The 17 Best Workout Shorts for Men in 2024 That Look and Feel Good

• Pros: Affordable, breathable, has a large range of sizes, more than one color to choose from
• Cons: Doesn't have a lining
• Sizes: S - 4XL
• Inseam length: 6"
• Materials: 100% polyester
• A Promising Review: "I've been wearing these to play basketball non-stop. The extra zipper pocket is great for going to and from the gym, and they feel super comfortable and breathable while I play." - Charlie Kolbrener, Managing Editor at ONE37pm

Leave it to Nike to create the ultimate workout short for men because, well, they're Nike. What do you expect? The Nike Dri-FIT DNA is a popular choice for basketball players in a particular thanks to its comfortable fit, 6" inseam, multiple color choices, and ability to work well with loads of Nike basketball shoes (Jordan's anyone?). Cut with 100% recycled polyester, the shorts feature Nike's exclusive Dri-FIT technology, which promotes sweat-wicking properties and quicker evaporation. The incorporation of the double-layered mesh also serves for prime comfort, making the shorts breathable and lightweight, and there's also a side-zippered utility pocket where you can store your smaller essentials (phones and keys for example) if need be.

If stretch is a concern, there's no need to worry as Nike has made sure to include a striped elastic waistband with a drawcord that promotes a full range of motion. With sizes going all the way up to 4XL and a less than $50 price tag, the Nike Dri-FIT DNA is one of the top workout shorts on the market.

• Pros: Comfortable, lined, breathable, more than one color to choose from
• Cons: On the pricier side
• Sizes: S - 2XL
• Inseam length: 9"
• Materials: Lightweight interlock waffle fabric
• A Promising Review: "Great comfortable shorts. These are my new go to. Zippered pockets keep things from falling out" - Conor, Alo Yoga Reviewer

Alo Yoga's Traction Arena Short is a no-nonsense short that doesn't play any games as you're working out. In short, it's a short that gets the job done. Tailored perfectly and cut with the brand's lightweight interlock waffle fabric, the Traction Arena Short promotes a comfortably loose and lightweight fit that's great for just about any workout activity or sport. The inseam is measured at 9", with the breathability component being checked thanks to the short's perforated detailing that's dispersed throughout. The zippered pockets allows you the ability of carrying your smaller essentials without having to worry about them falling out, with the elastic waistband and adjustable drawcord being there for you to reach your max comfort level as well.

Sizes go up to an XL, with the shorts being priced at $98.

• Pros: Water-repellant, moisture-wicking, has four way stretch, good for performance
• Cons: Could run big/small according to some users
• Sizes: S - XL
• Inseam length: 9.5"
• Materials: 88% Nylon, 12% spandex
• A Promising Review: "I love the shorts I’ve purchased from Olivers. The fabric is very high quality. The shorts are extremely comfortable. The stretch fabric gives you freedom movement while maintaining a stylish look. I highly recommend." - David, Olivers Reviewer

A short made specifically for intense workouts such as trail running or interval training, Olivers All Over Short is another great option for working out as in addition to the nylon/spandex material that offers elite comfort, the shorts also have four-way stretch built-in for ultimate flexibility. Additionally, the All Over Short features a water-repellant coating meaning that you can run out in the rain, or choose to also use these as swim shorts if you prefer working out in water. The anti-odor treatment means less funk and more moisture-wicking, and there's an inner pocket for storage. Not bad for the $20 price tag.

• Pros: Sweat-wicking, durable, has a lining, easy to clean, multiple colors to choose from
• Cons: On the pricier side
• Sizes: XS - XXL
• Inseam length: 7", 9"
• Materials: Polyester, spandex
• A Promising Review: "These Mako shorts never disappoint. They are great for workouts and leisure activities. Wear them all the time. Great stretch, style and durability" - Joe, Rhone Reviewer

Meeting the requirements of being durable, versatile, technical, and budget-friendly, Rhone's Mako Short is quite literally a perfect short as they are water-repellent, and made to keep you cool and comfy regardless of how hot the environment your working out is, or how much you're sweating. Speaking of sweat, the Mako Shorts are lined with Rhone's GOLDFUSION Anti-Odor Technology, which means no icky stench as you're working out. There's two pockets on the hip area of the shorts for extra storage, four-way stretch so that way you can move freely as you're exercising, gusseted seams that help with mobility, and a drawcord adjustable waistband. Sizing goes up to a 2XL, with the shorts being priced at a $74. Not seeing how you can go wrong here.

