Ever feel like your gym shorts are holding you back? You know, the ones that bunch up, feel too tight, or just don’t let you move freely? It’s a common problem for guys hitting the gym, and it can be super frustrating. Picking the perfect pair shouldn’t be a workout in itself!
Finding gym shorts that are comfortable, look good, and actually help you perform better can feel like a mission. You want something that wicks away sweat, doesn’t chafe, and lets you do all your lunges and squats without a second thought. But with so many styles, fabrics, and brands out there, it’s easy to get lost.
In this post, we’re going to break down exactly what to look for. We’ll help you understand the different types of shorts, what materials work best for different activities, and how to find a fit that makes you feel confident and ready to crush your next workout. Get ready to say goodbye to uncomfortable gym sessions and hello to shorts that actually support your fitness goals!
Our Top 5 Gym Shorts For Guys Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Gym Shorts For Guys Detailed Reviews
1. Gaglg Men’s 5″ Running Shorts 2 Pack Quick Dry Athletic Workout Gym Shorts with Zipper Pockets Black/Green
Rating: 8.6/10
Ready to upgrade your workout gear? The Gaglg Men’s 5″ Running Shorts 2 Pack offers a fantastic combination of comfort, performance, and style. This pack comes in a sleek Black/Green colorway and a Medium size, perfect for your next gym session or outdoor adventure.
What We Like:
- These shorts are super lightweight and feel great on your skin, offering an ideal drape for any activity.
- The premium polyester fabric is built to last, with double lock stitching ensuring durability.
- You’ll stay cool and dry thanks to the quick-dry and breathable fabric that promotes great ventilation.
- The relaxed fit and rugged cut-off hem look good and allow for easy movement, whether you’re running or training.
- Dual concealed zippered pockets securely hold your small essentials, like keys or a card.
- The elastic waistband with an invisible drawcord keeps the shorts in place, even during intense workouts.
- Unique cuts and details add a stylish touch to these fitness shorts.
- A breathable elastic panel between the sides and inner seams enhances both ventilation and flexibility for maximum training potential.
- These shorts are versatile and suitable for a wide range of activities, from running and jogging to basketball and hiking.
- Gaglg is committed to customer satisfaction and offers solutions if you’re not happy with your purchase.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the sizing chart is provided, it’s always helpful to have user reviews specifically mentioning fit accuracy for different body types.
- More color options or patterns in the 2-pack could add variety.
These Gaglg running shorts are a solid choice for any active man. They combine practical features with a comfortable and stylish design, making them a reliable companion for your fitness journey.
2. Kinglaman 4 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Workout Shorts with Liner
Rating: 8.8/10
Looking for versatile shorts that can handle your workouts and everyday life? The Kinglaman 4 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Workout Shorts offer a smart solution. This pack includes four pairs in classic colors: two black, one blue, and one gray, all in a size Large. They’re designed to keep you comfortable and supported, no matter what you’re doing.
What We Like:
- The 2-in-1 design is a game-changer. The outer mesh shorts are super breathable. The inner compression shorts hug your thighs, giving your muscles great support. This helps you perform better and feel more comfortable.
- You’ll love the smart pocket system. There’s a special pocket for your phone, so it stays out of the way. Two side pockets hold your small essentials. A back zipper pocket is perfect for your keys, money, or cards.
- These shorts dry incredibly fast. The advanced quick-dry technology means you stay dry and fresh, even during intense workouts or on hot days.
- They are really lightweight and breathable. This lets air flow freely, keeping you cool. The quick-dry feature also stops sweat from building up, so you feel comfortable all day long.
- Their design is perfect for many different activities. You can wear them for running, hitting the gym, or just hanging out. They are truly multi-occasion shorts.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the compression liner offers good support, some users might prefer a slightly less snug fit.
- The pocket placement, especially the back zipper pocket, might take a little getting used to for some individuals.
Overall, the Kinglaman 2-in-1 shorts are a solid choice for active men. They blend comfort, functionality, and style to support your every move.
