Finding gym shorts that don’t ride up, show sweat stains, or fall apart after a few washes is harder than a heavy deadlift set. The difference between a great pair and a frustrating one comes down to fabric weight, inseam length, and whether the liner actually stays put during squats and sprints.
I’m Mohammad — the founder and writer behind ProteinJug. I’ve analyzed the construction specs, customer durability reports, and real-world fit notes on hundreds of workout shorts to separate the cotton-blend disappointments from the engineered performers.
Whether you need a secure zipper pocket for your phone or a built-in liner that prevents chafing on long runs, this guide cuts through the noise to help you find the right best gym shorts for your specific training style and body type.
How To Choose The Best Gym Shorts
The right pair of gym shorts balances mobility, moisture management, and pocket functionality. Three factors consistently separate the keepers from the returns: inseam length relative to your height, the quality of the waistband drawcord, and whether the liner (if present) offers compression or just hangs loose.
Inseam Length and Body Proportions
A 5-inch inseam sits above the knee and is ideal for runners or shorter athletes who want full freedom of movement without fabric bunching. A 7-inch inseam lands just above the kneecap — the most versatile length for general gym work, kickboxing, and casual wear. A 10-inch inseam extends past the knee and suits taller individuals or those who prefer more coverage during cycling and leg press work. Choose the length that matches your quad sweep and height.
Fabric Weight and Opacity
Lightweight polyester and nylon blends (120–160 GSM) dry quickly and breathe well, but some budget cuts become translucent when you squat or bend over. Look for double-layered gussets or a tight knit weave if opacity is a concern. Heavier fabrics (170+ GSM) feel more durable and hold their shape but can trap heat during high-rep circuits.
Pocket Design and Security
Standard mesh side pockets are fine for gym floor use but dump contents during runs or burpees. Zippered pockets solve that problem for runners and HIIT athletes, though the zipper pull can scratch skin on bare legs if the pocket sits low. A small waistband stash pocket (common on 5-inch women’s running shorts) fits a key or card but not a modern smartphone.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under Armour 7″ Tech Vent Shorts | Mid‑Range | Multi-purpose gym & casual | 7″ inseam, 1.4 lbs package weight | Amazon |
| maamgic Gym Shorts 7″ with Liner | Premium | Lifting & high-intensity training | 7″ inseam, built-in compression liner | Amazon |
| Under Armour Men’s Tech Graphic 10″ Shorts | Mid‑Range | Casual wear & lighter workouts | 10″ inseam, moisture‑wicking UA Tech fabric | Amazon |
| CRZ YOGA Dolphin Athletic Shorts 5″ Women’s | Mid‑Range | Running & trail use | 5″ inseam, built‑in liner, zip pocket | Amazon |
| BOOJO 5‑Pack Men’s Shorts with Zipper Pockets | Budget | Value packs & warm‑weather wear | 5-pack, zippered side pockets | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Under Armour 7″ Tech Vent Shorts
The Under Armour 7″ Tech Vent Shorts hit the sweet spot between coverage and mobility. At 5’9”, the 7-inch inseam lands right above the kneecap, making them a smart choice for kickboxing, watching weekend sports, or working from home. The moisture-wicking fabric is lightweight enough for summer but dense enough to hold its shape through weekly washing cycles — one reviewer noted they still look like new after a full year of consistent wear.
The elastic waistband with drawcord stays put during lateral movements, which is critical for HIIT and sparring drills. The unbranded design and clean silhouette transition easily from the gym floor to casual errands without screaming “athletic gear.” At roughly 1.4 pounds package weight, these are lighter than many comparable 7-inch shorts, which reduces drag during dynamic movements.
The only notable limitation is the pocket design. The side pockets are loose mesh and lack zippers, so your phone or keys can slide out during explosive exercises like box jumps or burpees. For steady-state cardio, weight training, or general casual wear, this is a non-issue — but runners or CrossFit athletes who need pocket security should look at the maamgic option below.
Why it’s great
- Versatile 7-inch inseam works for most heights and activities
- Lightweight moisture-wicking fabric maintains shape after a year of washes
- Elastic waistband with drawcord stays secure during kickboxing and HIIT
Good to know
- Side pockets are open mesh without zippers — items can fall out during explosive moves
- Limited color options compared to budget multi-packs
2. maamgic Gym Shorts 7″ with Liner
The maamgic 7-inch shorts are engineered for lifters who hate see-through material. The outer shell is thick enough to pass the squat-test without any transparency, and the built-in compression liner adds a second layer of opacity and support. One 6’4”, 150 lb reviewer found the small size fit without being baggy, though the liner felt slightly loose — a common trade-off for very thin builds who don’t have enough quad or glute mass to fill the compression layer.
The zippered side pocket is a standout feature for anyone who brings a phone or keys to the gym floor. It secures your essentials during deadlifts, box jumps, and treadmill intervals. The 7-inch inseam is versatile for general gym use, falling just above the knee for most men, and the drawstring sits inside the waistband so it doesn’t dangle or snag on equipment.
Where these shorts stumble is the liner tension for runners. Several reviews noted that the built-in compression layer is best suited for lifting and moderate cardio, not long-distance runs where the loose liner can cause chafing. If your primary activity is running, a dedicated running short with a tighter brief liner (like the CRZ YOGA Dolphin) will serve you better.
