Best Workout Shorts For Men: Tested And Ranked By A Gym Rat In 2026

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 - Best Budget Workout Shorts

KEY TAKEAWAY:

Fast drying fabric made these feel really practical for workouts.

PERSONAL BACKSTORY:

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.

LIGHTWEIGHT FABRIC:

The fabric is light and breezy, and even after a pretty sweaty gym session, they dried out almost immediately.

SECURE POCKETS:

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 & COMFORT:

I went for the 7 inch version, and the length is just right. 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.

WASH DURABILITY:

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.

BASKETBALL USE:

I loved these so much I got a pair for my son in size M, and he’s pretty much been living in them. He’s big on basketball 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.

PILATES USE:

I can’t leave out my brother, who actually first recommended these to me. He started doing Pilates classes with his wife, and, 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 Pilates brings. After one class, he went online and ordered another pair right away.

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:

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

BOTTOM LINE:

Even after all that activity and plenty of trips through the wash, the shorts still look and feel great.

Buy it on Amazon today for: $32.99 with FREE returns

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2. Under Armour - Best Workout Shorts for Hot Weather

KEY TAKEAWAY:

Even after workouts and summer heat, the fabric somehow still feels light and dry instead of clingy.

OVERALL COMFORT:

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.

PRINT 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. At the same time, these shorts have a little attitude, which I love.

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.

POCKET STORAGE:

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 FIT:

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.

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.

BOTTOM LINE:

They never lose their shape or color, even after tons of washes. Also, I love the graphic style. Also, they’re not just comfortable. They actually motivate me to work harder, because I stay cool and dry. I have a couple of different patterns, and my gym buddies keep asking me where I got them. So that's my bottom line, folks.

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

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3. Nike - Best Running Shorts

KEY TAKEAWAY:

Dri-FIT fabric stayed comfortable even during incredibly sweaty workouts.

FABRIC PERFORMANCE:

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. The fabric is so lightweight and breathable, it makes the shorts 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 & FEEL:

I went for a medium, and with my height and build, 5 foot 11, 165 pounds, the fit is just right. 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.

SHORT LENGTH:

They are the exact length I was looking for, and even though they shrunk a little in the dryer, it is nothing major.

SOCCER USE:

These shorts are great for soccer, too. The main thing about playing soccer is being able to move easily. That's why I always throw on compression shorts underneath, so the lighter material here is actually a bonus.

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.

BOTTOM LINE:

The airflow feels great and the fabric is really comfortable. I wear these shorts for just about everything now, and they check every box, comfort, function, and even a bit of style.

Buy it on Amazon today for: $50.00 with FREE returns

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4. Champion - Best Workout Shorts for Tall Guys

KEY TAKEAWAY:

Breathable mesh made these especially comfortable for hot summer runs.

PERSONAL BACKSTORY:

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.

SUMMER COMFORT:

I have been using them for a while, and they have become 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.

POCKET STORAGE:

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. These reach my knees just right, so whether I am running, sitting, or just hanging out, they feel comfortable and actually look good.

MESH MATERIAL:

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.

COLOR DIFFERENCES:

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. Also, 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.

CARE INSTRUCTIONS:

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.

HOME USE:

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.

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