10 Best Exercise Shorts For Men in 2026

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The best overall exercise short for most guys is the Under Armour Tech Graphic 10″ Shorts. It nails the balance of a relaxed, unrestricted fit with quick-drying fabric that handles sweat without getting heavy. For a budget-friendly option that still performs, the Champion Sport Shorts 10″ Inseam is the Best Value Pick, while the Nike Dri-Fit Flex Woven Shorts 7″ is the top pick for high-intensity training.

The real challenge with buying exercise shorts isn’t finding a pair, it’s finding the right pair. Between inseam length, fabric weight, pocket security, and whether you want a built-in liner, the options can feel endless. Pick wrong, and you’re stuck tugging at your waistband or sweating through a pair that never dries.

We built this guide by digging into specs, manufacturer claims, and patterns in owner feedback across dozens of popular models. Our goal is to match you with the short that fits your actual workout, whether that’s heavy squats, long runs, or casual gym sessions.

Top 10 Exercise Shorts For Men in the Market

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The Best Exercise Shorts For Men, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Under Armour Tech Graphic 10" Shorts

Under Armour Tech Graphic 10" Shorts
Inseam10"
FitRelaxed Fit
FabricUA Tech (quick-drying)
WaistEncased elastic + drawcord
PocketsMesh hand pockets
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What We Like

  • Quick-drying UA Tech fabric
  • Relaxed fit for free movement
  • Encased elastic waist with drawcord
  • Mesh hand pockets for storage

Trade-offs

  • No liner means you need separate underwear
  • Only mesh pockets (no zippered secure pocket)

The 10-inch inseam on these Under Armour shorts provides generous coverage that stays put during squats, lunges, and gym floor work without riding up. The relaxed fit gives plenty of room to move, and the UA Tech fabric wicks sweat and dries fast, so you stay comfortable during a tough workout. The encased elastic waistband with an internal drawcord keeps them secure, and the mesh hand pockets let you carry small items between sets.

These shorts have no liner, so you’ll need to wear your own compression shorts or briefs underneath. Compared to the JWJ 3 Pack Men’s 2 in 1 Workout Running Shorts 7 Inch Lightweight Athletic Gym Shorts with Compression Liner, the Under Armour shorts offer a simpler design that lets you choose your own base layer. The mesh hand pockets are handy for quick access to small items. But they don’t secure valuables the way a zippered pocket would.

Best for: People who want a relaxed-fit short with a 10-inch inseam for full coverage and quick-drying fabric. Not ideal for those who need a built-in liner or a zippered pocket.
#2Best Value Pick

Champion Sport Shorts 10" Inseam

Champion Sport Shorts 10" Inseam
Inseam10 inches
FabricPolyester, moisture-wicking
FitStandard fit, elastic waist
PocketsSide pockets
FeaturesSide vents, C logo patch
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What We Like

  • Lightweight, moisture-wicking polyester fabric
  • 10-inch inseam with side vents
  • Elastic waistband for easy fit
  • Side pockets for small essentials

Trade-offs

  • Polyester only, no stretch blend mentioned
  • Polyester fabric, no stretch blend listed

A 10-inch inseam with side vents means these shorts give you full coverage without feeling restrictive during squats or lunges. The lightweight, moisture-wicking polyester fabric pulls sweat away from your skin, so you stay cool through a whole session. This is the pair to grab if you want reliable performance without spending extra on bells and whistles, straightforward, comfortable, and built for moving.

The Champion Sport Shorts 10″ Inseam use lightweight DOUBLE DRY technology to pull moisture away from your skin, so you stay dry during a workout. Side pockets let you carry small items like a phone or keys without them bouncing around. The 10-inch inseam and elastic waistband give you a standard fit that works for most activities.

Best for: Budget-conscious gym-goers who want reliable moisture-wicking shorts with a classic fit and full coverage.

Product photos

#3Best For High-Intensity Training

Nike Dri-Fit Flex Woven Shorts 7"

Nike Dri-Fit Flex Woven Shorts 7"
FabricNike Flex
Moisture managementDri-FIT
Inseam7"
PocketsSide with mesh sleeve
WaistbandElastic with drawcord
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What We Like

  • Flex fabric stretches with every move
  • Hem vents aid deep bends
  • Dri-FIT wicks sweat for evaporation
  • Side pocket with internal mesh sleeve

Trade-offs

  • 7-inch inseam offers less coverage for taller athletes
  • No compression liner included

The Nike Flex fabric stretches with every move, so you can lunge, squat, and cut without feeling restricted. That’s the core reason these shorts suit high-intensity training, they’re built to keep you moving through dynamic ranges. The Dri-FIT technology pulls sweat away from your skin for quicker evaporation, which helps you stay dry when the workout ramps up. If you’re doing sprints, box jumps, or circuit work, this pair keeps up with the demands.

