Best Workout Shorts for Men of 2026

William Weston Avatar
William Weston
Last Updated: Jan 28, 2026

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These workout shorts are a must-have for men who are serious about their fitness routine. Designed with both style and functionality in mind, these shorts are made from high-quality materials that offer breathability and flexibility. With an elastic waistband and adjustable drawstring, they provide a comfortable and secure fit during any type of workout. The shorts also feature multiple pockets, allowing for convenient storage of essentials like keys or a phone. Whether hitting the gym or going for a run, these workout shorts are the perfect choice for men looking to stay comfortable and stylish while breaking a sweat.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Men's Shorts Cover #TOP 1
BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Men's Shorts
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Kinglaman 4 Pack 2-in-1 Men's Running Shorts Cover #TOP 2
Kinglaman 4 Pack 2-in-1 Men's Running Shorts
ftb score rating icon 9.8
BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men Cover #TOP 3
BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Workout Shorts for Men

BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Men's Shorts

Large
BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Men's Shorts Cover
BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts - Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear

BOOJO Men's Gym Shorts are designed with your comfort in mind. The soft fabric ensures a cozy feel during your workouts, offering breathability and stretch. The elastic waistband with an inside drawstring provides a perfect fit that stays in place while running or training. With large pockets, you can conveniently carry essentials like your smartphone or wallet. These quick-drying shorts made of moisture-wicking fabric keep you dry and comfortable throughout your activities, whether it's exercising, lounging at home, or playing sports.

What We Like
Comfortable fit
Good value for money
Durable and well-sewn
Breathable, soft fabric
Large pockets
What We Don't Like
Material a bit thin
Runs slightly shorter
#TOP 2

Kinglaman 4 Pack 2-in-1 Men's Running Shorts

KG-K-103702-2B1L1G-L/03
Large
Kinglaman 4 Pack 2-in-1 Men's Running Shorts Cover
Kinglaman 4 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Workout Shorts with Liner, Gym Athletic Quick Dry Sport Shorts with Pockets 2 Black 1 Blue 1 Gray Large

The Kinglaman 2-in-1 Running Shorts are designed to keep you comfortable and supported during your workouts. The built-in compression liner offers muscle support, helping you perform better and feel more at ease. Made from quick-drying mesh fabric, these shorts help you stay dry by wicking away sweat, which is perfect whether you're at the gym or out for a run. The lightweight and breathable material allows for excellent airflow, keeping you cool even during intense activity. Overall, these shorts combine support, comfort, and moisture control to enhance your exercise experience.

What We Like
Very comfortable fit
Durable and long-lasting
Supportive compression liner
Deep phone pocket
Lightweight material

BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men

DK5BL-0
Large
BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men Cover
BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear

Upgrade your workout gear with BALENNZ Men's Athletic Shorts. These soft and stretchy shorts are designed to keep you comfortable during any kind of sports or workout activities. With a 10-inch inseam, they provide enough coverage and freedom of movement for all your gym, cycling, running, basketball, football, tennis, and more. The shorts feature pockets on both sides, allowing you to carry your essentials with ease. The breathable and quick-drying fabric wicks away moisture to keep you dry and comfortable. The encased elastic waistband and inner drawcord ensure a perfect fit every time, so you don't have to worry about the shorts sliding up or down.

What We Like
Comfortable fit
Affordable price
Soft, breathable material
Not see-through
Great for workouts
What We Don't Like
Waistband may feel thin
Material thinner than expected
#TOP 4

HOPLYNN 5 Pack 2-in-1 Men's Running Shorts

Large
HOPLYNN 5 Pack 2-in-1 Men's Running Shorts Cover
HOPLYNN 5 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Shorts with Liner, Quick Dry Workout Training Gym Athletic Sport Shorts with Pockets 2 Black 2 Gray 1 Blue Large

The HOPLYNN 2-in-1 Shorts are designed to keep you comfortable and supported during various workouts. With a built-in compression liner, these shorts help stabilize your muscles whether you're running, doing yoga, or training for baseball. The lightweight, breathable fabric keeps you cool, making them perfect for intense activities like track sprints or gym sessions. Plus, the secure back pocket lets you safely store keys or cards, so you don’t have to worry about losing them while you focus on your exercise. These shorts combine convenience and performance for your active lifestyle.

