Best Workout Shorts For Men: Ranked By A Gym Rat In 2025

I tested several popular shorts for working out and these are my top picks. They combine high performance fabric with a sleek and flattering fit.

Note: Prices were correct at the time of writing.

1. NORTHYARD - Quick Dry Gym Shorts

Practical review: Finding a good pair of athletic shorts sometimes feels way harder than it should be. I wanted something lightweight that wouldn’t feel heavy after a workout, and that would actually dry out instead of staying damp for hours. The Northyard shorts checked all my boxes right away. The fabric is light and breezy, and even after a pretty sweaty gym session, they dried out almost immediately. The zippered pockets ended up being a bigger deal than I thought, since they’re deep enough to hold my phone or keys, and I never worry about anything falling out when I’m jogging around the neighborhood or just running errands.

FIT AND COMFORT:

I went for the 7 inch version, and honestly, the length is just right for me. Not too short, not too long, right at that sweet spot above the knee. The waistband sits comfortably, with a nice bit of stretch, and the fit is totally true to size. These shorts have been through the laundry more times than I can count, and they still look and feel brand new. I actually ordered a second pair not long after the first, which kind of says it all.

Now I have to bring in my sister, Kelly Cobb from Durham, New Hampshire, because she and her family have practically become Northyard fans too. Kelly told me her husband is hooked on these shorts for running, mostly because the zipper pockets mean he doesn’t have to worry about his phone, and the fabric never bunches up. He liked them so much, he bought three more pairs, and every color has stayed soft and comfortable even after all those washes. She also picked up a black pair for her son in size M, and he’s pretty much been living in them. He’s big on basketball and gym workouts, and these have become his go to shorts, mostly because of the breathable fabric and the way they never feel too short or too long. Even after all that activity and plenty of trips through the wash, the shorts still look and feel great.

I can’t leave out my neighbor, Jack Emery, who actually first recommended these to me. He started doing Pilates classes with his wife, and honestly, respect, because I know that’s out of a lot of guys’ comfort zones. One of his main worries was finding something that felt masculine but still worked for stretching and all those Pilates moves. The Northyard shorts hit the mark. He told me they felt super light right out of the package, but tough enough for whatever the day brings. After one class, he went online and ordered another pair right away. I get it now. They really do work for everything, from hiking to basketball, and even those moments you find yourself sweating through Pilates. Jack swears by them, and I get why.

PROS:

Lightweight and breathable fabric, great for sweaty workouts Zipper pockets that actually keep your stuff safe Perfect length, not too short, not too long True to size fit with a comfortable waistband Stays soft and holds up after lots of washes Budget friendly for the quality

CONS:

Honestly, I haven’t found a real downside yet, except maybe wishing I’d tried them sooner. – Levi Riggins

Buy it on Amazon today for: $24.99 with FREE returns

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2. Under Armour - Graphic Workout Shorts

Practical review: Alright, let me just say it, these shorts are on another level. It sounds dramatic, but ever since I tried the Under Armour Mens Tech Graphic Shorts, they’ve been my go-to for just about everything. The fit feels almost like you’re wearing nothing at all, but they’re still sturdy enough to handle anything. Whether I’m sprinting for the fridge, heading out for a run, or just getting lost in a full day of Netflix, these shorts have never let me down. The fabric just moves with you, stays soft, and never feels clingy or awkward, even when you start sweating.

DESIGN:

There’s something about the tech graphic print that just works. It’s not just a cool pattern, it kind of motivates you a bit more. Even on those lazy days when the only running you do is from the couch to the kitchen, you still feel like you’re pulling on real workout gear. These shorts have a little attitude, and honestly, I love that.

MOISTURE CONTROL:

Here’s where they really shine, moisture control. These shorts keep you dry, no matter how much you sweat. I’ve worked out, mowed the lawn, and basically melted in summer heat, and somehow the shorts stay light and comfortable. It almost feels like they have their own built in AC. Whether it’s a heavy workout or just lounging around, I always end up dry and comfortable.

POCKETS:

Let’s talk about the pockets for a second. I had no idea I could care this much about pockets, but here we are. They’re deep, actually useful, and my phone or keys have never fallen out, even if I’m jumping or dashing out the door. Sometimes I toss in a snack or two for later, just because I can.

WAISTBAND:

I have to mention the waistband. It’s soft, stretchy, and always stays in place, no matter what I’m doing. There’s never any digging in or sliding down, even if I go for that extra slice of pizza. It’s a small thing, but it makes a difference. And there’s an inner drawcord if you want a little more control over the fit.

My cousin, Phil Hobby, out in Fresno, California, is honestly a huge fan too. He’s the one who told me to try these. Phil is always training or at the gym, and he swears these are the only shorts that actually hold up. He loves the graphic style, and says they’re not just comfortable, they actually motivate him to work harder. For him, it’s all about staying cool and dry, and he says they never lose their shape or color, even after tons of washes. He has a couple different patterns, and apparently, his gym buddies keep asking where he got them.

PROS:

Super lightweight, silky feel, but tough enough for any workout Pockets you can really use, nothing falls out Keeps you dry, even during crazy workouts Graphics and colors that look fresh, not boring Waistband fits perfectly and stays put Holds up after lots of washes

CONS:

Haven’t found anything to complain about, unless having too many favorite shorts is a problem. – Cody Strickland

Buy it on Amazon today for: $24.99 with FREE returns

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3. Nike - Unlimited Dri-FIT Shorts

Practical review: These shorts instantly became my go-to for any kind of workout. Right from the start, the fabric stood out. It has that quick dry material that is an absolute lifesaver, especially on days when you are working up a serious sweat. The shorts wick away moisture so well, I actually stay comfortable and dry no matter what. They are lightweight and breathable too, which makes them just as good for running and gym days as they are for tossing on for a casual walk or just hanging around the house.

