Best Men's Workout Shorts 2026: 5-In, 7-In & Liner Picks
Nike Dri-FIT shorts are the best overall workout shorts for mixed gym and cardio use. For running specifically, the Under Armour Launch 2-in-1's built-in compression liner prevents chafing and muscle fatigue on longer efforts. For basketball and casual gym sessions, Champion MVP provides the classic look at half the price.
See Today’s Price →At a Glance
Men's Workout Shorts Buying Guide
Photo by bamboo ave. / PexelsBest Workout Shorts: Nike Dri-FIT or Lululemon Pace Breaker
How we picked these. We compared 4 everyday clothing across fabric quality, fit and sizing consistency, durability after repeated washing, comfort for the intended activity, and value, cross-referencing picks from Wirecutter, GQ, and verified customer reviews.
For everyday workout shorts at the best price: Nike Dri-FIT Challenger Running Shorts at $14.27-45 use the 2-in-1 design (built-in liner shorts under a lightweight outer) that eliminates the need for separate compression shorts, with the moisture-wicking Dri-FIT fabric that remains the benchmark for sweat management in performance apparel. For the best premium athletic short: the Lululemon Pace Breaker at $68-78 uses a lighter-weight fabric than Nike with a liner that doesn't ride up or bunch during running — the most common complaint about budget athletic shorts. Lululemon's liner construction uses a 3-panel design that moves without restriction during high knee and lateral movement.
Lined vs. Unlined vs. Compression Shorts
2-in-1 lined (Nike Challenger, Lululemon Pace Breaker): Built-in liner provides support without a separate compression garment. The all-in-one standard for running and gym training. Most men's athletic shorts in the $30-80 range use this construction.
Unlined (Adidas Parma, Under Armour Launch): Single-layer shorts without liner. Require separate compression shorts for support. More versatile for swim, cross-training, and non-running activities. The choice for athletes who prefer specific compression styles over a built-in liner.
Compression shorts (Under Armour HeatGear, 2XU): Tight-fitting, full compression. Worn alone or under loose shorts. Reduces muscle vibration and chafing for endurance activities. The base layer for cyclists, track athletes, and anyone who finds loose shorts uncomfortable during high-intensity activity.
Inseam Length for Activity
Inseam length matters for both comfort and use case: 3-inch inseam (short) — the choice for competitive runners seeking maximum range of motion and minimal fabric weight. 5-inch inseam — the versatile standard for gym, casual running, and most training. 7-9 inch inseam — better for cycling, yoga, and activities where longer coverage is preferred. The trend toward shorter inseams in training shorts follows running culture where 3-5 inch is standard; gym culture where 5-7 inch is more common.
The Bottom Line
Nike Dri-FIT Challenger 7" 2-in-1 for the best everyday training short at $40. Lululemon Pace Breaker 5" for the best premium liner short at $72. Under Armour Launch 5" for a budget-friendly alternative at $30. Gym Shark Vital Seamless Short for a smooth-fabric gym-specific option at $45. Wash athletic shorts after every workout — dried sweat creates bacterial growth and fabric odor that repeated washes don't fully remove once it sets.
Related Guides
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For a detailed head-to-head, see our Nike Vs Under Armour Athletic Shorts comparison.
For a detailed head-to-head, see our Under Armour Vs Nike Gym Shorts comparison.
Watch Before You Buy
“Nike's moisture management benchmark—the standard gym short.”
See Today’s Price →What we like
- Dri-FIT technology wicks sweat efficiently
- Lightweight mesh construction
- Elastic waistband with internal drawstring
Watch out for
- No pockets on base version
- Runs slightly large
Read Full Analysis
The Nike Dri-FIT Training Shorts have maintained their position at the top of the workout short category for over a decade because Nike continues to refine the Dri-FIT polyester weave rather than chasing gimmicks. The fabric moves moisture from your skin to the outer surface of the shorts with measurably better efficiency than cotton at equivalent sweat levels. The lightweight mesh construction allows enough airflow to prevent overheating during high-intensity work, and the elastic waistband with internal drawstring stays put during jumping movements and burpees without requiring constant adjustment. The shorts hit mid-thigh at standard sizing, which suits most training activities. The honest limitation: the base version of the Nike Dri-FIT Training Short lacks pockets, which is a meaningful drawback if you train with a phone. The with-pocket version costs slightly more. The shorts also run about a half-size large—order your usual size for a relaxed fit, size down for a more fitted look. For any activity that involves sustained sweating—HIIT, weightlifting circuits, agility work—these shorts handle it better than any budget alternative.
“Classic mesh basketball shorts at $20—buy three pairs without hesitating.”
See Today’s Price →What we like
- 9-inch inseam provides coverage without restriction
- 100% mesh for maximum ventilation
- Excellent value at $20
Watch out for
- Less structured than Nike or UA
- Basic aesthetic
Read Full Analysis
Champion's MVP 9-inch Shorts deliver the fundamental workout short experience without charging for brand cache. The 100% mesh construction provides excellent ventilation—more airflow than the Nike Dri-FIT weave—which makes them particularly comfortable for warm-weather outdoor workouts and gym sessions in poorly ventilated spaces. The 9-inch inseam provides coverage through the full squat range without bunching, and the elastic drawstring waistband holds during athletic movements. The side pockets are functional for a phone and keys. The classic athletic aesthetic works for both gym and casual wear. The limitation is structure: Champion's mesh is less durable than Nike's Dri-FIT knit, and the waistband elastic can relax faster after repeated washing. The basic design also lacks the refinements—reflective details, compression liner option, zip pockets—that performance-focused runners want. But for the gym-goer who wants comfortable, breathable shorts that survive machine washing and look appropriate for casual post-gym errands, the Champion MVP is the obvious value choice.
“These quick-dry athletic shorts offer deep side pockets and an elastic waistband for a secure, comfortable fit during any workout. At $24, they deliver reliable performance comparable to name-brand op”
See Today’s Price →What we like
- Pockets for phone and keys
- Elastic waistband
- Quick-dry fabric
- Budget price
- Suitable for gym and casual outdoor wear
Watch out for
- Budget brand quality inconsistent across color options
- Sizing can run large
- Inner liner may chafe during long runs
“Nike Dry Training Shorts use Dri-FIT technology to wick sweat away from skin during high-intensity workouts. The lightweight fabric and minimalist design make them equally suitable for the gym, track,”
See Today’s Price →Watch out for
- Sizing may run small or large — review the brand's size chart carefully before ordering online
- Color representation may vary slightly from product photos depending on individual screen settings
Frequently Asked Questions
Should workout shorts have pockets?
What inseam length is best for workout shorts?
Are compression shorts necessary?
Can I wear workout shorts casually?
How do I prevent workout shorts from smelling?
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