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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 need exercise shorts that stay up, don’t rub, and keep your phone secure—most fail at least one. The BALENNZ 7 Pack nails all three with deep pockets and a comfy fit, making it the top pick for most buyers. If you want a premium 2-in-1 feel, the CRZ YOGA 2 in 1 is your match, while the BALENNZ 5 Pack Women’s offers a flattering high waist with zippered security.
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.
Whatever your workout, the best exercise shorts balance a secure fit with breathable fabric and enough pocket space to leave your gym bag behind.
Our Picks at a Glance
How To Choose The Best Exercise Shorts
Before you click buy, you need to settle the liner question. A built-in liner (often mesh or compression) means you skip underwear and get support, but a poor liner will ride up and ruin a run. Linerless shorts are more versatile for lounging but need a second layer.
Inseam: The Magic Number
Inseam is the length from the crotch seam to the hem. A 5-inch inseam sits high on the thigh and is ideal for running and hot weather. A 7-inch inseam hits just above the knee, offering more coverage for gym work and hiking. A 9-inch inseam gives maximum coverage for basketball and modesty.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Inseam | Liner | Pockets | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BALENNZ 7 Pack★ Best Overall | Versatile value | Above knee | None | Deep side | Amazon |
| baleaf 7″ RunningBest Value | Running & gym | 7″ | Mesh brief | 3 (1 zip) | Amazon |
| UA Launch StretchTop Performer | HIIT & pickleball | 7″ | Compression | 2 (pouch) | Amazon |
| CE’ CERDR 5 Pack | Women’s athletics | Mid-thigh | Built-in brief | 2 zipper | Amazon |
| 5 Pack Dry Fit | Basketball & lounge | 9″ | None | Deep side | Amazon |
| CRZ YOGA 2 in 1 | Running & casual | 7″ | Compression | 3 (1 zip) | Amazon |
| maamgic 2 in 1 | Gym & training | 7″ | Compression | 3 (1 zip) | Amazon |
| BALENNZ 5 Pack Women | High-waisted support | Mid-thigh | Built-in brief | 2 zipper | Amazon |
| HOPLYNN 5 Pack 2 in 1 | Multi-sport training | Mid-thigh | Compression | 3 (1 zip) | Amazon |
In-Depth Reviews
1. BALENNZ 7 Pack Men’s Basketball Shorts
Our pick — over 4.5★ from 750+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
Seven pairs deep, this pack drowns your laundry day excuses while keeping pockets deep enough for real life.
You get a week’s worth of shorts in one box, and the build quality is what wins people over — the fabric feels solid, holds vibrant color wash after wash, and the drawstrings stay a good length. The elastic waistband stretches and holds firm, while the fit sits perfectly on the waist without sagging. For anyone who measures a 34/36 waist, buyers report sizing up to XL for the ideal fit, noting the thighs run snug if you go true-to-size.
The deep side pockets are the standout feature, easily holding a phone, keys, and lip balm—so you can grab these and go, even if you’re in a rehab facility and need shorts that slip on without fuss. The fabric is lightweight and silky-smooth, with moisture-wicking (a quick-dry material that pulls sweat away) to keep you comfortable through a full session. The main trade-off is material thinness; some find it too flimsy, though most say it holds up as an amazing value for the price per pair.
What you’re really getting here is a rotation, not just a pair — wear them for basketball, running, hiking, or just lounging, and you’ll always have a clean set ready. If you prefer a heavier, thicker gym short, this ultra-light feel might not be your thing.
What Wins People Over
- Deep, practical side pockets for phone and keys
- Lightweight, silky-smooth quick-dry fabric
- Seven pairs of vibrant, fade-resistant colors
Know Before You Buy
- Fabric runs thin, not for those wanting heavy material
- Size up if you have larger thighs
Reach for these if: you want a low-maintenance weekly rotation for the gym, court, and couch.
Look elsewhere if: you need a structured, heavyweight training short.
2. baleaf Men’s 7” Running Shorts
A 95% polyester, 5% spandex blend that disappears on your legs while the zippered back pocket swallows your phone.
The fabric here is the headline — a lightweight, quick-dry blend that breathes and moves, the kind of feel that rivals the dry-fit you used to get from Nike. Owners find them comfortable with no chafing during runs, and they hold up to daily washing without shrinking or fading. The 7-inch inseam hits just above the knee for a 6-foot frame, giving you that athletic look without going too short.
