It’s a lot easier to enjoy a summit sunrise if you’re not gasping for air and massaging cramps out of your quads. That said, working out in the gym is a good way to prepare for working out outside. And a great pair of gym shorts is key to getting the most fitness and fun out of your workouts in the gym.
We’ve put in countless hours testing shorts through some of the most grueling workouts to find the best gym shorts for men. We put these shorts (and our testers) through a wide range of activities, including weightlifting, powerlifting, running, gymnastics, and kettlebell workouts.
Heck, we even jumped rope to see how these shorts held up. We examined a range of factors, including fit and feel, elasticity, durability, and moisture management. Style was also a factor because, hey, if you like how you look, you’ll perform better.
We put each pair to the test, and after months of chalk, sweat, and blood (and maybe a tear or two), we’re ready to weigh in. When the dust settles, we can say with certainty that these are the best workout shorts on the market. The following list represents gym shorts in a range of categories.
Editor’s Note: For our February 5, 2026, update, we added our new Best Running Shorts, the ASRV Aerotex Hybrid Liner Short.
The Best Gym Shorts of 2026
Top Picks
R.A.D Superweave Training Short
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Durable material
- Excellent stretch
- Zippered pockets
- Reflective detailing
Cons
- No liner
- 7” inseam is the only option
- Color options are bland
R.A.D’s Superweave Training Short ($68) is a strong first entry into the fitness apparel market. The shorts are extremely durable, provide plenty of stretch, and are comfortable enough to forget that you’re wearing them. Plus, details like reflective detailing and zippered pockets are thoughtful touches.
The first thing we noticed when we put the shorts on was the texture. The material is slightly rougher than the Vuori Banks Short, but not so rough that it was uncomfortable. It made the shorts seem more durable right out the gate. And after three months of dragging a barbell up those shorts, climbing ropes, dropping to the floor for burpees, and performing hundreds of ab mat sit-ups, that material still looks brand new.
None of that would matter, however, if these shorts weren’t comfortable to move around in. Luckily, these shorts are not only durable, but they feel great. The polyester/elastane blend feels smooth against the skin despite being slightly rougher than other shorts.
The 4-way stretch also adds to the comfort of these shorts. Most of the gym shorts we’ve tested excel in vertical stretch (from the waistband to the hem). This is a basic necessity, since squats, lunges, and running all require mobility in that area. Many shorts, however, lack horizontal (side-to-side) stretch, which can restrict movement in sumo movements, side lunges, and other lateral movements. That’s not the case, as these shorts stretched enough to accommodate sumo deadlifts, wide-legged squats, and cossack squats.
There are other shorts that have more style or might be suited toward a specific sport, but when it comes to hitting the gym hard, the Superweave Training Short is the best we’ve tried.
Champion Mesh 9’’ Short
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Classic
- Functional
- Affordable
Cons
- Less technical than other shorts
So you wanna be a baller? A shot caller? And you want to do it on a budget? Then check out the Champion Mesh Shorts ($15). These are the OG athletic shorts — old-school cool, if you will. They offer a classic style, and at $15, they also offer tremendous value.
Chances are if you played any kind of team sport growing up, you’ve probably owned a pair of Champions’ mesh shorts. While these aren’t the lightest or most technical shorts on the list, Champion hits the mark with ample airflow, a full athletic fit, and two front pockets.
At 9 inches, the inseam is definitely on the longer side, but these shorts still fall just above the knee and allow for totally unencumbered movement in any plane. The waistband is comfortable and functional with a simple drawcord to keep them where you want them. Everything you need, nothing you don’t.
If you’re not looking to break the bank on a pair of gym shorts, and you just need something practical and functional to hit the court and then the weight room, look no further than the Champion mesh shorts.
ASRV Aerotex Hybrid Liner Short
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extremely lightweight
- Water resistant
- Anti-odor materials
- Bounce-free pockets
- Excellent stretch
Cons
- Pricey
Simply put, the ASRV Aerotex Hybrid Liner Short ($128) is the running short that I’ve always wanted. Made of nylon, elastane, polyester, and spandex, these shorts offer both unencumbered movement and excellent sweat-wicking. The waistband is comfortable and has a drawstring to keep things in place while you’re putting in the miles. That said, the support and extremely comfortable fit make them a killer in the weight room as well.
