Ever feel like your gym shorts are holding you back? You’re not alone. Finding the perfect pair can be a real struggle. Too tight, too loose, not breathable enough – it’s enough to make anyone dread laundry day before even hitting the weights. We all want shorts that feel good, move with us, and help us focus on our workout, not on adjusting our gear.
This is where we come in. We’re diving deep into the world of men’s gym shorts to cut through the confusion. By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for, from the best fabrics to the right fit for every type of exercise. Get ready to upgrade your workout wardrobe and say goodbye to frustrating gym shorts forever!
Our Top 5 Mens Gym Shorts Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Mens Gym Shorts Detailed Reviews
1. BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to crush your workouts with the BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men! These shorts are designed to help you perform your best, no matter what activity you choose. They are made with soft fabric that feels good against your skin and lets you move freely. Whether you’re hitting the gym, running miles, or playing your favorite sport, these shorts will keep you comfortable and focused.
What We Like:
- Soft and stretchy fabric helps you move better.
- The 10-inch inseam is great for all sports and activities.
- Pockets on both sides are handy for your phone or keys.
- The material dries fast and keeps sweat away from your skin.
- The elastic waistband with a drawstring gives you a perfect, secure fit.
What Could Be Improved:
- The color options might be limited for some shoppers.
- More detailed sizing information could be helpful for online buyers.
These BALENNZ shorts are a solid choice for any active guy. They offer comfort, performance, and practical features that make them a go-to for workouts and everyday wear.
2. BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts – Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear
Rating: 8.8/10
The BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts are a fantastic value for anyone looking for comfortable and functional workout gear. These black, quick-dry shorts are perfect for basketball, running, or just lounging around. You get five pairs, making them a very cost-effective option for stocking up on activewear.
What We Like:
- Super soft and comfortable fabric that feels great.
- Breathable material keeps you cool during workouts.
- The elastic waistband with a drawstring provides a perfect, secure fit that stays put.
- Generous side pockets are perfect for carrying your phone or keys.
- Strong seams mean these shorts are built to last and won’t rip easily.
- Quick-dry fabric wicks away sweat to keep you dry and comfortable.
- Versatile enough for the gym, running, basketball, or just relaxing at home.
- The 5-pack offers a great deal compared to buying fewer pairs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 10-inch inseam might be a bit long for some preferences.
- While the fabric is soft, it might not feel as premium as some higher-priced brands.
Overall, these BOOJO shorts are a smart buy for comfort, performance, and value. They’re a solid choice for any man’s active wardrobe.
3. Gaglg Men’s 5″ Running Shorts 2 Pack Quick Dry Athletic Workout Gym Shorts with Zipper Pockets Black/Green
Rating: 9.2/10
Gear up for your next workout with the Gaglg Men’s 5″ Running Shorts 2 Pack. These shorts are designed to keep you comfortable and focused, whether you’re hitting the gym, pounding the pavement, or playing your favorite sport. They offer a great blend of style and performance for any active guy.
What We Like:
- The shorts are made from a lightweight, premium polyester fabric that feels soft and drapes well.
- They feature a quick-dry and breathable design to help you stay cool and dry during intense workouts.
- The relaxed fit and rugged cut-off hem provide both comfort and a stylish look.
- Dual concealed zippered pockets are perfect for safely storing your small essentials like keys or cards.
- The elastic waistband with an invisible drawcord ensures a secure and comfortable fit that stays put.
- Breathable elastic panels and mesh fabric are engineered to boost ventilation and flexibility for better movement.
- These shorts are built to last and maintain their great condition through many uses and washes.
- They are versatile and suitable for a wide range of activities like running, training, basketball, and cycling.
What Could Be Improved:
- The size chart uses ranges, so if you’re between sizes, you might need to experiment to find the perfect fit.
These Gaglg shorts are a solid choice for anyone looking for comfortable, functional, and durable athletic wear. They deliver on performance and style, making them a great addition to your workout gear.
4. 3 Pack Gym Basketball Mens Shorts – Quick Dry Black Workout Athletic Shorts with Pockets for Casual Running (S-6XL)
Rating: 9.2/10
Looking for comfortable and versatile shorts for your workouts and everyday life? The 3 Pack Gym Basketball Mens Shorts from BOOJO are a fantastic option. These black athletic shorts are designed for quick drying and offer a great fit for a wide range of activities, from hitting the basketball court to casual runs and even lounging around.
What We Like:
- Super lightweight and breathable material keeps you cool and comfortable.
- The quick-drying fabric is perfect for sweaty workouts.
- Deep, secure pockets are great for holding your phone and keys.
- The elastic waistband with a drawstring ensures a snug and comfortable fit.
- The 9-inch inseam offers maximum flexibility and freedom of movement.
- These shorts are incredibly versatile and suitable for many different sports and activities.
- The 3-pack offers excellent value for your money.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the black color is classic, a wider variety of color options in the 3-pack might appeal to more people.
These BOOJO shorts deliver on comfort and performance. They are a solid choice for anyone needing reliable athletic wear that also looks good for casual wear.
5. Under Armour Men’s UA Tech™ Graphic Shorts LG Black
Rating: 8.9/10
Looking for comfy shorts that can keep up with your active life? The Under Armour Men’s UA Tech™ Graphic Shorts in LG Black are designed for just that. They feel super soft and natural, like your favorite old shorts, but they’re built with special fabric to handle sweat and dry super fast. Whether you’re hitting the gym, playing sports, or just chilling, these shorts aim to keep you feeling good.
