Are you searching for the best gym shorts for men in 2026? There are plenty of excellent options available. The top 10 best gym shorts for men include Ten Thousand Interval Short, Vuori Kore Short, Rhone Pursuit Short, Lululemon Pace Breaker Short, Combat Iron Recon & Hybrid Shorts, Neleus Men’s 7” Mesh Running Workout Shorts, adidas Originals Adicolor Classics Sprinter Shorts, Nike Dri-FIT Challenger 5″ Brief-Lined Shorts, Gymshark Arrival Shorts, and Rhone Men’s Athletic Shorts.
In 2026, the best gym shorts for men are everywhere. People wear them not only at the gym but also as a year-round fashion staple. The best gym shorts for men feature shorter inseams, bold colors, and innovative materials. Social media has made the best gym shorts for men popular, even in professional settings.
Check out how the best gym shorts for men stack up:
Shorts Name | Rating | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
Ten Thousand Interval Short | 4.1 | Overall | Durable, comfortable, versatile |
Bearbottom Run Short V2 | 4.5 | Running | Lightweight, moisture-wicking, phone pouch |
Fabletics Fundamental Short II | 4.5 | Big Thighs | Sweat-wicking, multiple inseam options |
When choosing the best gym shorts for men, look for pairs that support your workouts, feel great, and last through tough sessions. The best gym shorts for men deliver top-notch performance, comfort, and style, making them perfect for any occasion.
Key Takeaways
Choose gym shorts that fit well and feel comfortable for better workouts.
Look for moisture-wicking materials to stay dry and cool during exercise.
Consider shorts with liners for extra support and to prevent chafing.
Pick the right inseam length for your activity, like shorter for running.
Try different styles to find the best gym shorts for your needs and style.
Best Gym Shorts for Men 2026
Ten Thousand Interval Short
You want a pair of shorts that can handle anything. The Ten Thousand Interval Short stands out as one of the best gym shorts for men. You get a perfect mix of durability and comfort. The fabric feels soft but tough. These shorts move with you during squats, sprints, or even yoga. The waistband stays put, and the pockets keep your essentials safe. If you want the best workout shorts for men that last, this is a top pick.
Vuori Kore Short
The Vuori Kore Short is all about comfort. You feel the difference as soon as you put them on. The fabric feels soft and stretchy, letting you move freely. The shorts breathe well, so you stay cool. Many people love the built-in liner, but sometimes it can bunch up if you wear them for a long time. These shorts work best for light workouts or casual days. If you want the best workout shorts for men for comfort, you will love these.
Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
Comfort | Soft, stretchy, and breathable. Allows freedom of movement. Liner may bunch up with long use. |
Durability | Great for casual and low-impact activities. Thin fabric may snag or tear on rough surfaces. |
Rhone Pursuit Short
You need shorts that keep up with your toughest workouts. The Rhone Pursuit Short gives you that edge. The fabric feels light but strong. You get a secure fit with the waistband. These shorts dry fast, so you never feel weighed down. If you want the best gym shorts for men that look sharp and perform well, try these.
Lululemon Pace Breaker Short
You want shorts that do it all. The Lululemon Pace Breaker Short fits the bill. You get a sleek look and a comfortable fit. The fabric stretches and moves with you. These shorts work for running, lifting, or even just hanging out. The pockets hold your phone and keys. If you want the best workout shorts for men that look good everywhere, these are a great choice.
Combat Iron Recon & Hybrid Shorts
You need shorts that can handle intense training. The Combat Iron Recon & Hybrid Shorts deliver. The fabric feels rugged and dries quickly. You get a secure fit with the adjustable waistband. These shorts work well for CrossFit, HIIT, or outdoor workouts. If you want the best workout shorts for men for tough sessions, these are for you.
Neleus Men’s 7” Mesh Running Workout Shorts
You want shorts that keep you cool and comfortable. The Neleus Men’s 7” Mesh Running Workout Shorts do just that. The mesh fabric lets air flow, so you stay dry. The shorts have a brief lining and an elastic waistband with a drawstring. You get side pockets for your stuff. The shorter inseam keeps the shorts from riding up. The fabric dries fast and helps prevent odors.
