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Specs are compiled from manufacturer listings and verified buyer reviews and can change over time — please confirm the key details on the product page before buying.
You want exercise shorts that still feel great after a month of weekly washes, not ones that ride up, soak through with sweat, or split at the seams. The fabrics, fits, and pocket designs vary wildly across the market, so the wrong pick wastes your money. This guide focuses on the shorts that actually hold up for runners, lifters, and weekend athletes alike.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind WellFizz. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
For anyone trying to upgrade their workout wardrobe without guesswork, these are the best exercise shorts for men that balance durability, comfort, and real-world performance across every major training style.
Our Picks at a Glance
How To Choose The Best Exercise Shorts For Men
Before you pick a pair, think about what you will actually do in them. A short that is perfect for lifting in a gym might feel awful on a long run, and a running short might leave you feeling exposed during a squat. Match the short to your main activity first, then look at the details.
Start with the inseam length
The inseam is the measurement from the crotch seam down to the hem, and it decides where the short lands on your leg. A 7-inch inseam typically sits right above the knee, which most guys find the most balanced for training. A 9-inch inseam lands closer to the knee and gives more coverage, which is why it is popular for basketball and anyone who prefers a looser fit. Shorter inseams like 5-inch feel freer for running but can feel too brief for gym wear.
Check the pocket design before you commit
Deep side pockets are the difference between carrying your phone comfortably and constantly feeling like it might slip out during a set. Some shorts add a zippered pocket for security, which is a genuine upgrade if you run or train outdoors. Look for pockets that sit flat against the leg so they do not bunch up awkwardly when empty.
Match fabric weight to your sweat level
Thin, breathable mesh fabric dries fast and feels great in summer heat, but it can be see-through in lighter colors. A slightly heavier polyester knit feels more durable and less flimsy, though it may not cool you down as quickly. If you plan to wear the shorts for everything from workouts to lounging, a mid-weight quick-dry fabric usually hits the balance between breathability and coverage.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Inseam | Pockets | Pack Size | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BALENNZ 7 Pack★ Best Overall | Daily wear and gym rotation | — | Deep side pockets | 7 pairs | Amazon |
| adidas Legends 3-StripesCourt Classic | Basketball and casual wear | Knee length | Deep pockets | Single | Amazon |
| Under Armour 7″ Tech VentTraining Staple | Weight training and cardio | 7 inches | — | Single | Amazon |
| CRZ YOGA 9″ Linerless | Pickleball and cross-training | 9 inches | Deep pockets + zippered | Single | Amazon |
| TVKSOM 7 Pack | Budget multi-pack rotation | Long | Deep pockets | 7 pairs | Amazon |
| Under Armour Launch Stretch Woven 7″ | Running and HIIT | 7 inches | Phone pouch | Single | Amazon |
| OYGSieg 6 Pack Mesh | Hot-weather workouts | Above knee | Deep pockets | 6 pairs | Amazon |
| Nike Pro Compression | Base layer and support | — | — | Single | Amazon |
| Nike Dri-FIT Flex Woven 7″ | High-intensity training | 7 inches | Functional pockets | Single | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. BALENNZ 7 Pack Mens Basketball Shorts
Our pick — over 4.5★ from 750+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
Seven pairs of gym-ready shorts that cost less than two pairs of brand-name gear and last into a second year of wear.
The biggest win here is the value math: you get a full week of rotation at once, and buyers report the quality holds up well past the first season. One owner sums it up plainly: “I’m going on the second year of wearing them.” The fabric is lightweight and silky-smooth to the touch, and the deep side pockets swallow a phone, keys, and wallet without bulging.
The thing everyone raves about is the build quality — it is the most-praised aspect by far, ahead of value and fit. The colors stay vibrant through numerous washes, and the drawstrings are a good length for adjusting the elastic waistband. Fit runs fairly true, though a few owners mention the waistband runs snug if you carry extra weight around the middle.
The trade-off is the material: some owners describe it as very thin, which is great for breathability in summer but not ideal if you want a heavier, more substantial-feeling short. For anyone building a daily gym rotation without spending a fortune, this pack is the one to beat.
What Wins People Over
- Quality is the standout — buyers consistently praise the construction
- Seven pairs means a full week of wear without laundry
- Colors hold up well and do not fade after repeated washes
Who Should Look Elsewhere
- Material is thin — not the choice if you want a heavier, sturdier fabric
- Waistband runs snug for some, so check sizing carefully
Reach for these if: you want a cost-effective weekly gym rotation with reliable quality.
