9 Best Workout Shorts For Men in 2026
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For most guys, the NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts are the best overall because they combine three secure zippered pockets, UPF 50+ sun protection, and reflective strips. Those features work for the gym, a run, or outdoor sports. If you prioritize ultra-fast drying fabric, check out the Under Armour Men’s Tech Graphic Shorts. For a budget-friendly multi-pack, the BOOJO 3 Pack Gym Basketball Shorts delivers solid value.
The real challenge with workout shorts isn’t finding a pair, it’s finding the pair that stays put, doesn’t chafe, and holds your phone without bouncing. Too many shorts are either too heavy when you sweat, too short for comfort, or missing a pocket that actually keeps your keys secure.
We built this guide by combing through specs, manufacturer details, expert round-ups, and patterns in owner feedback. Our goal is to cut through the noise and help you choose based on what actually matters for your routine, whether that’s pocket security, quick-dry performance, or a specific inseam length.
Top 9 Workout Shorts For Men in the Market
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The Best Workout Shorts For Men, Reviewed
NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts
What We Like
- Three secure zippered pockets
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Reflective strips for low-light visibility
- Breathable side vent holes
Trade-offs
- Unlined design means no built-in brief
- No built-in liner for those who prefer one.
Three zippered pockets, two deep side and one back, mean you can carry a phone, keys, and cards without worrying about anything bouncing out during a sprint or a jump shot. That alone makes these shorts a practical choice for anyone who hates holding stuff mid-workout. The fabric blends 90% polyester with 10% elastane for four-way stretch, so you get full range of motion whether you’re lunging in the gym or reaching for a tennis serve. Add UPF 50+ sun protection and reflective strips front and back, and you’ve got a pair that works just as well for an early morning run as it does for a beachside workout.
The trade-off is that these shorts are unlined, so if you prefer a built-in brief for support, you’ll need to add your own layer underneath. That’s a small adjustment for the versatility you get. The elastic waistband with drawstring keeps things secure, and the flatlock seams help prevent chafing on longer miles. It’s a thoughtfully designed short that covers a lot of ground without overcomplicating things.
Product photos
Under Armour Men's Tech Graphic Shorts
What We Like
- UA Tech fabric dries ultra-fast
- Relaxed fit gives plenty of room
- Encased elastic waistband with internal drawcord
- Mesh hand pockets for breathable storage
Trade-offs
- No liner means you need separate underwear
A 10-inch inseam and relaxed fit mean these shorts give you generous coverage and freedom of movement, so you can squat, lunge, or stretch without feeling restricted. The UA Tech fabric wicks sweat and dries fast, which keeps you comfortable during intense gym sessions or hot runs. If you prioritize a loose, airy feel and don’t want your shorts clinging to your legs, this design delivers exactly that. It suits lifters and casual athletes who prefer a no-fuss, breathable option that handles moisture well.
The Under Armour Men’s Tech Graphic Shorts have a relaxed fit that gives you plenty of room to move, making them feel more like everyday activewear than tight performance gear. The 10-inch inseam is longer than many running shorts, so they cover more of your thigh. The UA Tech fabric wicks sweat and dries fast, and the encased elastic waistband with an internal drawcord keeps them secure. There is no built-in liner, so you will need to wear your own compression shorts or briefs underneath.
Soothfeel Men's Workout Athletic Shorts
What We Like
- Deep zipper pocket for phone and keys
- Lightweight quick-drying fabric
- Split hem for agility during movement
- Adjustable elastic waistband with drawstring
Trade-offs
- No inner liner means you need separate underwear
- Only one zipper pocket limits secure storage
The zipper pocket on these shorts is deep enough to hold a phone, keys, or cash securely, which is useful during active movement. The fabric is lightweight and breathable, designed to wick away sweat and keep you cool. The split hem allows for agility, and the elastic waistband with drawstring lets you adjust the fit. These features make the shorts practical for workouts where you want one secure pocket and minimal distraction.
The Soothfeel shorts have one deep zippered pocket, which is enough to secure a phone or keys during a workout, but they are unlined, so you will need to wear compression shorts or briefs underneath. Compared to the NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts, which include multiple zipper pockets and reflective strips for visibility in low light, the Soothfeel design is more basic. That makes these shorts a good fit for gym sessions or casual runs where you want one secure pocket, but less ideal for night joggers or anyone who prefers a built-in liner.