What We Like:
- The UA Tech™ fabric feels really soft and natural against your skin.
- These shorts are great at wicking away sweat and dry incredibly quickly, keeping you comfortable.
- An elastic waistband with a drawstring makes them easy to adjust for a perfect fit.
- Handy mesh pockets are there to hold your essentials.
- The black color with graphics looks stylish.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “graphic” design might not be everyone’s personal style.
- While soft, the fabric might not feel as premium as some higher-end athletic wear.
These Under Armour shorts are a solid option for anyone needing versatile and comfortable athletic wear. They deliver on performance and feel good while you wear them.
Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Men’s Gym Shorts
Finding the right gym shorts can make a big difference in your workout. Comfortable shorts help you move freely and focus on your exercises. This guide will help you pick the perfect pair.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for gym shorts, keep these important features in mind:
1. Fit and Length
- Fit: Shorts should fit comfortably without being too tight or too loose. You want enough room to squat, lunge, and stretch easily.
- Length: Gym shorts come in different lengths. Shorter shorts offer more freedom of movement, while longer ones can provide more coverage and support. Think about what feels best for you and the types of exercises you do.
2. Waistband
- A good waistband stays in place during your workout. Look for elastic waistbands with drawstrings. This lets you adjust the fit for maximum comfort.
3. Pockets
- Pockets are handy for carrying small items like keys or a phone. Some shorts have zippered pockets, which are great for keeping your belongings secure.
4. Breathability and Moisture-Wicking
- You want shorts that let your skin breathe. Good breathability helps keep you cool. Moisture-wicking fabrics pull sweat away from your body, keeping you dry and comfortable.
Important Materials
The material of your gym shorts plays a big role in how they feel and perform.
1. Polyester
- Polyester is a popular choice because it’s durable and dries quickly. It’s also good at wicking away moisture.
2. Spandex (Elastane/Lycra)
- Spandex adds stretch to shorts. This allows for a greater range of motion, which is essential for many exercises.
3. Cotton
- Cotton is soft and comfortable. However, it can absorb sweat and become heavy. Cotton is often blended with other materials to improve its performance.
4. Nylon
- Nylon is strong and lightweight. It’s also resistant to wear and tear, making it a good option for tough workouts.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make gym shorts better or worse.
What Makes Shorts Better?
- Quality Stitching: Strong, neat stitching means your shorts will last longer and won’t fall apart easily.
- Well-Made Waistband: A waistband that holds its shape and doesn’t roll down is a sign of good quality.
- Durable Fabric: Fabrics that resist pilling (forming little balls of fuzz) and fading will keep your shorts looking good.
- Good Ventilation: Mesh panels or breathable fabric help you stay cool.
What Can Reduce Quality?
- Cheap Stitching: Loose or weak stitching can lead to ripped seams.
- Poor Fabric: Fabrics that don’t breathe well or absorb too much sweat will make you uncomfortable.
- Shrinking or Stretching Out: Shorts that lose their shape after washing are not a good buy.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your shorts matters.
For Weightlifting
- You need shorts that allow for deep squats and lunges. A bit of stretch is helpful.
For Running
- Lightweight, moisture-wicking shorts are best. They should prevent chafing, which is when your skin gets irritated from rubbing.
For High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
- You need shorts that can handle quick movements and provide good airflow. Breathable fabrics are key.
For Everyday Wear
- Comfort is most important. Many people like casual, comfortable shorts for lounging or running errands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Men’s Gym Shorts
Q: What is the best material for gym shorts?
A: The best material often depends on your activity. Polyester and spandex blends are excellent for workouts because they are breathable, moisture-wicking, and stretchy. Cotton can be comfortable for casual wear but might not be ideal for intense exercise.
Q: How should gym shorts fit?
A: Gym shorts should fit comfortably. They shouldn’t be too tight, restricting your movement, or too loose, causing them to fall down. You should be able to move freely through all your exercises.
Q: Should I get shorts with pockets?
A: Pockets are a matter of preference. They are useful for carrying small items like keys or a phone. If you prefer a streamlined feel or your gym has lockers, you might not need pockets.
Q: What does “moisture-wicking” mean?
A: Moisture-wicking fabric pulls sweat away from your skin and moves it to the outside of the fabric where it can evaporate. This helps you stay dry and comfortable during workouts.
Q: How long should my gym shorts be?
A: The length is personal. Shorter shorts offer more freedom for activities like running or gymnastics. Longer shorts, often around knee-length, provide more coverage and can be good for weightlifting or general training.
Q: Can I wear cotton shorts to the gym?
A: You can, but cotton tends to absorb sweat and can become heavy and less breathable. For intense workouts, synthetic materials like polyester or nylon are usually a better choice.
Q: How do I choose the right waistband?
A: Look for a waistband that is wide and elastic. A drawstring is also helpful for adjusting the fit. The waistband should stay in place without digging into your skin.
Q: What’s the difference between polyester and nylon shorts?
A: Both are durable synthetic materials. Polyester is often more resistant to shrinking and stretching. Nylon is known for its strength and lightweight feel.
Q: How important is breathability in gym shorts?
A: Breathability is very important, especially for longer or more intense workouts. It allows air to circulate, helping to keep you cool and comfortable.
Q: Should I wash my gym shorts before the first use?
A: It’s generally a good idea to wash new gym shorts before wearing them. This can help remove any lingering chemicals from manufacturing and make them softer.
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.