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, 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.

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.

The NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts are a solid choice for anyone looking for comfortable, versatile gym or activewear shorts. Made from a mix of polyester and elastane, they offer good durability and stretch, which is great for unrestricted movement during workouts or sports. The fabric is quick-drying and breathable thanks to 4-way stretch material and ventilation holes on the sides, helping to keep you cool and dry. With a 5-inch inseam, these shorts strike a balance between coverage and freedom of movement, making them suitable for running, basketball, hiking, or casual gym wear.

The elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring ensures a secure and customizable fit, which is key during active sessions. Another strong point is the inclusion of three zippered pockets—two on the sides and one at the back—that are deep enough to safely hold your essentials like keys, phone, or wallet while you move. Additionally, the shorts offer UPF 50+ sun protection, making them a good option for outdoor activities. Reflective strips add a safety feature for low-light conditions, which is a thoughtful touch. One thing to note is that these shorts don’t have belt loops, which some might prefer for style or added waist security, but the elastic waistband generally compensates well.

These shorts excel in the key areas gym-goers look for: comfort, breathability, fit, and secure storage. They’re especially suitable for those who want lightweight, quick-dry shorts with functional pockets and sun protection. For anyone seeking simple yet effective shorts for multiple sports and outdoor use, these shorts are a reliable pick.