Champion Men's Sport Shorts
What We Like
- Big & Tall sizing available
- Moisture-wicking Double Dry fabric
- Side pockets for small essentials
- 10-inch inseam for modest coverage
Trade-offs
- No zipper pockets for secure storage
The Big & Tall version has an 11-inch inseam, which gives extra coverage for taller or larger frames. Champion uses lightweight polyester with Double Dry moisture-wicking technology to pull sweat away from the skin. The elastic waistband and side vents allow for easy movement, so the shorts stay comfortable during gym sessions or casual wear.
The side pockets keep your phone or keys handy, but there’s no zipper to lock them in place during sprints or dynamic movements. If you prefer a locked-down carry, the NORTHYARD shorts include zippered pockets. For steady gym sessions or casual wear where you don’t need to sprint, the Champion shorts deliver comfortable, no-fuss coverage that fits well and breathes easily.
Product photos
MIER Men's 5 Inch Running Shorts
What We Like
- Super lightweight, silky-soft fabric
- Quick-dry moisture-wicking technology
- Side splits for ventilated mobility
- Adjustable inner drawcord for fit
Trade-offs
- No zippered pocket for secure valuables
- Internal drop-in pocket lacks closure for small items
At just 5 inches of inseam with a featherlight micro air mesh build, these shorts are built to disappear on your body during hot runs or intense gym sessions. The silky-soft fabric and side splits let you move freely without any cling or restriction, while the quick-dry technology wicks sweat fast so you stay comfortable even when you’re pushing hard. If your priority is zero-burden, breathable performance for high-sweat workouts, this is the pair that gets out of your way.
The trade-off comes down to pocket security: the two deep slash pockets are great for a phone or keys during a steady jog. But without a zipper, you might feel less confident sprinting or doing explosive movements. Compared to the NORTHYARD Athletic Running Shorts which include a zippered pocket, the MIER is lighter and more airy but asks you to trust the slash pockets for small items. For anyone who values weight-saving over lock-down storage, this is a smart pick.
adidas Designed for Training Workout Shorts
What We Like
- AEROREADY moisture management keeps you dry
- Secure front zip pockets for small essentials
- Regular fit balances comfort and mobility
- Made with at least 70% recycled materials
Trade-offs
- Only front zip pockets, no back or side
- No back pocket for phone storage
The AEROREADY moisture management keeps you dry during workouts by managing body moisture. The regular fit strikes a comfortable balance between loose and snug, and the 9-inch inseam offers coverage. Front zip pockets hold small essentials securely. These shorts are made with at least 70% recycled materials, reducing waste.
The 9-inch inseam is a deliberate design choice: it covers more leg than shorter cuts, which means less fabric bunching during movements like squats or lunges. That length can feel warm during high-rep cardio, but it also keeps the shorts from riding up when you’re in a deep hip hinge. If you want a dry, distraction-free training session and don’t mind the longer coverage, these deliver exactly what the spec sheet promises.
Product photos
CRZ YOGA Linerless Workout Shorts 5"
What We Like
- Ultralight, quick-drying fabric
- Linerless design for freedom of movement
- Secure zipper pocket for valuables
- Elastic waistband with drawstring
Trade-offs
- No built-in liner means extra layering for some
- 5-inch inseam offers less coverage than longer shorts
A 5-inch inseam and linerless build mean these shorts offer unrestricted motion and zero chafing during runs or gym sessions. The ultralight, quick-dry fabric is soft to the touch and highly durable, so you stay comfortable even during intense activity. Two side pockets and a right zipper pocket provide storage for essentials, with the zipper pocket adding security for smaller items.
The trade-off is that linerless shorts aren’t for everyone. If you prefer a built-in brief or compression layer, you’ll need to add your own, which can feel like an extra step. Compared to the NORTHYARD shorts, which come in 5-, 7-, or 9-inch inseams and include reflective strips, these CRZ YOGA shorts focus on a simple, lightweight design. For runners and gym-goers who want a bare-bones feel with secure pocket storage, this is a practical option.
Product photos
G Gradual Men's Athletic Running Shorts
What We Like
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Two deep zippered pockets
- Ultra lightweight and quick-dry
- Adjustable elastic waist with drawstring
Trade-offs
- No reflective strips for low-light visibility
- Limited color options beyond camo patterns
UPF 50+ fabric is the standout here, it blocks harmful UV rays so you can run, hike, or lounge outside without worrying about sunburn. That makes these shorts a smart pick for midday workouts or long trail days when shade is scarce. The lightweight, stretchy material also wicks moisture and dries fast, which helps you stay cool and comfortable even when you’re sweating hard. Plus, two zippered pockets keep your phone and keys secure, so nothing falls out mid-stride.
