10 Best Men's Gym Shorts 2026 in the United States

NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts are designed with active men in mind, offering a good balance of comfort, functionality, and style. Made from a lightweight blend of 90% polyester and 10% elastane, these shorts provide excellent stretch and quick-drying capabilities, which help keep you cool and dry during intense workouts. The fabric also offers UPF 50+ sun protection and a water-resistant coating, making them suitable for outdoor activities in various weather conditions. The fit is mid-rise with a flat-front design and an adjustable elastic waistband with a drawstring, allowing you to find a secure and comfortable fit. They have a relaxed athletic cut, which is roomy enough to support a full range of motion without feeling too loose. The 9-inch length hits around mid-thigh, offering good coverage without restricting movement, though other inseam options (5” and 7”) are also available if you prefer shorter shorts.

One standout feature is the inclusion of three zippered pockets—two deep side pockets and one back pocket—lined with breathable mesh to keep essentials like keys, cards, or a phone secure and comfortable. This is especially useful if you want to carry items safely during running or gym sessions. Breathability is enhanced by vent holes on the sides and moisture-wicking fabric, helping you stay fresh even in high heat. The shorts also include reflective strips for safety during low-light activities, which adds a thoughtful touch for early morning or evening workouts. They are machine washable and durable, with flatlock seams to reduce chafing.

A potential downside is that because the shorts are unlined, some users might prefer to wear additional support underneath, especially for high-impact sports. While the relaxed fit suits many, those seeking a tighter compression fit might find them less ideal. Additionally, the price and availability of multiple sizes and colors are worth checking based on your preferences. These shorts serve as a reliable choice for men who want versatile, breathable, and secure gym or running shorts with handy pockets and sun protection, making them particularly great for outdoor workouts, running, basketball, or casual wear.

The BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men are designed with workout comfort in mind. Made from 100% polyester, they offer lightweight fabric that is soft and breathable, which helps keep you cool and dry during exercise thanks to its quick-dry feature. The fit is generally true to size, with an elastic waistband and drawstring that provide a secure and adjustable hold, so the shorts stay in place whether you’re running or lifting weights. The 10-inch inseam is a good middle ground—not too short, not too long—making these shorts versatile for many sports like running, basketball, or cycling. Two side pockets are a practical addition for carrying essentials like a phone or keys, which is convenient for workouts or casual wear.

The fabric has low stretch, which might limit flexibility slightly compared to shorts with more elastic materials. If you prefer a bit more stretch for activities requiring a wider range of motion, this could be a minor drawback. For most gym and general sports uses, these shorts balance comfort and functionality well. The solid colors and classic style make them easy to pair with various workout tops. For those looking for affordable, dependable gym shorts that dry quickly and include pockets, the BALENNZ shorts are a smart choice.

The BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men are designed with workout comfort in mind. Made from 100% polyester, the fabric is soft, stretchy, and breathable, which helps keep you dry by quickly wicking away sweat during exercise. With a 10-inch inseam, these shorts offer a moderate length that works well for various activities like running, basketball, or cycling, providing enough coverage without feeling bulky.

The waistband features an elastic band with a drawstring inside, making it easy to adjust the fit so the shorts stay comfortably in place whether you’re moving fast or standing still. One useful feature is the pockets on both sides, which are great for carrying small essentials like your phone or keys, so you don’t have to worry about where to put them during workouts. These shorts are machine washable and imported, making them convenient to care for.

On the downside, since they are made entirely of polyester, some may find the material less breathable than natural fabrics such as cotton, especially in very hot weather. Also, the elastic waistband, while adjustable, might not suit everyone’s preference for tighter or firmer support. These shorts are a suitable choice for men looking for versatile, quick-drying gym wear with practical pockets and a comfortable fit for a wide range of sports and training activities.