The shorts are integrated into the liner not only at the waist, but also at a point in the hem, making them feel more like a hybrid (hence the name) than a pair of shorts with a liner in it. The liner is comfortable and wicks sweat well, and it’s treated with Polygiene Antibacterial tech, which helps prevent odors from building up. Also, it’s worth noting that these are the first pair of liners that didn’t slide down my leg (I’m 5’8″) and kind of flat around my knees. The result is a lined short that is extremely comfortable mile after mile and rep after rep.
Also, the shorts come with two bounce-free hip pockets, which allow me to take my phone on runs without worrying that they’d drag my shorts down after a couple of hundred yards. Pair those with a zippered back pocket for keys and some cash, and you’re good to go.
If you can swing the cost of admission, the Aerotex Hybrid Liner shorts are the shorts we’d choose to run and hike in 10 times out of 10. They’re more than happy to pull double duty in the weight room, too, where the 4-way stretch and flat seams really shine by offering comfortable, full-range movement for all of your lifts.
Roark Bommer Short
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Comfortable
- Stylish
- Excellent phone pocket
- Well made
Cons
- Runs small
- Short inseam
Super comfortable and quite stylish, the Roark Bommer Short ($89) nails it. The camo colorway scores big points in our book and offers a couple of well-thought-out features that really round out the package.
The magnetic phone/key pocket on the compression liner is an excellent touch and keeps essentials secure (no one likes things bouncing in their pockets when they’re running). One liner-averse tester found these to be the only liners he didn’t want to immediately cut out.
The 4-way stretch offers excellent mobility and unrestricted movement out on the trail. Additionally, the Bommer shorts are very well ventilated, which has been crucial as the temps have started climbing. The 3” inseam makes us think these will likely be reserved for summer trail runs, and don’t think we’ll be lifting in these shorts anytime soon. Somehow, Roark made the Bommer feel super lightweight without feeling like they’re going to wear out.
One caveat here, though: If you’re a fellow MOG (man of girth), or your friends jokingly refer to you as “Quadzilla,” you might want to consider sizing up. The large size fits well at the waist but the compression short liner is *tight* after this year’s ski season. But, to their credit, the liner didn’t ride up or pinch even a little, which is saying something. Well done, Roark.
Vuori Banks Short
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Stylish
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Excellent moisture control
Cons
- No interior liner
Some of our favorite workout shorts are the ones that don’t look like workout shorts at all. The Banks Shorts ($68) from Encinitas-based apparel company Vuori perform like top-tier workout apparel but look like a comfy pair you’d wear to grab coffee with a friend.
This is due in part to the recycled polyester exterior, which gives the shorts a fabric-like look and texture instead of the smooth shininess often found in many workout shorts. The scalloped leg openings and contrasting waistband add to the eye-pleasing aesthetic.
In the gym, the Banks just gets better. The elastane provides ample stretch, allowing wearers a completely unrestricted range of motion. During power cleans, the shorts held up to repeated impact and bar friction with no pilling or abrasion.
We soaked them through with sweat during row intervals, but they recovered faster than we did. After 10 minutes, our tester was still sitting on a bench with his head in his hands, but the shorts were bone dry.
Best of the Rest
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Stylish
- Practical
Cons
- Unlined
The Chubbies Swim Gym Short ($59) is on this list for a few simple reasons: they look good, they fit well, and they perform great in the gym. If you’re the kind of person who finds yourself stopping by the river after you’ve been at the gym or running errands around town before you hit the weight room, look no further than the Swim Gym.
These shorts feature two front pockets with ample room and a rear zippered pocket to keep your keys and small items stowed safely. Featuring four-way stretch fabric and a comfortable elastic waistband, these unlined shorts will have you feeling as good as you look.
We think unlined shorts are just the ticket on super hot days, but if you prefer a little more support in your day-to-day, be sure to check out Chubbies’ underwear offerings.