The G Gradual shorts use UPF 50+ fabric to block harmful UV rays, so you can run on sunny trails without worrying about sunburn. They also have two deep zippered pockets that securely hold keys, a phone, or earbuds during a workout. Compared to NORTHYARD shorts, which include reflective strips for low-light visibility, these focus on sun protection and secure storage for essentials.
BOOJO 3 Pack Gym Basketball Shorts
What We Like
- Deep secure pockets for phone
- Quick-dry breathable polyester
- 10-inch inseam reduces friction
Trade-offs
- Unlined; requires separate compression liner
- Pockets lack zipper closure
The 10-inch inseam keeps the shorts from riding up during squats or lunges, and the deep pockets hold a phone securely even when you’re moving fast. The quick-dry polyester fabric helps you stay cool during activity. For someone who wants a simple rotation of workout bottoms that work for basketball, running, or just lounging around, this pack covers the basics well.
How We Evaluated Workout Shorts For Men
Our evaluation is research-based, not hands-on tested. We analyzed manufacturer specifications, studied expert round-ups from the fitness space, and looked for consistent patterns in what owners report based on research. That means we can tell you what the specs promise and what real users typically experience, but not how a specific pair feels on a third run.
We focused on four criteria that matter most for workout shorts. Pocket security came first because losing a phone mid-sprint is a dealbreaker. Fabric performance, specifically moisture-wicking, quick-dry, and breathability, determines whether you stay comfortable through a full session. Fit and inseam affects mobility and coverage. Shorter inseams favor runners, while longer ones suit gym-goers who want modesty. Durability and value looked at construction quality and whether the shorts hold up to regular washing and wear.
An honest limit of a research-led approach is that we cannot speak to long-term stitch integrity or how a fabric feels after a year of heavy use. What we can do is highlight the features and trade-offs that tend to separate a great short from a merely okay one, so you can match your needs to the right pair.
What To Look For In Workout Shorts For Men
Start with your primary activity, running demands different shorts than weightlifting, and work backward from there. The right pair balances pocket security, fabric performance, fit, and durability without overcomplicating things.
Look for moisture-wicking fabric, a secure pocket for your phone, and an inseam that matches your comfort zone. Liners add support but limit underwear choice; linerless shorts give you freedom but require separate layers. Zippered pockets are safer; mesh pockets are cooler.
Pocket Security
A phone bouncing in a loose pocket is distracting at best and a dropped-screen disaster at worst. Zippered pockets are the gold standard for security, especially during running or high-intensity movement. The NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts and G Gradual Men’s Athletic Running Shorts both offer two deep zippered pockets.
If you only need one secure spot for a phone and keys, the Soothfeel Men’s Workout Athletic Shorts deliver with a single zippered pocket. Mesh hand pockets, like those on the Under Armour Men’s Tech Graphic Shorts, are more breathable but far less secure, fine for the gym floor but risky on a trail run.
Fabric and Moisture Management
The fabric determines how you feel ten minutes into a sweaty workout. Quick-dry polyester blends, like the UA Tech fabric in the Under Armour Men’s Tech Graphic Shorts, are designed to wick moisture and dry fast so you don’t stay clammy. UPF 50+ ratings, found on the NORTHYARD and G Gradual shorts, matter for outdoor training.
Lightweight fabrics, like the silky-soft material on the MIER Men’s 5 Inch Running Shorts, prioritize breathability and freedom of movement over durability. For gym use where you’re on machines and benches, a slightly heavier fabric can feel more substantial and last longer.
Fit, Inseam, and Liner Preference
Inseam is the biggest fit variable. A 5-inch inseam (MIER, CRZ YOGA) suits runners who want maximum mobility and less fabric. A 9-inch or 10-inch inseam (adidas, Champion, BOOJO) offers more coverage and a traditional gym-short look.
Liner preference splits opinion: built-in liners (not present in any of our picks) add support and eliminate the need for separate underwear. Linerless shorts like the CRZ YOGA Linerless Workout Shorts give you freedom to choose your own compression or briefs underneath. If you prefer a lined short, check out our guide on lined workout shorts for options with built-in support.
- Decide whether you want zippered pockets or mesh pockets based on your activity.
- Choose an inseam that matches your comfort and mobility needs.
- Pick lined or linerless based on whether you want built-in support or freedom to layer.
- Look for moisture-wicking fabric if you sweat heavily during workouts.
