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

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts 7"/ 5"/ 9" Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball Shorts Hiking Exercise LODENFROST-5inch L

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,261
Material
Fit
Length

Most important from
17879 reviews

Material
The material is lightweight, breathable, and perfect for workouts or just lounging around.
Fit
The fit is true to size with a comfortable waistband that offers just the right amount of stretch.
Length
They strike a great balance in length, providing enough coverage without restricting movement.
Waistband
The fit is true to size with a comfortable waistband that offers just the right amount of stretch.
Pockets
The zippered pockets are secure and ideal for carrying essentials like phone or keys during activity.
Breathability
The material is lightweight, breathable, and perfect for workouts or just lounging around.

The NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts are designed with performance and comfort in mind, making them a solid choice for gym workouts and various outdoor activities. Made from a lightweight blend of 90% polyester and 10% elastane, the fabric is quick-drying, breathable, and stretchy, which supports good mobility and helps keep you cool during exercise. The shorts come with a soft elastic waistband and an adjustable drawstring, allowing for a customizable fit that stays secure without feeling too tight. In terms of length, the available 5-inch option (LODENTFROST-5inch) is a common gym-short length, providing a good balance between coverage and freedom of movement.

One standout feature is the inclusion of three zippered pockets—two on the sides and one at the back—which are deep enough to safely hold essentials like keys or a phone during activity, a practical benefit not always found in gym shorts. Breathability is enhanced by small breathable holes on the sides and a mesh lining in the pockets, plus the fabric offers UPF 50+ sun protection, which is great for outdoor workouts or hikes. The flatlock seams help reduce chafing, adding to comfort.

On the downside, the shorts do not have belt loops, which might limit styling options if you prefer wearing a belt. Also, while the reflective strips improve visibility in low light, some users looking for a more minimalist design might find them less appealing. These shorts suit those who want versatile, breathable, and secure shorts for running, gym sessions, hiking, or casual sports, especially in warm weather. They provide a good mix of function and comfort without being overly technical or complicated.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,261
Material
Fit
Length

Most important from
17879 reviews

Material
The material is lightweight, breathable, and perfect for workouts or just lounging around.
Fit
The fit is true to size with a comfortable waistband that offers just the right amount of stretch.
Length
They strike a great balance in length, providing enough coverage without restricting movement.
Waistband
The fit is true to size with a comfortable waistband that offers just the right amount of stretch.
Pockets
The zippered pockets are secure and ideal for carrying essentials like phone or keys during activity.
Breathability
The material is lightweight, breathable, and perfect for workouts or just lounging around.
#2

Under Armour Men's Tech Graphic Shorts , Red (601)/Black, Medium

Rating
9.4
Material
Fit
Waistband

Most important from
117080 reviews

Material
The lightweight, breathable fabric provides comfort and keeps you dry, making them perfect for intense exercises.
Fit
A relaxed fit ensures maximum flexibility and freedom of movement, ideal for running and training.
Waistband
An elastic waistband with an internal drawcord provides a secure, personalized fit during intense movements.
Pockets
Large pockets are a practical feature that users appreciate for convenience during workouts.
Breathability
Advanced moisture-wicking technology effectively pulls sweat away, keeping you cool and dry.

The Under Armour Men's Tech Graphic Shorts are made from 100% Polyester, specifically using UA Tech fabric that is known for being quick-drying, ultra-soft, and providing a natural feel. This makes the shorts highly breathable and comfortable for gym activities. The material also wicks away sweat efficiently, keeping you dry during intense workouts.

The shorts have a loose fit which allows for complete comfort and freedom of movement, ideal for various exercises and fitness routines. The 10-inch inseam provides a balanced length that is neither too short nor too long for most users. The encased elastic waistband with an internal drawcord offers an adjustable fit, ensuring the shorts stay in place during physical activity.

The mesh hand pockets are a practical addition, giving you space to store small items like keys or a phone while you exercise. However, the shorts do not come with a liner, which some users might prefer for added support. The pull-on closure makes them easy to wear, and they are machine washable, making maintenance simple. These shorts are well-suited for anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable option for their gym sessions, though those needing extra support might need to consider additional options.

