Best Lightweight Athletic Shorts for Boys of 2026

Mary Hopper Avatar
Mary Hopper
Last Updated: Jan 26, 2026

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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

NY Threads Boys Quick-Dry Athletic Shorts 5 Pack Cover #TOP 1
NY Threads Boys Quick-Dry Athletic Shorts 5 Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Under Armour Boys' Challenger Soccer Shorts Cover #TOP 2
Under Armour Boys' Challenger Soccer Shorts
ftb score rating icon 9.7
MLYENX Boys Athletic Shorts 5 Pack Cover #TOP 3
MLYENX Boys Athletic Shorts 5 Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Lightweight Athletic Shorts for Boys

#TOP 1

NY Threads Boys Quick-Dry Athletic Shorts 5 Pack

X-Large
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.

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

UAFGC26J-413
Midnight Navy
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.

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

5NHDK5AL
Large
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.

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)

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.

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

Andrew Scott Boys Performance Basketball Shorts

ASB03PX5
XX-Large
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.

What We Like
Comfortable elastic waistband
Moisture-wicking fabric
Deep side pockets
Adjustable drawstring
Multi-pack convenience

HONCAN Boys Pull on Cargo Shorts

9069-black
13-14
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.

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

1390109
Large
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.

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

2NHDK5AL-0
Large
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.

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

Set1
12 Years
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.

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)

RE8549
Set 12
Large
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.

What We Like
Durable athletic material
Comfortable fit
Good pocket size
Nice color selection
Easy-care and washes well
Buying Guide Image
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 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.