Ever feel like your gym shorts are holding you back? You know, the ones that ride up, don’t breathe, or just feel plain wrong? Picking the perfect pair can be surprisingly tricky. You want something that feels good, looks good, and helps you crush your workout, not distract you from it.
The wrong gym shorts can make even the most exciting workout feel like a chore. They might chafe, trap heat, or just not have the right fit for your movements. This can lead to discomfort and a serious drain on your motivation. But imagine this: shorts that move with you, keep you cool, and give you the confidence to push harder.
In this post, we’ll dive deep into what makes a great pair of gym shorts. We’ll explore different styles, fabrics, and features. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll know exactly what to look for to find your new favorite workout companions. Let’s get started on finding shorts that help you conquer your fitness goals.
Our Top 5 Gym Shorts Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Gym Shorts Detailed Reviews
1. BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear
Rating: 8.9/10
The BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men are designed to help you perform your best during any activity. They offer a great combination of comfort and practicality for workouts and everyday wear.
What We Like:
- These shorts are made with soft fabric that feels good and allows for easy movement. They help you stay comfortable while you exercise.
- The 10-inch inseam provides good coverage, making them suitable for many sports like basketball, running, and gym training.
- They have pockets on both sides, which are handy for carrying your phone, keys, or wallet. This means you can keep your essentials with you easily.
- The fabric is breathable and dries quickly. It pulls sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable even during intense workouts.
- The elastic waistband with a drawcord ensures a snug and secure fit. The shorts stay in place, so you don’t have to worry about them sliding down.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 10-inch inseam is versatile, some users might prefer a shorter or longer option depending on their personal preference or the specific sport.
- The design is functional, but there might not be a wide variety of color or style choices available, limiting personal expression.
Overall, the BALENNZ Athletic Shorts are a solid choice for any active man looking for comfort and functionality. They are a reliable option for hitting the gym or enjoying outdoor activities.
2. VVX 3 Piece Womens Workout Shorts Scrunch Butt Lifting Seamless High Waist Yoga Gym Shorts for Women – Black/Brown/Pink S
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready to crush your workouts in style with the VVX 3 Piece Womens Workout Shorts! These shorts are designed for comfort and performance, whether you’re hitting the yoga mat, the gym, or just running errands. They come in a stylish black, brown, and pink color set, perfect for mixing and matching.
What We Like:
- Super Comfy: Made from a soft, stretchy blend of 90% Nylon and 10% Spandex, these shorts feel great against your skin. They’re breathable and wick away sweat, so you stay dry.
- Moves with You: The high elasticity means these shorts stretch and bounce back, giving you lots of freedom to move without bunching up or sliding down.
- Flattering Fit: The scrunch detail and special pleats at the hips really help to lift and shape your butt, giving you a fantastic silhouette. The high waist also smooths your tummy for a confident look.
- Versatile Style: These shorts aren’t just for the gym! You can easily wear them with your favorite tops for a casual look.
What Could Be Improved:
- Color Options: While the black, brown, and pink are nice, more color variety would be awesome for those who like to switch up their workout wardrobe.
- Sizing Consistency: It’s always a good idea to check the size chart carefully, as sometimes sizing can vary between different styles of activewear.
Overall, these VVX workout shorts are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for comfortable, stylish, and supportive activewear. They’ll help you look and feel your best during any activity.
3. AUROLA Intensify Workout Shorts for Women Seamless Scrunch Short Gym Yoga Running Sport Active Exercise Fitness Shorts(L
Rating: 8.7/10
Meet your new favorite workout partner: the AUROLA Intensify Workout Shorts. These black, seamless scrunch shorts are designed for women who want to move freely and comfortably during any activity, from yoga and running to gym sessions and everyday fitness. They offer a flattering fit and are made to support you through every squat, stretch, and stride.
What We Like:
- The “Intensify Collection” design is smart. It shows a bit of ankle, which looks good. These shorts give you lots of freedom. They don’t get in your way when you’re working out.
- The diamond gusseted crotch is a big plus. It lets you move your legs easily. The flatlock seams help stop your skin from getting rubbed and sore.
- You’ll love the comfortable high waist. It covers your belly button and stays put. This means no more pulling them up during your workout.
- These shorts are super stretchy. They are thick enough so you can’t see through them, but they still let your skin breathe. The material is very soft and feels nice on your skin. It pulls sweat away from your body.
- Made with a blend of Nylon, Polyester, and Spandex, they feel more natural than pure polyester. This makes them great for wearing all day long, not just at the gym.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the “less interference” design is good for some, those who prefer full leg coverage might find them a bit short.
- The “scrunch” detail, while stylish, might not be everyone’s preferred aesthetic for all types of workouts or daily wear.
These AUROLA shorts are a fantastic choice for comfort and performance. They’ll help you feel confident and ready for anything.
4. Gaglg Men’s 5″ Running Shorts 2 Pack Quick Dry Athletic Workout Gym Shorts with Zipper Pockets Black/Green
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready to crush your workouts with the Gaglg Men’s 5″ Running Shorts 2 Pack. These shorts are designed for comfort and performance, whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or playing basketball. The black and green color combo is stylish, and the medium size offers a great fit for many.
What We Like:
- Super lightweight material makes them feel great.
- Quick-dry fabric keeps you cool and dry.
- Breathable design helps air flow to your skin.
- Durable stitching means they’ll last a long time.
- Zipper pockets are perfect for keeping your phone or keys safe.
- The elastic waistband with a hidden drawcord gives a snug fit.