The pocket layout is thoughtful: two side pockets plus a zippered back pocket that fits an iPhone 6 or 7 plus securely, staying invisible when you sit. The built-in mesh liner offers support, though it’s the one spot where opinions split — a few find it cuts into the skin after cutting it out, the shorts improved dramatically. The fit also runs a little baggy for some, so a 37-inch waist should reach for XL while L fits a 36-inch waist.
For the price, this is a legitimate competitor to premium store brands, with buyers calling it a strong test-purchase that turns into a multi-pair pickup. The recurring gripe is the liner, so treat it as a feature to test on your first run.
Solid everyday runner: The quick-dry fabric and secure zipper pocket make this a gym-bag staple, with the liner being the only real variable in the comfort equation.
Best for: runners and gym-goers who want one reliable, lightweight pair with a secure pocket.
Think twice if: you’re sensitive to built-in liners that can ride up.
3. Under Armour Launch Stretch Woven 7” Shorts
The 4-way stretch woven shell moves in every direction while the built-in compression liner keeps everything locked for relentless coverage.
Under Armour’s Launch Stretch is the pick for serious movement — the ultra-light, stretch-woven fabric gives totally unrestricted motion, and the mesh side panels add ventilation where you need it most. The built-in compression shorts underneath provide support that stays in place during runs, with no ride-up, making it a favorite for running, lifting, and HIIT sessions. Owners mention it working great after 6 months of pickleball use, with the liner holding everything in place and the fabric wicking away moisture quickly.
At just 7 inches, the inseam hits above the knee, and the material stays breathable and flexible without feeling flimsy — though one colorway proved nearly see-through, so stick to the darker shades. The waistband is comfortable and stays put, but the phone “pouch” pocket barely fits a modern-sized phone, a real frustration as devices get taller. For hiking, the liner has proven durable for roughly 1,000 miles, and the whole build washes well and stays visible in the dark.
This is a premium-feeling short that holds up to daily punishment, but the sizing runs small — size up for a comfortable fit. If you need a pocket that fits a large phone, this one falls short of the baleaf above.
Performance-first design: The compression liner and stretch shell make this a top-tier training short, even if the phone pocket is a tight squeeze.
Grab these for: high-intensity training and racket sports where support and airflow matter most.
Pass if: you carry a large phone and need an easy-access pocket.
4. CE’ CERDR 5 Pack Women’s High-Waisted Running Shorts
A high-waisted fit that flatters without squeezing, paired with a side split and zippered pockets for real movement.
Comfort without looking frumpy is the balancing act these shorts nail—the elasticated high waist sits smooth without being tight on the stomach, and the side split design gives you unrestricted mobility for running, yoga, or just daily errands. The built-in liner is a brief-style underlayer that’s stretchy and doesn’t roll, earning praise for staying put through workouts. With a 5’6″ frame, the length lands just right, anti-chafe and flattering.
The two zipper pockets are big enough to hold a large cell phone and still zip closed, a must for hands-free training. The fabric is opaque, soft, and quick-drying, holding its shape and color through washes. Sizing is mostly true, though some report it runs slightly small, and one pregnant buyer at 39 weeks found a size L fit comfortably over the belly without feeling tight. The occasional gripe is the scrunched waistband rubbing on the lower back during long three-to-six-hour wear.
As a five-pack, the value is strong, and the solid color options look polished enough for gym or errands. If you need a waistband that never digs in, this is a top contender.
Why They Shine
- High waist stays put without rolling down
- Zippered pockets secure even a large phone
- Opaque, quick-dry fabric that flatters
The Fit Caveats
- Waistband can rub on the lower back in long wear
- Some find sizing runs slightly small
Choose these for: high-waisted comfort across running, gym, and lounging without the frump factor.
Skip if: you plan on wearing them for extended all-day stretches.
5. 5 Pack Men’s Dry Fit Basketball Shorts
The 9-inch inseam gives taller guys the coverage they crave, and the 90/10 polyester-spandex blend keeps you cool.
