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Best Lightweight Athletic Shorts for Boys of 2026

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Mary Hopper

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These lightweight athletic shorts are the perfect choice for active boys. Designed with comfort and performance in mind, these shorts are made from high-quality materials that allow for maximum breathability and freedom of movement. Whether they're on the soccer field or out for a run, these shorts will keep boys cool and comfortable all day long. With a variety of colors and styles to choose from, they are sure to find the perfect pair to suit their individual style. Upgrade their athletic wardrobe with these lightweight and stylish shorts.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Lightweight Athletic Shorts for Women Lightweight Athletic Shorts for Women

Top 10 Lightweight Athletic Shorts for Boys

#TOP 1

NY Threads Boys Quick-Dry Athletic Shorts 5 Pack

NY Threads Boys Quick-Dry Athletic Shorts 5 Pack Cover

NY Threads 5 Pack Boys Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Basketball Shorts for Kids Youth with Pockets and Drawstring, X-Large, Black/Black/Dark Grey/Navy/Medium Grey

The NY Threads Boys Athletic Shorts come in a convenient 5-pack, providing great value for active kids. Made from soft mesh fabric, these shorts dry quickly and feel light and breathable, perfect for sports like basketball, soccer, or running. The deep side pockets are handy for keeping small essentials like keys or phones safe while on the move. Plus, the elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring ensures a snug, comfortable fit that stays in place during every jump or stretch. These shorts combine comfort, practicality, and style, making them a smart choice for your child’s busy day.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Quick-dry breathable fabric
  • Set of five shorts
  • Deep side pockets
  • Adjustable drawstring waist
#TOP 2

Under Armour Boys' Challenger Soccer Shorts

Under Armour Boys' Challenger Soccer Shorts Cover

Under Armour Boys' Challenger Performance Soccer Shorts, Elastic Waistband, Lightweight, Midnight Navy, 7

The Under Armour Soccer Shorts are a must-have for any active boy. They feature moisture-wicking fabric that helps keep you dry and comfortable during sports or casual wear. The elastic waistband ensures a snug yet flexible fit, making movement easy and comfortable. Made from durable, breathable material, these shorts stand up to rough play in soccer, basketball, or baseball. Plus, they are easy to care for with machine washable fabric. Whether for gym class, practice, or everyday fun, these shorts offer comfort and performance all summer long.

9.7
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Moisture-wicking fabric
  • Elastic waistband comfort
  • Durable and breathable material
  • Machine washable
  • Versatile for multiple sports
#TOP 3

MLYENX Boys Athletic Shorts 5 Pack

MLYENX Boys Athletic Shorts 5 Pack Cover

MLYENX 5 Pack Boys Athletic Shorts Active Performance Youth Kids Basketball Shorts Quick Dry with Elastic Waist Pockets

MLYENX Boys Shorts are designed for active youth, offering comfort and style during sports. Made from lightweight and durable fabric, these shorts remain smooth and wrinkle-free, ensuring your child feels great no matter how much they move. The adjustable drawstrings and elastic waistband provide a custom fit, while deep pockets keep essentials like keys and wallets secure. Perfect for a range of activities, from basketball to running, these versatile shorts make it easy for your boy to stay active and look good doing it.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • True to size fit
  • Durable material
  • Comfortable for kids
  • Easy to wash
  • Great value pack
#TOP 4

ANHDM Boys Quick Dry Athletic Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Pack of 2)

  • ANHDM
  • Boy Shorts
  • B/Black&grey
  • 11-12 Years
ANHDM Boys Quick Dry Athletic Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Pack of 2) Cover

Boys Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Sport Shorts Lightweight Running Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Pack of 2), B/Black&Grey, 11-12T

The ANHDM Boys Quick Dry Shorts offer practical features for active kids. With two zippered side pockets, you can safely carry small items without worrying about losing them during play or workouts. The shorts are made from breathable, quick-drying fabric that keeps you comfortable by wicking away sweat and staying durable after many washes. An elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring ensures a secure and flexible fit that won’t slip down while running or exercising. Plus, reflective strips on the hem add a stylish touch and improve visibility in low-light conditions, helping you stay safe during evening activities.

9.3
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Secure zipper pockets
  • Breathable quick-dry fabric
  • Adjustable elastic waistband
  • Reflective safety strips
#TOP 5

Andrew Scott Boys Performance Basketball Shorts

Andrew Scott Boys Performance Basketball Shorts Cover

Andrew Scott Boys Active Performance & Mesh Style Basketball Sport Shorts - Multi Packs

The Andrew Scott Basketball Shorts are designed for active boys who enjoy sports like basketball and soccer. With a flexible elastic waistband and an adjustable drawstring, you can find the perfect fit for your comfort. The 6-inch inseam and deep side pockets provide practicality, allowing you to move freely and store essentials while playing. Made with moisture-wicking fabric, these shorts are easy to care for, making them ideal for daily wear without the hassle of constant laundry. Enjoy the convenience of a multi-pack that keeps you ready for any team activity.

