Ever feel like your workout shorts are holding you back? You’re not alone. Finding the perfect pair of exercise shorts for men can be a real challenge. Too short and you feel exposed, too long and they get in the way. Some are too tight, others too loose. It’s enough to make you want to skip the gym altogether!
But what if you could finally find shorts that feel amazing, support your every move, and actually boost your confidence at the gym or on the trail? This guide is here to help you conquer that confusion. We’ll break down what makes a great pair of exercise shorts, so you can stop guessing and start performing.
Get ready to discover the secrets to choosing shorts that will make your workouts more comfortable and enjoyable. We’ll cover everything from fabric types to inseam lengths, ensuring you’ll walk away knowing exactly what to look for. Let’s dive in and find your next favorite pair!
Our Top 5 Exercise Shorts For Men Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Exercise Shorts For Men Detailed Reviews
1. BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear
Rating: 8.8/10
The BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men are designed to help you perform your best. They’re made with soft, stretchy fabric that keeps you comfortable during any activity. Whether you’re hitting the gym, running, or playing your favorite sport, these shorts are built for movement and comfort. They also have pockets to hold your essentials.
What We Like:
- The soft fabric feels great and helps you move freely.
- The 10-inch inseam provides good coverage for all sports.
- Pockets on both sides are handy for your phone or keys.
- They are breathable and dry quickly, keeping you cool and dry.
- The elastic waistband with a drawstring ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the fabric is soft, some users might prefer a slightly more robust material for very intense, rugged activities.
- The 10-inch inseam might be a bit long for some athletes who prefer shorter shorts.
These BALENNZ shorts are a solid choice for anyone seeking comfortable and functional activewear. They offer good support and features to enhance your workouts.
2. Kinglaman 4 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Workout Shorts with Liner
Rating: 8.5/10
Looking for workout shorts that do it all? The Kinglaman 4 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Workout Shorts are a game-changer. This pack comes with two black, one blue, and one gray pair in size large. They’re designed to keep you cool and comfortable whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or just hanging out. The 2-in-1 design means you get the best of both worlds: breathable mesh shorts on the outside and supportive compression shorts on the inside.
What We Like:
- The 2-in-1 design is awesome. It has breathable mesh shorts over snug compression shorts.
- The compression liner helps support your leg muscles during workouts. This can make your performance better.
- You’ll stay dry thanks to the quick-dry fabric. It wicks away sweat.
- There are plenty of pockets! A special pocket for your phone keeps it secure. Two side pockets hold small items. A back zipper pocket is perfect for your keys or money.
- These shorts are super lightweight and breathable. They let air flow freely, keeping you cool.
- They are great for many different sports and activities.
What Could Be Improved:
- The compression liner might feel a bit tight for some people.
- While the pockets are great, the back zipper pocket might be a little small for larger phones.
Overall, these Kinglaman shorts offer excellent comfort and functionality for any active guy. They are a solid choice for anyone who wants versatile and supportive workout gear.
3. BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts – Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear
Rating: 9.0/10
Looking for comfortable and versatile shorts for your workouts and daily life? The BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts are designed to keep you cool and comfy no matter what you’re doing. These black shorts are made for athletes and active people, offering a great value with a five-pack deal. They are perfect for the gym, running, basketball, or just lounging around the house.
What We Like:
- Super soft fabric feels great and stretches for easy movement during workouts.
- The elastic waistband with a drawstring ensures a perfect, stay-put fit.
- Deep pockets are handy for your phone and keys.
- Strong stitching means these shorts are built to last, no worries about rips.
- Moisture-wicking material keeps you dry and comfortable by absorbing sweat quickly.
- You get five pairs for a fantastic price, making them a very cost-effective choice.
- They are breathable, keeping you cool even during intense activities.
- The 10-inch inseam provides good coverage.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “black” color option is the only one mentioned, limiting style choices.
- While they are quick-dry, the material might not be as cool as lighter mesh for very hot weather.
Overall, these BOOJO shorts are a solid choice for anyone needing comfortable, reliable athletic wear without breaking the bank. They offer good performance and value for a variety of activities.
4. NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts 7″/ 5″/ 9″ Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball Tennis Hiking Exercise Black L
Rating: 8.7/10
Ready to upgrade your workout gear? The NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts are designed for comfort and performance, whether you’re hitting the gym, the trails, or the court. These shorts are made from a special fabric that keeps you cool and dry. They’re also super stretchy, so you can move freely during any activity. Plus, they look great with their cool, breathable design and reflective strips for safety.
What We Like:
- Super lightweight and breathable fabric keeps you cool.
- The 4-way stretch material allows for great movement.
- Quick-drying fabric wicks away sweat.
- Stylish, breathable holes on the sides add a cool look.
- A soft, adjustable waistband ensures a perfect fit.
- Flatlock seams prevent chafing for extra comfort.
- Two reflective strips at the front and back increase visibility in low light.
- Three zippered pockets are perfect for storing your phone, keys, and wallet.
- UPF 50+ fabric offers excellent sun protection.
- Mesh pocket cloth keeps you feeling refreshed.
- These shorts are perfect for many sports and activities, like tennis, soccer, and hiking.
What Could Be Improved:
- No belt loops are included.
These NORTHYARD shorts are a fantastic choice for active guys. They combine comfort, style, and practical features to help you perform your best.
5. Amazon Essentials Men’s Performance Tech Loose-Fit Shorts (Available in Big & Tall)
Rating: 8.8/10
The Amazon Essentials Men’s Performance Tech Loose-Fit Shorts are a great choice for anyone who wants comfortable and functional shorts. They come in a convenient pack of two in classic black and are available in Big & Tall sizes, making them accessible for more people. These shorts are designed to feel great whether you’re hitting the gym or just relaxing at home.