Think twice if: you prefer a thick, substantial fabric over a lightweight one.
2. adidas Men’s Basketball Legends 3-Stripes Shorts
The durable polyester knit and moisture-managing AEROREADY fabric keep you dry through a full game of basketball.
These adidas shorts lead with a true-to-size relaxed fit that does not roll up or creep during movement, which is the exact complaint many guys have with cheaper gym shorts. The knee-length cut is a deliberate choice — fans of longer, fuller shorts will love it, while anyone wanting a shorter cut should look at the Under Armour 7″ option instead.
The fit is the most-discussed feature, and it is overwhelmingly positive. Customers note the material is not thin, the pockets have good depth for a phone and keys, and the quality stays strong with repeated weekly use — as one regular puts it: “I have been using this shorts multiple times a week and the quality has not gone down.” The classic 3-Stripes styling works on the court and for casual wear.
The one thing to know: these are the longer, bulkier style, not a slim modern cut. That is a feature for some and a drawback for others, so it depends on personal preference.
Why they stand out: A brand-name short with a fit that buyers consistently call true-to-size and a fabric that resists shrinking, fading, and loose stitching after washes.
Pick these for: basketball, lounging, or everyday wear where you want a reliable, longer-cut short.
Skip them if: you want a short, modern cut that sits well above the knee.
3. Under Armour 7″ Tech Vent Shorts
A 7-inch inseam that lands right above the knee, making it the balanced choice for both weight training and cardio.
This is the short that does everything well without fuss. The 7-inch inseam is a deliberate balance — long enough for coverage, short enough for freedom of movement, and it sits above the knee exactly as buyers expect. The quality is the top-praised aspect, and owners note the waistband keeps good elasticity wash after wash.
Durability is the headline here. As one buyer who has worn them weekly for a year puts it: “they still look like new.” The fabric dries fast, resists wrinkles and fading, and holds up to both weight training sessions and cardio. The fit is true to size, and the material has enough stretch to stay comfortable without feeling baggy or clingy.
The honest note: these are unlined and lightweight, so they are not the most substantial short in this list. But for a versatile, no-nonsense training short that keeps performing, this is a strong, well-rounded pick.
What Holds Up
- Quality and fit are the two most-praised features
- Quick-dry fabric works for weight training and cardio
- Stretchy waistband keeps its elasticity over time
Keep In Mind
- Unlined and lightweight, so not the heaviest fabric
- True-to-size means no room to size down for a tighter fit
Best for: gym-goers who want one reliable short for both lifting and cardio.
Not for: guys who want a longer, baggier basketball-style cut.
4. CRZ YOGA Linerless Workout Shorts 9″
The 9-inch linerless short that pickleball players, MMA fans, and gym regulars all keep coming back to.
What sets this short apart is the storage setup. You get two deep side pockets plus a zippered pocket on the right front, which buyers use to secure a phone during runs and pickleball matches. The wide elastic waistband with an interior drawstring gives a custom fit, and the loose cut through the legs keeps mobility unrestricted.
The quality and comfort are the two most-praised aspects, with buyers noting how the fabric stays breathable and durable through tough use — one owner’s boyfriend wears them for MMA rolling and reports they never ride up. The styling draws constant comparison to a certain premium brand’s look, which is a compliment buyers repeat often.
The honest trade-off: the fabric feels a bit more rigid and budget-level compared to true premium athletic wear. It is comfortable and functional, but if you are expecting buttery-soft high-end fabric, you might notice the difference.
Standout feature: The zippered pocket adds genuine security that most gym shorts lack.
Fair warning: The deep non-zippered pockets can let small items slide out during vigorous movement.
Grab these for: pickleball, running, or any activity where secure phone storage matters.
Reconsider if: you expect premium, ultra-soft fabric at a budget price.
5. TVKSOM 7 Pack Mens Athletic Shorts
A seven-pack with a strong elastic waistband and deep pockets that holds up for months of steady wear.
Fit is the most-praised feature here, with buyers consistently noting the shorts are true to size and sit comfortably at the waist. The fabric is lightweight and silky, dries quickly, and does not cling, which makes these a go-to for hot summer workouts and lounging around the house. The strong waistband keeps them from sliding down during activity.
