Finding athletic shorts that don’t bind up during a squat, drench you in sweat within minutes, or force you to carry your phone in your hand is tougher than it should be. The market is flooded with options, but most fail at the fundamental task: staying comfortable and functional through a full workout without chafing or sagging.
I’m Mohammad — the founder and writer behind ProteinJug. I’ve spent years analyzing fabric blends, moisture-wicking technologies, and pocket ergonomics across dozens of brands to separate the gym-ready gear from the overhyped duds.
Whether you’re hitting the weight room, going for a run, or just want something versatile for the weekend, I’ve curated the best athletic shorts for men that balance durability, breathability, and smart pocket design for real movement.
How To Choose The Best Athletic Shorts For Men
Most guys grab the cheapest pair on the shelf and learn the hard way that fabric choice, pocket design, and inseam length dictate whether your shorts work for a deadlift session or sit abandoned in a drawer. Here’s what actually matters.
Fabric Blend and Moisture Management
Polyester and nylon dominate the category because they wick moisture away from the skin and dry fast. Cotton blends sound comfortable but trap sweat, leading to chafing and a heavy, soggy feel during dynamic movement. For serious training, look for a 100% polyester or polyester-spandex mix (around 90/10) that offers both rapid evaporation and enough stretch for unrestricted motion. Lightweight fabrics around 120–150 GSM balance breathability and opacity, so you don’t risk see-through moments in bright gym lighting.
Pocket Security and Accessibility
The pocket debate splits into two camps: deep mesh pockets that drain sweat easily but let your phone flop around, and zippered pockets that lock gear in place during sprints or explosive lifts. For runners and HIIT athletes, zippered pockets are the safer choice — your keys and phone stay put regardless of movement intensity. For casual gym-goers or those who only carry a locker key, standard slit pockets with mesh lining work fine and reduce bulk at the hip.
Inseam and Fit Profile
Inseam length defines both your range of motion and your coverage preference. A 5-inch inseam offers maximum mobility for squats and lunges but leaves your thighs fully exposed. A 7-inch inseam is the goldilocks option — enough coverage to prevent riding up during cycling or leg presses while still giving your quads room to breathe. For taller guys or those who prefer a relaxed look, 9-inch inseams provide full coverage but can bunch behind the knee during deep flexion. Fit profile also matters: slim-cut shorts stay close to the leg during running, while relaxed-fit options offer more airflow and a looser aesthetic.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under Armour Tech Graphic | Mid-Range | All-purpose gym and casual wear | 100% Polyester, 9-inch inseam | Amazon |
| maamgic 2-in-1 with Liner | Premium | High-intensity running and sprints | Built-in compression liner, 7-inch inseam | Amazon |
| 2 Pack Athlyft Zipper Pockets | Premium | Secure phone storage during HIIT | Zippered pockets, 7-inch inseam | Amazon |
| JWJ Lightweight Running Shorts | Value | Budget-friendly quick-dry training | Zippered pockets, 5-inch inseam | Amazon |
| NY Threads 3-Pack Athletic | Budget | Multi-outfit rotations on a budget | 3-pack, standard pockets, 9-inch inseam | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Under Armour Men’s Tech Graphic Shorts
Under Armour’s Tech Graphic Shorts are the benchmark for the mid-range tier because they nail the fundamentals without gimmicks. The 100% polyester fabric uses UA’s signature moisture-wicking technology — it pulls sweat off the skin and dries noticeably faster than generic blends, keeping you dry through a full circuit rotation. The 9-inch inseam offers generous coverage that works well for both gym sessions and casual errands, though the longer cut may ride up slightly during deep bodyweight squats.
The elastic waistband with an internal drawcord provides a secure fit that doesn’t pinch or leave red marks after wear. Pockets are standard slit-style with mesh lining, which drains sweat fast but won’t secure a phone during a sprint — keep that in mind if you’re doing high-intensity intervals. The fabric has a soft, almost cotton-like hand feel on the outside while maintaining quick-dry performance, a trick most budget shorts can’t replicate.
Durability holds up well across dozens of wash cycles, with minimal pilling and no fraying at the seams. The graphic print is heat-pressed and may crack slightly after repeated high-heat drying, so line drying extends the aesthetic life. For the guy who wants one pair that transitions from a deadlift session to grabbing coffee without looking like he just rolled out of the gym, this is the choice.
Why it’s great
- Trusted UA moisture-wicking fabric dries fast and feels soft
- 9-inch inseam provides coverage without restricting movement
- Durable construction holds shape after repeated washing
Good to know
- Standard pockets lack security for running or HIIT
- Longer inseam may bunch behind the knee during deep flexion
- Heat-pressed graphics may crack over time
2. maamgic Gym Shorts for Men 7 inch Inseam with Liner Stretch 2 in 1 Workout Shorts
The maamgic 2-in-1 short eliminates the biggest friction point in training: liners that ride up. The built-in compression layer stays welded to your quads, providing chafe-free support during sprints, box jumps, and heavy sled pushes. The outer shell uses a quick-dry polyester-spandex blend with a smooth, almost silky hand feel that glides against the liner without friction, so you don’t get that sticky layer-on-layer sensation mid-workout.
The 7-inch inseam hits the sweet spot between coverage and mobility — short enough to avoid knee bunching during leg presses but long enough to feel secure during lateral movements. The waistband sits flat against the hips with a flat drawcord that doesn’t dig in under a lifting belt. Pockets are zippered on both sides, which is a massive plus for runners who need phone and key security without the bounce that standard pockets create.
One note: the compression liner tends to run slightly snug, so guys with larger thighs may want to size up for comfort. The fabric resists pilling well, but the zipper pulls are thin plastic and could snap under aggressive tugging. If your training revolves around running, sprints, or plyometrics, the integrated liner design makes this the most functional choice in the lineup.