The 7-inch inseam is shorter than the 10-inch inseam on the Under Armour Tech Graphic 10″ Shorts, so if you prefer more thigh coverage or are on the taller side, you might feel exposed. The elastic waistband with drawcord keeps the shorts secure during movement, and the side pocket includes an internal mesh sleeve on the right, handy for holding a phone or keys without them bouncing around.

Best for: Athletes who prioritize unrestricted movement and moisture management during high-intensity training, not ideal for those seeking longer coverage or a built-in liner.

Product photos

#4Best Secure Storage

Adidas Designed For Training Workout Shorts

Adidas Designed For Training Workout Shorts
FitRegular fit
Moisture ManagementAEROREADY technology
PocketsFront zip pockets
Inseam7"
MaterialsAt least 70% recycled
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What We Like

  • Front zip pockets keep essentials secure
  • AEROREADY moisture management keeps you dry
  • Regular fit balances loose and snug
  • Made with at least 70% recycled materials

Trade-offs

  • 7-inch inseam offers less coverage than 10-inch options

The front zip pockets are the standout feature here, letting you stow your phone, keys, or wallet without worrying they’ll bounce out during a set of burpees or a treadmill sprint. That secure storage, paired with AEROREADY moisture management to keep you dry, makes these shorts a smart pick for anyone who hates juggling gear mid-workout. They’re built for everyday training where you want your essentials locked in and your focus on the movement, not on checking your pockets every five minutes.

The 7-inch inseam sits shorter than the Under Armour Tech Graphic 10-inch shorts, so if you prefer more thigh coverage or have longer legs, these might feel a bit brief. The front zip pockets hold small essentials securely, which keeps your keys or card from bouncing out during a set of squats. For the gym-goer who values security over extra pocket space, these shorts deliver exactly what the name promises: designed for training, with your stuff staying put.

Best for: Gym-goers who want front zip pockets to securely hold small essentials during intense workouts. Not ideal for those who prefer longer inseams or need rear pocket storage.

Product photos

#5Best Durable Woven Short

Adidas Workout Essentials Basic Woven Short

Adidas Workout Essentials Basic Woven Short
FabricDurable plain-weave woven
PocketsZippered closures
Moisture ManagementClimaCool technology
FitRegular fit, elastic waistband
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What We Like

  • Durable plain-weave resists wear and washing
  • Zippered pockets keep phone and keys secure
  • ClimaCool moisture-wicking for intense workouts
  • Elastic waistband stays put during movement

Trade-offs

  • Woven fabric less stretchy than knit alternatives
  • Zippered pockets add bulk to the shorts

A durable plain-weave fabric that resists wear from repeated washing and high-activity workouts means these shorts are built to handle whatever you throw at them, from heavy squats to sprints. The zippered pockets lock your phone and keys in place so nothing bounces out mid-set, and the ClimaCool moisture management pulls sweat away when things get intense. If you want a pair that holds up season after season without looking ragged, this is the one to grab.

The woven construction gives these shorts a durable feel that holds up to repeated washing and high-activity workouts, but it also means less give than a knit fabric would offer during deep lunges or stretches. If you prioritize longevity and pocket security over maximum flexibility, these deliver exactly what the name promises.

Best for: The gym-goer who wants a tough, long-lasting short with secure storage for intense training.

Product photos

#6Best Budget Multi-Pack

Amazon Essentials Athletic Basketball Gym Shorts

Amazon Essentials Athletic Basketball Gym Shorts
FitRelaxed, sits below waist
FabricPerformance tech, moisture-wicking, 4-way stretch
Inseam8" (size Medium)
PackPack of 2
WaistAdjustable elastic with drawcord
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What We Like

  • Pack of 2 for versatile rotation
  • Moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry
  • 4-way gentle stretch for full flexibility
  • Adjustable drawcord for secure fit

Trade-offs

  • Relaxed fit can feel baggy during intense runs
  • Loose fit not ideal for serious athletes seeking compression

An 8-inch inseam and relaxed fit through the hip and thigh give these shorts a classic basketball silhouette that moves with you, not against you. The moisture-wicking performance fabric with gentle 4-way stretch means you stay dry and flexible during workouts or lounging. For someone building a gym wardrobe on a budget, getting two pairs in one box takes the hassle out of laundry day and keeps you covered for back-to-back workouts. The adjustable elastic waistband with drawcord adds a layer of security so you don’t have to constantly tug at your waistband mid-squat.