Value is the other big draw. Getting seven pairs for the price of a single premium short is a genuine steal, and reviewers point out they hold up well after several months of use. The internal drawcord and elastic waistband combo gives you a secure, adjustable fit, and the loose design keeps things comfortable during training.
The recurring note is that the fabric is thin — several owners describe it as not thick at all, which is fine for breathability but worth knowing if you want more coverage. These also run a touch long, so sizing up is a common recommendation.
The Upside
- Fit and quality are the two most-praised aspects
- Seven pairs make this unbeatable value for a full rotation
- Silky, quick-drying fabric works for gym and lounging
The Trade-Off
- Fabric is thin — not ideal if you want substantial coverage
- Runs long, so sizing up is recommended
Choose this if: you want maximum pairs per dollar with a reliable, comfortable fit.
Pass if: you need thick, opaque fabric for outdoor activity.
6. Under Armour Launch Stretch Woven 7″ Shorts
The 7-inch running short with a built-in compression liner that stays put through miles and HIIT sessions.
This is a runner’s short first. The built-in compression liner provides support and coverage, and shoppers say it stays in place without riding up — no chafing, no constant adjusting. The ultra-light stretch-woven fabric moves in every direction, and the mesh side panels add ventilation where you need it most.
Quality is the most-praised aspect, with buyers noting the material is durable yet lightweight and wicks sweat quickly. One pickleball player reports the shorts are working great after six months of regular play, and hikers have put the liner through roughly a thousand miles of trail use. The 7-inch length keeps things streamlined.
The catch is the sizing and the phone pocket. These run small, so sizing up is a common recommendation, and the phone “pouch” pocket barely fits a modern large phone — a genuine frustration for buyers with bigger devices. If you carry your phone on runs, check that first.
Why runners love it: The liner holds everything in place so you can focus on the miles, not your shorts.
Know this: The phone pocket is tight for large phones, and the fit runs small.
Best for: runners and HIIT athletes who want a liner and no ride-up.
Not for: anyone carrying a large phone or wanting a roomy, loose fit.
7. OYGSieg 6 Pack Men’s Mesh Athletic Basketball Shorts
A six-pack of mesh shorts designed to keep you cooler than standard polyester in serious summer heat.
These shorts are all about airflow. The breathable mesh fabric is noticeably cooler than regular polyester, especially when there is any breeze, which makes them a solid choice for hot-weather workouts and lounging. The deep pockets hold a phone or keys securely, and the elastic waistband with an inside drawstring fits true to the printed size chart.
Buyers consistently praise the value and comfortable fit, and the quality holds up well — no shrinking or loose threads after washing. The size chart is accurate even for bigger guys, which is refreshing in this category. The length lands just above the knee, which most buyers consider ideal.
The honest downside: the material is very thin. Several owners note the shorts are see-through in certain lighting, so these are best for around the house or indoor workouts rather than outdoor wear. If you need opaque shorts for public activity, go with a heavier brand.
What Stands Out
- Mesh fabric runs noticeably cooler than standard polyester
- Accurate size chart works even for larger builds
- Deep pockets carry phone and keys securely
What To Know
- Very thin fabric can be see-through outside
- Length runs slightly short for some buyers
Reach for these if: you sweat heavily and want maximum breathability in hot weather.
Look elsewhere if: you need opaque fabric for outdoor or public workouts.
8. Nike Mens Pro Training Compression Shorts
The compression base layer that keeps everything locked in place during runs, lifts, and team sports.
These Nike Pro shorts serve a different purpose than the other picks: they are a base layer designed to be worn under looser shorts or on their own for activities where support matters most. The lightweight fabric hugs the body and stays put during runs, and buyers report the stretchy design moves at full intensity without restriction.
The fit is the most-praised aspect, with buyers noting the compression feel is comfortable rather than restrictive. The fabric is made with at least 75% recycled polyester fibers, which is a real environmental plus. For a teenage son or a serious athlete, these hold up well as a training staple.
The honest caveats: compression level and durability get mixed feedback. Some buyers find them perfectly durable, while others report seams coming apart, and a few note the fabric can look see-through when stretched. Sizing also runs snug — if you are between sizes, go up.
Best use: As a supportive base layer under basketball shorts or for activities like running and lifting.