Why it’s great
- Thick, non-see-through outer fabric passes the squat test
- Zippered pocket secures phone and keys during explosive lifts
- Premium construction at a reasonable mid-premium price point
Good to know
- Inner liner can feel loose on very thin/lean body types
- Not ideal for long-distance running due to potential liner chafing
3. Under Armour Men’s Tech Graphic 10″ Shorts
The Under Armour Tech Graphic 10″ Shorts are the longest option in this lineup, designed for those who prefer coverage past the knee. The UA Tech fabric is lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking — it dries fast enough to wear straight through a workout without feeling swampy. Multiple reviewers confirmed the material holds its shape and color after repeated washes, provided you avoid the dryer as the thin polyester weave can degrade with high heat.
The elastic waistband with internal drawcord provides a secure fit across a range of waist sizes. The 10-inch inseam makes these particularly suitable for taller individuals or anyone who cycles and wants the hem to stay put over the quad without riding up. The graphic designs are subtle enough for casual wear — several reviewers mentioned wearing them for lounging and light activity as much as for the gym.
The trade-off to the lightweight fabric is that it is thin. One reviewer noted the material raises durability concerns over time, and the thinner build means pockets are less structured — items can bulge or feel heavy against the leg. These are best for moderate weight training, cardio machines, and casual wear, rather than heavy-duty Olympic lifting or outdoor runs where pocket security matters.
Why it’s great
- Long 10-inch inseam provides full coverage for taller athletes and cyclists
- Lightweight UA Tech fabric dries quickly and resists odor buildup
- Secure elastic waistband with internal drawcord stays put during movement
Good to know
- Fabric is thin — avoid high heat drying to preserve longevity
- Unstructured mesh pockets can feel flimsy with a phone inside
4. CRZ YOGA Dolphin Athletic Shorts 5″ Women’s
The CRZ YOGA Dolphin Athletic Shorts are engineered specifically for runners — and the data backs it up. At 5 inches, the inseam is short enough to allow full stride extension without fabric interference, and the built-in brief liner stays put without riding up, even on 4-mile trail runs. One 5’4”, 155 lb reviewer reported zero chub rub during an off-road run, a common problem with looser running shorts that have a separate compression liner.
The fabric is soft, quick-drying, and remarkably opaque for such a lightweight build. The high-waisted design stays in place without digging in, and the dark color options don’t show sweat stains — a real confidence booster during high-exertion sessions. The waistband pocket is small but functional for a key or card, though you won’t fit a modern smartphone in it.
The main drawback is the zippered pocket, which is too small for most phones and sits in a location that’s awkward to access mid-run. If you need a secure phone pocket specifically for running, you will still need an armband or belt. These shorts are otherwise excellent for runners, hikers, and anyone who values a liner that doesn’t migrate.
Why it’s great
- Brief liner stays put during runs — no chub rub even on trail miles
- Lightweight fabric is opaque and doesn’t show sweat stains
- Flattering high-waisted cut stays secure without digging in
Good to know
- Zippered pocket is too small for most smartphones
- 5-inch inseam provides minimal coverage for those who prefer above-knee length
5. BOOJO 5-Pack Men’s Shorts with Zipper Pockets
The BOOJO 5-Pack offers the lowest per-short price in this guide, making it a practical choice for anyone building a warm-weather wardrobe on a strict budget. The fabric is thin and quick-drying — ideal for basketball courts, theme park days, or sleeping in — and the zippered side pockets are genuinely functional for securing a phone or wallet during sports. One reviewer specifically praised the zipper quality as “excellent” for the price point.
The variety of colors in the pack matches team jerseys and allows for rotation across training days. The drawcord is functional though described as shorter and thinner than premium shorts, which can make cinching the waistband a little fiddly. The overall fit is true to size for athletic builds, and the shorts wash well without significant shrinkage or color bleed when following care instructions.
The compromises are the thin outer fabric and inconsistent zipper reliability — one reviewer noted a single zipper arrived non-functional out of the pack. The material is also less opaque than heavier shorts, so be mindful of color choice and movement. For the price, this is a solid rotation pack for casual gym sessions, basketball, and daily wear, but not for heavy lifting or trail running where fabric durability matters.
Why it’s great
- Excellent per-short value for building a low-cost rotation wardrobe
- Zippered pockets work well for securing phone and keys during sports
- Color variety matches team uniforms and training gear
Good to know
- Thin fabric raises opacity concerns during deep squats
- Drawstring is shorter and thinner than premium shorts
FAQ
What inseam length should I choose for weightlifting?
Are 2-in-1 shorts with built-in liners good for running?
How can I tell if shorts will be see-through before buying?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most gym-goers, the best gym shorts winner is the Under Armour 7″ Tech Vent Shorts because the 7-inch inseam, lightweight moisture-wicking fabric, and proven durability handle everything from kickboxing to casual lounging without overcomplicating the design. If you need a zippered pocket for your phone and a built-in liner that supports heavy lifts, grab the maamgic Gym Shorts — the thick non-see-through fabric and secure pocket make them ideal for the weight room. And for runners who need a liner that stays put and a 5-inch inseam that doesn’t ride up, nothing beats the CRZ YOGA Dolphin Athletic Shorts.