Rating
9.4
Material
Fit
Waistband

Most important from
117080 reviews

Material
The lightweight, breathable fabric provides comfort and keeps you dry, making them perfect for intense exercises.
Fit
A relaxed fit ensures maximum flexibility and freedom of movement, ideal for running and training.
Waistband
An elastic waistband with an internal drawcord provides a secure, personalized fit during intense movements.
Pockets
Large pockets are a practical feature that users appreciate for convenience during workouts.
Breathability
Advanced moisture-wicking technology effectively pulls sweat away, keeping you cool and dry.
#3

NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts 7"/ 5"/ 9" Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball Tennis Hiking Exercise Black M

Rating
9.1
Material
Fit
Pockets

Most important from
17879 reviews

Material
The material is fantastic—light, airy, and it dries quickly, perfect for both beach trips and workouts.
Fit
Comfortable and seemingly durable, these shorts have a great fit and feel.
Pockets
Pockets are well-designed for running and seem to be sweat-proof.

The NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts are crafted from a blend of 90% polyester and 10% elastane, making them lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. This combination ensures durability and stretch, allowing for better mobility during various activities. The shorts also feature stylish breathable holes on both sides and reflective strips for added safety in low-light conditions.

The fit is adjustable thanks to a soft elastic waistband and a built-in drawstring, offering a custom fit. These shorts are available in 7", 5", and 9" lengths, catering to different preferences for gym, running, or casual wear. One of the standout features is the three zipper pockets that provide secure storage for essentials like keys and phones. The pockets are deep and designed to prevent items from falling out during movement.

The UPF 50+ fabric offers excellent sun protection, making these shorts suitable for outdoor activities. Users will appreciate the machine-washable convenience and the ability to wear these shorts comfortably all day. These shorts are ideal for various occasions such as hiking, gym workouts, and casual outings, offering a versatile option for men looking for comfort and practicality in their athletic wear.

Rating
9.1
Material
Fit
Pockets

Most important from
17879 reviews

Material
The material is fantastic—light, airy, and it dries quickly, perfect for both beach trips and workouts.
Fit
Comfortable and seemingly durable, these shorts have a great fit and feel.
Pockets
Pockets are well-designed for running and seem to be sweat-proof.

Buying Guide for the Best Men's Gym Shorts

Choosing the right men's gym shorts can significantly enhance your workout experience. The right pair should offer comfort, flexibility, and durability, allowing you to focus on your exercise routine without any distractions. When selecting gym shorts, consider the following key specifications to ensure you pick the best fit for your needs.
MaterialThe material of gym shorts is crucial as it affects comfort, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties. Common materials include cotton, polyester, and blends. Cotton is soft and comfortable but may retain moisture. Polyester is lightweight, durable, and wicks moisture away, making it ideal for intense workouts. Blends often combine the best properties of different materials. Choose a material based on your workout intensity and personal comfort preferences.
FitThe fit of gym shorts determines how they move with your body. There are generally three types of fits: loose, regular, and compression. Loose fit offers maximum freedom of movement and is great for activities like weightlifting. Regular fit provides a balance between comfort and mobility, suitable for most workouts. Compression fit supports muscles and improves circulation, ideal for high-intensity training. Select a fit that aligns with your workout type and comfort level.
LengthThe length of gym shorts can impact your range of motion and comfort. Shorts typically come in three lengths: short (5-7 inches), medium (7-9 inches), and long (9-11 inches). Shorter lengths offer greater mobility and are preferred for running or high-intensity interval training. Medium lengths provide a balance of coverage and flexibility, suitable for general gym workouts. Longer lengths offer more coverage and are ideal for activities like basketball. Choose a length that matches your activity and comfort preference.
WaistbandThe waistband of gym shorts affects how securely they stay in place during workouts. Options include elastic waistbands, drawstrings, or a combination of both. Elastic waistbands offer a snug fit and are easy to put on and take off. Drawstrings allow for adjustable tightness, providing a customizable fit. A combination of both offers the best of both worlds. Consider your preference for adjustability and security when choosing the waistband type.
PocketsPockets can add convenience to your gym shorts, allowing you to carry essentials like keys, phone, or gym card. Some shorts have no pockets, while others have side pockets, zippered pockets, or hidden pockets. If you prefer to keep your belongings with you during workouts, look for shorts with secure pockets. However, if you find pockets distracting or unnecessary, you might opt for a pocketless design. Choose based on your need for carrying items during exercise.
BreathabilityBreathability refers to how well the fabric allows air to circulate, keeping you cool and dry. This is particularly important for high-intensity workouts or hot environments. Look for shorts with mesh panels or moisture-wicking fabrics that enhance breathability. If you tend to sweat a lot or exercise in warm conditions, prioritize breathable materials to stay comfortable. For less intense workouts or cooler environments, breathability may be less critical.

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