Our testers think these are the best gym shorts for men in 2026

The best gym shorts for men give you the freedom to move without chafing, restriction or overheating during your gym sessions. We slip on a selection of shorts so you can pick your perfect pair.

Gym shorts are a bit like sports boxers: not the most exciting bit of gear, but find the best pair and you won’t want to wear anything else. The same goes for running shorts.

Conversely, wear the wrong type of shorts and you’ll soon know it. Because if you’ve had the misfortune of wearing an ill-fitting or ill-suited pair you’ll know that the chafing and general discomfort can ruin a workout.

Of course, style is subjective and there are various lengths, colors and materials to choose from. However, most men want a pair that sit an inch or two above the knee (those hard-earned quad muscles deserve some limelight). You also want the shorts material to be light enough to go unnoticed during high-intensity workouts. Though they shouldn’t be so flimsy that your gentleman’s agreement takes center stage.

Zipped pockets can be good if you prefer to hit the gym sans backpack. But bear in mind that big zips can rattle around, which can be off-putting during vigorous exercises – burpees, for example.

To help make your decision easier, here’s our list of the best gym shorts for men.

Best gym shorts at a glance

Best gym shorts overall	Competition is fierce in this category but we think the Vuori Kore Short makes pretty good on its claim to be ‘one short for every sport’. They’re comfortable yet durable enough for everything from gym-based workouts to Sunday strolls to the local cafe.
Best for mixed workouts	Surprisingly for a company focused on athletic track wear, the Tracksmith Session Shorts get our vote for those who like to mix up their sessions. A split seam and comfy stretch fabric help it cope with all kinds of cardio and cross-training.
Best hybrid gym/casual shorts	The inexpensive C-Tech Poly Shorts from Champion would be our choice for gym/casual crossover shorts. Their mid-weight material and flattering slim-line cut offer plenty of coffee-shop comfort and coverage.
Best for storage	If you want shorts with storage, check out the Sodo Core Shorts. With liner pockets, hand pockets and a no-bounce phone pocket (as well as a utility loop), your stowing options are covered.

1. Vuori Kore Short

Reviewed by Kieran Alger

Vuori specializes in versatile workout gear blending functionality with style. The Kore Shorts epitomize this ethos, transitioning effortlessly from casual hangouts to intense workouts. Crafted from a soft, breathable four-way stretch fabric made of recycled materials, these shorts offer comfort and mobility. Available in various lengths and with or without a liner, they cater to individual preferences.

They provide minimal storage, featuring three pockets, including two side pockets and a small back pocket. Despite this, their elastic drawstring waistband ensures a secure fit. Tested through various activities from gym sessions to outdoor runs, the shorts excelled in comfort and flexibility. The boxer-style liner, though lacking flat seams, effectively manages sweat and offers support without being restrictive.

While lacking ample storage, the Vuori Kore Shorts shine in comfort and versatility, making them a solid choice for both active pursuits and casual wear.

• Read our full Vuori Kore Short review

2. Sodo Core Short

We can forgive the Sodo Core Shorts’ high price, as that’s the only negative thing about them. Both the shell and lining are super-comfy, with plenty of stretch and flexibility. Perforated panels ensure a decent amount of air flow when you start to crank things up and any moisture that does accumulate dries almost instantly.

A water-repellant outer shell gives these shorts an edge outdoors and six useful pockets give you plenty of options if you wear these out on the trail for long periods. We used the Core Shorts for strength sessions, HIIT and Hyrox, as well as mobility work and even track sessions, and they took every workout in their stride.

3. Tracksmith Session Shorts

Reviewed by Laurence McJannet

The Tracksmith Session Shorts have become one of my go-to choices for training sessions, living up to their promise of versatility and comfort. Whether I’m pushing through track sprints or venturing on longer off-road adventures, these shorts keep me moving freely and feeling light. The Veloce stretch knit fabric feels incredibly soft against my skin, offering not just comfort but also UV protection, breathability and good moisture-wicking performance.

