrinkle much.

Spandex Adds Stretch

Spandex, also called Lycra or elastane, adds stretch. Shorts with a little spandex are more flexible. This means they move with you during exercises like lunges or yoga. Too much spandex can make shorts clingy.

Cotton is Cozy but Can Be Tricky

Cotton feels soft and natural. It’s comfortable for casual wear. However, cotton can soak up a lot of sweat. This can make shorts heavy and slow to dry. For intense workouts, cotton might not be the best choice.

Blends are Often the Sweet Spot

Many shorts use a mix of materials. For example, a blend of polyester and spandex offers the benefits of both. You get durability and quick drying from polyester, plus flexibility from spandex.

3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Even cheap gym shorts can be made well. Here’s what to check.

Sturdy Stitching

Look at the seams. Good shorts have strong stitching. This means they won’t fall apart after a few washes. Loose threads or weak seams mean lower quality.

Waistband Quality

A good waistband stays in place. It shouldn’t roll down or feel too tight. Cheap waistbands can stretch out quickly.

Fabric Durability

Some fabrics are more prone to pilling (little balls of fuzz) or snagging. Look for fabrics that feel sturdy and smooth. They will last longer.

4. User Experience and Use Cases

How will you use your gym shorts? This helps you choose the right pair.

For the Gym Rat

If you hit the gym often, you need durable shorts that can handle frequent washing. Shorts made from polyester blends are great for this. They wick away sweat and dry fast.

For the Runner

Runners often prefer lightweight, breathable shorts. Shorter lengths can be good for less drag. Pockets for a key or gel pack are a bonus.

For Yoga and Stretching

If you do yoga or stretching, you need shorts that offer a lot of flexibility. Shorts with spandex are excellent. They move with your body and don’t restrict you.

For Casual Wear

Even if you’re not working out, comfortable shorts are nice to have. Cotton blends or soft polyester shorts are perfect for relaxing or running errands.


Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Gym Shorts

Q: What makes gym shorts “cheap”?

A: Cheap gym shorts usually cost less because they use simpler materials or manufacturing methods. They still can be good quality for the price.

Q: Are cheap gym shorts bad for workouts?

A: Not always! Many affordable shorts are made from good materials like polyester blends. They can work just as well as more expensive ones for many activities.

Q: What is the best material for gym shorts if I sweat a lot?

A: Polyester or a polyester blend with spandex is usually best. These materials wick sweat away from your body and dry quickly.

Q: Should I worry about the stitching on cheap gym shorts?

A: Yes, it’s a good idea to check the stitching. Strong, neat stitching means the shorts are less likely to break or wear out quickly.

Q: How do I know if gym shorts will be comfortable?

A: Look for soft fabrics and a waistband that doesn’t feel too tight. Reading reviews from other buyers can also give you an idea of comfort.

Q: Can I wear cotton gym shorts for exercise?

A: You can, but cotton absorbs sweat and dries slowly. This can make them feel heavy and uncomfortable during intense workouts.

Q: What’s the advantage of shorts with spandex?

A: Spandex adds stretch, which makes the shorts more flexible and comfortable for movements like bending and stretching.

Q: Do pockets on gym shorts make them less good?

A: Pockets can be useful, but they can sometimes add bulk or weight. It depends on whether you need them and what kind of workout you’re doing.

Q: How long should gym shorts be?

A: The best length depends on your personal preference and the type of exercise. Shorter shorts are good for running, while longer ones offer more coverage.

Q: Where can I find good quality cheap gym shorts?

A: You can find them at big box stores, online retailers, and sporting goods stores that have sales or offer their own budget-friendly brands.