The Best Gym Shorts for Your Fitness Journey

Upgrade your training wardrobe with these movement-friendly, sweat-wicking bottoms.

a collage of three gym shorts Ten Thousand, Rhone, Roark

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The right pair of workout shorts can inspire you to train longer, harder and more often. On the flip side, the wrong pair — too baggy, too tight, too falling apart — can leave you feeling uninspired, lethargic and possibly wanting to stay home and eat ice cream rather than get to work. In other words, the gear you choose for your daily training session plays a deeper role than just looking good under that gym lighting.

But with silhouettes aplenty across the landscape how are you to tell which bottoms stand up amongst the masses? Well, catering your shorts selection to your intended training discipline is always a good start, but there are some other, more universal notes to look for, too.

Products in the Guide

  • Best Overall: Ten Thousand Interval Short

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  • Best Upgrade: Legends Luka Short

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  • Best Budget Choice: Under Armour Tech Mesh Short

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  • Best for Running: Patagonia Strider Pro Running Short

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  • Best for Weight Training: Gymreapers Performance Shorts

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  • Best for Crossfit: Nobull Micro Ripstop Short

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How to Pick the Best Gym Shorts for You

There are many styles of gym shorts — from the light-as-air to the more robust. Depending on which fitness activity you favor, you’ll want to choose a short that matches your needs. Below are a few factors to consider when choosing the right bottoms for reaching the top of your fitness goals.

Inseam

The standard inseam lengths for almost any style of gym shorts are between 5–7 inches. A 5-inch inseam short will land somewhere in the region of your mid-thigh, while 7 inches is the typical short length. For those looking for more coverage or protection, an 8- or 9-inch inseam can be a little more appealing, but there’s room for personalization. “I prefer a 6-inch length,” notes Eric McCormack of MTN OPS. “I like the shorter shorts, so I don’t have to worry about them getting in the way or tugging.” In the end, make sure to choose an inseam length that promotes a comfortable fit while still providing enough coverage and flexibility for your training needs.

Materials

Next, let’s chat fabric. Polyester is the go-to textile for most workout apparel — essentially plastic woven into fiber and then made into cloth. It’s lightweight, durable, resists wrinkles and wicks moisture. Lately, many brands are moving to partially- or completely-recycled polyester, or other innovative materials like plant-based yarns and fabrics in an effort to combat the polluting effects of fashion. If you want to experiment with a non-polyester fabric, just know that innovation typically comes with a higher price tag. If you can afford it, go for it, but if not, polyester is still a solid option. Additionally, below are a few helpful definitions to make reading those tags a little easier prior to purchase:

DWR: Stands for “durable water repellent,” a coating added to fabrics to make them water-resistant.

Nylon: A synthetic thermoplastic linear polyamide known for being strong, durable, elastic, easy to clean and water-resistant.

Polyester: A category of polymers commonly used in clothing and home furnishings. They can be naturally occurring or synthetic. Generally speaking, polyester is a strong material that’s stain-resistant, water-resistant and wind-resistant.

Polygiene: An antimicrobial silver chloride treatment applied at the finishing stages of textile production to control odor in a garment.

Spandex: A fiber made of a long chain of a synthetic polymer composed of at least 85 percent of a segmented polyurethane. It’s stretchy while retaining its length and shape. It’s durable, smooth, comfortable and resistant to abrasion. Also known as Lycra and Elastane.

Size and Fit

How your shorts fit can vary greatly across different disciplines. For runners, the best gym shorts are styles that are minimal, lightweight and shorter (5 inches or less) for easy movement. Weight trainers can look to opt for a longer style (think 9-inch inseam) offering more coverage and protection from barbell abrasions. For the multi-discipline fitness enthusiasts, go for personal comfort over being tied to one style.

Other Features

Outside of fit, length and materials, you can also look for convenient add-ons when searching for that premier pair of gym shorts. McCormack states, “I definitely like having a back pocket. It’s always good for your phone or something like that.” When looking at pocket profiles, we also prefer those that feature at least one zippered closure for added storage security.

