Our readers keep the lights on and my morning glass full of iced black tea. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.7 Best Men’s CrossFit Shorts | Stop Chafing, Start PRing

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The maamgic 2-in-1 shorts hit the exact sweet spot for CrossFit. The built-in compression liner provides enough support to prevent ride-up during burpee box jumps and heavy front rack lunges, while the 7-inch outer shell offers modest coverage without restricting hip flexion for overhead squats. The zippered side pocket is large enough for a modern smartphone and stays shut even during wall balls.

Durability is a standout here — reviewers consistently report owning multiple pairs and washing them weekly without seam separation or pilling. The fabric blend stretches enough for deep squats but snaps back so the shorts don’t bag out after a WOD. The drawstring is robust and stays tied, a simple detail many competitors neglect.

Breathability is adequate for indoor gym temperatures. The compression liner runs slightly loose for some body types, causing bunching inside the thigh, but this is a sizing nuance rather than a design flaw. For the balance of pocket security, liner support, and build quality, these justify their mid-range status and outperform many options at a higher price.

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CRZ YOGA has carved a reputation as the Lululemon alternative for a reason. These 2-in-1 shorts use a soft, lightweight outer fabric that moves with the body during dynamic CrossFit movements, while the inner compression liner includes a dedicated phone pocket that keeps a device flush against the thigh — no bouncing during tuck jumps or rope climbs.

The 7-inch inseam provides good coverage for men with larger quad development. The flat seams and chafe-free liner construction make these wearable for high-rep rowing sessions without irritation. Multiple reviewers noted the shorts look sharp enough for post-gym errands, which speaks to the refined cut and color palette.

One common note is that the liner runs slightly large, which can cause bunching during deep squats. The price point is aggressive for a 2-in-1 with this level of finish, making them an excellent entry point for someone new to CrossFit who wants premium features without the premium ticket. The lack of a back pocket is a minor gripe for those who carry cards.

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Anthem Athletics designed these shorts for the lifter who snags and scrapes their gear. The Isoflex construction uses a heavier-weight woven polyester that stands up to knurling from barbells and rough rig surfaces without showing wear. The fabric has a structured feel that doesn’t flap around during box jumps, and the waistband is robust enough to stay anchored under a belt.

Available in 5, 7, and 9-inch inseams, these accommodate various quad sizes and personal preference. The zippered pockets are reinforced at the stress points, and the gusseted crotch allows unrestricted hip extension for snatches and overhead squats. Reviewers appreciate the thicker fabric as a quality signal rather than a weight penalty.

Color accuracy is a minor concern — the two-tone options can appear more solid than advertised, and the pocket seam on some units has required repair after extended use. These shorts are best suited for athletes who prioritize durability and a more structured fit over the featherlight feel of running-specific shorts. They trade some breathability for toughness.

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For CrossFit metcons that push heart rate into the red — think grace, Fran, or Cindy — the Under Armour Launch Run shorts are built for heat management. The woven polyester fabric is among the lightest in this category, and the large mesh side panels create a chimney effect that vents body heat aggressively. The lack of a liner means less fabric to trap sweat.

The soft knit waistband with an internal drawcord stays comfortable under a lifting belt. The right-side internal phone pocket is a thoughtful touch for runners but less practical for CrossFit; during dynamic movements, the phone can shift and bounce against the leg. The 7-inch inseam provides enough coverage for most movements without extra material to catch on equipment.

Durability is the main trade-off here. The lightweight mesh panels are relatively delicate and can snag on exposed screws on rigs. The waistband fit can be snug for larger waist sizes — a 38-inch waist may find the drawstring working overtime. These excel at breathability above all else, making them a rotation piece for hot days and short, intense WODs.

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Nike’s Dri-FIT Flex Woven shorts bring the brand’s athletic heritage into a CrossFit context. The fabric is lightweight with a surprising amount of stretch, allowing unrestricted movement for everything from pistols to pull-ups. The sweat-wicking performance works immediately — fabric doesn’t cling when you’re dripping mid-WOD — and dries quickly between rounds.

The open hand pockets are adequate for short storage but lack zippers, so phones and keys are at risk during wall balls or handstands. The pockets do lie flat and don’t add bulk, which is a plus for aesthetics. The regular fit runs true to size and flatters most athletic builds without being baggy or restricting.

Some units have shipped with seam defects, requiring exchanges, and the Amazon markup over Nike’s retail price is notable. For durability, these wash well over several cycles but the lightweight fabric is not abrasion-resistant against aggressive barbells. They are a versatile choice for someone who CrossFits but also runs, plays tennis, or wants a single short for multiple sports.

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Fabletics positions The Fundamental Short as a premium lined option, and the fabric quality delivers on that promise. The outer shell is soft and flexible, and the inner compression liner provides genuine support — not a loose undershort — that stays in place through squats and lunges. The internal liner pocket is spacious and secure enough for a phone during most movements.

The polarizing feature is the no-drawstring waistband. Fabletics relies on the elastic band and size-lock fit alone, which works well for some body types but creates issues for others. Reviewers note the waistband can roll on smaller sizes or slide down on larger ones, which is a critical problem during the dynamic start of a snatch or clean.

Pocket placement is a mixed bag: the hand pockets are described as shallow by multiple users, and the phone pocket inside the liner requires awkward access by lifting the shorts. The price at non-VIP rates is steep for what you get — the liner phone pocket is a niche feature that not everyone will use daily. These are best for athletes who prioritize pure comfort and have a waist that matches the no-drawstring design.

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The 2 Pack Quick Dry shorts solve the most basic problem — having a clean pair ready — at a price point that undercuts every other product here. The 7-inch mesh shorts offer zippered pockets, which is a surprising feature for the entry-level price bracket. The fabric is lightweight and dries quickly after washing or during a sweaty session, and the reflective patches add visibility for outdoor running portions of a WOD.

Fit runs slightly large, which means a medium may work for those who typically take a large. The thick waistband and drawstring combination keeps the shorts secure during moderate-intensity movement. After several washes, the material holds up without significant fading or pilling, suggesting better-than-expected build quality for the price.

The lack of a built-in liner is the main functional compromise. These are unlined, so they may ride up during high-rep front squats or burpees without compression shorts underneath. The drawstring is functional but feels less substantial than premium options. For someone starting CrossFit on a strict budget or needing backup pairs, this pack is a smart stopgap.