What We Like:
- The relaxed fit gives you plenty of room to move.
- The performance tech fabric is super light and breathable.
- It wicks away sweat to keep you cool and dry.
- The honeycomb texture knit fabric stretches in all directions.
- These shorts are perfect for basketball, jogging, or just running errands.
- They sit just above the knee for a comfortable length.
- The adjustable waistband with a drawcord offers a secure fit.
- The 8-inch inseam on a medium size is a good standard length.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the fabric is great, some might prefer a smoother finish.
- The “gentle stretch” might not be enough for very intense, dynamic movements for some athletes.
These Amazon Essentials shorts are a solid pick for comfort and performance. They offer great value and are a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
Choosing the Best Exercise Shorts for Men
Picking the right exercise shorts makes a big difference in how you feel and perform during your workouts. Whether you’re hitting the gym, running trails, or playing sports, the perfect pair of shorts can boost your comfort and confidence. Let’s explore what makes a great pair of workout shorts.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for exercise shorts, keep these important features in mind:
- Length: Shorts come in different lengths. Shorter shorts (like 5-inch inseams) offer more freedom of movement, which is great for running or intense cardio. Longer shorts (7-inch or 9-inch inseams) provide more coverage and can be good for weightlifting or casual wear.
- Fit: Shorts should fit comfortably. They shouldn’t be too tight, which can restrict movement, or too loose, which can be annoying. A relaxed fit or a more athletic, tapered fit are common choices.
- Pockets: Most men like having pockets. Look for secure pockets, like zippered ones, to keep your phone, keys, or wallet safe during your workout. Some shorts have built-in liner pockets, which are handy.
- Waistband: A comfortable waistband is essential. An elastic waistband with a drawstring lets you adjust the fit. Some waistbands are wider and flatter, which can feel more comfortable and prevent them from rolling down.
- Liner: Many workout shorts have a built-in liner, often made of soft, breathable mesh. This liner can help wick away sweat and provide support. You can choose shorts with or without a liner, depending on your preference.
Important Materials
The fabric of your shorts affects how they feel and how well they perform.
- Polyester: This is a popular choice because it’s durable, dries quickly, and resists wrinkles. It’s great for wicking away sweat.
- Nylon: Similar to polyester, nylon is strong and dries fast. It often feels a bit smoother and is very resistant to wear and tear.
- Spandex (or Elastane): This material adds stretch to shorts. It allows for greater movement and helps the shorts keep their shape. You’ll often find it blended with polyester or nylon.
- Cotton: While comfortable for everyday wear, cotton can hold moisture and become heavy when you sweat. It’s usually not the best choice for intense workouts, but it can be fine for light activity or casual wear.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain details can tell you if a pair of shorts is well-made.
- Stitching: Look for strong, neat stitching. Double stitching in key areas, like the seams and waistband, means the shorts will last longer and won’t easily come apart.
- Fabric Weight: Lighter fabrics are better for hot weather and high-intensity workouts because they breathe well. Heavier fabrics might offer more durability or a bit more warmth.
- Breathability: Good airflow is key. Fabrics that allow air to pass through will keep you cooler and drier.
- Durability: High-quality shorts should withstand repeated washing and vigorous activity without losing their shape or developing holes.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you’ll use your shorts matters.
- Running: For runners, lightweight, breathable shorts with good moisture-wicking properties are important. A shorter inseam and secure pockets for essentials are often preferred.
- Gym Workouts: When lifting weights or doing circuit training, shorts that allow a full range of motion are crucial. A comfortable waistband and durable fabric are also a plus.
- Team Sports: For sports like basketball or soccer, shorts that are durable, offer plenty of room to move, and can handle a lot of activity are best.
- Casual Wear: Even if you’re not working out, comfortable and stylish shorts are great for relaxing or running errands.
By considering these points, you can find exercise shorts that will keep you comfortable and ready for any activity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best material for exercise shorts?
A: Polyester and nylon blends with spandex are usually the best. They are breathable, wick away sweat, and stretch well.
Q: Should exercise shorts have a liner?
A: It depends on your preference. Liners can offer support and help manage sweat, but some people find them uncomfortable.
Q: How do I know if exercise shorts are the right size?
A: They should feel comfortable around your waist and legs. You should be able to move freely without them feeling too tight or too loose.
Q: What does “inseam” mean for shorts?
A: The inseam is the length of the shorts from the crotch to the bottom hem. Shorter inseams give more leg freedom.
Q: Are cotton shorts good for working out?
A: Cotton can get heavy and stay wet when you sweat, so it’s usually not the best for intense workouts. It’s better for light activity or casual wear.
Q: How important is breathability in workout shorts?
A: Breathability is very important. It helps keep you cool and dry by allowing air to flow through the fabric.
Q: What are “moisture-wicking” shorts?
A: Moisture-wicking shorts pull sweat away from your skin to the surface of the fabric, where it can evaporate, keeping you drier.
Q: How can I tell if shorts are good quality?
A: Look for neat stitching, durable fabric, and a comfortable waistband. They should feel well-made and not flimsy.
Q: Can I wear shorts with a built-in compression liner?
A: Yes, compression liners can offer extra support and muscle stability during workouts.
Q: What are the best shorts for running in hot weather?
A: Look for lightweight, highly breathable shorts made from moisture-wicking materials with a shorter inseam.
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.