Additionally, you’ll have your choice of 5.5-inch or 7-inch inseams depending on your own personal proclivities, though we’d like to take this opportunity to remind you of one of our favorite sayings: “Sky’s out, thighs out.”
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Super comfortable
Cons
- Expensive
The Vuori Ponto Shorts ($78) are very comfortable, and with their four-way stretch and moisture-wicking recycled material, they’re equally at home lounging at the coffee shop or smashing a WOD at your local CrossFit Box.
The Ponto is a four-pocket short, featuring two front hand pockets, a zippered rear pocket, and a fourth zippered key pocket inside the front right pocket. The fit and finish of these shorts truly are a cut above the rest. The waistband and drawstring are part of what make these shorts so comfortable and keep them riding on your waist without pinching or exerting undo pressure.
These shorts are unlined which is normally a huge plus in our book, but because of the way the material canvases your features, we’d recommend “layering up” if you catch our drift.
At $78, the Ponto is double the price of many shorts on this list, and while they certainly sport a premium fit, finish, and feel, it’s hard not to wonder if the price is worth it, especially with shorts like the Swim Gym on the list.
But hey, if you’ve got the budget and you want to look good and feel even better, take a look at the Ponto Short.
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Comfortable
- Stylish
- Excellent liner
- Super versatile
Cons
- Potential durability issues
We are big fans of the Vuori products here at GJ — The Banks Short has long held the top spot on this list, and more recently we reviewed the uber-comfortable Ponto Short. For this round of reviews, we took the opportunity to review the Kore Short ($68). It offers the same excellent fit that we’ve come to expect from Vuori while scoring points for being stylish, comfortable, and utilitarian.
Out of the packaging, these shorts look and feel great. The polyester and elastane mix is lightweight and breathable without feeling too thin or cheap. The Kore short does feature a liner – something we were skeptical about initially, but after trying them on that skepticism faded quickly. These liners are less about compression and more about comfort and don’t ride up or bunch. The waistband on the Kore Short is also very comfortable and sits at the hips without riding up or requiring frequent readjustment. A simple drawstring assures they stay snug right where you want them.
One aspect in particular that we like is how the Kore short sports premium features without feeling like an overly fancy or gym-specific pair of shorts. These things are super comfortable and easily dress up or down depending on your preferences. Our tester frequently wore the Kore shorts outside of the gym, running errands, doing chores around the house, to yoga, and even for a handful of impromptu naps. The Kore shorts stayed fresh thanks to their anti-odor feature and their 4-way stretch allowed for unencumbered movement regardless of what he was doing.
While their versatility may be unmatched, we did run into one potential issue with the Kore Short. After just a few short weeks, our tester noticed that the stitching on the bottom and side seams had started to become frayed and begin piling. So far this hasn’t become an issue, but it is enough to raise some questions about the durability of these shorts – time will tell. It’s certainly not a deal-breaker, but at $68 we’d hope to get at least a couple of seasons’ use out of a pair of shorts. Regardless, the Kore shorts remain an excellent, comfortable, stylish, and practical option for folks in the market for one short to do everything.
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Comfortable
- Excellent liner
- Anti-Microbial
- Good sweat-wicking
Cons
- Liner does bunch and twist
- Phone sleeve is on the small side
We are generally impressed with the Interval Short from Ten Thousand ($68). These shorts sport many well-thought-out features including a variety of pockets for your wallet, phone, and keys, an optional anti-microbial liner, a no-bunch waistband, and your choice of three different inseam lengths (5, 7, or 9 inches).
We received the lined 7-inch inseam short in Adobe for our test. Out of the box, the shorts fit well, although it’s worth noting that our tester ordered a size up from the website’s recommendation. Typically, we aren’t big fans of lined shorts, but the Interval short does things a little differently with its integrated anti-microbial liner. The liner is slightly thinner and much less constricting than a traditional compression short liner, and it’s miles better than any mesh liner we’ve ever encountered.
Despite the liner being a little more heavy-duty than average, these shorts breathe very well and offer excellent sweat-wicking with little to no musty gym smell at the end of the day. The 4-way stretch provides unencumbered movement whether you are running, jumping, or lifting, and our tester found the Interval shorts to be a particularly comfortable choice for trips to the climbing gym.