Made from 100% polyester mesh for breathability and comfort.
Features a brief lining and an elastic waistband with an adjustable internal drawstring.
Available in five colors with side seam pockets for storage.
Shorter inseam prevents riding up during workouts.
Fast-drying fabric minimizes odor retention.
If you want the best gym shorts for men for running or cardio, these are a smart pick.
adidas Originals Adicolor Classics Sprinter Shorts
You want a classic look with modern comfort. The adidas Originals Adicolor Classics Sprinter Shorts give you both. The fabric feels smooth and light. You get the iconic adidas stripes and a fit that works for any workout. These shorts look great at the gym or on the street. If you want the best workout shorts with style, you will like these.
Nike Dri-FIT Challenger 5″ Brief-Lined Shorts
You want shorts that keep you dry. The Nike Dri-FIT Challenger 5″ Brief-Lined Shorts use sweat-wicking fabric. You stay cool and comfortable, even during hard workouts. The built-in brief adds support. The pockets hold your small items. If you want the best workout shorts for men for running or training, these are a solid choice.
Gymshark Arrival Shorts
You want shorts that help you focus on your workout. The Gymshark Arrival Shorts do just that. The fabric feels light and lets you move easily. The waistband adjusts for a perfect fit. Sweat-wicking tech keeps you dry. Open side pockets let you store your stuff.
Feature | Description |
|---|---|
Adjustable Waist | Drawcord waist lets you adjust the fit to suit you. |
Sweat-wicking Tech | Keeps you cool & dry in your high-sweat sessions. |
Open Side Pockets | Easily store your stuff and keep your attention on training. |
Lightweight Fabric | Minimal distractions for full focus during workouts. |
If you want the best gym shorts for men for intense training, these are a top pick.
Rhone Men’s Athletic Shorts
You want shorts that support you during every move. Rhone Men’s Athletic Shorts give you that. The fabric breathes and dries fast, so you stay comfortable. After a run, you notice how quickly the shorts dry. The built-in compression lining gives support and keeps everything in place.
The shorts are made with a breathable and quick-drying fabric, ensuring comfort during workouts.
After running on the treadmill, the fabric dried quickly, preventing discomfort from sweat accumulation.
The built-in compression lining provides support and keeps everything in place during physical activities.
If you want the best workout shorts for men that offer support and breathability, these are a great choice.
You have many options when looking for the best gym shorts for men. Each pair brings something special. Whether you want comfort, support, or style, you will find the best workout shorts for your needs.
Best Workout Shorts for Men: Detailed Reviews
Ten Thousand Interval Short Review
You want shorts that can handle any workout. The Ten Thousand Interval Short gives you that. These shorts use a blend of polyester and spandex, so they stretch and move with you. The fit hugs your thighs, but you never feel restricted. You get a medium compression liner that helps with support and fights odor. The fabric stands up to tough workouts and can take a lot of pressure. You also get a zippered pocket for your phone or keys. The four-way stretch means you can squat, jump, or run without worry.
Feature | Description |
|---|---|
Fabric Composition | 86% polyester/14% Spandex blend, stretchy and durable. |
Fit | Slimmer fit than basketball shorts, hugs the thighs. |
Durability | Rigorous testing for durability, withstands over 100 pounds of pressure per square inch. |
Pocket Design | Discreet zippered pocket for secure storage of valuables. |
Additional Features | Medium compression liner with anti-odor treatment, integrated phone pocket, four-way stretch. |
Pros:
Super durable for any workout
Secure pocket for valuables
Compression liner adds support
Cons:
Slim fit may feel tight if you like loose shorts
Price is higher than some other options
Best for:
You want these shorts for strength training, HIIT, or any workout where you move a lot. They work well for people who want a snug fit and need their shorts to last.
Vuori Kore Short Review
You want comfort and flexibility in your workout shorts. The Vuori Kore Short gives you both. The boxer brief liner keeps the shorts in place and stops chafing during tough workouts. The fabric feels soft, and the relaxed fit lets you stretch or roll on a mat with ease. You can use these shorts for yoga, Pilates, or even cycling. The pocket design works for casual sports, but the back pocket uses Velcro, which may not be great for running.