3. 3 Pack Gym Basketball Mens Shorts – Quick Dry Black Workout Athletic Shorts with Pockets for Casual Running (S-6XL)
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your workout wardrobe with this 3-pack of BOOJO men’s gym shorts. These black athletic shorts are designed for comfort and performance, whether you’re hitting the basketball court, going for a run, or just lounging around. They come in a wide range of sizes, from S to 6XL, ensuring a great fit for everyone.
What We Like:
- These shorts are super lightweight and breathable, keeping you cool and dry during any activity.
- The premium polyester fabric feels soft and stretchy, so it won’t irritate your skin.
- They have deep, secure pockets that hold your phone, keys, and wallet safely.
- The elastic waistband and drawstring provide a snug and comfortable fit that stays put.
- With a 9-inch inseam, they offer plenty of room for movement and reduce friction.
- This 3-pack is a great value, offering multiple pairs for different occasions.
- They are perfect for many activities like basketball, running, yoga, and casual wear.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the black color is classic, a wider variety of color options within the pack would be nice.
These shorts offer a fantastic combination of comfort, practicality, and value. They are a solid choice for anyone looking for versatile athletic wear.
4. NIMOJIRO Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts Workout Athletic Shorts Outdoor Sports with Liner Lightweight Training Yoga Gym Shorts with Phone Pockets Black XL
Rating: 8.6/10
The NIMOJIRO Men’s 2-in-1 Running Shorts are designed for active guys who want comfort and support during their workouts. These shorts combine a cool outer layer with built-in compression shorts. They are made from a breathable, stretchy fabric that wicks away sweat. You can wear them for running, gym sessions, or even yoga. The black XL size offers a good fit for many. These shorts have practical features like phone pockets and an adjustable waistband, making them a versatile choice for any activity.
What We Like:
- The 2-in-1 design gives you the best of both worlds: a breezy outer short and supportive inner compression shorts.
- The quick-dry fabric keeps you cool and dry, even during tough workouts.
- The built-in compression shorts help support your thigh muscles, which can boost your performance.
- The adjustable drawstring waistband ensures a comfortable and secure fit.
- The inner lining has a handy, well-made pocket for your phone or other small items.
- The material is breathable, stretchy, and anti-stink, so you’ll feel fresh.
- These shorts are durable and keep their shape after washing, meaning they’ll last a long time.
- They work well for many different activities, from basketball to yoga and everyday wear.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the phone pocket is a nice touch, some users might find it a bit small for larger phones.
- The “tight fit” of the compression shorts might be too snug for some individuals who prefer a looser feel.
Overall, these NIMOJIRO shorts are a solid choice for anyone looking for comfortable and functional athletic wear. They offer great features for the price, making them a good addition to your workout gear.
5. OCYMA 3 Pack Men’s 2 In1 Gym Shorts Men with Pockets 7 inch Workout Shorts Men Running Shorts with Liner&Towel Loop
Rating: 9.5/10
OCYMA presents a 3-pack of men’s 7-inch 2-in-1 gym shorts designed for the active individual. These shorts offer a smart combination of style and function, making them a great addition to any workout wardrobe.
What We Like:
- The 2-in-1 design features a breathable mesh outer layer and a supportive compression liner. This helps keep you dry and comfortable by wicking away sweat. It also provides extra muscle support during tough workouts.
- These shorts are packed with useful pockets. You get side pockets for quick access and a zippered security pocket for your valuables like keys or cards.
- A handy towel loop on the back is perfect for wiping sweat during intense exercise. This helps you stay focused and comfortable.
- The elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring ensures a secure and personalized fit. They stay put even during fast movements like sprinting or hiking.
- These shorts are versatile and suitable for many activities, including running, yoga, basketball, and training. Their simple, solid color design is classic and easy to match.
- They are easy to care for and machine washable, maintaining their shape over time.
What Could Be Improved:
- The sizing guidance suggests sizing up for a looser fit. This might mean some customers need to experiment to find their perfect size.
Overall, these OCYMA 2-in-1 gym shorts offer excellent features for comfort and performance. They are a practical and well-designed choice for any active man.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Gym Shorts for Guys
Choosing the right gym shorts makes a big difference in your workout. You want shorts that feel good, let you move freely, and last a long time. This guide will help you find the perfect pair.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for gym shorts, keep these important features in mind:
- Length: Shorts come in different lengths. Shorter shorts are great for showing off your leg day gains and offer more freedom. Longer shorts provide more coverage and can feel more comfortable for some activities. Think about what feels best for you.