The 8-inch inseam on a size Medium means these shorts sit just above the knee, which gives you a classic basketball cut that works for court play and casual wear. The relaxed fit is the most generous cut Amazon Essentials offers, sitting below the waist and loose through the hip, thigh, and leg, so you get plenty of room to move. The honeycomb-texture fabric has a four-way gentle stretch and moisture-wicking finish, which helps keep you cool during a workout, but the loose cut can feel swishy if you’re doing fast lateral drills. If you prefer a more locked-down feel for running, a shorter inseam like the 7-inch Nike Dri-Fit Flex Woven Shorts might suit you better.

Best for: Budget-conscious gym-goers who want a versatile two-pack for casual training and lounging.

Product photos

#7Best Sun Protection

G Gradual Athletic Running Shorts

G Gradual Athletic Running Shorts
Inseam Options5", 7", 9"
Sun ProtectionUPF 50+
Pockets2 zippered pockets
WaistbandElastic with drawstring
Fabric PropertiesLightweight, quick-dry, stretch
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What We Like

  • UPF 50+ sun protection built in
  • Two deep zippered pockets
  • Lightweight and quick-drying fabric
  • Adjustable elastic waistband with drawstring

Trade-offs

  • No built-in liner for extra support
  • Pockets are not deep enough for larger phones

UPF 50+ fabric is the standout feature here, blocking harmful UV rays so you can stay out longer on sunny runs or hikes without worrying about sunburn. The lightweight, quick-dry material also wicks moisture away, keeping you cool and comfortable when the temperature climbs. If you spend a lot of time outdoors and want reliable sun protection without layering on extra sunscreen, these shorts do the job without adding bulk or heat.

The trade-off is that there is no built-in compression liner, so you will need to wear something underneath if you prefer that extra support. They are a smart pick for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize sun safety and want to carry essentials without bouncing or slipping.

Best for: Runners, hikers, and outdoor athletes who want UPF 50+ sun protection and secure zippered pockets in a lightweight, quick-dry short. Not ideal for those who prefer a built-in compression liner or a longer inseam.
#8Best 2-in-1 With Liner

JWJ 2-in-1 Workout Running Shorts

JWJ 2-in-1 Workout Running Shorts
Inseam7 inches
Design2-in-1 with compression liner
Pockets2 slash, 1 zippered
FeaturesHeadphone hole, towel loop
MaterialPolyester mesh outer, spandex blend liner
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What We Like

  • Built-in compression liner for muscle support
  • Zippered pocket secures keys and cash
  • Headphone hole for music during runs
  • Towel loop keeps sweat cloth handy

Trade-offs

  • 7-inch inseam offers less coverage than longer shorts
  • Compression liner fits tight for larger thighs.

A 2-in-1 design with a built-in compression liner means you get muscle support and modesty without needing separate briefs. The liner’s spandex blend stretches with your stride, while the outer mesh layer breathes to keep you cool mid-run. For anyone who likes their phone secured and their towel looped, the headphone hole and zippered pocket add real convenience. This is a practical pick for runners and gym-goers who want everything in one package and prefer a trim, supportive fit.

The 2-in-1 design combines an outer polyester mesh layer with a built-in compression liner made from 20% spandex and 80% polyester, so the liner supports muscles during activity rather than flapping loose. That 7-inch inseam lands shorter than the Champion Sport Shorts 10-inch option, which gives more thigh coverage. For someone who wants a secure, all-in-one setup with smart storage details, this short delivers without needing extra layers.

Best for: Runners and gym-goers who want a secure, all-in-one short with compression support and smart pocket features. Not ideal for those who prefer a loose, linerless fit or a longer inseam for extra coverage.
#9Best Lightweight Running Short

CRZ YOGA Linerless Workout Shorts

CRZ YOGA Linerless Workout Shorts
Inseam7"
LinerLinerless
PocketsTwo side zipper
WaistbandElastic with drawstring
FabricLightweight, quick-dry
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What We Like

  • Ultralight fabric feels like feather
  • Two secure zipper pockets for phone
  • Quick-drying material for sweaty runs
  • Elastic waistband with adjustable drawstring

Trade-offs

  • Linerless design means no built-in support
  • Linerless design requires separate support layer

These shorts have a 7-inch inseam and no liner, so they are very lightweight and minimal. The quick-drying fabric and two zippered pockets let you carry a phone securely, which is useful for running or gym workouts. They are designed for people who want a short that feels light and airy without extra layers.

Best for: Runners and gym-goers who want the lightest possible short for warm-weather training. Not ideal for those who prefer a built-in liner or a longer inseam.