What We Like
Good quality fabric
Comfortable fit
Great value for price
Strong seams and waistband
Useful zippered pocket
What We Don't Like
Possible sizing confusion
#TOP 5

BOOJO Men's Athletic Quick Dry Shorts 7 Pack

Large
BOOJO Men's Athletic Quick Dry Shorts 7 Pack Cover
BOOJO 7 Pack Mens Athletic Shorts - Gym Basketball Running Workout Quick Dry Black Shorts with Pockets for Casual Performance

The BOOJO Athletic Shorts are crafted from soft, lightweight fabric that stretches in all directions, giving you the freedom to move comfortably throughout your day. Their breathable and quick-drying material helps you stay cool whether you're working out or just relaxing. The elastic waistband with a drawstring lets you customize the fit so the shorts stay securely in place without feeling tight or loose. Plus, the deep pockets are perfect for keeping your phone, keys, or other small essentials close by, so you don’t need to carry an extra bag when you head out.

What We Like
Comfortable fit
Lightweight and breathable material
Deep, useful pockets
Durable and well-made
Great value 7-pack
What We Don't Like
Slightly oversized for some
Colors may be unpredictable

BOOJO Quick Dry Men's Shorts

Large
BOOJO Quick Dry Men's Shorts Cover
BOOJO 3 Pack Gym Basketball Mens Shorts - Quick Dry Black Workout Athletic Shorts with Pockets for Casual Running (S-6XL)

BOOJO Men's Athletic Shorts are crafted from premium polyester, ensuring they are soft, breathable, and stretchy for ultimate comfort. The quick-drying feature keeps you cool during workouts or casual outings, preventing discomfort from sweat. With deep, secure pockets, you can easily store your phone, keys, or wallet, allowing you to stay focused on your activities without worrying about your belongings. The elastic waistband and practical drawstring provide a snug fit, so you can move freely whether you're lounging at home or playing basketball. Enjoy flexibility and comfort with these versatile shorts for any occasion.

What We Like
Lightweight material
Very comfortable fit
Breathable and cool
Stretchy waistband
Good for workouts
What We Don't Like
Thin fabric durability
Grey color slightly see-through
#TOP 7

AKAWOOKO Men's Quick Dry Athletic Shorts 5 Pack

Set 1
Large
AKAWOOKO Men's Quick Dry Athletic Shorts 5 Pack Cover
AKAWOOKO 5 Pack Men's Athletic Gym Shorts with Pockets Quick Dry Activewear Workout Running Shorts for Men

The AKAWOOKO Athletic Gym Shorts are designed with your comfort in mind. Made from soft and breathable fabric, these shorts keep you cool and comfortable throughout any workout. Their quick-drying material helps wick away sweat, so you stay dry even during intense exercise. The elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring ensures the shorts fit securely without slipping or feeling tight. Plus, the large side pockets offer ample space to keep your wallet, phone, or keys handy, making these shorts perfect for running, training, or casual wear.

What We Like
Comfortable fit
Affordable price
Deep pockets
Lightweight fabric
True to size
What We Don't Like
Material a bit thin
#TOP 8

Amazon Essentials Men's Performance Tech Loose-Fit Shorts

Amazon Essentials
13215
Black/Black
Large
Amazon Essentials Men's Performance Tech Loose-Fit Shorts Cover
Amazon Essentials Men's Athletic Basketball Gym,Performance Tech Loose-Fit Training Shorts, Pack of 2, Black, Large

These men's athletic shorts are made of lightweight and breathable active stretch fabric with a relaxed fit through the hip, thigh, and leg. They feature an elasticized waistband with an internal adjustable drawstring for a comfortable fit, as well as two side pockets. The moisture-wicking technology keeps you dry during your workout. An Amazon brand.