The liner prevents chafing during HIIT and circuit training.
The relaxed fit and thicker weave make them perfect for yoga and Pilates.
The Velcro back pocket is not ideal for running.
Great for cycling and casual sports.
Pros:
Comfortable liner for long workouts
Soft, stretchy fabric
Good for many activities
Cons:
Velcro pocket can be annoying for runners
Not as secure for valuables
Best for:
You want these shorts for yoga, Pilates, or light workouts. They also work for casual days or cycling.
Rhone Pursuit Short Review
You want shorts that keep up with your hardest workouts. The Rhone Pursuit Short does just that. The fabric feels light but strong. The waistband fits snug, so you never have to adjust during a workout. These shorts dry fast, so you stay comfortable even when you sweat a lot. The look is sharp, so you can wear them outside the gym too.
Pros:
Lightweight and strong
Quick-drying fabric
Stylish design
Cons:
May feel snug if you prefer loose shorts
Price is on the higher side
Best for:
You want these shorts for running, lifting, or any workout where you sweat a lot. They also work if you want to look good before and after your workout.
Lululemon Pace Breaker Short Review
You want shorts that do it all. The Lululemon Pace Breaker Short stands out for comfort and durability. Many people wear these shorts for hard workouts several times a week, and they still look new. The sweat-wicking fabric keeps you dry, and the shorts feel light and breathable. You get an extra piece of fabric for sweat management and a zippered pocket for your phone or keys.
Ideal for running because the material breathes well.
Great for lounging at home.
Works for walking, sprints, and weight lifting.
High-quality fabric and smart features.
Pros:
Very comfortable for long workouts
Durable even with heavy use
Zippered pocket for safety
Cons:
Price is higher than average
Fit may be snug for some
Best for:
You want these shorts for running, lifting, or relaxing at home. They work for almost any workout or casual activity.
Combat Iron Recon & Hybrid Shorts Review
You want shorts that can handle tough training. The Combat Iron Recon & Hybrid Shorts give you rugged fabric that dries fast. The waistband adjusts for a secure fit, so you never have to stop your workout to fix your shorts. These shorts work well for CrossFit, HIIT, or outdoor workouts. The pockets hold your essentials, and the shorts move with you.
Pros:
Rugged and quick-drying
Adjustable waistband
Good for intense workouts
Cons:
May feel stiff at first
Limited color options
Best for:
You want these shorts for CrossFit, HIIT, or outdoor training. They work best for people who push their workouts to the limit.
Neleus Mesh Running Shorts Review
You want shorts that keep you cool and dry. The Neleus Mesh Running Shorts use 100% polyester mesh, so air flows easily. The brief lining adds comfort, and the waistband adjusts for a perfect fit. The shorts have side pockets for your stuff. The shorter inseam keeps the shorts from riding up. The fabric dries fast and helps prevent odors.
Pros:
Breathable mesh fabric
Quick-drying and odor-resistant
Affordable price
Cons:
Not as durable as premium shorts
Pockets are not zippered
Best for:
You want these shorts for running, cardio, or hot weather workouts. They work well for anyone who wants to stay cool and comfortable.
adidas Sprinter Shorts Review
You want a classic look with modern comfort. The adidas Sprinter Shorts give you both. The fabric feels smooth and light. You get the famous adidas stripes and a fit that works for any workout. These shorts look great at the gym or on the street.
Pros:
Iconic style
Lightweight and comfortable
Versatile for many workouts
Cons:
May run small
Limited storage options
Best for:
You want these shorts for gym workouts, running, or casual wear. They work for anyone who likes a classic style.
Nike Dri-FIT Challenger Review
You want shorts that keep you dry and comfortable. The Nike Dri-FIT Challenger uses special technology to wick away sweat. You stay warm and cozy, even in cold weather. Some people wear these shorts for running outside in winter and feel great. The built-in brief adds support, and the shorts feel soft.
Dri-FIT tech keeps you comfortable in cold or warm conditions.
Great for running outside, even in winter.
Quality fabric and support.
