Best Quick Dry Athletic Shorts for Boys of 2026

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

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The Quick Dry Athletic Shorts are a must-have for active boys. These shorts are designed with high-performance fabric that wicks away moisture, allowing for quick drying and ultimate comfort during intense physical activities. With their lightweight and breathable material, these shorts provide optimal ventilation, keeping boys cool and dry even during the hottest summer days. The elastic waistband ensures a secure and comfortable fit, while the stylish design adds a trendy touch to any workout ensemble. Perfect for sports, gym class, or casual wear, these Quick Dry Athletic Shorts are the ideal choice for active boys on the go.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

MLYENX Boys Athletic Shorts 5 Pack Cover #TOP 1
MLYENX Boys Athletic Shorts 5 Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.9
NY Threads Boys Quick-Dry Athletic Shorts 5 Pack Cover #TOP 2
NY Threads Boys Quick-Dry Athletic Shorts 5 Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.8
BALENNZ Boy's Athletic Shorts with Pockets Cover #TOP 3
BALENNZ Boy's Athletic Shorts with Pockets
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Quick Dry Athletic Shorts for Boys

#TOP 1

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 2

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 3

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 4

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 5

ANHDM Boys Quick Dry Athletic Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Pack of 3)

Boy Shorts
Z/Black&grey&navy
11-12 Years
ANHDM Boys Quick Dry Athletic Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Pack of 3) Cover
Boys Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Sport Shorts Lightweight Running Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Pack of 3), Z/Black&Grey&Navy, 11-12T

The ANHDM Boys Quick Dry Shorts are designed to keep your child comfortable and secure during any activity. With two side zipper pockets, you can safely store small items without worrying about them falling out while running or exercising. The shorts are made from breathable, quick-drying fabric that wicks away moisture and stretches for easy movement, ensuring your child stays dry and comfortable. An elastic waistband with an adjustable inner drawstring offers a snug fit that won’t slip down, no matter the activity. Plus, reflective strips at the hem add a stylish touch and help improve visibility and safety during nighttime activities.

What We Like
Secure zipper pockets
Breathable quick-dry fabric
Adjustable elastic waistband
Reflective safety strips
#TOP 6

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
#TOP 7

XiaoLongRen Boys Quick Dry Running Shorts

89057black+green
14-15
XiaoLongRen Boys Quick Dry Running Shorts Cover
XiaoLongRen Boys Outdoor Running Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Gym Shorts with Zipper Pockets(089057BK+Green-14)

The XiaoLongRen Boys Running Shorts offer a comfortable and practical choice for active kids. They feature an elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring, so you can get the perfect fit every time. The shorts are made from breathable, quick-drying fabric that helps keep you cool and dry during workouts or runs. With two zipper pockets, you can securely store small items like keys or a phone, giving you peace of mind while moving. The soft, loose-fitting design allows for easy movement, making these shorts ideal for running, training, or any intense activity.

What We Like
Adjustable waistband
Quick-dry fabric
Breathable material
Zippered pockets
Comfortable loose fit
#TOP 8

Columbia PFG Backcast II Swim Shorts

209390
Cool Grey
Small
Columbia PFG Backcast II Swim Shorts Cover
Columbia Youth Boys PFG Backcast II Quick Dry Swim Short, Cool Grey, Small

The Columbia PFG Swim Shorts offer excellent sun protection with their OMNI-SHADE technology, which helps block harmful UVA and UVB rays, keeping your skin safe during outdoor activities. These shorts are also treated with OMNI-SHIELD, making them resistant to light rain and stains, so you stay comfortable and clean throughout the day. Made from quick-drying nylon fabric, they ensure you dry fast after water fun or sweat, providing all-day comfort. Plus, the shorts come with practical features like a stretchy waistband and handy pockets, making them a convenient choice for active boys who want durability and ease.

What We Like
Sun protection fabric
Water and stain resistance
Quick-drying material
Stretch waistband
Hand pockets
#TOP 9

OCYMA Boys Athletic Shorts 5 Pack

OCYMA
X-Small
OCYMA Boys Athletic Shorts 5 Pack Cover
OCYMA 5 Pack Boys Athletic Shorts with Pockets Active Youth Basketball Shorts Quick Dry Kids Gym Soccer Shorts

The OCYMA Boys Sports Shorts are designed with comfort and practicality in mind. Made from soft, lightweight polyester, these shorts help keep your child cool and dry by quickly wicking away moisture during any activity. The elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring ensures a snug and comfortable fit, allowing your child to move freely without restrictions. Plus, the deep pockets on both sides provide convenient storage for small essentials like phones or keys, so your child can keep important items close during play or sports. These shorts are perfect for various activities, from basketball to casual wear, offering versatility and ease for everyday use.

What We Like
Soft, breathable fabric
Adjustable elastic waistband
Deep side pockets
Quick-drying material
#TOP 10

Under Armour Boys Tech Shorts

1383333/1383336/6000261
Small
Under Armour Boys Tech Shorts Cover
Under Armour Boys Tech Logo Shorts, (410) Midnight Navy / / Mod Gray, Small

The Under Armour Tech Shorts are designed to keep your active boy comfortable during play. The UA Tech fabric is not only soft but also dries quickly, ensuring he stays dry and comfortable even during intense activities. With moisture-wicking properties, these shorts pull sweat away from the skin, making them ideal for hot days. The encased elastic waistband with an internal drawcord provides a snug fit that can be easily adjusted. Plus, the open hand pockets offer convenient storage for small items, allowing him to keep essentials close while on the move.

What We Like
Quick-drying fabric
Moisture-wicking properties
Adjustable waistband
Convenient pockets
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our quick dry athletic shorts for boys research, we found 48 quick dry athletic shorts for boys products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 140,561 customer reviews through our big data system to write the quick dry athletic shorts for boys list. We found that most customers choose quick dry athletic shorts for boys with an average price of $15.56.

The quick dry athletic shorts for boys are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of quick dry athletic shorts for boys, including MLYENX, NY Threads, BALENNZ, EXARUS, ANHDM. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 703 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.