What We Like
Comfortable relaxed fit
Lightweight and breathable fabric
Excellent moisture-wicking
Great value for money
Stretch waistband with drawstring
What We Don't Like
Material slightly thin
Pockets could be deeper

NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Hiking Shorts

YDSM001-BLACK-L
Black
Large
NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Hiking Shorts Cover
NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts 7"/ 5"/ 9" Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball Tennis Hiking Exercise Black L

NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Hiking Shorts are made with quality 4-way stretch/breathable and quick-drying fabric, complete with stylish breathable holes on both sides, soft elastic waistband, built-in adjustable drawstring, and flatlock seams to reduce chafe. They feature 3 zipper pockets for easy and secure storage and UPF 50+ sun protection.

What We Like
Great fit and style
Lightweight and breathable
Durable and hard-wearing
Good pocket design
Versatile for workouts and daily wear
What We Don't Like
Material could be softer
Fit runs a bit small
#TOP 10

JWJ 3 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Shorts

JWJ
Large
JWJ 3 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Shorts Cover
JWJ 3 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Shorts Quick Dry Gym Athletic Workout Shorts with Compression Liner,Black Light Navy L

The JWJ 2-in-1 Running Shorts are designed to keep you comfortable during any workout. Made from high-quality, stretchy fabric, these shorts feel soft on your skin and dry quickly, helping you stay cool and fresh. The adjustable drawstring waistband allows you to customize the fit, so your shorts stay securely in place without feeling tight or restrictive. With thoughtfully placed pockets, including a zipper pocket for your essentials and a towel hook, you can keep your hands free and your belongings safe while you exercise. These shorts are perfect for all kinds of activities, from running to gym training.

What We Like
Good fit and comfort
Reasonable price
Built-in liner support
Variety of colors
Effective for workouts
What We Don't Like
Runs slightly small
Minor quality concerns
Buying Guide Image

Sorting Out the Workout Shorts for Men Suit You Best

Introduction

Choosing the right workout shorts for men can be a daunting task. With so many different styles, brands, and fabrics on the market, it can be overwhelming to figure out which ones are the best for your needs. In this article, we will provide some tips and guidelines to help you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing men's workout shorts.

Consider Your Workout Routine

One of the first things to consider when choosing men's workout shorts is the type of exercise you will be doing. If you are going to be lifting weights or doing other high-intensity activities, you may want to opt for shorts with a longer inseam to provide additional coverage and support. On the other hand, if you are going to be running or doing other forms of cardiovascular exercise, shorter shorts with a more breathable fabric may be a better choice.

Look for Comfortable and Breathable Fabrics

When it comes to workout shorts, the fabric is just as important as the style. You want to look for fabrics that are comfortable, breathable, and moisture-wicking. This will help keep you cool and dry during your workout, which can help prevent chafing and discomfort. Some of the best fabrics for workout shorts include polyester, spandex, and nylon.

Pay Attention to the Waistband

The waistband on your workout shorts is also an important factor to consider. You want to look for a waistband that is comfortable, secure, and doesn't restrict your movement. A drawstring waistband is a popular option for many men, as it allows you to adjust the fit to your liking. However, some men may prefer a more traditional elastic waistband for a snug, comfortable fit.

Consider the Pockets

Pockets can be a useful feature on workout shorts, but they are not essential. If you plan on carrying your phone, keys, or other small items during your workout, you may want to look for shorts with pockets. However, keep in mind that pockets can add bulk and weight to your shorts, which can be uncomfortable during certain activities.

