Ever feel like your gym shorts are holding you back? You’re not alone! Finding the perfect pair can be a real struggle. So many styles, fabrics, and lengths – it’s enough to make anyone want to skip leg day. You want shorts that feel great, let you move freely, and maybe even look good too, but the endless choices can be confusing.
This post is here to help you conquer the chaos. We’ll break down what really matters when you’re picking out gym shorts. Forget the frustration and the guesswork. By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what to look for, so you can focus on crushing your workouts instead of worrying about your wardrobe.
Let’s dive in and find your next favorite pair of gym shorts!
Our Top 5 Shorts For Gym Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Shorts For Gym Detailed Reviews
1. BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear
Rating: 9.2/10
Get ready to crush your workouts with the BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men! These shorts are designed to help you perform your best, no matter your activity. They offer a great mix of comfort and practicality, making them a go-to choice for any fitness enthusiast.
What We Like:
- Soft fabric boosts your performance by keeping you comfy and allowing for easy movement.
- The 10-inch inseam is perfect for all sports, from gym sessions to running and basketball.
- Pockets on both sides let you carry your phone and keys conveniently.
- Breathable and quick-drying material keeps you dry and comfortable.
- The elastic waistband with a drawcord ensures a perfect, secure fit that stays put.
What Could Be Improved:
- The color options might be limited for some shoppers.
- While the fabric is soft, some users might prefer a slightly thicker material for extra durability.
These BALENNZ shorts are a solid choice for anyone looking for comfortable and functional activewear. They deliver on performance and style, making them a valuable addition to your workout gear.
2. AUROLA Intensify Workout Shorts for Women Seamless Scrunch Short Gym Yoga Running Sport Active Exercise Fitness Shorts
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to move in the AUROLA Intensify Workout Shorts! These black, size medium shorts are designed for all your active adventures, from yoga to running. They offer a comfortable fit and a stylish look that lets you focus on your workout, not your shorts.
What We Like:
- The “Intensify Collection” design is great. It means the shorts are cut to be less distracting during your workouts, letting you move freely.
- The diamond gusseted crotch is a big plus. It helps you move more easily, and the flatlock seams prevent uncomfortable chafing.
- You’ll love the comfortable high waist. It covers your navel, provides tummy control, and stays put without rolling down.
- The ultra-stretch fit is fantastic. The material is soft and feels good on your skin. It wicks away sweat and stretches in all directions, offering both support and compression.
- These shorts are also perfect for everyday wear! The fabric blend feels natural and comfortable, making them ideal for just hanging out too.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description mentions they “slightly reveal the ankle,” which might not be the desired length for everyone.
- While “no see-through” is mentioned, some users might prefer an even thicker fabric for extra security during very intense workouts.
Overall, the AUROLA Intensify Workout Shorts are a solid choice for active women. They combine comfort, functionality, and style, making them a versatile addition to your workout wardrobe.
3. Leafigure 2 Pack Womens Biker Shorts with Pockets
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready to move with the Leafigure 2 Pack Womens Biker Shorts! These shorts are designed for comfort and style, whether you’re hitting the gym or running errands. They come in a classic black and are perfect for any activity.
What We Like:
- Super comfortable fabric made from 90% polyester and 10% spandex. It feels soft and keeps you cool.
- The high waist design provides great tummy control. It gently hugs your waist for a smooth look.
- Handy side pockets are perfect for your phone, keys, or other small items. You can keep your hands free!
- These shorts are incredibly stretchy. They move with you without feeling tight or restricting.
- They look great with almost anything! Pair them with a t-shirt, a jacket, or a sports bra for a stylish outfit.
What Could Be Improved:
- The L-XL sizing might be a bit tricky for some. It’s always good to check the size chart.
Overall, these Leafigure biker shorts are a fantastic addition to any active wardrobe. They offer comfort, support, and practicality for all your daily adventures.
4. Kinglaman 4 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Workout Shorts with Liner
Rating: 8.8/10
The Kinglaman 4 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Workout Shorts offer a smart solution for active guys. This set comes with two black, one blue, and one gray pair in a large size. They are designed for comfort and performance during workouts and everyday sports.
What We Like:
- 2-in-1 Design: These shorts have a cool mesh outer layer and a snug inner compression layer. The compression shorts support your leg muscles, which can help you perform better.
- Plenty of Pockets: You get a special pocket for your phone so it stays put. There are also two side pockets for small items and a back zipper pocket for your keys, money, or cards.
- Quick Drying: The fabric dries really fast. This means you stay dry and comfortable, even when you’re sweating a lot.
- Lightweight and Breathable: The shorts are made of light material that lets air flow through. This keeps you cool and prevents sweat from making you feel sticky.
- Good for Many Sports: These shorts are great for all sorts of sports and activities. They are made to work well for whatever you do.
What Could Be Improved:
- The compression liner might feel a bit too tight for some people.
- The color selection is limited to black, blue, and gray.
These Kinglaman shorts are a solid choice for anyone who needs comfortable and functional workout gear. They offer good support and keep you feeling fresh, making them a versatile addition to your athletic wardrobe.