This is the pack that doubles as sleepwear and gym wear — the lightweight, breathable blend of 90% polyester and 10% spandex wicks sweat away and dries quickly, delivering a cooling feel through workouts and summer heat. The relaxed, true-to-size fit features an elastic waistband with an adjustable interior drawstring, while the 4-way stretch fabric and roomy leg opening allow full range of motion. For a 6’4″ wearer, the length lands just above the knee, exactly as he likes it.
The deep side pockets keep your phone, keys, and wallet close, though the pocket side seams are the weak point — some customers note holes developing after a couple of years, especially with phone weight. The thin, silky material is comfortable and soft, surviving over 100 hot washes with only minor loose threads. It’s an honest trade-off: the value is unbeatable, but the quality is decidedly budget-tier.
These shine as versatile all-rounders — basketball, running, lounging, pajamas, travel — and the five-pack ensures a clean pair is always ready. If you want a heavier, more structured short, the thinness here will read as cheap.
Maximum versatility, minimal cost: A five-pack that works as hard as workout gear as it does as sleep shorts, with the longevity to match the price.
Ideal for: budget buyers who want one pack for the gym, the couch, and bedtime.
Not for: those who need heavy, structured fabric that lasts for years.
6. CRZ YOGA 2 in 1 Running Shorts 7″
Feathery-fit fabric at 88% polyester, 12% spandex that owners prefer over Lululemon, with a phone pocket built into the liner.
The “feathery-fit” name is earned — this body fabric feels ultralight like a feather, moving freely and drying quickly while staying soft to the touch. The 2-in-1 design pairs the outer short with a compressed liner, and the right zipper pocket plus two side pockets cover your carry needs. The standout detail is a phone pocket built right into the liner, so your device stays glued to your leg instead of bouncing around. For a 5’10”, 175 lb frame, a size M fits great, and the liner prevents inner-thigh chafing during high-movement sessions.
Owners consistently describe these as a premium-feel alternative to Lululemon-style lined shorts at a lower price, with one husband preferring them over his Lululemon pairs. The elastic waistband with drawstring offers a flexible, adjustable fit, and the fabric holds up after a year of use. The drawbacks are minor: the liner can run a little large and bunch during squats, and the 7″ length runs slightly long for some, leading a few to exchange for the 5″ version.
This is a smart pick for anyone who wants that premium 2-in-1 feel — secure pockets, no chafing, and a liner that actually supports — without the brand markup. It beats the maamgic below on liner refinement, though both deliver.
Standout Features
- Integrated phone pocket inside the liner
- Ultralight, quick-dry fabric with soft touch
- Compression liner prevents thigh chafing
Minor Quirks
- Liner can bunch during deep squats
- 7″ length runs slightly long for some
Buy these for: a premium 2-in-1 feel with a secure phone pocket for running and training.
Consider another if: you’re between sizes and want a liner that fits perfectly snug.
7. maamgic Gym Shorts for Men 7″ Inseam
Opaque, thick, and built like a Birddog rival at half the price, with a towel loop for post-set cleanups.
This is the short for lifters who hate see-through fabric. The material is thick, opaque, and holds its structure, with a full compression liner that’s cozy without being too tight — the kind of build owners describe as one of the best gym shorts they’ve ever owned. The hidden drawstring keeps the waistband secure, and the stitching is solid throughout. For a typically 30-waist wearer, a size small fits perfectly, and a 5’11”, 180 lb frame takes a medium.
The pocket layout is practical: two side pockets without scratchy zippers plus a zippered back pocket, and the lined phone pocket fits an iPhone Pro Max. A towel loop adds a thoughtful touch for gym sessions. The 7-inch inseam hits just right, versatile enough for gym, running, swimming, or hiking. The main caveat is the liner — it’s slightly loose for thinner wearers, which risks chafing on longer runs, and the waistband can feel rough on the skin for some.
Owners compare it favorably to Birddog at roughly half the price and prefer it over Nike and Fabletics. If you want a premium-feeling 2-in-1 that doesn’t break the bank, this is a serious contender, though the CRZ YOGA above has a more refined liner.
Lifter’s choice: Thick, opaque fabric and a secure fit make this a gym favorite, with the liner tightness being the main variable.
Pick this for: heavy gym sessions where opacity and a secure phone pocket are non-negotiable.
Look elsewhere if: you’re very thin and need a liner that fits snugly.
8. BALENNZ 5 Pack Women’s Athletic Shorts
A high-waisted fit that “holds in the tummy amazingly” with deep zippered pockets and a hip-lift line.