We do have a couple of complaints about the interval shorts, however. The crotch in the liner hangs quite low and our tester found himself needing to frequently adjust his shorts during testing. It’s an interesting problem because typically we associate compression liners with riding up, but instead, we found the Interval’s liner would fall down and needed to be hiked up for comfort.
Additionally, the waistband did bunch up a little despite claims to the opposite. The material is quite comfortable and once flattened out, it’s not a huge problem, but since Ten Thousand lists the “no pinch, no bunch” waistband at the top of its features we thought we should weigh in.
Minor gripes aside, there’s a lot to like about the interval shorts. The main pockets are appropriately roomy, there’s a key sleeve in the band and a zippered double pocket for your valuables on the right side. These shorts dress up fairly well and are great for working the gym floor or a quick lunch or coffee trip before or after your gym session, and with the anti-microbial liner, you don’t have to worry about being funky in public (or at least it won’t be because of your shorts). Those of you looking for a pair of good-looking, well-made, and comfortable gym shorts will be well served by the Ten Thousand Interval Short.
Gym Shorts Comparison Chart
| Gym Short | Price | Notable Feature | Material | Inseam | Liner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| R.A.D Superweave Training Short | $68 | Durability | Polyester, elastane | 7″ | No |
| Vuori Banks Short | $68 | Stretch | Polyester, elastane | 7.5″ | No |
| Champion Mesh 9’’ Short | $15 | Low Price | Polyester | 9″ | No |
| ASRV Aerotex Hybrid Liner Short | $148 | Support | Nylon, elastane, polyester, spandex | 5″ | Yes |
| Roark Bommer Short | $89 | Stretch | 90% Polyester/ 10% spandex | 3.5″ | Yes, compression |
| Chubbies Swim Gym Short | $59 | Style | Polyester, spandex | 5.5″, 7″ | No |
| Vuori Ponto Short | $78 | Comfort | Polyester, Elastane | 7″ | No |
| Vuori Kore Short | $68 | Comfort | 42% recycled Polyester/ 42% Polyester / 10% Elastane | 5″, 7.5″ | Yes, Boxer Brief Liner |
| Ten Thousand Interval Shorts | $68 | Pockets | Polyester, spandex | 5”, 7″, 9” | Optional |
How We Test the Best Gym Shorts
Here at GearJunkie, our team of experts is literally obsessed with finding the best gear. We spend an embarrassing amount of time combing through the internet to find the best of the best before sending those items to our expert reviewers for careful evaluation and testing. Plenty of cheap, ill-fitting models don’t make the cut for testing, and while the best of the best aren’t cheap, we ensure our budget picks aren’t duds either. Every pair of shorts in this selection is here because we’d recommend them to a friend, and any caveats are highlighted and explained so your choice is easier.
Our Expert Testers
GearJunkie Affiliate Managing Editor Billy Brown kicked off this gear guide in 2021, bringing a wealth of experience from his background in CrossFit and trail running. Since then, he’s continued to test gym shorts via CrossFit, powerlifting, running, and weightlifting workouts, searching out the most comfortable, durable, and best-looking (hey, it’s important) shorts he can find.
Tester and reviewer Paul Mandell is a strength and conditioning coach based in Bishop, California. Paul is no stranger to a good pair of gym shorts, especially considering that he wears them every day for work. Since he began contributing to this guide in the summer of 2022, he’s put 10 pairs to the test. He’s also contributed to our guides on Crossfit Shoes and Bike Computers.
Our Testing Process
We look for the same things you look for in a product — value, performance, fit, and finish. Our comprehensive evaluation translates to more time in the gym or on the trail for you and less time pulling your hair out over which product to buy. We strive to create thorough, comprehensive, and helpful reviews to help you find the best gear for your individual needs.
We put each pair of shorts through a varied routine of cardio work to see how they manage moisture and perform during running activities. We test mobility through our daily stretching routines and all the basic lifts. Durability is assessed after several months’ worth of box jumps, split squats, and other exercises that test the limits of stretch and stitching.