Pros:
Excellent moisture management
Comfortable in all weather
Supportive brief lining
Cons:
May feel thin for some
Limited color choices
Best for:
You want these shorts for running, outdoor workouts, or any activity where you sweat a lot. They work for people who train in all seasons.
Gymshark Arrival Shorts Review
You want shorts that help you focus on your workout. The Gymshark Arrival Shorts fit well and feel light. Many people say the shorts are not too tight but still form-fitting. The fabric dries quickly, so you stay comfortable. Some users say the leg seam ripped after a few wears, so durability may be an issue.
Fit is form-fitting but not tight.
Lightweight and dries fast.
Some concerns about seams ripping.
Pros:
Comfortable fit
Quick-drying fabric
Good for intense workouts
Cons:
Durability issues with seams
May not last as long as other shorts
Best for:
You want these shorts for gym workouts, HIIT, or any workout where you move a lot. They work for people who want a snug fit and light feel.
Rhone Athletic Shorts Review
You want shorts that support you during high-intensity workouts. Rhone Athletic Shorts use durable ripstop fabric with built-in stretch. The shorts resist abrasion and feel light. They have a water-repellent finish, so you stay dry. The bonded seams stop chafing, and the waistband adjusts for comfort. Side vents help you move, and a zip pocket keeps your essentials safe.
Durable ripstop fabric with stretch
Abrasion-resistant and lightweight
Water-repellent finish
Bonded seams for no chafing
Adjustable waistband and side vents
Secure zip pocket
Pros:
Great for tough workouts
Comfortable and adjustable
Keeps you dry and chafe-free
Cons:
Price is higher than basic shorts
May feel stiff at first
Best for:
You want these shorts for high-intensity workouts, running, or any activity where you need support and durability. They work for people who want top performance from their workout gear.
How to Choose Gym Shorts
Choosing the right gym shorts can make your workouts better and more comfortable. You want gym shorts that fit well, feel good, and help you move easily. Let’s break down what you should look for when picking out gym shorts.
Material & Breathability
The material of your gym shorts matters a lot. You want gym shorts made from moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester, nylon, or mesh. These materials pull sweat away from your skin and help you stay dry. Some gym shorts use Gore-Tex for outdoor workouts because it is windproof and waterproof. Merino wool is great for odor control and comfort. Bamboo and man-made cellular fibers are soft and eco-friendly. Check out this table for a quick look at common materials:
Material | Properties and Benefits |
|---|---|
Gore-Tex | Windproof, waterproof, moisture-wicking, durable, great for outdoor use |
Merino Wool | Moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, comfortable |
Polyester | Moisture-wicking, quick-drying, durable, lightweight |
Nylon | Breathable, moisture-wicking, elastic, quick-drying |
Mesh | Lightweight, breathable, great for summer |
Bamboo | Soft, sustainable, moisture-resistant, UV protection |
Blends | Mix of materials for better performance |
Fit & Comfort
You want gym shorts that fit your body and let you move. Look for gym shorts with a snug waistband and a relaxed leg. This gives you comfort and freedom. If your gym shorts are too tight, you won’t feel good during your workout. If they are too loose, they might slip or bunch up. Try on different gym shorts to see what feels best for you.
Liner vs No Liner
Some gym shorts have built-in liners. Liners give you support and help prevent chafing. They also add moisture-wicking power. Lined gym shorts are great for high-intensity workouts. Unlined gym shorts let you pick your own base layer. They give you more flexibility but may need extra layers for support. Here’s a quick comparison:
Feature | Lined Shorts | Unlined Shorts |
|---|---|---|
Support | Built-in | Depends on base layer |
Chafing Prevention | Excellent | Varies |
Moisture Management | Superior | Depends on base layer |
Convenience | All-in-one | Needs extra layer |
Flexibility | Slightly less | More |
Best For | High-intensity | Casual/low-intensity |
Inseam Lengths
The inseam length of gym shorts changes how they feel and move. Shorter gym shorts (3 or 5 inches) give you more mobility and are great for running or HIIT. Longer gym shorts (7 or 9 inches) offer more coverage and work well for weightlifting or basketball. Use this table to help you choose:
Inseam Length | Mobility | Coverage | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
3 inches | High | Low | Mobility training, light exercise |
5 inches | High | Medium | Running, HIIT, powerlifting |
7 inches | Medium | High | Weightlifting, intense training |
9 inches | Low | Very High | Basketball, max coverage |
Activity Suitability
Pick gym shorts that match your favorite activities. For running, look for lightweight, moisture-wicking gym shorts. For weightlifting, choose gym shorts with a snug fit and strong fabric. HIIT needs gym shorts that stretch and move with you. Pilates or yoga works best with soft, flexible gym shorts. Always check if the gym shorts have features like pockets or drawstrings for extra comfort.
