10 Best Mens Workout Shorts 2026 in the United States

The NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Workout Shorts are designed to meet the needs of active men who want reliable, comfortable gear for running, gym sessions, and other sports. Made from a lightweight blend of 90% polyester and 10% elastane, these shorts offer excellent stretch and quick-drying capabilities to keep you cool and dry during intense workouts. The material is also durable and abrasion-resistant, promising long-lasting use. With a mid-rise, flat-front design and an adjustable elastic waistband with a drawstring, the fit is secure yet comfortable, helping you stay focused without distraction.

You can choose from 5", 7", or 9" inseam lengths depending on your preference, with the 7" length providing a balanced fit that is neither too short nor too long. An important feature is the three zipper pockets—two on the sides and one on the back—that securely hold essentials like keys, phone, or cards even during vigorous movement, which is a big plus for convenience and safety. The shorts also include reflective strips and side vents to enhance visibility and airflow, adding to comfort and safety during early morning or evening runs.

These shorts feature a relaxed athletic fit, meaning they are not super tight; if you prefer a very snug fit, you might want to size accordingly. They are versatile for a variety of sports and casual wear, making them a practical, everyday choice for most men who want functional and breathable workout shorts.

The NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts are designed to offer comfort and functionality for various workouts and outdoor activities. Made from a blend of polyester and elastane, these shorts provide good durability and flexibility thanks to their 4-way stretch fabric. This material also dries quickly and wicks moisture away, helping keep you cool during intense exercise. The fit is customizable with a soft elastic waistband and an adjustable drawstring, which ensures they stay in place without being too tight. They come in a 5-inch inseam length, which is a popular choice for those who want freedom of movement without excessive coverage.

Breathability is enhanced by small mesh-lined holes on the sides, promoting airflow and added comfort during hot days. A standout feature is the three zipper pockets – two on the sides and one at the back – that securely store essentials like keys or a phone, which is very handy during runs or gym sessions. Additionally, reflective strips on the front and back improve visibility in low-light conditions, adding a safety benefit. The shorts also offer UPF 50+ sun protection, making them suitable for outdoor use under strong sunlight.

On the downside, these shorts do not have belt loops, which might limit styling options outside of active use. Also, since the fabric is synthetic, some users might find it less soft compared to natural fibers. Nonetheless, these shorts cover the essentials well for people looking for lightweight, breathable, and practical workout shorts that work across a variety of sports and casual activities.

The G Gradual Men's Athletic Running Shorts are a solid choice for anyone looking for versatile workout shorts suitable for running, basketball, hiking, or casual wear. Made from a lightweight blend of polyester and elastane, they offer medium stretch and excellent breathability, which helps keep you cool and dry during intense activities. The quick-dry fabric combined with UPF 50+ sun protection is a great bonus if you spend a lot of time outdoors. The elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring ensures a snug, comfortable fit that stays in place, even during vigorous movement.

One standout feature is the two deep zippered pockets, which provide secure storage for essentials like keys and phones—something not all workout shorts offer. The 7-inch inseam length is a versatile middle ground, providing enough coverage without restricting your movement. Durability seems reliable given the material and positive customer feedback, although the lightweight fabric might not hold up as well against rougher use over time.

If you prefer a slightly shorter or longer inseam, this product also comes in 5-inch and 9-inch options, which adds flexibility. While the camo pattern may not suit everyone's style, the design balances functionality and modern looks well. These shorts provide a dependable, comfortable option for most men's workout needs, especially if pocket security and sun protection are important to you.