- Fit: Some shorts are loose and baggy, while others are more fitted. Loose shorts offer maximum airflow and don’t restrict movement. Fitted shorts can help you feel more streamlined and sometimes offer a bit of support.
- Pockets: Do you need to carry your phone, keys, or a small snack? Look for shorts with pockets. Some have zippered pockets, which are excellent for keeping your belongings secure during intense workouts.
- Waistband: A comfortable waistband is crucial. Look for elastic waistbands that aren’t too tight. Many shorts also have drawstrings, so you can adjust the fit perfectly.
- Inseam: This is the length of the fabric from the crotch to the bottom hem. A shorter inseam means shorter shorts. A longer inseam means longer shorts.
Important Materials
The material of your gym shorts affects how they feel and perform.
- Polyester: This is a very common and good choice. Polyester is durable and dries quickly. It’s also resistant to wrinkles.
- Spandex (Elastane/Lycra): This material adds stretch. Shorts with spandex move with your body, which is perfect for any kind of exercise.
- Cotton: Cotton is soft and breathable. However, it can absorb sweat and take a long time to dry. For heavy workouts, cotton shorts might feel heavy and damp.
- Nylon: Nylon is strong and lightweight. It’s also good at wicking away moisture.
Many shorts blend these materials to get the best of both worlds.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a pair of gym shorts great or not so great?
- Stitching: Look for strong, double-stitched seams. This means the shorts will hold up better to wear and tear. Flimsy stitching can unravel quickly.
- Fabric Weight: Lighter fabrics are good for hot weather and cardio. Heavier fabrics might offer more durability and a bit more warmth for cooler days or weightlifting.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often have a history of making quality athletic wear. They invest in good materials and construction.
- Price: While not always true, very cheap shorts might be made with lower-quality materials or less careful construction. You usually get what you pay for.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do gym shorts perform in real life?
- Running: For running, you want lightweight shorts that don’t chafe. Breathable fabrics and a good fit are important. Many runners prefer shorter inseams for freedom.
- Weightlifting: When lifting weights, you need shorts that allow for a full range of motion. Shorts that don’t ride up are a plus. A bit of stretch is helpful here.
- Cross-Training/HIIT: High-intensity workouts mean you’ll sweat a lot. Moisture-wicking materials are essential. Shorts that are durable and won’t restrict quick movements are key.
- Casual Wear: Many guys wear gym shorts for lounging or running errands. Comfort is the top priority here. Soft fabrics and a relaxed fit are great for this.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Gym Shorts for Guys
Q: What is the best material for gym shorts?
A: Polyester or a blend with spandex is usually best. They are durable, dry fast, and stretch well.
Q: Should gym shorts be tight or loose?
A: It depends on your preference and activity. Loose shorts offer more airflow, while fitted shorts can offer support and a streamlined feel.
Q: How long should gym shorts be?
A: Shorts come in different lengths. Shorter shorts give more freedom, while longer shorts offer more coverage.
Q: Do I need pockets in my gym shorts?
A: Pockets are useful for carrying small items like keys or a phone. Zippered pockets are extra secure.
Q: What does “inseam” mean on gym shorts?
A: The inseam is the length of the shorts from the crotch down to the hem.
Q: Will cotton gym shorts work for my workout?
A: Cotton is comfortable, but it absorbs sweat and dries slowly. It might not be ideal for intense workouts.
Q: How can I tell if gym shorts are good quality?
A: Look for strong stitching and durable fabric. Well-known brands often make quality shorts.
Q: Can I wear gym shorts outside the gym?
A: Yes, many gym shorts are comfortable enough for lounging or casual wear.
Q: What is the purpose of a drawstring on gym shorts?
A: A drawstring lets you adjust the waistband for a snug and comfortable fit.
Q: How should I care for my gym shorts?
A: Follow the care instructions on the label. Usually, washing in cool water and air drying helps them last longer.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.