These shorts deliver on the high-waisted promise — the elastic waistband is wide and comfortable, holding everything in place without digging in, and the hip-lift line adds a flattering shape. The built-in brief liner is a standout, preferred by owners over the biking-style liner because it doesn’t ride up or cause a wedgie. The deep zippered pockets are a genuine bonus, securing a phone through workouts and errands, even impressing an aquatic director who carries gear all day.
The fabric is lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking, keeping you cool through running, training, or lounging, and it packs well for beach and vacation days. At 5’3″, a size L fits a 155-160 lb frame well, and the curved dolphin side seam avoids gapey leg openings. Sizing is the catch: some recommend sizing down for a snugger fit, while others found the waist tight with the rest ballooning out — a shape issue that’s the most common complaint.
As a five-pack, the value is excellent, and owners buy extra packs for themselves and their daughters. If you want a brief-lined, high-waisted short with secure pockets, this is a top pick, though the CE’ CERDR above offers a softer waistband.
Why Owners Love Them
- Brief liner prevents ride-up and wedgies
- Deep zippered pockets keep phone secure
- High waist flatters without squeezing
Sizing Notes
- Some find the fit baggy through hips and legs
- Waistband can feel tight for certain body types
Best for: women who want a flattering high waist with the security of zippered pockets.
Consider sizing down if: you prefer a snug, streamlined fit over a relaxed one.
9. HOPLYNN 5 Pack Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts
A five-pack of 2-in-1 shorts with a deep cell phone pocket in the compression liner — built for every sport you can name.
Versatility is the game here — these shorts are marketed for basketball, running, cycling, gym, and hiking, and the build backs it up. The compression liner provides coverage and support, with the side liner pocket holding a large phone securely during movement. The fabric is thick and stretchy, breathable enough for intense sessions, and holds up well after months of use. For a 6’0″, 260 lb frame, an XL fits perfectly without even needing the drawstring.
The pocket setup is practical: deep front pockets, a small back zipper pocket, and that liner phone pocket that fits an iPhone 15 Pro. Owners describe the quality as comparable to Under Armour at a fraction of the cost, with strong seams and a thick, stretchy waistband. Sizing runs small though — a 5’10”, 175 lb buyer with a 32″ waist needed a Large over a Medium, and another at 5’10”, 155 lb with a 28″ waist should have sized down from L to M.
This is a strong multi-sport pack that delivers premium-feel quality for the price, matching the maamgic on liner comfort and the baleaf on pocket utility. The main caveat is the fit, so check the size chart carefully and consider sizing up.
Sport-hopping essential: A five-pack with premium-feel stitching and a secure liner phone pocket, held back only by inconsistent sizing.
Choose this for: a single pack that covers the gym, court, trail, and road.
Size up if: you’re between sizes, since the fit tends to run small.
Understanding the Specs
Inseam Length
The inseam is the distance from the crotch seam to the hem. A 5-inch inseam is short and breezy, ideal for running in hot weather. A 7-inch inseam hits just above the knee, offering a balanced look for gym and court. A 9-inch inseam gives tall guys the coverage they want for basketball and casual wear.
Built-in Liner
A liner is a layer of fabric sewn inside the short — either a mesh brief or a compression short. It provides support and means you can skip underwear. Compression liners offer more support for running and lifting, while mesh briefs are lighter and cooler. A poor liner rides up and chafes, so it’s the first thing to test.
FAQ
What inseam length should I choose for exercise shorts?
Are exercise shorts with a built-in liner better than linerless ones?
How do I know which size to order for exercise shorts?
Why do my running shorts ride up or chafe?
What is the difference between quick-dry and moisture-wicking fabric?
Can I wear exercise shorts for swimming or in the pool?
Why do some exercise shorts have a zippered back pocket?
How should I wash exercise shorts to make them last?
Are expensive exercise shorts worth the higher price?
What is a 2-in-1 short and why would I want one?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most people, the exercise shorts winner is the BALENNZ 7 Pack because it delivers deep pockets, a comfortable fit, and a week’s worth of rotation at a value that’s tough to top. If you want a premium 2-in-1 feel with a secure phone pocket, grab the CRZ YOGA 2 in 1. And for women seeking a flattering high waist with zippered security, the BALENNZ 5 Pack Women’s 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.