We look for the same things you look for in a product — value, performance, fit, and finish. Our comprehensive evaluation translates to more time in the gym or on the trail for you, and less time worrying about which product to buy. We strive to create thorough, comprehensive, and helpful reviews to help you find the best gear for your individual needs.
Our Gym Short Rating System
Each gym short in this guide was tested and scored in four main categories: Versatility, Stretch, Durability, and Value.
Value considers how well a kettlebell performs for its price, factoring in comfort, durability, weight range, and price. A budget-friendly option can score high here if it delivers strong performance for the cost.
Versatility evaluates how many different types of workouts we could do in a pair of shorts. We did as many different types of workouts as we could think of, from CrossFit and powerlifting to running and swimming, to determine which shorts would perform in the most activities.
Stretch considers how much mobility a short allows. We tested each short over a wide range of movements to determine whether it would restrict our movements or threaten to tear.
Durability looks at build quality and reliability over time. We inspected our shorts for any fraying, barbell abrasion, tears, and other signs of degradation over time.
Value considers how well a gym short performs for its price, factoring in comfort, durability, stretch, and other factors. A budget-friendly option can score high here if it delivers strong performance for the cost.
The overall score is not a simple average of these categories. Instead, it reflects our editorial judgment based on the complete user experience. That means a less durable short that’s extremely comfortable can still score high, while a short with a lower mobility range might rank higher for its durability.
Gym Short Buyer’s Guide
What Kind of Shorts Do You Need?
The first thing to consider when you’re buying a pair of gym shorts is how you plan to use them. If you tend to favor one kind of workout over others, the pair of shorts you’ll want may be different.
For instance, running shorts tend to be lightweight and shorter. Runners don’t want excess weight and material, and longer hems can cause irritation and chafe over time. If you run often, opt for a pair of shorts that also wicks away sweat and dries quickly.
While quick drying is a great feature, it’s not as necessary in weightlifting shorts. The added weight isn’t as much of an issue, and there’s less risk of chafing. With gym shorts, your priority should be on flexibility and, for heavy lifters, durability.
In a gym setting, you’re going to be going through a wide range of motions, so a pair of shorts with a lot of stretch is very handy. Lunges, jumps, sprints, and lateral movements all require a wide range of motion.
The same goes for yoga and other mobility workouts. And heaven forbid you split your pants doing a squat. We can tell you from experience — it’s not fun.
If your training entails Olympic lifts like the clean and jerk or deadlifts, durability is key. With these movements, the bar frequently comes into contact with your shorts.
Most bars have diamond patterns on the gripping areas called knurling. These abrasive sections are there to help you grip the bar, but they can also wreak havoc on shorts. Climbing ropes can also put a lot of strain on shorts as well, especially if you tend to slide down from the top.
Think about how you plan to use your shorts and choose an appropriate pair.
Material
Most shorts are made of a synthetic material like polyester or nylon mixed with a stretchy material like elastane or spandex. The synthetic material is great for wicking away sweat, while the elastic material provides stretch. If you want the feel of something more natural, we’ve included a great poly-cotton blend short in the list above.
How the material is cut and sewn is as important as the material itself. Mesh vents are useful for allowing excess heat to escape, and scalloped hems give you even more freedom to move. Flat seams prevent chafing. Think carefully about what you’ll be using your shorts for, and choose accordingly.
Fit
When it comes to gym shorts, fit goes in the realm of personal preference. Most gymgoers tend to choose a slimmer fit, as slim shorts are less likely to snag on equipment. A sleeker short also tends to be more supportive, particularly if it has a good liner.
Baggier shorts are popular for the freedom of movement they provide. However, with the stretch that most shorts offer, that isn’t as much of an issue. If you make sure that your shorts have plenty of stretch and they fit your waist, you should be comfortable.
Fit definitely also ventures into the realm of style, so think about what you want folks to see you wearing.
Style
Speaking of style, do you know about the three S’s? Essential for having a great gym session, the three S’s are Style, Safety, and Style. In that order.
Maybe you don’t care as much about your running shorts as you do about looking good in your gym shorts. Maybe you want people to know what true power looks like (hint: it’s your glutes), or maybe you just want clean shorts that are equally at home in the gym and at the coffee shop. Either way, be sure you’re going to look and feel good in whatever you choose.