I like its soft liner, which, unlike the Twilight shorts, boasts Polygiene antimicrobial powers to keep things fresh. With handy storage pockets, including a convenient internal drop-in pocket and a spacious rear zippered one, they easily accommodate my essentials. Available in a range of sizes and eye-catching colors, they’re not just functional but also make a statement, fitting right in at post-run social gatherings. And for those who prefer a bit more coverage, there’s a 7-inch option available.

• Read our full Tracksmith Session Shorts review

4. Champion Stretch Poly C-Tech Shorts

Reviewed by Laurence McJannet

If you’re looking for shorts that will serve you well both in the gym and around town, I don’t think you can go wrong with these Poly C-Tech Shorts from Champion. Their mid-weight design and flattering form-fitting cut means comfort and coverage are guaranteed. I wore them for yoga sessions, mobility drills and lighter workouts, though they’d perhaps be too heavy for more intense sessions.

Heat-sealed zips mean nothing will escape from those pockets, while the integrated elastic waistband is one of the comfiest I’ve tested – there’s no way it can roll or cut into you. There’s enough stretch to cope with most workouts, but so much to make them feel like gym-only shorts. I’m hoping for an Indian summer, just so I can keep wearing them.

How we tested the best gym shorts

Our testers put each pair of shorts through their paces over at least a month. They wore them for a mixture of workouts. These ranged from strength work and HIIT sessions to cardio and cross training, with yoga and stretching sessions thrown in for good measure. They put them through multiple washes and tested them for fit, comfort, versatility, durability and coverage.

They also looked for shorts with good sustainability credentials as well as lightweight, stretchy and moisture-wicking fabrics. Additionally, extra features such as zipped storage, reversible waistbands and drawcord adjustability were taken into account too. And finally, they considered the range of sizes and colors, as well as style and suitability for wearing them outside the gym.

How to choose the best gym shorts for your workout

The best way to choose the right shorts for your workouts is to consider the type of exercise you do. What are the most important features that will help you perform better? Is flexibility of movement most important for your cross training? Is good breathability and moisture-wicking performance paramount for your HIIT and cardio sessions?

You might value support or coverage above all else. Or prefer a lighter, shorter short that you can also wear out on the track. Whatever your preference, you’ll find a short that’s ideal for you in the list above. Your budget will also play a part in your decision. But rest assured – they’re all high performance shorts made to move comfortably with you however intense your workout. And in our testers’ opinions they all offer excellent value for money.

What to look for when buying gym shorts

When purchasing gym shorts for men, several essential factors ensure comfort, functionality, and durability. Firstly, consider the fabric. Opt for moisture-wicking materials like polyester or spandex blends which effectively absorb sweat and keep you dry. These materials also provide flexibility, essential for a wide range of movements.

Secondly, pay attention to the fit. Gym shorts should offer a balance between snugness and freedom. Look for styles that provide ample room in the thigh region and have an elastic waistband with a drawstring for a secure yet adjustable fit. Length also plays a role; shorter shorts (5-7 inches inseam) offer better airflow and range of motion, while longer shorts provide more coverage and can be more comfortable for specific activities.

Additionally, consider features such as pockets, either zipped for security or open for convenience. Lining can also be a crucial factor; some gym shorts come with built-in liners for added support, while others do not. Lastly, look into the brand’s reputation and specific user reviews to gauge overall satisfaction regarding quality and longevity. By focusing on fabric, fit, length, features, and brand reliability, you can find the perfect gym shorts that enhance your performance and comfort.

• January 2026: Year updated to 2026; Why You Can Trust Us section expanded; main image updated; Champion and Sodo shorts added to summary box; Gym + Coffee shorts removed as no longer available; Champion shorts added to main guide.
• July 2026: We removed the Brooks Sherpa 5-Inch 2-in-1 Short and Lululemon License To Train Lined 7in Short as they are no longer available. We’ve added Schema and comparison tables too.

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