Other conveniences like built-in liners, lay-flat waistbands and other additions can also enhance your training experience, but these aren’t absolutely necessary when it comes to finding the ideal pair for you. If your gym shorts don’t feature a built-in liner, be sure to pair them with a performance-laden pair of compression shorts to get the most out of your ensemble. Above all else, make sure your bottoms are comfortable, flexible and functional enough for unhindered workout potential.

How We Tested

collage of gym shorts Ben Emminger

Through our various training disciplines and fitness-related activities, we’ve sported plenty of workout-ready bottoms. Whether signing up for intense leg days, heart-pounding agility training, calming yoga flows and more, we’ve tested a number of these shorts, noting the apparel’s resilience, comfort and added features like lay-flat waistbands and convenient pockets. Plus, if you look good, you train good, so bonus points were given on style and aesthetics as well.

Now, let’s get into our picks of the best gym shorts.

To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here.

Pros

  • Polyester/Spandex shell fabric is sweat-wicking and quick-drying

Cons

  • Larger smartphones might not fit in zippered pockets
  • Inseam: 7-inch (other inseam lengths available)
  • Materials: 86% Polyester, 14% Spandex

Most of us don’t have the budget — or time — for 12 different pairs of shorts for 12 different activities. We’d prefer one pair of shorts we can wear for virtually every athletic pursuit. If that describes you, the Interval is a perfect silhouette. Featuring a thick no-pinch waistband, a few well-placed pockets and an ultra-wicking shell (plus a comfy liner for added security), these shorts easily accommodate kettlebell swings, med ball tosses, box jumps and bench presses. Every detail is painstakingly considered, leading to a pair of shorts you don’t have to think twice about. “The simplicity and refined minimalist details are what I love the most,” says Mike Aidala, personal coach and founder of the MAST Method.

ten thousand interval short Ben Emminger

The wicking shell, comfortable waistband and versatile performance make the Interval Short a must-have silhouette for any training wardrobe.

Pros

  • Plenty durable for intense training

Cons

  • Lined models are not compression-lined
  • Inseam: 7-inch (other inseam lengths available)
  • Materials: 80% Nylon, 12% Polyester, 9% Spandex

These impressive shorts boast a four-way stretch fabric that’s prime for pushing limits in training. We also like the laser-cut perforations at the rear, giving each lift and set a nice sense of breathability. Lined and linerless options are available in the Luka Shorts, but be warned — the liners are not compression, so don’t expect the same support and snugness you typically rely on from your other compression shorts.

legends luka short Ben Emminger

The Luka Shorts feature exceptional breathability and style thanks to laser perforations across the rear of the silhouette.

Pros

  • 9-inch inseam provides great coverage for varied workout disciplines

Cons

  • Thinner makeup can begin to fray after a few washes
  • Inseam: 9-inch
  • Materials: 100% Polyester

If you’re more focused on building a rotation of gym shorts for weeks of in-gym use, consider these classic, no frills bottoms from Under Armour. We’ve had plenty of these 9-inch models over the years and always enjoy the comfort of the Tech Mesh fabric. Plus, there’s ample coverage without being too obnoxious across the thighs and knees, which helps promote maneuverability in varied training scenarios. These shorts will begin to fray if you’re not washing them with some added care, so to preserve your shorts lineups as best as possible, pay attention to the laundry instructions.

Pros

  • Polygiene treatment helps keep your wardrobe fresh and funk free

Cons

  • Pockets can run shallow and lead to your essentials falling out if not secured properly
  • Inseam: 5-inch (other inseam lengths available)
  • Materials: 100% Polyester Stretch Ripstop with a DWR Finish

Technically sound and ready for the road, Patagonia delivers, once again, with these top-tier running shorts. The Strider Pros are Fair Trade-Certified sewn and feature a polyester stretch ripstop body fabric that’s durable and water-repellent. One of the key highlights from testing was the external drawcord that allowed for a custom fit without that pesky bunching around your belly button. And when our miles took our training far into the evening, a reflective logo along the front-center hem helped us stay visible to oncoming traffic and other passersby.

patagonia strider pro Ben Emminger

The external drawcord across the Patagonia profile helps eliminate any pesky bunchy or uncomfortable setups when pacing through a workout.