• Pros: Water-repellent, has a lining, includes a zipper pocket, comfortable, breathable
• Cons: On the pricier side
• Sizes: XS - XXL
• Inseam length: 7"
• Materials: 100% Recycled polyester
• A Promising Review: "I was waffling about the idea because of 1. price and 2. reviews. I *almost* spent about $10 less on a certain brand that is a first and last name, but they felt like the same as a $15 H&M pair. So I DOVE IN and got these in Black. The leg openings are just the right size if you are actively swimming and kicking your legs, in my opinion. If you want a slimmer fitting leg, wear some regular shorts and maybe don't go for a swim. They dry quickly and have lulu's signature premium material feel." - Lululemon Reviewer

If the water consistently calls your name as far as workouts go, then Lululemon's Pool Short is the way to go. Super lightweight and breathable, the shorts are designed specifically for swimming with their water and abrasion-resistant recycled polyester cut and mesh fabric liner that's primed with Lululemon's Xtra Life Lycra for chlorine-resistance. The bonded perforations strategically placed onto the shorts drain water as you swim/workout, along with silicone artwork on the drawcord that helps with an extra grip both internally and externally. You can expect to get a medium compression on the shorts, with sizing going up to an XXL. The $78 investment you'll be making is a good one as these shorts are both durable and versatile to the fullest.

• Pros: Flexible, durable, has a good performance, easy to care for, more than one color available, has a lining
• Cons: Certain colors can sellout quickly
• Sizes: S - 2XL
• Inseam length: 7.5"
• Materials: 86% Polyester, 14% spandex
• A Promising Review: "Excellent workout short. I find myself wearing them more than just working out. Killer comfort. Never thought I’d say a premium priced short is a value, but this really is." - James, GORUCK Reviewer

GORUCK's Training Shorts is a no-frills, cut-to-the-chase, simplified workout short built for the most extreme workouts and sports. Made with a polyester and spandex blend that the brand refers to as "Toughstretch fabric," the blended material is quite comfortable to workout in and feels great on the skin. A performance short through and through, GORUCK assures that these shorts are tough enough for any and every workout, guaranteeing no rips, tears, and failure in certain climate conditions. The inseam reaches 7.5", and there's two side front pockets that can be utilized for additional storage. The adjustable drawstring promotes flexibility and additional comfort, making this an excellent choice for workouts such as boxing or wrestling.

• Pros: Durable, breathable, flexible, sweat-wicking, has more than one color to choose from, has a lining
• Cons: Could run tight in certain areas according to some users
• Sizes: XS - XXL
• Inseam length: 3", 5"
• Materials: 80% Polyester, 20% spandex
• A Promising Review: "These were my first shorts from TT, but won’t be my last. They feel great, move well, have design details I love, and are a joy to wear. They just look good which make me feel happy." Ross, Ten Thousand Reviewer

Ten Thousand makes some of the best workout apparel for men hands down, and their Distance Short is an example of their attention to quality, detail, and performance. A stripped down workout short that takes it back to the basics, the Distance Short includes a lightweight construction that prevents bulk and additional weight, a perforated back panel and side slit to further assist with weight-reduction and an overall max range of motion. There's also a fast-drying mesh brief liner and a lightweight waistband that's accompanied by bonded hems and seams. The permanent silver ion anti-odor treatment means no stink whatsoever (a bonus), and Ten Thousand gives you the option of choosing either a 3" or 5" inseam.

• Pros: Has great stretch, offers good performance, is durable, offers versatility
• Cons: Doesn't have a lining
• Sizes: XS - XXL
• Inseam length: 7"
• Materials: 86% Polyester, 14% spandex
• A Promising Review: "I have almost bought every color in these perfect fit and comfortable shorts. You will not go wrong with this purchase." - Outdoor Voices Reviewer

Cooling down is another important but sometimes overlooked component of working out. Let Outdoor Voices help you in the cool down process with their Sunday Short, which is cut with a polyester and spandex fabric. Loose enough to flow through your workout but still fitting enough to not be classified as oversized, the Sunday Short offers a mid-weight textured compression that slightly sculpts to your body. At the same time, the shorts don't restrict movement while also allowing for breathability through its classic streamlined fit. Sizes range from XS to XXL, with the price tag coming at a very affordable $40. A technical piece of clothing that's affordable will always be our favorite.

• Pros: Has a lining and stretch, is breathable, has Mack Weldon's 37.5 Technology
• Cons: On the pricier side
• Sizes: S - XXL
• Inseam length: 7"
• Materials: 43% Polyester, 43% 37.5 Polyester, 14% spandex
• A Promising Review: "These shorts are so comfortable to workout in and the lightweight material works great for the warmer weather." - Jeff S., Mack Weldon Reviewer

The Mack Weldon Stratus Active Short is a short that gives you options, starting with the option to choose whether or not you want a lined, unlined, or compressed fit. In addition to the polyester/spandex blend, these shorts also feature Mack Weldon's 37.5 technology, which is the brand's built-in cooling system that wicks away sweat and keeps you cool as you workout. Adding to the breathable nature is the Anti-Odor technology that prevents funkiness from occurring, which is always a thumbs up from us. The overall fit is classic, loose, and breathable with sizing going up to XXL. A $70 that's well spent if you ask us.