- Unique cuts and details add a cool athletic look.
- Flexible panels help you move easily.
- Great for many sports like running, basketball, and soccer.
- The company is committed to making customers happy.
What Could Be Improved:
- The sizing chart suggests ordering a smaller size if you’re between sizes for a tighter fit, which might be confusing for some.
These Gaglg shorts are a solid choice for any active guy. They offer comfort, style, and the durability you need for your fitness journey.
5. Amazon Essentials Men’s Performance Tech Loose-Fit Shorts (Available in Big & Tall)
Rating: 9.2/10
These Amazon Essentials Men’s Performance Tech Loose-Fit Shorts are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for comfort and performance. They come in a convenient pack of two and are available in a classic black color. Plus, they even offer Big & Tall sizing, making them accessible to more people. Whether you’re hitting the gym, playing basketball, or just relaxing at home, these shorts are designed to keep you feeling good.
What We Like:
- The loose fit gives you plenty of room to move.
- The fabric is super light and breathable, so you stay cool.
- Quick-dry and moisture-wicking features keep you dry during workouts.
- The 4-way stretch fabric allows for full flexibility.
- They have an adjustable waistband with a drawcord for a secure fit.
- The length hits just above the knee, which is a great length for many activities.
- The honeycomb texture adds a nice touch.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the fabric is great, some might prefer a slightly heavier material for extra durability.
- The “gentle stretch” might not be enough for those who need extreme flexibility.
These shorts offer a great blend of comfort and functionality for a variety of activities. They are a solid addition to any active wardrobe.
Gym Shorts: Your Guide to Finding the Best Pair
Choosing the right gym shorts makes a big difference in your workout. Good shorts help you move freely and feel comfortable. This guide will help you pick the perfect pair.
Key Features to Look For
- Fit: Shorts should fit well. They shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. You need to be able to move your legs without feeling restricted. Some shorts have drawstrings to adjust the waist.
- Length: Shorts come in different lengths. Shorter shorts offer more freedom for leg exercises. Longer shorts provide more coverage and can be good for certain sports.
- Pockets: Pockets are handy for keys or a small phone. Some shorts have zippered pockets to keep your things secure.
- Ventilation: Good airflow helps keep you cool. Look for shorts with mesh panels or breathable fabric.
Important Materials
The fabric of your gym shorts matters a lot. Different materials offer different benefits.
- Polyester: This is a popular choice. Polyester is strong and dries fast. It holds its shape well.
- Nylon: Nylon is also strong and durable. It’s lightweight and feels smooth.
- Spandex (or Elastane/Lycra): This material adds stretch. It allows for a wider range of motion. Shorts with spandex move with your body.
- Cotton: Cotton is soft and comfortable. However, it can absorb sweat and take a long time to dry. It’s better for light workouts or casual wear.
- Blends: Many shorts use a mix of these materials. For example, polyester and spandex is a common blend. This gives you the benefits of both.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make gym shorts better or worse.
- Stitching: Strong, neat stitching means the shorts will last longer. Look for double stitching in high-stress areas like the seams. Poor stitching can lead to tears.
- Waistband: A comfortable waistband is important. It should stay put without digging into your skin. Elastic waistbands with drawstrings offer good adjustability.
- Fabric Weight: Lighter fabrics are good for hot weather and intense workouts. Heavier fabrics offer more warmth and durability.
- Moisture-Wicking: High-quality shorts often have fabric that pulls sweat away from your skin. This helps you stay dry and comfortable.
- Durability: Well-made shorts will withstand regular washing and wear. Cheaply made shorts might lose their shape or tear easily.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your gym shorts influences your choice.
- Running: For running, lightweight, breathable shorts with good moisture-wicking are best. A liner can add comfort and support.
- Weightlifting: Longer, more durable shorts with a bit of stretch are good for weightlifting. You need freedom to squat and move.
- Cross-Training/HIIT: Versatile shorts that allow for a wide range of motion are ideal. Look for breathable fabrics and a comfortable fit.
- Yoga/Pilates: Soft, stretchy shorts are preferred for these activities. They should allow for full flexibility.
- Casual Wear: Comfortable, relaxed-fit shorts are great for everyday wear or lounging.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)**
Q: What is the best material for gym shorts?
A: Polyester and nylon blends with spandex are often best. They are durable, breathable, and stretchy.
Q: How should gym shorts fit?
A: Gym shorts should fit comfortably. They should not restrict your movement.
Q: Should gym shorts have a liner?
A: Some people prefer shorts with a built-in liner for support. Others find them uncomfortable. It’s a personal preference.
Q: How do I care for my gym shorts?
A: Follow the care instructions on the label. Usually, machine washing in cold water and air drying is best.
Q: Can I wear cotton shorts to the gym?
A: You can, but cotton holds moisture and can make you feel heavy and cold when you sweat.
Q: What does “moisture-wicking” mean?
A: Moisture-wicking fabric pulls sweat away from your skin to help you stay dry.
Q: Are shorter shorts better for workouts?
A: Shorter shorts offer more freedom for leg movements. However, choose a length you feel comfortable with.
Q: How important are pockets on gym shorts?
A: Pockets are useful for small items like keys or cards. Zippered pockets offer extra security.
Q: What makes gym shorts expensive?
A: Higher quality materials, better stitching, and special features like advanced moisture-wicking or compression can increase the price.
Q: How often should I replace my gym shorts?
A: Replace them when they show signs of wear, like thinning fabric, stretched-out waistbands, or torn seams.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.