10 Best Men's Gym Shorts 2026 in the United States

The BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men are designed with workout comfort in mind. Made from 100% polyester, the fabric is soft, stretchy, and breathable, which helps keep you dry by quickly wicking away sweat during exercise. With a 10-inch inseam, these shorts offer a moderate length that works well for various activities like running, basketball, or cycling, providing enough coverage without feeling bulky.

The waistband features an elastic band with a drawstring inside, making it easy to adjust the fit so the shorts stay comfortably in place whether you’re moving fast or standing still. One useful feature is the pockets on both sides, which are great for carrying small essentials like your phone or keys, so you don’t have to worry about where to put them during workouts. These shorts are machine washable and imported, making them convenient to care for.

On the downside, since they are made entirely of polyester, some may find the material less breathable than natural fabrics such as cotton, especially in very hot weather. Also, the elastic waistband, while adjustable, might not suit everyone’s preference for tighter or firmer support. These shorts are a suitable choice for men looking for versatile, quick-drying gym wear with practical pockets and a comfortable fit for a wide range of sports and training activities.

The Amazon Essentials Men's Athletic Basketball Gym Shorts offer a relaxed and comfortable fit, making them ideal if you prefer roomy shorts that don't cling tightly around your hips and thighs. These shorts sit just below the waist with an adjustable elastic waistband and drawcord, helping you keep them secure during activities. Made from 100% polyester with a performance tech fabric, they are lightweight, breathable, and designed to wick moisture away, which helps keep you cool and dry during workouts or casual wear.

The fabric also has a little stretch, adding flexibility for movements like jogging or playing basketball. The length is just above the knee (about 8 inches inseam on a medium size), which is a common and practical length for gym or sport shorts. These shorts are easy to care for with machine washing and tumble drying.

They are well suited for men looking for comfortable, breathable shorts for gym, basketball, or everyday activities but might not be the best choice if you need shorts with pockets or a tighter fit.

The NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts are crafted from a blend of 90% polyester and 10% elastane, making them lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. This combination ensures durability and stretch, allowing for better mobility during various activities. The shorts also feature stylish breathable holes on both sides and reflective strips for added safety in low-light conditions.

The fit is adjustable thanks to a soft elastic waistband and a built-in drawstring, offering a custom fit. These shorts are available in 7", 5", and 9" lengths, catering to different preferences for gym, running, or casual wear. One of the standout features is the three zipper pockets that provide secure storage for essentials like keys and phones. The pockets are deep and designed to prevent items from falling out during movement.

The UPF 50+ fabric offers excellent sun protection, making these shorts suitable for outdoor activities. Users will appreciate the machine-washable convenience and the ability to wear these shorts comfortably all day. These shorts are ideal for various occasions such as hiking, gym workouts, and casual outings, offering a versatile option for men looking for comfort and practicality in their athletic wear.