Pros

  • Four-way stretch fabric has a good sense of give for full range of motion

Cons

  • No lined options available
  • Inseam: 7-inch (other inseam lengths available)
  • Materials: 90% Polyester, 10% Spandex

We already trust Gymreapers for our weightlifting belts and other accessories, so it makes sense that the gym-minded brand absolutely kills it with these squat-ready shorts. We like how the four-way stretch fabric gives and moves through a full range of motion, and the convenient zippered pocket is also a plus for keeping our smartphone or earbuds close by. We’ve also ran these shorts through multiple wash cycles and experienced no signs of wear and tear. These are linerless bottoms, though, with no option for a built-in brief. This wasn’t a negative for us, but could deter some athletes.

gymreapers performance shorts Ben Emminger

While the unlined makeup may not be for everyone, these Gymreapers shorts have proven to be up to most tasks in the weight room.

Pros

  • Micro ripstop texture and nylon content material provide substantial durability

Cons

  • Nylon fabric can be noisy at times
  • Inseam: 6-inch
  • Materials: 85% Nylon. 15% Elastane

Nobull’s no stranger to CrossFit, and the brand’s presence in the discipline is only magnified by these worthwhile Micro Ripstop Shorts. We found the 6-inch inseam to provide just the right amount of coverage and also found the nylon fabric to be durable across box jumps, rope climbs, wall slams and more. Plus, the four-way stretch doesn’t impede your maneuverability, which is a definite perk when sprinting from circuit to circuit. If you can, though, it may be wise to train with some headphones in, as the fabric can rustle at times and may become distracting.

nobull micro ripstop short Ben Emminger

The nylon-heavy makeup of these impressive Nobull shorts helps promote better durability, albeit in a louder, crinkle-filled build.

Pros

  • Soft and lightweight shell easily moves with you through multiple movements and modalities

Cons

  • Liner is not compression-based, which can lead to a looser, baggier fit
  • Inseam: 5-inch (other inseam lengths available)
  • Materials: Shell: 86% Nylon, 14% Elastane / Liner: 89% Polyester, 11% Spandex

Tackling some plyometrics in your normal workout routine? Consider these training-ready bottoms from Tracksmith boasting a soft, lightweight, performance fabric that easily moves with you whether changing direction, changing paces or just skipping into a new set. We love the on-skin feel of these shorts, and the brief liner is another added touch that harkens to the brand’s running routes. The 5-inch inseam allows for excellent mobility through multiple training modalities, but Tracksmith also offers the Session Shorts in a 7-inch cut for added coverage. Unfortunately, however, the liner isn’t compression-based, meaning you may experience a baggier fit than other shorts in this roundup.

tracksmith session short Ben Emminger

The Tracksmith Session Shorts also boast a brief liner internally for added support and stability when it comes to pacing through your sessions.

Pros

  • 8-inch inseam provides excellent coverage for a slurry of fitness disciplines

Cons

  • DWR finish can begin to run hot
  • Inseam: 8-inch
  • Materials: Repreve Recycled Polyester

If you’re a fan of unlined shorts, we highly recommend these impressive bottoms from Roark’s Run Amok collection. The Serrano 2.0 shorts boasts a durable, lightweight frame and 8-inch inseam, which is perfect for providing ample coverage in strength workouts while still feeling loose and weightless enough for running endeavors. Plus, this collection boasts some of our favorite prints and designs including special collaborations with the likes of Motörhead and Black Sabbath. Be sure to keep yourself cool in these shorts, though, if you’re working out indoors. These bottoms also feature a DWR finish that’s great for keeping rain at bay but can begin to lock in moisture from the inside out.

roark run amok serrano shorts Ben Emminger

The Serrano 2.0s are also a style-focused favorite of ours thanks to key collaborations with some of music’s most popular bands including Black Sabbath and Motörhead.