5. Women Workout Impact Shorts 4.5 Scrunch Butt Lifting Tummy Control Gym Shorts Comfy Running Seamless Booty Biker Shorts Black M
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet your new favorite workout partner: the Women Workout Impact Shorts. These 4.5-inch inseam shorts offer a seamless design for maximum comfort and freedom. They feature a scrunch butt lift and tummy control, making you feel confident and supported during any activity. The fabric is breathable, so you won’t overheat. Plus, the low ribbed waistband stays put, so you can focus on your workout.
What We Like:
- Super comfy with a seamless design that lets you move freely.
- The hip lifting feature makes your curves look amazing.
- Great for all kinds of exercise like gym, running, or yoga.
- They fit just right and stay in place, no sliding down.
- The fabric wicks away sweat, keeping you dry and cool.
- Stylish look that adds a great piece to your workout clothes.
- Built-in protection for privacy, so you feel secure.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “impact” feature might not be enough for very high-impact sports.
- While comfy, the low elasticity waistband could be a bit tighter for some.
These shorts are a fantastic blend of style and performance. They will definitely upgrade your workout experience.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Gym Shorts
Choosing the right gym shorts makes a big difference in your workout. You want shorts that feel good, let you move freely, and last a long time. This guide will help you pick the perfect pair for your fitness journey.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for gym shorts, keep these important features in mind:
- Fit: Shorts should be comfortable. Not too tight, not too loose. They need to let you bend, stretch, and jump without feeling restricted. Some shorts have a relaxed fit, while others are more snug. Think about what feels best for you.
- Length: Gym shorts come in different lengths. Shorter shorts are great for running or when you want more leg freedom. Longer shorts offer more coverage and can be good for weightlifting or activities where you might do a lot of kneeling.
- Waistband: A good waistband keeps your shorts in place. Look for elastic that is strong but doesn’t dig into your skin. Some shorts also have a drawstring to adjust the fit even more.
- Pockets: Pockets are handy for keys, a phone, or a small towel. Check if the pockets are deep enough and secure. Some shorts have zippered pockets, which are excellent for keeping your belongings safe.
- Breathability: This means the shorts let air flow through. Good breathability helps keep you cool and dry during tough workouts.
Important Materials
The fabric of your gym shorts is super important. It affects how they feel and how well they work.
- Polyester: This is a very common material. It’s strong, dries fast, and doesn’t wrinkle easily. Polyester is good at wicking away sweat, which keeps you drier.
- Spandex (or Elastane/Lycra): This material is all about stretch. Shorts with spandex move with your body. They offer flexibility for all kinds of exercises.
- Nylon: Similar to polyester, nylon is strong and durable. It’s also good at wicking moisture.
- Cotton: Cotton is soft and comfortable. However, it can hold onto sweat and take a long time to dry. This can make cotton shorts feel heavy and clammy during intense workouts. For most gym activities, fabrics that dry faster are usually better.
- Blends: Many gym shorts use a mix of these materials. For example, a blend of polyester and spandex offers both durability and stretch.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a pair of gym shorts great or not so great?
- Seams: Well-made seams are strong and lie flat. They won’t chafe your skin. Cheaply made seams can break or rub, causing discomfort.
- Durability: Good quality shorts will hold up to many washes and workouts. They won’t lose their shape or get holes easily.
- Sweat-Wicking: The best gym shorts pull sweat away from your body to the outside of the fabric where it can evaporate. This keeps you feeling drier and more comfortable.
- Odor Control: Some fabrics are treated to help prevent odors. This is a nice bonus, especially if you work out often.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do gym shorts feel and how do people use them?
- Comfort: When you wear good gym shorts, you hardly notice them. You can focus on your workout instead of adjusting your clothes.
- Freedom of Movement: You should be able to do squats, lunges, and burpees without your shorts getting in the way.
- Versatility: Many gym shorts work for various activities. You can wear them for lifting weights, running on the treadmill, playing basketball, or even just lounging around.
- Style: While function is key, many people also like shorts that look good. There are many colors and styles to choose from.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the best materials for gym shorts?
A: Polyester, nylon, and spandex blends are usually best. They dry fast and let you move easily.
Q: Should I choose shorts with pockets?
A: Pockets are useful for keys or a phone. If you need to carry things, look for shorts with secure pockets.
Q: How do I know if gym shorts will fit me?
A: Check the size chart provided by the brand. Reading reviews from other buyers can also help.
Q: Can I wear cotton shorts to the gym?
A: Cotton can be comfortable for light activity, but it holds sweat and gets heavy. For intense workouts, synthetic fabrics are better.
Q: What does “sweat-wicking” mean?
A: Sweat-wicking fabric pulls moisture away from your skin so you stay drier and cooler.
Q: How important is the waistband?
A: The waistband is very important. It needs to be comfortable and keep the shorts from falling down during your workout.
Q: Are longer or shorter shorts better for the gym?
A: It depends on your activity. Shorter shorts offer more freedom for running. Longer shorts provide more coverage for activities like weightlifting.
Q: What’s the difference between polyester and nylon shorts?
A: Both are strong and dry quickly. Polyester is often a bit softer, while nylon can be more durable and resistant to abrasion.
Q: How do I wash my gym shorts?
A: Always check the care label. Usually, machine washing in cold water and air drying or tumble drying on low heat is best.
Q: Can I wear gym shorts for other sports besides the gym?
A: Yes, many gym shorts are great for running, basketball, soccer, or any sport that requires comfortable, flexible clothing.
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.