Be aware: Compression level varies by body type, and sizing runs snug for some.
Choose these for: sports and training where you want everything held firmly in place.
Skip if: you prefer loose, unlined gym shorts over a compression fit.
9. Nike Mens Shorts Dri-Fit Flex Woven 7inch
The Dri-FIT flex short built for deep bends, with vents at the hems for lunges and squats.
These Nike shorts are engineered specifically for high-intensity training where you need unrestricted movement. The Nike Flex fabric stretches with every motion, and the vents at the hems open up for deep bends like lunges and squats. The Dri-FIT technology moves sweat away from the skin for faster evaporation, keeping you dry through tough sessions.
Buyers praise the lightweight feel and the strong waistband that keeps the shorts in place during tennis and gym work. The functional pockets hold a phone and keys, and the fabric looks great while staying breathable. The standard fit gives a relaxed feel without being baggy.
The honest note: these run small. Multiple owners mention needing to size up at least one size — one XL buyer says they need a 2X or 3X. There is also a reported inconsistency where the green colorway arrived without pockets despite the listing showing them, so check your specific order carefully.
What Works
- Flex fabric and hem vents are ideal for squats and lunges
- Dri-FIT keeps you dry during high-intensity sweat sessions
- Lightweight with a strong waistband
What To Watch
- Runs small — order at least one size up from normal
- Pocket inconsistency reported on certain colorways
Best for: athletes doing squats, lunges, and high-intensity training who want full range of motion.
Consider carefully if: you are between sizes — sizing up is essential here.
Understanding the Specs
Inseam Length
The inseam is the distance from the crotch seam to the hem, and it is the single biggest factor in how a short looks and feels. A 7-inch inseam typically lands right above the knee, giving you a balanced look for most workouts. A 9-inch inseam reaches closer to the knee and offers more coverage, which is why basketball players and guys who prefer a looser fit gravitate toward it. Shorter inseams feel freer for running but leave less to the imagination during stretches.
Moisture Wicking and Quick Dry
Moisture-wicking fabric pulls sweat away from your skin so it can evaporate faster, keeping you drier during a workout. Quick-dry means the fabric releases that moisture quickly after the session, so you are not sitting in a soaked pair of shorts on the drive home. These two features work together, and they matter most for cardio-heavy activities like running, HIIT, and summer outdoor training where sweat buildup is unavoidable.
Pocket Depth and Placement
Deep side pockets are the difference between carrying your phone comfortably and feeling it slip out every time you move. A zippered pocket adds security for keys or cards during runs, which is a genuine upgrade if you train outdoors. Look for pockets that sit flat against the leg so they do not bunch up awkwardly when empty — this is a detail that separates well-designed shorts from cheap ones.
Fabric Weight and Breathability
Thin mesh fabric breathes well and dries fast, but it can be see-through in lighter colors or in direct sunlight. A heavier polyester knit feels more durable and provides better coverage, but it may not cool you down as quickly. If you plan to wear the shorts for both workouts and lounging, a mid-weight quick-dry fabric usually offers the best balance between airflow and opacity.
FAQ
What is the best inseam length for exercise shorts?
Are compression shorts better than loose gym shorts for working out?
How do I know if gym shorts will be see-through?
Should I size up when buying athletic shorts online?
How many pairs of gym shorts do I need for a weekly rotation?
What is the difference between moisture-wicking and quick-dry fabric?
Are multi-pack shorts the same quality as single-brand pairs?
What are deep pockets actually useful for in gym shorts?
Why do some running shorts have a built-in liner?
How do I care for quick-dry athletic shorts so they last?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For the majority of shoppers, the exercise shorts for men winner is the BALENNZ 7 Pack because it delivers a full week of quality shorts at a price that beats buying singles, backed by the strongest owner satisfaction in this comparison. If you want a single premium pair with brand-name durability, grab the adidas Legends 3-Stripes. And for for secure phone storage during pickleball or runs, the CRZ YOGA 9″ with its zippered pocket is the one to reach for.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of August 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
As an Amazon Associate, WellFizz earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.
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Mo Maruf
I created WellFizz to bridge the gap between vague wellness advice and actionable solutions. My mission is simple: to decode the research and give you practical tools you can actually use.
Beyond the data, I am a passionate traveler. I believe that stepping away from the screen to explore new environments is essential for mental clarity and physical vitality.