purple gym shortsRhone

Most Versatile: Rhone Mako Tech Unlined Short

Pros

  • DWR finish makes these great for outdoor training scenarios, especially in inclement weather

Cons

  • Drawcord featured in the elastic waistband can be uncomfortable at times
  • Inseam: 7-inch (other inseam lengths available)
  • Materials: 90% Polyester, 10% Elastane

While there’s plenty of shorts in this roundup that are multifaceted, our tester couldn’t find a discipline where the Rhone Mako Tech shorts didn’t perform exceptionally well. We like these bottoms for everything from hard-nosed squat sessions to relaxed and blissful yoga flows, and the four-way stretch perfectly creates that profile that moves with you in every exercise. While our tester did notice some uncomfortable rubbing at the waistband on a few occasions due to the thick drawcord pronounced in the build, we still admire how these do-it-all shorts can truly do it all.

rhone mako tech unlined short Ben Emminger

The stretchy, resilient makeup across the Mako Tech shorts makes it a solid option for a bevy of fitness disciplines.

Pros

  • Stay-Put waistband sits comfortably across the midsection

Cons

  • Colorways aren’t universal across the varying inseams
  • Inseam: 7-inch (other inseam lengths available)
  • Materials: 80% Recycled Polyester, 20% Elastane

Seriously, these are some cozy training shorts. The lightweight polyester blend sits effortlessly across the thighs during movement, but what we really admired in testing was the Stay-Put waistband. The soft material keeps everything in-place without digging into the hips, and the flat interior drawstring also eliminates any bulging knots from imprinting along your midriff. The Apex Hybrid Shorts are available in 5- and 7-inch inseams, but sadly, the available colorways aren’t universal across these cuts. This lineup is still rather new to the Gymshark stable, though, so hopefully offerings improve as this Apex family ages.

gymshark apex hybrid short Ben Emminger

The Apex Hybrid Shorts are available in 5-inch or 7-inch cuts, but sadly, the color palette isn’t universal across these offerings.

Pros

  • Built-in compression liner sits comfortably without too much constriction

Cons

  • Colorways may be too vibrant for more minimalist athletes
  • Inseam: 5.5-inch (other inseam lengths available)
  • Materials: Shell: 86% Polyester, 14% Spandex / Liner: 85% Polyester, 15% Spandex

Pre-workout isn’t the only thing that can give your training a jolt of energy. Take these impressive lined shorts from Chubbies. Falling right in-line with the brand’s vibrant motif, the Ultimate Training Shorts are available in a variety of flashy styles that can easily boost your confidence when tackling a notebook’s worth of exercises. We enjoyed the comfort of the snug yet cozy compression liner that didn’t completely strangle our thighs during workouts, and the double-layered waistband rides perfectly across the midsection. While some might prefer a more subdued aesthetic, for our money, these shorts are the perfect amount of flair.

chubbies ultimate training short Ben Emminger

We appreciate how these Chubbies shorts rely on the included liner to give these bottoms a nice, unique dose of vibrancy and flair.

Pros

  • Convenient towel/shirt loop keeps your gear in-tote as you flex through a workout

Cons

  • Inseam feels shorter when worn, which can lead to less versatile wearability
  • Inseam: 7-inch
  • Materials: Outer Shell: 86% Polyester, 14% Spandex / Inner: 91% Nylon, 9% Spandex

These shockingly affordable shorts boast handy features such as lightweight, breathable fabric, an inner compression liner (with added phone pocket) and four-way stretch. But the reason they earn their unique superlative is simple: a designated waist-loop on the back left is perfect for stashing a workout towel or, you know, your workout shirt. These are a little thicker than other shorts on this list, but don’t let that deter you from rocking these ready-to-go bottoms that are prime for showing off your gains.

born tough air pro 2in1 lined shorts Ben Emminger

While slightly thicker than others in this guide, the included rear loop make these an excellent option for flex sessions in front of the mirror.