Don't Forget About Style

While performance and comfort should be your top priorities when choosing men's workout shorts, it's also important to consider the style. After all, you don't want to be stuck wearing a pair of boring, unattractive shorts to the gym. Look for shorts with fun, eye-catching designs and colors that will make you feel confident and stylish while you work out.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing men's workout shorts can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance, you can find the perfect pair for your needs. Consider your workout routine, look for comfortable and breathable fabrics, pay attention to the waistband and pockets, and don't forget about style. With these tips in mind, you can find the perfect workout shorts to help you reach your fitness goals in style.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What kind of shorts are best for the gym?

The best gym shorts for men are made from polyester, nylon, or spandex. Polyester offers lightness, durability, and breathability. Nylon is quick-drying, perfect for sweating during workouts. Spandex, also known as elastane, provides stretchiness for ease of movement.

2. What shorts to wear to the gym for men?

When choosing gym shorts, look for materials that can stretch well and efficiently wick moisture to keep you comfortable and dry. The most common combination is a blend of polyester, nylon, and spandex. These materials allow for flexibility, breathability, and quick-drying capabilities, making them ideal for gym workouts.

3. Is it OK to wear gym shorts in public?

While athletic shorts are appropriate in public settings like the gym or during outdoor activities such as hiking, it is generally best to save them for these specific occasions.

4. What is the best inseam for gym shorts?

The best gym shorts inseam length depends on the type of exercise. For runners, shorter shorts with a length of 5 inches or less are ideal to allow for easy movement. Weight trainers can opt for longer styles with a 9-inch inseam to provide more coverage and protection from barbell abrasions.

5. Why do guys wear short shorts to the gym?

Men wear short gym shorts for the comfort they provide. These shorts offer support to prevent bouncing during workouts and do not have any irritating elements like tags or seams that can distract from the workout.

6. Why are gym shorts so expensive?

Gym shorts can be expensive due to factors such as the use of innovative fabrics that help keep you cool and dry. Additionally, the fashion aspect of gym clothing contributes to their higher price tags.

7. Do you wear pants under gym shorts?

While you can wear underwear under compression shorts, it may not be the most comfortable experience. The spandex fabric of the shorts can cause the underwear to bunch up and lead to discomfort. It is not necessary to wear underwear under gym shorts.

8. Are 7 or 5-inch shorts better for the gym?

Both 7-inch and 5-inch shorts are suitable for the gym. However, 7-inch shorts offer more versatility and can be worn for various activities like running errands, strength training, cardio, and yoga. They provide a higher return on investment due to their versatility.

Editor's Notes

During our workout shorts for men research, we found 48 workout shorts for men products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 595,242 customer reviews through our big data system to write the workout shorts for men list. We found that most customers choose workout shorts for men with an average price of $23.47.

The workout shorts for men are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of workout shorts for men, including BOOJO, Kinglaman, BALENNZ, HOPLYNN, AKAWOOKO. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,705 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
William Weston Avatar

William Weston was born in America and is currently a fashion industry designer. He's always been fascinated with the idea of taking something old and making it new again, so he decided to go into fashion design. William loves working on his designs and creating clothing that will make people look good while feeling comfortable at the same time.

Workout Shorts for Men Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand BOOJO Kinglaman BALENNZ HOPLYNN BOOJO BOOJO AKAWOOKO Amazon Essentials NORTHYARD JWJ
Department mens mens mens mens mens mens mens mens mens mens
Fabric type 100% Polyester 100% Polyester 100% Polyester 85% Polyester, 15% Spandex 100% Polyester 100% Polyester 100% Polyester 100% Polyester 90% Polyester, 10% Elastane 90% Polyester, 10% Spandex
Origin Imported Imported Imported Imported Imported Imported Imported Imported Imported Imported
Closure type Drawstring Drawstring Drawstring Drawstring Drawstring Drawstring Drawstring Pull On Drawstring Drawstring
Care instructions Machine Wash - Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash - Machine Wash Machine Wash Cold, Tumble Dry Low Machine Wash Machine Wash
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
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