9.1
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Comfortable elastic waistband
  • Moisture-wicking fabric
  • Deep side pockets
  • Adjustable drawstring
  • Multi-pack convenience

HONCAN Boys Pull on Cargo Shorts

HONCAN Boys Pull on Cargo Shorts Cover

HONCAN Boys Pull on Cargo Shorts, Outdoor Kids Youth Quick Dry Hiking Shorts, Lightweight Elastic Waist Athletic Short with Zipper Pockets(9069-Black14)

HONCAN Boys Cargo Shorts are made with quick-drying, moisture-wicking, and lightweight sports fabric that keeps you comfortable and dry. The adjustable drawstring allows you to customize the waist for the perfect fit. With two open side pockets and two side cargo flap pockets, you can conveniently store and access your phone, wallet, and other handy items while on the go. The highly elastic fabric stretches in all directions, giving you maximum range of motion for activities like bending, twisting, and stretching. Additionally, the shorts are made from highly breathable polyester, providing excellent ventilation during intense exercise sessions. Whether you're into sports, traveling, cycling, climbing, fishing, hiking, or adventures, these boys running shorts will keep you cool and comfortable.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Quick-drying
  • Adjustable waist
  • Multiple pockets
  • Elastic fabric for maximum range of motion
  • Highly breathable polyester material
#TOP 7

Under Armour Boys Challenger Athletic Shorts

Under Armour Boys Challenger Athletic Shorts Cover

Under Armour Boys Challenger Shorts, (001) Black / / White, Large

The Under Armour Challenger Shorts offer a smooth and lightweight fabric that helps you stay comfortable during active play or sports. The material dries quickly and wicks away sweat, keeping you cool and dry even during intense activities. The elastic waistband with a hidden drawstring ensures a secure and adjustable fit, so the shorts stay in place no matter how much you move. Plus, the contrast piping adds a stylish touch, giving the shorts a sleek and sporty look. These features make the Under Armour Challenger Shorts a great choice for boys who need reliable and comfortable athletic wear.

8.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Great comfort and fit
  • Durable material quality
  • Lightweight design
  • Adjustable waistband
  • Clean, versatile look
#TOP 8

BALENNZ Boy's Athletic Shorts with Pockets

BALENNZ Boy's Athletic Shorts with Pockets Cover

BALENNZ Boy's Athletic Shorts Kids Youth Quick Dry Active Performance Basketball Shorts with Pockets Elastic Waistband Large

The BALENNZ Boy's Athletic Shorts are made from lightweight, quick-drying material, providing superior softness, breathability, and stretchiness for maximum comfort during workouts. The shorts come with pockets on both sides, allowing for convenient storage of valuables and small accessories. The encased elastic waistband coupled with an inner drawcord ensures a perfect fit every time, preventing sliding up or down. These versatile shorts are great for various sports activities or everyday loungewear. You'll receive five packs with various colors, meeting your daily changing and washing needs.

8.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Soft, breathable material
  • Comfortable fit
  • Good length for kids
  • Durable and holds up well
  • Versatile everyday wear
#TOP 9

EXARUS Boys Athletic Quick Dry Running Shorts

EXARUS Boys Athletic Quick Dry Running Shorts Cover

EXARUS Boys Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Reflective Elastic Waist with Pockets Water Resistant Hiking Gym Lightweight Shorts 12Y

The EXARUS Boys Quick Dry Shorts are designed with lightweight, stretchy fabric that dries fast and keeps you comfortable by wicking away sweat during workouts. You’ll appreciate the water-resistant woven material that helps keep you dry and includes zipper pockets, side slits, and reflective accents for better safety and ease of movement. The knitted basketball shorts in the pack offer soft, breathable fabric that stretches with you, perfect for active play. Plus, the 2-in-1 compression shorts provide muscle support and come with handy pockets, an adjustable waistband, and a towel loop to keep you ready for any sport or activity.

8.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Quick-drying fabric
  • Water-resistant material
  • Reflective safety details
  • Soft, breathable knit
  • Compression support with pockets
#TOP 10

Real Essentials Big Boys Girls Youth Clothing Knit Mesh Active Athletic Performance Basketball Soccer Lacrosse Tennis Exercise Summer Gym Golf Running Teen Running Shorts Quick Dry Fit Knit- Set 12, L(14/16)

Real Essentials Big Boys Girls Youth Clothing Knit Mesh Active Athletic Performance Basketball Soccer Lacrosse Tennis Exercise Summer Gym Golf Running Teen Running Shorts Quick Dry Fit Knit- Set 12, L(14/16) Cover

Real Essentials 5 Pack: Boys' Mesh Basketball Athletic Shorts with Pockets – Teen Kids Youth Quick Dry Soccer Running Gym L(14-16)

The Real Essentials Youth Active Shorts are perfect for running, basketball, lacrosse, soccer, or just everyday loungewear. With a stretch waistband and internal drawstring, these shorts provide a comfortable fit for all-day wear. The smooth, lightweight, fast-drying breathable mesh fabric ensures superior performance and comfort. These shorts also feature front pockets for convenient storage. Additionally, the UPF 50+ rating safeguards your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Whether you're hitting the gym, playing sports, or simply relaxing, these Youth Active Shorts from Real Essentials are a must-have for any active teenager.

8.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Durable athletic material
  • Comfortable fit
  • Good pocket size
  • Nice color selection
  • Easy-care and washes well

Editor's Notes

During our lightweight athletic shorts for boys research, we found 48 lightweight athletic shorts for boys products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 143,275 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lightweight athletic shorts for boys list. We found that most customers choose lightweight athletic shorts for boys with an average price of $18.18.

The lightweight athletic shorts for boys are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lightweight athletic shorts for boys, including NY Threads, Under Armour, MLYENX, ANHDM, Andrew Scott. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 29,331 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by

Mary Hopper Avatar

Mary Hopper

Mary Hopper is an Italian fashion designer with 10 years of extensive working experience in the fashion industry. She can design clothing and fashion accessories, such as handbags, backpacks, shoes, and jewelry. She is also a professionally trained content writer specializing in managing various fashion and beauty blogs.