10 Best Gym Shorts in 2026

Three zippered pockets, two deep side pockets and one back, keep your phone, keys, and cards secure during sprints, jumps, or burpees. Mesh-lined interiors stay comfortable against your leg. That kind of practical storage, paired with UPF 50+ sun protection and reflective strips front and back, makes these shorts a smart pick for anyone who wants to run, lift, or lounge without worrying about where to stash their stuff. The 4-way stretch fabric moves with you through deep squats and lunges, and the moisture-wicking finish pulls sweat away fast, so you stay dry even when the gym gets steamy.

The trade-off: these are unlined, so if you prefer a built-in compression liner for support or modesty, you will want to wear your own underneath. Compared to the Under Armour Tech Graphic Shorts, which have a 10-inch inseam and a more relaxed cut, the NORTHYARD offers three inseam lengths (5, 7, or 9 inches). That lets you dial in exactly how much leg coverage you want. The water-resistant coating is listed as a feature, but it is not described as affecting breathability. For most gym-goers and casual athletes, though, the balance of storage, sun protection, and adjustability is hard to beat.

A 10-inch inseam and relaxed fit give these shorts a generous, loose feel that works well for gym sessions where you don’t want fabric clinging to you. The UA Tech fabric wicks sweat and dries fast, so you stay comfortable during a heavy set or a quick cardio block. The encased elastic waistband with internal drawcord lets you adjust the fit, and mesh hand pockets add breathability.

The 10-inch inseam gives these shorts a standard length that covers the thigh without feeling baggy, and the relaxed fit leaves plenty of room to move during a workout or casual wear. The UA Tech fabric wicks sweat and dries quickly, so you stay comfortable even when you’re active. Just note there’s no built-in liner, meaning you’ll need to wear your own underwear.

A 10-inch inseam with side vents and an elastic waistband gives these shorts a versatile, no-fuss fit that works for everything from lifting to jogging. The lightweight polyester DOUBLE DRY fabric pulls sweat away from your skin, so you stay cool and comfortable through a full workout without feeling clammy. This is a great pick if you want reliable moisture management at a friendly price point and don’t need bells and whistles, just shorts that perform.

The 10-inch inseam is a standard length that works well for most activities. Some athletes who prefer a shorter cut might find it longer than the 7- or 9-inch options available on shorts like the NORTHYARD Athletic Running Shorts. The side pockets are convenient for small items, but they do not have zippers, so they are best for items you don’t mind staying in an open pocket.

A 7-inch inseam and Nike Flex fabric mean these shorts move with you through lunges, squats, and every deep bend without binding or riding up. The Dri-FIT technology pulls sweat off your skin so it evaporates fast, keeping you dry during intense sessions. For anyone who pushes hard in the gym, think heavy leg days, HIIT circuits, or agility drills, these are built to keep up. The elastic waistband with drawcord lets you adjust the fit, and the side pockets with an internal mesh sleeve on the right give you a spot for keys or a phone without bulk.

The Nike Dri-FIT Flex Woven Shorts use an elastic waistband with a drawcord so you can dial in the fit. The side pockets include an internal mesh sleeve on the right for storing small items like keys or a phone. Compared to the NORTHYARD Athletic Running Shorts, which have zippered pockets, these Nike shorts offer open side pockets. They are suitable for casual gym sessions, but less secure for high-intensity runs where you might want items locked in. If you prioritize stretch and moisture management over pocket security, these shorts deliver.

The front zip pockets on these shorts hold small essentials like a phone, keys, or card securely. That is the main reason this pair stands out for anyone who wants to keep their items safe during training. AEROREADY moisture management helps you stay dry as your workout ramps up, and the regular fit gives enough room to move without feeling baggy. If you value pocket security above all else, this is the pair to grab.

The trade-off is the 9-inch inseam, which lands below mid-thigh on most builds. There’s also no built-in liner, so you’ll want to plan your own base layer if compression is your thing. For lifters and circuit trainers who just want their stuff to stay locked in, these deliver exactly that.

A pack of two shorts at this budget-friendly price point means you can grab a pair, toss them in the wash, and have a backup ready without thinking twice. The performance tech fabric uses moisture-wicking and quick-dry finishes, so you stay cool during a sweaty workout or a casual run, and the 4-way gentle stretch lets you move through lunges and stretches without restriction. The relaxed fit sits below the waist and through the leg, giving you room to breathe, ideal for gym sessions where comfort matters more than a tailored look.

Compared to the NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts, which include reflective strips for outdoor visibility, the Amazon Essentials pack focuses purely on gym and lounge use. If you want a simple, no-fuss pair of shorts for indoor training or hanging out, this is a smart buy.

The compression liner runs snug, which is great for support but not ideal if you prefer a loose, unlined feel. That said, if reducing chafing and having secure pockets matter more than leg length, the maamgic 2-in-1 delivers on its key features.

Four pockets, including two that zip shut, give you more ways to carry your phone, keys, and wallet without worrying about anything falling out during a sprint or a set of box jumps. That variety of secure storage is what makes these shorts a go-to for anyone who hates leaving valuables on the bench. They also come in three inseam lengths, 5, 7, and 9 inches, so you can pick the coverage that feels best for your legs and your activity, whether that’s quick runs or longer gym sessions. The lightweight, quick-drying fabric keeps you comfortable when sweat starts to build, and the split hem lets you move freely through lunges and stretches.

The trade-off is that there’s no built-in liner, so if you prefer compression or a brief for support, you’ll need to layer up underneath. For gym-goers who carry a phone and keys and want the flexibility of choosing their own liner or going commando, this is a practical, adaptable pick.

A 10-inch inseam gives these shorts a relaxed, roomy feel that stays put during squats, lunges, and court sports, no riding up or constant tugging. The soft, breathable fabric wicks sweat fast, so you stay cool while lifting or shooting hoops. With deep pockets on both sides, you can stash your phone and keys without worrying about them falling out during a sprint. This is the pair you grab when comfort is the priority, especially if you prefer a looser cut that doesn’t cling.

The trade-off? That generous length and loose fit mean they’re not the sleekest option for shorter guys or anyone who likes a more tailored look. Compared to the NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts, which offer a 7-inch inseam and zippered pockets, these Profectors feel more like classic gym shorts, comfortable and unpretentious, but without the extra security of a zipper. If you value unrestricted movement and a casual vibe over a modern taper, these deliver exactly what the name promises.

A three-pack of gym shorts with a 10-inch inseam means you get enough coverage to move freely without riding up, plus a spare pair for every laundry cycle. The lightweight polyester fabric breathes well and dries quickly, so you can go from a sweaty basketball game to lounging without feeling clammy. Deep pockets hold your phone and keys securely, and the elastic waistband with drawstring keeps everything in place during squats or sprints. For anyone building a reliable gym wardrobe on a sensible budget, this pack delivers the basics without fuss.

The pockets lack zippers, so if you sprint or tumble, your phone might not stay as locked in as it would with the NORTHYARD shorts that include zippered pockets. The polyester fabric is lightweight and quick-drying, which keeps you cool during intense activity, but it doesn’t have the softness of a cotton blend for lounging around the house.