Pros

  • Japanese-milled Solotex Mesh is ultra breathable and downright comfortable whether tending to meetings or getting in a quick set

Cons

  • Not the most ideal option for intense training where sweat is unavoidable
  • Inseam: 6-inch
  • Materials: 100% Polyester

Okay, so maybe you’re an athlete that needs to work in a gym session in-between morning Zoom meetings and emails. Well, to make your at-home work more accommodating, and your laundry hamper less full, we recommend these comfy Solotex Mesh shorts from Reigning Champ. Whether sitting in a desk chair or sitting at their rowing machine, our tester loved the breathable comfort of these stylish yet performance-ready bottoms. While not the best pick for intense training (the smooth knit reverse can get hot during grueling exercises), if you want a short that’s all business — pun intended — look no further.

Editor’s Note: If you like the luxe aesthetic of Reigning Champ but want a more training-oriented short silhouette, we also recommend the brand’s Dot Air Running Shorts that feature a built-in liner and four-way stretch.

reigning champ solotex mesh shorts Ben Emminger

The Solotex Mesh material is one of the most comfortable textiles in this guide, making these Reigning Champ shorts a top pick for working out and hanging out.

Pros

  • Short 3-inch inseam promotes flexibility, complimented by a split action outer seam for added range of motion

Cons

  • Back pocket may be too small for some larger smartphones
  • Inseam: 3-inch (other inseam lengths available)
  • Materials: AFO: 88% Recycled Polyester, 12% Elastane / Liner: 94% Polyester, 6% Spandex

As our top pick for long-distance running shorts, these bottoms have exceptional breathability thanks to a deep split up the outer seam. What does this mean for training purposes? Cooler temps, greater range of motion and plenty of thigh. Our tester notably spent a majority of their time in these shorts along their favorite outdoor running routes, but also took in some training sessions in the gym as well. The performance shone through in every scenario, and if you’re confident enough to show this much skin when training, these can be the ultimate exclamation point in any wardrobe.

Pros

  • Lightweight, ultra-stretch fabric doesn’t hinder movement

Cons

  • Baggy pockets aren’t as secure
  • Inseam: 7.5-inch (other inseam lengths available)
  • Materials: 46% Recycled Polyester, 44% Polyester, 10% Elastane

For poses like downward dog and warrior II, you want to keep things classy with a liner. These shorts, from laidback-California-cool brand Vuori, not only offer a breathable boxer-brief liner, but they’re also uber-comfortable thanks to quick-drying four-way stretch fabric and a roomier fit. We felt no discomfort when changing poses on our yoga mats, and a helpful anti-odor treatment keeps you from stinking up the studio, too.

vuori kore short Ben Emminger

The lightweight, flowing nature of these Kore Shorts help you achieve a slew of poses without being held back by your apparel.

Pros

  • Comfortable fit for dominating the court

Cons

  • Limited colorways available
  • Inseam: N/A
  • Materials: 100% Polyester

Take your play above the rim in these stylish court essentials. Made from breathable, lightweight, sweat-wicking mesh, these shorts hark back to Jordan’s playing days with the iconic diamond side panels and added heritage-inspired details throughout. Convenient side pockets are a good place to put your hands, too — when they aren’t mimicking the “I don’t know” shrug after draining too many 3s, of course.

The Difference Between Running Shorts and Gym Shorts

line break

You might already have a drawer’s worth of running-specific shorts at the ready, but should you be using these sleek, cardio-focused bottoms for in-gym work, too? For starters, running shorts are often shorter and more breathable than your typical workout short. This is to help keep your natural gait in flow through your routes while also providing a good sense of comfort. Gym shorts, on the other hand, can provide a little more coverage and help keep your thighs protected from scraping barbells, resting dumbbells and more in-gym contact.

In theory, you’re plenty capable of getting a proper workout in either silhouette, but given the less coverage across the running profiles, you may feel more comfortable at the training center in a longer inseam. There’s nothing stopping you from testing the waters, though, so if you want to really show off those quads one day, go for it. Comfort in your clothes and comfort in your style choices is the ultimate goal here, not fitting your wardrobe into a specific niche.

More Workout Gear

a man wearing olive shorts carrying a weight Ten Thousand

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