• Pros: Shorts are lined, comfortable, and breathable, is affordable, offers good performance
• Cons: Sizes sellout fast
• Sizes: XS - 2XL
• Inseam length: 5", 7", 9"
• Materials: 90% Polyester, 10% spandex
• A Promising Review: "Best fitting shorts I've ever had. I love them!" - Zechariah, Fabletics Reviewer

Fabletics Fundamental Shorts are long-lasting, durable, comfortable, and full of fun different colors to choose from. A short that can be worn for almost any and every type of workout, Fabletics gives you the choice of either a 5", 7", or 9" inseam, along with option of having the shorts lined or unlined. The shorts are cut from mostly polyester with a hint of spandex for extra stretch room (which itself is boosted by four-way stretch), and feature multiple pockets (two of which are hidden) to give you plenty of storage space. To go alongside the quick-drying and sweat-wicking technology is the Anti-stink feature. Rounding out the Fundamental shorts are over 50 different colors at your disposal, with sizing going up to an XXL.

• Pros: Shorts are lined, multiple sizes and colors, breathable, durable, comfortable
• Cons: Could run big/small according to some users
• Sizes: S - 2XL
• Inseam length: N/A
• Materials: 90% Polyester, 10% spandex
• A Promising Review: "I bought 5 pairs of these shorts after falling in love with my first test pair. Very comfortable and extremely durable. I have horses and have worn them to the stables. No problem!" David, BYLT Reviewer

The BYLT Active+ Shorts are another pair of shorts that gets the thumbs up for us in terms of working out thanks to their functional fabric and four-way stretch. Similar to some of the shorts we've listed on here, there's an option to choose either lined or unlined, with the fit being a casual one. You can rock these to the gym or for a beach workout as the Active+ is designed to take on both. Completing the style is matte fabric finish on the outer shell which allows you the option of wearing casually as well thanks to its sleek look. A whopping $35 is what these shorts will cost you, with sizes ranging from S to 2KL.

• Pros: Sweat-wicking, breathable, has multiple sizes, comfortable, more than one color to choose from
• Cons: Could run big/small according to some users
• Sizes: XS - XXL
• Inseam length: 5"
• Materials: 90% Polyester, 10% spandex
• A Promising Review: "I wanted to try and get a pair of running shorts that would hold both my iPhone and car key fob for group runs. The Sherpa short turned out to be a great option for that need and one of the few that does." - Backcountry Reviewer

Brooks Running has had several variations of their 5" inch Short over the years. This latest one features the incorporation of a soft liner that allows for comfort, stretch, and flexibility. Additionally, the shorts are sustainably made from 75% recycled material, and there's storage space for small items such as your phone and keys should you choose to take your workout outside. In addition to be moisture-wicking and fast-drying, these shorts are also noted for their casual comfort as you can easily wear them for non-workout purposes if you wish. Sitting at a wallet-friendly price of $38, these shorts are practical without breaking the bank too much.

• Pros: Sustainably-made, functional, breathable, sweat-wicking, more than one color to choose from
• Cons: Doesn't have a lining, on the pricier side
• Sizes: S - XL
• Inseam length: 7 1/4"
• Materials: 85% Recycled polyester, 15% spandex
• A Promising Review: Really awesome pair of shorts ..wear them so often I bought another 2 pairs in different colors. Love the stretch material, zip pockets and the versatility - beach, exercise, cruising around town ! Also love that they are from OK and all the ethics and social responsibility that comes with the brand and company. Exceptional shorts!" - Outerknown Reviewer

If you're really looking to get the most mileage out of your shorts, the Outerknown Outbound Stretch Volley is a great choice as a pair of shorts that can double as both a workout and casual short. Made mostly with recycled polyester and some spandex for stretch of course, the Outbound Stretch Volley will help you hit all of your workout goals courtesy of its sweat-wicking properties, flexibility, and comfort, and can work well if you decide you just want to wear them casually on a nice breezy day. Quick-drying fabric, an elastic waistband, and pockets for storage round out the shorts, and we must say the quality is amazing. Sizing goes up to an XL/1X, with the price sitting pretty at $98.