Product photos

#10Best Breathable Gym Short

BALENNZ Athletic Shorts With Pockets

BALENNZ Athletic Shorts With Pockets
Inseam10 inches
PocketsBoth sides
WaistbandElastic with inner drawcord
FabricSoft, breathable, quick-dry
UseGym, running, basketball, cycling
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What We Like

  • 10-inch inseam for full coverage
  • Quick-dry fabric wicks moisture away
  • Both-side hand pockets hold phone and wallet
  • Elastic waistband with drawcord for secure fit

Trade-offs

  • No zippered pockets for valuables during intense runs
  • Only hand pockets, no secure closure for keys or phone

A 10-inch inseam gives you full coverage during gym workouts, so you don’t have to adjust the hem during squats or lunges. The quick-dry fabric wicks moisture away from your skin, helping you stay comfortable as you train. That combination of breathability and stretch lets you move freely without feeling restricted by damp fabric.

The trade-off is in the pockets: they’re open hand pockets, not zippered, so if you’re sprinting on a track or doing burpees, your phone or keys might bounce out. The Adidas Designed For Training Workout Shorts have a 7-inch inseam, which some prefer for high-motion cardio. But for steady gym sessions, casual runs, or just lounging after a lift, the BALENNZ shorts deliver comfort and utility without overcomplicating things.

Best for: Active guys who want breathable, medium-coverage shorts with handy pockets for everyday gym and casual wear. Not ideal for high-intensity running where you need secure, zippered storage.

Product photos

How We Evaluated Exercise Shorts For Men

This guide is research-based. We examined product specifications, manufacturer documentation, and patterns in owner feedback from expert round-ups and customer reviews. We didn’t test these shorts ourselves, but we looked for consistent praise, and consistent complaints, to separate the reliable options from the rest.

Four criteria mattered most. Fit and mobility came first. A short that restricts a deep squat or a sprint stride is useless. Fabric performance covered moisture-wicking, breathability, and drying speed. Storage and security looked at pocket types, placement, and whether they keep your phone from bouncing. Value and durability weighed price against construction quality and how well the shorts hold up to repeated washing and wear.

The honest limit of a research-led evaluation is that feel is subjective. A 10-inch inseam that feels perfect on one guy might swamp another. We flag these trade-offs clearly so you can match the short to your body and your training style.

What To Look For In Exercise Shorts For Men

The right pair of exercise shorts should disappear during your workout, no riding up, no sagging, no swampy fabric. Focus on these three factors to find yours.

Focus on inseam, fabric, and pocket security. A 7-inch inseam offers more freedom of movement; a 10-inch provides more coverage. Quick-dry polyester or nylon blends beat cotton for sweat management. Zippered pockets keep valuables secure; mesh hand pockets are fine for a gym floor but risky for a run.

Inseam Length and Fit

Inseam length is the single biggest determinant of how a short feels. A 7-inch inseam, like the one on the Nike Dri-Fit Flex Woven Shorts 7″, sits well above the knee and allows unrestricted leg drive for sprints and deep squats. A 10-inch inseam, found on the Under Armour Tech Graphic 10″ Shorts and the Champion Sport Shorts 10″ Inseam, lands near the knee and offers more coverage. That makes it ideal for guys who prefer not to show much thigh or who lift in a gym with cold AC.

Fit also varies. Relaxed or regular fits (Under Armour, Champion) give you room to breathe and move. Athletic or tapered fits (Nike, Adidas) hug the leg more closely. If you’re between sizes or have muscular legs, err toward the roomier side.

Fabric and Moisture Management

Polyester and nylon blends dominate the category for good reason. They wick sweat away from the skin and dry fast, preventing the clammy feeling that cotton creates. The Under Armour Tech Graphic 10″ Shorts uses UA Tech fabric, a quick-drying polyester knit that stays light even when soaked. The Adidas Workout Essentials Basic Woven Short uses a durable plain-weave that resists wear but is less stretchy than knit options like the Nike Dri-Fit Flex Woven.

For outdoor training, the G Gradual Athletic Running Shorts adds UPF 50+ sun protection, a feature worth prioritizing if you run or hike midday. For high-intensity indoor work, focus on breathability and stretch; the Nike Flex fabric and the 4-way stretch in the Amazon Essentials Athletic Basketball Shorts both excel here.

Pocket Security and Storage

Not all pockets are created equal. Mesh hand pockets, like those on the Under Armour Tech Graphic and BALENNZ Athletic Shorts, are fine for holding a phone during sets but offer no security during a sprint. Zippered pockets, found on the Adidas Designed For Training Shorts and the G Gradual Athletic Running Shorts, keep keys and cards locked in place.