Length
The most common inseam lengths for workout shorts are 5, 7, and 9 inches. Runners often go for a higher hem to minimize material, so they tend to go for the 5-inch inseam.
If you lift a lot, the 9-inch inseam provides more coverage and protection from the barbell. The 7-inch inseam is a good blend of the two. So, if you do a bit of everything, that’s a solid choice.
One big exception to the rule is lifters who focus primarily on deadlifts. Clothing adds friction, so if you are near the higher end of your strength level, longer shorts may hinder you. Many lifters wear shorter hemmed shorts or roll their shorts up before a heavy deadlift. However, at a certain point, deadlifting or doing any Olympic work in shorts is just asking for bloody shins. Consider yourself warned.
Pockets
You generally don’t lift weights with stuff in your pockets, but a rear pocket and two front pockets are ideal for any time you wear your shorts outside the gym. Runners generally carry a few necessities with them, like keys, some cash or cards, and energy gels, so zippered pockets are almost certainly mandatory.
Make sure that at least one pocket zips shut to prevent anything from falling out. If you’re the kind of person who changes at the gym, pockets probably aren’t a high priority for you. Take a minute to think about what you need from your shorts and choose accordingly.
Price & Value
There are excellent shorts to be found at any price range, but if you go with a budget option, you may be missing out on some durability and features that you’d prefer. Conversely, if you overspend, you can find yourself wearing shorts with a stack of features you won’t be using. Here’s a guide to what you will (and won’t) get across the pricing spectrum.
Budget
For around $30 and under, you’re looking at the no-frills category. You’ll rarely find liners, zippered pockets, or ultra-durable materials here. What you will find are shorts that will cover your bits while allowing you the mobility to get you through workouts that require a wide range of motion. Our budget pick, the Champion Mesh 9’’ Short ($15), is a great example of this category — no frills, all business.
Mid-Tier
If you’re willing to spend between $40 and $70, you’ll open up your options to more durable materials, stylish cuts, and things like liners and pockets. The Vuori Banks Short ($68) offers excellent stretch, long-term durability, and a wide range of colors and prints to choose from. We wear these to the gym more often than not.
Premium
You can expect to spend close to $100 for a premium pair of gym shorts, which can be an eye-raising amount for the average gym rat. But what do you get for that kind of dough? Super lightweight yet durable materials like those you’ll find in the Roark Bommer Short ($89) or eye-rolling comfort like you’ll find in the buttery soft Vuori Ponto Short ($79), which is oddly also one of the most durable shorts on this list.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best gym shorts are the ones that you don’t realize you’re wearing. These shorts stay out of your way and let you forget about them while you train.
The main thing to look for in a good pair of shorts is plenty of stretch so they don’t limit your movement. Ideally, your shorts will also be made of a sweat-wicking material that pulls sweat away from you and dries quickly. This prevents the shorts from absorbing sweat and weighing you down while you work out.
After those necessities, look for additional perks that will make them more comfortable. Shorts with flat (or no) seams minimize irritation spots, and zippered pockets keep your keys, cash, and cards safe on runs. Also, drawstrings keep your shorts from falling off when you’re doing burpees.
For linerless athletic shorts, we recommend wearing a pair of briefs or boxer briefs over loose boxers or going commando. There are two main reasons for this. One, you are going to appreciate the extra support on runs or double-unders. Keeping the bouncing to a minimum is key to a comfortable workout.
Two, nobody wants to see your bits. Wearing snug and comfortable underwear under your workout shorts will prevent any accidental flashing while you work out.
If your training shorts have a good liner, you can forgo any extra underwear. The liner will provide the support and modesty that a pair of briefs will.
In general, synthetic material is best for sport shorts. Materials like polyester tend to be lighter, wick sweat away from your body, and tend to dry more quickly.
A good pair of shorts will also have an amount of elastic material as well. This gives the shorts some stretch, which allows you a full range of motion during your workouts.
If you prefer natural fibers, there are also wool and cotton shorts on the market. If you go this route, make sure the material is blended with an elastic-like elastane. This will give those shorts the stretch that you’ll need for your workout.
