There are places where you can’t cut corners: The gym or your daily training session are certainly two of them, but the gear you wear during said training—like athletic shorts—is undoubtedly another.
I’ve been wearing athletic shorts for years, from the gym to the football field to the weight room and back, and I have my favorites. I need stretch, durability, moisture wicking ability and (these days) at least, a slightly shorter inseam length. You probably feel the same way, but when it comes to getting the right shorts for your training session, they become crucial.
In the same way you increase the level of your training and push for a personal best, upgrading the gear you wear can help you meet those goals more easily.
It’s like finding the right set of weights, or the right weight for your right number of reps–when you find it, you know it, and when you hit your stride, you can really see it. The same goes for getting into the best workout shorts, which can deliver essential mobility, much-needed moisture-wicking capabilities and all-around durability for repeated wear.
The best gym shorts have useful details like zip pockets, abrasion-resistant fabric and the right length and fit—all the better to power those repeat training sessions and new personal bests. These are all key components that I look for in my favorite menswear brands, and you should too.
The next time you heed that wake-up call to hit the gym, do so in the best pair of workout shorts–like my favorites below.
Vuori Kore Short
The Kore Shorts from Vuori Clothing are super comfortable, wick away moisture at the first drop, and as Vuori says, are designed to be “one short for every sport.”
Even my go-to shorts for most activities these days, are mostly athletic, but can easily be worn for hiking or trail running, too. That’s the kind of resource you can really use in your life.
Champion Lightweight Lounge Shorts
Champion has long been the expert when it comes to heritage sportswear – they helped bring the category to the masses, after all. These durable shorts combine the comfort of a lounge short with the rugged performance of some of the best athletic shorts.
Keap Athletics Active Shorts
If you were to scour the market for (perhaps) “good” athletic shorts, Keap Athletics might have hit the nail on the head.
There’s a lot to love about these durable shorts designed for movement, from the 7” flexible inseam to the durable four-way fabric and modern cut.
An oversized waistband ensures a snug fit no matter what you want to do, but winning details like a reinforced back pocket and easy-access, secure front pockets take it to the next level.
WOLACO Warren Shorts
When WOLACO started perfecting workout shorts, they said they did so with a focus on shorts that “will fit into every part of our lifestyle.”
At first glance, it looks like the Warren Shorts could be your new go-to shorts when it comes to the best athletic shorts, featuring a durable, pill-resistant nylon and spandex fabric blend with details like a sweat-wicking zippered phone pocket. To that I say: You did well, WOLACO.
Ten Thousand Interval Shorts
Of all the companies in the arms race to make the best workout shorts, Ten Thousand seems to be going above and beyond. They’ve caught my eye a lot over the years, with the aim of taking over your gym wardrobe. It’s a task I’ve found them to be successful in pursuing, at least when I’m thinking of buying my own wardrobe.
Even better is that they work with athletes to wear-test each product, then turn those tests into some of the coolest and most advanced pieces on the market. In the case of the Interval Shorts, that means a bunch-free waistband and moisture-wicking shorts with a lightweight fabric blend.
Lululemon Pace Breaker Shorts
While some exercises are designed for muscle and strength, others are designed for easy speed. Especially if you’re on the road or trail, the more athletic your shorts are, the faster you’ll go.
It’s basic, sure, but Lululemon kept efficiency in mind with its Pace Breaker Shorts. They boast a variety of inseams and an unlined option, and feature a zippered bottom pocket for added utility. The range of colors can take over your workout wardrobe most days of the week.
Short Reign of Champ Training
Reigning Champ’s well-crafted athletic gear—including gym-friendly sweatshirts and joggers—always seems to deliver both premium quality and hard-hitting training details in one perfect package.
I’m a big fan of the Canadian brand because of its durability, even in extreme, post-workout situations, but let’s focus on the job at hand: The shorts you need for your workout.
The aptly named Training Shorts do that very well: The four-sided fabric is finished with Durable Water-Repellent for workout abilities anywhere, while reinforced side seams add much-needed durability, too.
Under Armor Tech Mesh Shorts
If it’s a proven classic you’re looking for when it comes to the best athletic shorts, then Under Armor is the brand to buy.
A US company has changed the game with workout shirts designed for college football players who sweat in extreme heat during outdoor practices. That technology carries over to the ultra-efficient, subtle yet functional shorts, which use an all-over mesh fabric for a soft, breathable feel.
The wide range of colors should give you ample opportunity to add simple-yet-functional workout shorts to your collection.
Nike Dri-FIT Iconic Short
Nike shorts and athletic gear often deliver on issues of reliable performance and good looks that are instantly noticeable. These Dri-FIT Shorts are a winner in both areas, with a classic “Swoosh” design and performance fabric meant for plenty of tough training sessions.