If you run or do HIIT, prioritize zippered storage. The JWJ 2-in-1 Workout Running Shorts adds a smart headphone hole and a towel loop, while the CRZ YOGA Linerless Workout Shorts keeps it simple with two secure zipper pockets. For gym-only use, standard mesh pockets are usually enough.

Rule of thumb: If you run, get zippered pockets. If you only lift, mesh hand pockets are fine. For outdoor training, add UPF protection to the list.

Exercise Shorts For Men Compared

The table below compares all ten shorts side-by-side on fit, features, and best-use scenarios so you can spot the differences at a glance.

ProductInseamFabricPocketsWaistband
Under Armour Tech Graphic 10" Shorts10"UA Tech (quick-drying)Mesh hand pocketsEncased elastic + drawcord
Champion Sport Shorts 10" Inseam10 inchesPolyester, moisture-wickingSide pocketsElastic waist
Nike Dri-Fit Flex Woven Shorts 7"7"Nike FlexSide with mesh sleeveElastic with drawcord
Adidas Designed For Training Workout Shorts7"N/AFront zip pocketsN/A
Adidas Workout Essentials Basic Woven ShortN/ADurable plain-weave wovenZippered closuresElastic waistband
Amazon Essentials Athletic Basketball Gym Shorts8" (size Medium)Performance tech, moisture-wicking, 4-way stretchN/AAdjustable elastic with drawcord
G Gradual Athletic Running Shorts5", 7", 9"Lightweight, quick-dry, stretch2 zippered pocketsElastic with drawstring
JWJ 2-in-1 Workout Running Shorts7 inchesPolyester mesh outer, spandex blend liner2 slash, 1 zipperedElastic waistband
CRZ YOGA Linerless Workout Shorts7"Lightweight, quick-dryTwo side zipperElastic with drawstring
BALENNZ Athletic Shorts With Pockets10 inchesSoft, breathable, quick-dryBoth sidesElastic with inner drawcord

Frequently Asked Questions

What inseam length should I choose for exercise shorts?

Choose a 7-inch inseam if you want maximum freedom of movement for running, cycling, or deep squats. Choose a 10-inch inseam if you prefer more coverage around the knee or have longer legs. Taller athletes often find 10-inch shorts more comfortable, while shorter athletes may prefer a 7-inch to avoid excess fabric bunching at the knee.

Do I need shorts with a built-in liner?

It depends on your workout and personal preference. Lined shorts, like the JWJ 2-in-1 Workout Running Shorts, provide compression and support without needing separate underwear, ideal for running. Linerless shorts, like the Under Armour Tech Graphic, let you wear your own compression shorts or briefs, offering more flexibility for different activities.

Are zippered pockets necessary for gym shorts?

Zippered pockets are essential if you run or do high-intensity interval training where a phone or keys might bounce out of a mesh pocket. For casual gym use, lifting, stretching, using machines, standard mesh hand pockets are usually secure enough. If you often wear shorts outside the gym, zippered pockets add peace of mind for errands and walks.

Can I wear exercise shorts for swimming or casual wear?

Some exercise shorts work fine for casual wear, especially those with a relaxed fit and neutral colors like the Amazon Essentials Athletic Basketball Gym Shorts. However, most are not designed for swimming, they lack the quick-dry mesh lining and chlorine resistance of dedicated swim trunks. Stick to gym and running use for best durability.

How do I wash exercise shorts without damaging them?

Wash exercise shorts in cold water on a gentle cycle and hang them to dry. Heat from a dryer can break down elastic fibers and cause the waistband to lose its snap over time. Avoid fabric softener, which clogs the moisture-wicking pores in performance fabrics and makes them less effective at drying.

The Bottom Line

For most guys, the Under Armour Tech Graphic 10″ Shorts is the best overall choice. It combines a relaxed, non-restrictive fit with quick-drying fabric and a reasonable 10-inch inseam that works for both lifting and light cardio. If your budget is tighter, the Champion Sport Shorts 10″ Inseam delivers reliable moisture-wicking performance at a lower cost.

If your training leans heavily toward running or HIIT, the Nike Dri-Fit Flex Woven Shorts 7″ offers unmatched freedom of movement. Meanwhile, the Adidas Designed For Training Workout Shorts solves the pocket problem with front zip security. Need a built-in liner? The JWJ 2-in-1 Workout Running Shorts has you covered.

The single most important factor is inseam length. Get that right, and everything else, fabric, pockets, fit, falls into place around your specific workout style.