FIT AND FEEL:

The fit is seriously spot on. With a 5 inch inseam, you get just the right amount of coverage, and there is zero restriction when you move. The elastic waistband is another big win, since it always stays in place and never digs into my skin. I wear these shorts for just about everything now, and honestly, they check every box, comfort, function, and even a bit of style.

I first heard about these from one of my gym buddies, Steve Lydon. He was a little unsure at first because he had seen some mixed reviews about the fit and the material, but he ended up loving them, especially for soccer. His main thing is being able to move easily, and he always throws on compression shorts underneath, so the lighter material is actually a bonus. He went for a medium, and with his height and build, 5 foot 11, 165 pounds, he says the fit is just right.

Another buddy, Jack Flot, had a few tips about these shorts too. He likes that they are the exact length he was looking for, and even though they shrink a little in the dryer, it is nothing major. He wears them for running, gym sessions, and everyday stuff. Jack did mention there is no gusset, which might matter to some folks, but he has his own fix for that, he just pairs them with kangaroo pouch style underwear, and that takes care of it.

A third friend from the gym had to chime in, and honestly, his excitement was contagious. He was skeptical at first because of some of the reviews, but after giving them a shot, he ended up loving them. He is into all kinds of sports and just needed shorts that were comfortable but also looked good. After his first tournament wearing these, he came home and ordered another pair right away. He is planning to buy even more, and he already has them on his Christmas list. If you like a comfy fit and shorts that are on the shorter side, these are worth a try.

Even my brother, who is not exactly the sporty type, gave these a try. For him, they are the perfect shorts for hot weather or just lounging around at home. He likes the slanted zippered side pockets since they fit his phone and keys easily, especially for short walks or quick errands. He mentioned the airflow feels great and the fabric is really comfortable. He is usually between a large and an XL, but in this case, he suggests sizing up if you are in the middle. He has had no trouble with tossing them in the washer and dryer either, so that is another win.

PROS:

Super comfortable, with lightweight quick dry fabric Breathable, so you never feel sweaty or sticky Perfect length for movement, with a 5 inch inseam Elastic waistband stays in place, no pinching Zippered pockets that actually hold your stuff Great for workouts, lounging, or casual wear Easy to wash and the dryer does not ruin them

CONS:

Shrink a little if you use the dryer, but nothing major No gusset, but easy to work around with the right underwear Sizing can run a bit small for some, so consider going up if you are between sizes. – Beau Dutton

Buy it on Amazon today for: $58.39 with FREE returns

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4. Champion - Lightweight Gym Shorts

Practical review: Whenever I am searching for athletic shorts, I really only care about three things, they have to be lightweight, they need to have pockets, and they have to settle near my knees. These shorts manage all of that perfectly. I have been using them for a while, and honestly, they are a staple for me, especially since my gym closed for a bit and I started running outside more. With the summer heat, I really need something that feels breezy and cool, and these definitely do the trick. There are two mesh layers, one on top of the other, so they are super breathable even when it is sweltering out.

POCKETS:

Another must for me is having pockets, since I use these as exercise shorts and as pajamas or just for lounging. The pockets are deep and padded, plenty of room for my phone, headphones, wallet, or whatever I am carrying from room to room.

KNEE LENGTH:

Finding shorts that hit the knee is not easy when you are tall. I am six foot three, and most running shorts ride up way too high for me. These reach my knees just right, so whether I am running, sitting, or just hanging out, they feel comfortable and actually look good.

A FEW THINGS TO KNOW:

- Here are a few things I think you should know before buying. First, these are mesh gym shorts, so they are a bit see through, especially the white ones. If you get the white, make sure to plan your underwear accordingly.

- Second, I picked up a few different colors, and all fit true to size except for the basic athletic gray, which ran a bit snug and did not have the little split on the side of the leg like the others. Maybe it was just a one-off, but just in case, double check if you are eyeing that color.

- Last thing, the color can look a little different in real life compared to the computer screen. I actually liked the Swiss Blue even better in person, and the Team Gold is a rich shade without looking over the top.

Rick Welsh, one of my gym buddies, is just as hooked on these shorts. He picked up three, in black, navy, and white, and uses them for working out or hanging at home. He has a warning about the white ones, though. When he washed them, they came out a kind of green, so he says stick with the darker colors to be safe. Other than that, he likes the waistband, says the thin material is sturdy enough for the wash, and the deep pockets work great for keeping his phone in place. Rick is six feet tall, and the shorts land just above his knee, which works for him.

ON LAZY DAYS:

I end up reaching for these all the time, whether I am working out or just hanging out at home. They are perfect for days when you want something easy and comfortable, or for those Zoom calls where you only need to look dressed up from the waist up. When I am at home, I want clothes I do not have to think about, and these shorts are exactly that. They are definitely staying in my regular rotation now.

A CARE TIP:

The inseam goes just past my knees, which I like. Just use a low heat dryer setting, or let them air dry if you can, since high heat can wear them out faster.

PROS:

Super lightweight and breathable mesh Deep padded pockets Perfect knee length, even for tall people Good color choices Easy to wash and care for Great for workouts or lounging

CONS:

White pair is a bit see through, so plan accordingly Athletic gray ran a bit snug Color can change a little in the wash, especially the lighter ones Not every color has the side split, so check your pair. – Zane Carver

Buy it on Amazon today for: $30.00 with FREE returns