Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.
Don't make the workout harder than it needs to be by riding up, sliding down, or bunching. Custom Mesh Shorts
Gym shorts have a small but mighty place in the world of your workout. They have one job: don't get in the way. Don't make the workout harder than it needs to be by riding up, sliding down, or bunching. There are a few details that tend to vary: inseam length, fabrication, and lining. You might prefer different short styles for different workout styles. The world is yours, my friend.
The inseam length is simple and personal. Most range from five to nine inches. Lining is straightforward, too, with options either lined or unlined. Some lined options are compressive while others are more forgiving. The fabric makeup is really what makes the difference here. For high-sweat activities, you might prefer the moisture-wicking properties of nylon, polyester, or polypropylene. For more lifting-heavy endeavors, you might prefer natural fibers, like jersey or cotton mesh.
When it comes to workout shorts for the gym, there are options aplenty. And to help you narrow down your search, we compiled a selection so you can get back into your routine ASAP. Or, you know, whenever the vibe is right. Here are 22 of the best.
Outdoor Voices shorts are a solid option for most medium intensity type workouts and also for workouts that are followed by social activities. They wick sweat quickly and they don't scream squat rack. A very good option for very hot days when you don't want to sweat through your regular clothes, too.
If you miss the feel of old-school, no-frills gym shorts, these are the high-end version. They feel as soft as underwear, but they don't look like you are for some reason wearing underwear in the gym. The shorts are breathable, moisture-wicking, and UV-protective.
Fabletics shorts are just fun. Come here for a stretchy fabric that comes in an ever-evolving range of colors and patterns. The poly-spandex blend moves with you all workout.
Lululemon is ubiquitous for a reason. The brand knows how to do workout clothes well, especially when it comes to shorts and pants. These shorts are made with an abrasion-resistant fabric and have a fit streamlined beyond what most shorts are capable of.
Take a cue from one of the NBA greats, and choose a pair of shorts that will let you step onto the court in style. Inspired by Jordan Clarkson, you can move freely in these.
Everlane's shorts are fit for any kind of activity but are especially good for ones that might involve water. Use them to swim, to jump in the pool after a run, or hit an easy trail when it might get misty.
Vuori is known for its super soft, stretchy fabric that is lightweight. They have a boxer brief liner and a roomy 7.5-in inseam.
Rhone's Mako shorts have that classic four-way stretch and are made with the brand's anti-odor fabrication. Get them in all of your staple colors in 7 or 9 inches.
Alo's stuff is versatile. These shorts are good for nearly any type of workout with their moisture-wicking fabric, but they also look damn good as just everyday shorts.
For a short, easy option, Uniqlo's shorts are a no-brainer. They're flexible, with a thick, stretchy waistband for all-day comfort.
These adidas shorts are meant to power you through any strength workout without getting all up in the way. They are stretchy, heavily ventilated, and have a small slit in the sides so your quads don't get trapped.
On-running's shorts are the best option for cardio-heavy days at the gym. They are lightweight and stretchy, and they are about as high-quality as we have known a workout short to be.
If you want to feel locked into your shorts (and therefore maybe the workout?) and prefer the security of compression, these Mack Weldon guys have a compression lining built right in.
HIIT workouts often require lots of movement in every plane of motion. These are stretchy enough to get you into and out of those moves, and wick sweat just as quickly.
You're going to get the absolute best fit or fabrication from H&M, but in a pinch or on a budget, these sports shorts will do.
A lot of newer workout fabrics emphasize lighter weights but that's not for everyone. These old-school, heavyweight shorts are secure and substantial.
Not into the fancy new fabrics? Stick with cotton. Hanes does it best.
For gym shorts that are easy on the wallet, this Fruit of the Loom two pack is stretchy, soft, and easy to wear. They fit more relaxed, if you're anti-constriction.
Ten Thousand's gym shorts were built to take a beating. The ripstop shell can withstand extended workout sessions over a long period of time. The fit lays flat, comfortably, and out of the way.
CRZ YOGA has gotten popular over the past few years for making workout clothes with the feel of something higher end but the price of something a little less so. Just keep in mind these are hand wash only.
Gaby Keiderling is a New York based writer, working on fashion, lifestyle, travel, and sports features. She also covers celebrity style for Esquire's 'Get Ready with Me' franchise. Her work can also be seen in Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and more. Sometimes you can spot her around the West Village, out on a walk with her dog Sneakers.
The Best Dyson Vacuums, Explained
15 Best Weed Grinders to Use With Your Good Stuff
6 Wireless Chargers That'll Tidy Up Your Table
11 Actually Stylish Laptop Backpacks for Work
The 12 Best Spicy Colognes for Men in 2023
The 7 Best Running Stroller for Dads
The 35 Best Gifts For In-Laws
The 12 Best Woody Colognes for Men 2023
The Best Handheld Gaming Consoles of 2023
72 Can't-Miss Gifts for Every Man in Your Life
36 Unique Personalized Gifts for Men
12 Best iPad Air Cases and Covers for 2023
A Part of Hearst Digital Media
We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back.
Oversized Printed T Shirts ©2023 Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.