Sizing Tips
Getting the right size in gym shorts is key for comfort and performance. Look for gym shorts with moisture-wicking fabric and a fit that hugs your waist but lets your legs move. Shorts that fall just above the knee give you good coverage and range of motion. Features like adjustable waistbands, pockets, and built-in liners add to the comfort and function of your gym shorts. Try on a few pairs to find the best gym shorts for your body and workout style.
Tip: Always check the size chart before you buy new gym shorts. Brands can fit differently, so measure your waist and hips for the best fit.
Gym Shorts Comparison Table
You want to know which gym shorts are best. This chart shows the top 10 choices. You can see how each pair fits and what they are made of. The table also tells you if the shorts have a liner or pockets. You can check which shorts work best for different workouts.
Shorts Name | Fit | Material | Liner | Pockets | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ten Thousand Interval Short | Slim | Poly/Spandex Blend | Yes | Zippered | All workouts |
Vuori Kore Short | Relaxed | Recycled Polyester | Yes | Side/Back | Yoga, casual, cycling |
Rhone Pursuit Short | Athletic | Lightweight Poly | No | Side | Running, lifting |
Lululemon Pace Breaker Short | Regular | Stretchy Poly | Optional | Zippered | Running, training |
Combat Iron Recon & Hybrid Shorts | Fitted | Rugged Poly Blend | No | Side | CrossFit, HIIT |
Neleus Mesh Running Shorts | Regular | 100% Polyester Mesh | Yes | Side | Cardio, running |
adidas Sprinter Shorts | Slim | Smooth Poly | No | Side | Gym, casual wear |
Nike Dri-FIT Challenger Shorts | Regular | Dri-FIT Poly | Yes | Side | Running, outdoor |
Gymshark Arrival Shorts | Fitted | Lightweight Poly | No | Side | HIIT, gym sessions |
Rhone Athletic Shorts | Athletic | Ripstop Poly Blend | Yes | Zippered | High-intensity, running |
Tip: Pick shorts with a liner and light fabric for running. For lifting, choose shorts that fit tight and feel strong.
This table helps you find the right shorts for you. Think about what you like most—fit, comfort, or style. The best shorts make you feel good and ready to work out.
You have seen the best gym shorts for men in 2026. Each pair stands out for comfort, durability, and style. Think about what you need most—support, breathability, or pockets. Try a few options to find your perfect fit. Share your favorites with friends or online. Remember, workout-ready gear helps you feel confident and ready for any challenge.
FAQ
What inseam length should I pick for gym shorts?
You should choose an inseam that matches your activity. Shorter inseams give you more movement for running or HIIT. Longer inseams offer more coverage for lifting or basketball. Try a few lengths to see what feels best.
Can I wear gym shorts outside the gym?
Yes! Many gym shorts look stylish enough for daily wear. You can pair them with a t-shirt or hoodie for errands, walks, or just relaxing at home. They work well for both workouts and casual days.
How do I wash and care for gym shorts?
You should wash gym shorts in cold water with similar colors. Avoid using fabric softener because it can affect moisture-wicking. Hang them to dry or use a low heat setting. This helps your shorts last longer and keeps them fresh.
Do I need a liner in my gym shorts?
A liner gives you extra support and helps prevent chafing. If you like more freedom or want to wear your own base layer, pick shorts without a liner. It depends on your comfort and workout style.
How do gym shorts help me reach my fitness goals?
The right gym shorts let you move easily and stay comfortable. You can focus on your workout, not your clothes. Good shorts help you train harder and feel confident, making it easier to reach your fitness goals.
