Men’s workout shorts have a come a long way from the classic, loose-fitted pair of basketball shorts that were your normal go-to. Now, there are all different types of cuts, lengths, and fabrics to help maximize comfort and performance.
After considering many of the top fitness clothing brands and testing out some shorts ourselves, we’ve narrowed down the best men’s workout shorts on the market, for any and all types of workouts.
Lululemon Pacemaker Short 9-Inch
Best Starter Short
Lulu’s Pacemaker Short is a standard if you’re new to workout shorts. They’re not bulky, are quick-drying, and have a four-way stretch. Choose between a 7- and 9-inch inseam — the 9-inch is also available with a liner — for your coverage preferences. The Lulu lycra fabric will keep these shorts around for many workouts to come thanks to their shape retention.
Fourlaps Extend Short 5-Inch
Best for HIIT Workouts
Fourlaps’ breathable, four-way stretch fabric is ideal for working up a sweat during your workouts. Their 5-inch inseam and wicking boxer-brief liner will give you the range you need to go from doing weighted squats, to burpees, and even sprints on the treadmill.
Rhone Swift Short
Best for Running
These form-fitting running shorts are made to withstand intense workouts. They have a brief mesh liner with a breathable venting system along each side of the leg. Running at a higher price point than our other picks, these shorts — which come in either a 5- or 6-inch inseam — will be well worth it thanks to their durability and material qualities. There’s even a built-in strap in the back for when you want to take your shirt off.
Wolaco North Moore Short
Best Compression Tight
Read some of the reviews on the Wolaco tight and you’ll see why people love it so much. There’s two sweat-proof pockets that’ll hold your phone and keys and the four-way stretch will keep you comfortable throughout the entire workout.
Vuori Stockton Short
Best Short With Built-In Compression Brief
The compression boxer-brief liner on these Stockton Shorts from Vuori will keep you covered when the shorts happen to ride up during those jump squats. The 2-in-1 athletic shorts are durable while still maintaining a lightweight feel. They’re ideal for all physical activities, whether that’s CrossFit or yoga.
Nike Dri-FIT Flex Stride
Best Quick-Dry
These 7-inch, 2-in-1 running shorts are ideal for any workout. They have a zipper pocket in the back big enough to fit a phone. It even has a vapor barrier to block sweat. The best part is that they are made with Nike’s Dri-FIT technology so they won’t stay sweaty, no matter how drenched you get.
Fourlaps Bolt Short 7-Inch
Best for Lifting
You can get both your lift session in followed by some cardio in these 7-inch inseam Bolt Shorts from Fourlaps. Similar to their 5-inch with the boxer-brief liner, the four-way stretch is extremely breathable thanks to the laser-cut ventilation holes along the side. The longer inseam just gives you a little more coverage during the squats and dead lifts.
Vuori’s Trail Short
Best for Versatility
The tag line for Vuori’s trail short is “not quite naked, but very lightweight.” You’ll know that exact feeling when you slip a pair of these moisture-wicking, anti-odor, quick-drying shorts on. They have their V4 four-way stretch fabric with a cool max liner boxer brief in them, and even an inclined seam to provide optional range of motion. Plus, they come in a bunch of fun patterns inspired by a coastal California lifestyle. These are definitely shorts you can leave on throughout the day without looking too "athleisure.”
C9 Champion Shorts
Best Budget Buy
If you aren’t willing to drop more than $50 on a pair of workout shorts, let alone $30, this C9 Champion option from Target is the perfect option. The shorts have an inner brief that’s wicking, while the actual fabric of the shorts is flexible and lightweight.
Read More:
The Best Running Gear for Both Men and Women
Have a Personal Trainer in the Palm of Your Hand With These 16 Workout Apps
These Effervescent Tablets Will Help You During Marathon Training Sessions
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