• Pros: Has a lining, is sweat-wicking, breathable, and functional, has more than one color to choose from
• Cons: On the pricier side
• Sizes: S - 3XL
• Inseam length: 8"
• Materials: 90% Recycled polyester, 10% spandex
• A Promising Review: "These are some the best shorts I've ever owned. At 5'8" with a 32" inseam, these shorts sit a few inches above the knee which is exactly where I want them and where a short functions best for general recreation activities from hiking to climbing. They're long enough to provide suitable coverage from the elements while short enough and mobile/stretchy enough via the fabric to move with your body." - Casey, Patagonia Reviewer

Perhaps you're hitting the trails, perhaps you're not. Either way, Patagonia's Multi Trails Shorts have got you covered as they tick the checklist of being sweat-wicking and breathable. Not only is their fabric fast-drying, but the stretch is there as well thanks to the spandex and lightweight waistband. The 8" inseam means the shorts are going to run slightly longer than some of the others we've include (which is great for tall folks), and the shorts offer other helpful features such as two zippered front pocket and a snap back pocket to keep your valuables secure, along with a loop that you can hook onto lockers to help with the drying process. Most important is the comfort, which is always present with any Patagonia product.

• Pros: Affordable, comfortable, good for performance, multiple sizes and colors to choose from
• Cons: Doesn't have a lining
• Sizes: S - 2XL
• Inseam length: 10"
• Materials: 100% Polyester
• A Promising Review: "Excellent light weight shorts. They’re great for exercising at the gym or any athletic activity. I bought XL and they fit perfectly. I highly recommend these shorts!" - Champion Reviewer

You don't always need to spend tons of money to get a great workout short, which is proven by Champion's Sport Shorts. Keeping it minimalistic, the shorts run pretty long compared to the others we've listed with a 10" inseam (which makes them especially good for hooping since it hits the knee), while also featuring a stretchy elastic drawcord waistband that can be adjusted to your liking. Champion's Double Dry technology is present to wick sweat away, and you've got two side pockets that can be put to work as well. You've got an assortment of colors to choose from, and a multitude of sizes spanning from S to 2XL. Our favorite element of these shorts? The under $20 price tag, which we're sure you'll appreciate as well.

• Pros: Affordable, comfortable, durable, sweat-wicking, has more than one color to choose from, has a lining
• Cons: On the pricier side
• Sizes: S - 2XL
• Inseam length: 7"
• Materials: 88% Recycled polyester, 12% elastaneB
• A Promising Review: "I recently got a chance to test the workout shorts from AVI and I must say they are some of the comfiest shorts that I have worn for working out. The breathability and flexibility is great, and they allow for plenty of movement. Plus, the shorts look good and can be worn outside of working out if you prefer. - Jael Rucker, ONE37pm Style Editor

A brand that has recently captured our attention as of late is AVI Sportswear, which makes great workout clothes that are good for any workout/sports activity—and that includes their signature AVI Shorts, which are cut with recycled polyester, elastaneB, and have an inseam length of 7". As I stated in my review, I got to test these shorts a while back and found them to be incredibly comfortable, sweat-wicking, and durable. The AVI Shorts are also incredibly efficient and easy to clean. Some workout clothes unfortunately are still left with a stench even after washing—not the case with the AVI Shorts. While you might have to invest a little more money upfront, what you get in return are a great pair of workout shorts that can last you for a good while if you take care of them properly.

• Pros: Sweat-wicking, functional, has a lining, more than one color to choose from, is breathable, offers good performance
• Cons: On the pricier side
• Sizes: XS - 2XL
• Inseam length: 7.5"
• Materials: 48% Recycled polyester, 42% polyester, 10% elastane
• A Promising Review: "As an exercise physiologist and health coach I have worked and trained in A LOT of shorts.With that being said, Kore shorts have quickly become my favorite training shorts! They fit perfectly. At first I was worried about how light they are, but realized how much I love the lightweight feel and how durable they are. They are excellent for training, basketball, and hiking. They dry incredibly fast and would be excellent as swim shorts. The 7.5 inch length is a great length and allows for so much freedom in my movement." - Vuori Reviewer

You'll be hard pressed to find a short that is more functional than these Kore Shorts from Vuori. Made with an incredibly comfortable blend of recycled polyester, polyester, and elastane, the Kore Shorts are beloved by buyers due to its overall comfort, breathability, flexibility, and durable nature. Accompanied by a boxer-brief liner (which only serves to add to the comfort), and soft stretch fabric that assists with temperature regulation, you also get four-way stretch, shorts that are easy to clean and quick drying, along with featuring anti-stink technology that assures there won't be any stench as you are working out. Available in multiple colors, you can purchase the Kore Shorts for $68.