Why it’s great
- Built-in compression liner prevents chafing and support issues
- 7-inch inseam balances coverage with full mobility
- Zippered pockets secure phone and keys during sprints
Good to know
- Compression liner runs snug on larger thighs
- Zipper pulls are thin plastic and may break if yanked
- Smooth shell fabric shows sweat marks more prominently
3. 2 Pack Mens Athletic Shorts Quick Dry 7 Inch Running Shorts Breathable Mesh Gym Workout Shorts with Zipper Pockets
This 2-pack brings premium-level features — zippered pockets and a 7-inch inseam — into a price tier usually reserved for stripped-down basics. The mesh fabric is aggressively ventilated, making these shorts ideal for sweaty HIIT sessions or outdoor runs in humidity where air circulation matters more than wind resistance. The quick-dry performance is immediate: after a heavy session, the fabric feels mostly dry within ten to fifteen minutes, not hours.
The zippered pockets are deep enough to hold a flagship phone securely without the zip line digging into your hip during side bends or core work. The waistband uses a flat elastic band with a thin drawcord that sits low-profile — useful under a hoodie or waist-tied top. The 7-inch inseam provides enough coverage for most leg exercises while staying clear of the knee joint during deep squats. A subtle inner pocket adds space for a locker key or credit card without adding visible bulk.
Over time, the mesh fabric may develop small pulls if brushed against velcro patches or rough gym benches. The color options are limited to standard blacks and grays, so variety seekers may want to look elsewhere. For athletes who prioritize pocket security and rapid drying above all else, this two-pack delivers consistent performance across rotation days without breaking the bank.
Why it’s great
- Zippered pockets provide secure phone storage for active movement
- Mesh fabric offers maximum breathability for sweaty sessions
- Two-pack provides great rotation value at a mid-range price
Good to know
- Mesh fabric may snag on rough surfaces like velcro
- Limited color options beyond basic black and gray
- Slightly thinner fabric that may show through under bright gym lights
4. JWJ Mens Athletic Gym Workout Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Running Basketball Shorts with Zipper Pockets
JWJ’s offering is the lightweight specialist in the lineup — at around 120 GSM, the fabric is airy enough for basketball sprints and open-air runs without feeling like you’re wearing a windbreaker. The 5-inch inseam maximizes thigh exposure and range of motion, making these shorts ideal for deep squats, lunges, or any movement that requires full hip flexion without fabric bunching. The quick-dry polyester construction sheds moisture efficiently, though the thin fabric means sweat marks are more visible than on heavier blends.
The zippered pockets are a notable inclusion at this price tier, though the zippers are small and the pocket depth is shallower than on the 2-pack option. A large phone will fit but may peek out during explosive movements, so this works better for lighter items like keys or a card. The elastic waistband includes a thin drawcord that stays tied during motion, which is a minor but appreciated detail for runners who hate retying mid-route.
Durability is the main trade-off here: the lightweight fabric is prone to pilling after repeated machine washing, and the zipper pull may loosen over time. For the price, it’s a solid entry-level option for guys who want pocketed shorts for casual training without investing heavily. If you prioritize featherlight feel over long-term ruggedness, this is your pick.
Why it’s great
- Ultra-lightweight fabric ideal for running and basketball
- 5-inch inseam offers full mobility for deep squats
- Zippered pockets add security at an entry-level price
Good to know
- Lightweight fabric shows sweat marks and may be see-through
- Zippered pockets are shallow for larger phones
- Thin material prone to pilling over time
5. NY Threads 3 Pack Men’s Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Workout Running Gym Shorts with Pockets
The NY Threads 3-pack is the quantity-first option for guys who want multiple rotation pairs without stretching their gear budget. Each short features a standard 9-inch inseam that offers full coverage, which is a plus for those who prefer not to show much thigh, though the longer cut bunches behind the knee during leg curls and cycling. The polyester-spandex blend is lightweight but leans toward the thinner side, similar to the JWJ pair, with moderate moisture-wicking that handles a typical gym session but will be fully saturated after intense intervals.
Pockets are standard deep mesh — no zippers here — so phone security is limited to casual walking and light weightlifting. The elastic waistband is comfortable and wide enough to avoid rolling, but the drawcord is thin and may loosen during dynamic movement. What the shorts lack in premium features they make up for in quantity: three pairs mean you always have a fresh set for the week without laundry stress.
Color variety is decent across the pack, with options like black, gray, and navy. The main downside is the quality consistency across pairs — sometimes the waistband tension varies slightly between shorts in the same pack. For a budget-conscious buyer who needs multiple pairs for basic gym work and casual wear, the rotational value is hard to beat.
Why it’s great
- Three-pack provides excellent rotation value for the price
- 9-inch inseam offers full coverage for taller builds
- Decent color variety for mixing and matching
Good to know
- Standard mesh pockets lack security for running
- Thin fabric may show sweat marks after heavy cardio
- Quality consistency varies between pairs in the same pack
FAQ
What inseam length is best for gym workouts?
Are zippered pockets worth it for running?
How do I stop my athletic shorts from riding up during leg exercises?
Can I wear cotton athletic shorts for working out?
What is the best fabric for preventing chafing in athletic shorts?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the best athletic shorts for men winner is the Under Armour Men’s Tech Graphic Shorts because they combine proven moisture-wicking fabric, a comfortable 9-inch inseam, and reliable build quality that works for both training and daily wear. If you want built-in liner support and zippered pocket security for running, grab the maamgic 2-in-1 Gym Shorts. And for the budget-conscious athlete who needs multiple rotation pairs without sacrificing pocket security, the 2 Pack Athletic Shorts with Zipper Pockets delivers outstanding value per wear.