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

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 NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts are designed with active men in mind, offering a great balance of comfort, function, and style for gym workouts, running, basketball, and other sports. Made from a lightweight blend of 90% polyester and 10% elastane, the fabric is stretchy and quick-drying, helping to keep you cool and dry by wicking away sweat efficiently. These shorts also provide UPF 50+ sun protection, making them suitable for outdoor activities in sunny weather.

With a mid-rise and adjustable elastic waistband featuring a drawstring, these shorts offer a secure, customizable fit that stays comfortable during movement. The relaxed athletic cut allows enough room for freedom of motion without feeling baggy or restrictive. The 7-inch inseam is a good middle ground for those who prefer shorts that aren’t too short or too long. One standout feature is the three zipper pockets (two on the sides and one at the back) that keep your essentials like phone, keys, and cards safe and secure while you move. The pockets are deep and have breathable mesh linings to avoid discomfort. Reflective strips and side vents add practical touches for safety and breathability during early or late workouts.

If you’re looking for gym shorts that combine durability, comfort, and plenty of storage, NORTHYARD’s offering is a solid choice. However, if you prefer a tighter or compression-style fit, these may feel a bit loose since they lean toward a relaxed fit. Also, while the fabric resists water to some extent, heavy rain could still soak through. These shorts cover the essentials well and are versatile enough for various sports and casual wear.

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.