- Consider UPF rating if you train outdoors in direct sun.
A good rule of thumb: if you run, go shorter with a secure pocket; if you lift, go longer with a comfortable waistband.
Workout Shorts For Men Compared
The table below compares the nine shorts in our guide across the key specs that matter most for choosing the right pair, inseam, pocket type, liner, and standout features.
| Product | Inseam | Fabric | Pockets | Waist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts | 5"/7"/9" | 90% Polyester + 10% Elastane | 3 zippered (2 side, 1 back) | Elastic Waist |
| Under Armour Men's Tech Graphic Shorts | 10" | UA Tech (quick-drying) | Mesh hand pockets | Encased elastic with drawcord |
| Soothfeel Men's Workout Athletic Shorts | 7 inches | Quick-dry, moisture-wicking | 3 total, 1 zippered | Elastic with drawstring |
| Champion Men's Sport Shorts | 10 in (11 in Big & Tall) | Lightweight polyester | Side pockets | Elastic with side vents |
| MIER Men's 5 Inch Running Shorts | 5 inches | Micro air mesh, 4-way stretch | 3 (2 deep slash, 1 internal drop-in) | Soft Elastic Waist, Inner Drawstring |
| adidas Designed for Training Workout Shorts | 9 inches | At least 70% recycled | Front zip pockets | N/A |
| CRZ YOGA Linerless Workout Shorts 5" | 5 inches | Lightweight, quick-dry | Two side, one zipper | Elastic with drawstring |
| G Gradual Men's Athletic Running Shorts | 5"/7"/9" | Quick-dry, stretch | 2 zippered | Elastic with drawstring |
| BOOJO 3 Pack Gym Basketball Shorts | 10 inches | Premium polyester | Deep secure pockets | Elastic waistband + drawstring |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best inseam length for workout shorts?
The best inseam depends on your activity and comfort. Shorter 5-inch inseams offer maximum mobility and less fabric, ideal for runners. Longer 9- to 10-inch inseams provide more coverage and a traditional gym look, suiting weightlifting and casual wear. Try a few lengths to find what feels right for your body and routine.
Are zippered pockets worth it in workout shorts?
Yes, if you carry a phone or keys during runs or high-intensity movement. Zippered pockets keep valuables secure and prevent bouncing. For gym-only use where you have a locker, mesh or open pockets are fine and more breathable. The NORTHYARD and G Gradual shorts both feature two deep zippered pockets for secure storage.
Should I buy workout shorts with or without a liner?
Linerless shorts give you the freedom to wear your preferred underwear or compression layer underneath. Lined shorts have a built-in brief that provides support and eliminates the need for separate underwear. Our picks are all linerless, so if you prefer a built-in liner, you may want to explore options in our guide to shorts with liner.
What fabric dries fastest for sweaty workouts?
Polyester-based fabrics like UA Tech from Under Armour are engineered to dry very quickly. Lightweight, moisture-wicking polyester blends are your best bet for fast drying. Avoid cotton, which holds moisture and becomes heavy. The Under Armour Men’s Tech Graphic Shorts and MIER Men’s 5 Inch Running Shorts both use quick-dry materials.
How many pairs of workout shorts do I need?
A three-pack like the BOOJO 3 Pack Gym Basketball Shorts is a solid start for rotating through weekly workouts. Many active guys find that three to five pairs let them train without doing laundry every other day. If you have specific needs, running shorts, gym shorts, casual shorts, you may want separate pairs for each activity.
The Bottom Line
For most guys who want a single pair of shorts that handles the gym, a run, and outdoor sports without compromise, the NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts are the best overall. The combination of three zippered pockets, UPF 50+ protection, and reflective details makes them unusually versatile. They are not for anyone who wants a built-in liner, but for pocket-security-conscious athletes, they deliver.
If you sweat hard and want fabric that dries before you leave the locker room, the Under Armour Men’s Tech Graphic Shorts are your best bet. For active men who need extra room and a longer inseam, the Champion Men’s Sport Shorts in Big & Tall sizing offer comfort and moisture-wicking performance. And if you want to stock your drawer without spending a lot, the BOOJO 3 Pack Gym Basketball Shorts provide solid basics for gym, court, and casual wear.
The single most important factor when choosing workout shorts is matching the features to your primary activity. A runner needs secure pockets and a short inseam; a lifter needs a comfortable waistband and modest coverage. Start with what you do most, and the right pair will follow. For more options, explore our full guide to best workout shorts for different needs and budgets.
