A sturdy pair of workout shorts are a wardrobe staple as they can be worn for everything from weightlifting and running to lounging around the house. The best men’s workout shorts are comfortable, have some stretch, and are the right style for your routine.

Before choosing your workout shorts, think about what type of activities you will be using them the most for, so you know what features to look for. If you plan on training in hot, sunny weather, you’ll need shorts that block UV rays and wick away moisture, so you can stay cool and dry. For yoga you might want shorts with built-in underpants or liner, and for hiking you will need zip pockets, so you don’t lose anything important on the trail. If you like to run, look for shorts that have side slits to give you more leg movement, or loose shorts. There is also shorts with compression linings, which can help prevent irritation and may even improve your performance.

The type of closure on the shorts is also important, but mostly about preference. Hiking shorts often have button closures, but other workout shorts tend to have drawstrings, elastic bands, or both. The drawstrings allow for an adjustable fit, but some people prefer the flexibility of the elastic.

Once you’ve decided what features you need, take a look at the different styles. The shorts are also available in a variety of colors, from neutral tones that can be paired with any brightly colored workout shirt that are sure to stand out. Inseams can range from 3 inches, which may work best for lifting or running shorts, to longer crotches of 7 or 8 inches, which provide extra coverage for yoga or lounging. With that in mind, read on to discover some of the best exercise shorts for each type of workout.

We only recommend products that we love and think you will like, too. We may receive a portion of the sales of products purchased from this article, which was written by our Commerce team.

1. The proven shorts

These Under Armor graphic shorts are a fan favorite on Amazon with over 23,000 five-star ratings. They’re made with the brand’s UA Tech synthetic fabric, which is both soft and quick-drying to keep you comfortable, and they come in a wide assortment of colors. These shorts have a 10 inch inseam, mesh pockets and an elastic band secured with an internal drawstring.

One reviewer wrote: “Great fit. Lightweight. Easy to wash. It looks great. Feels great during workouts. “

• Sizes available: X-Small – 5X-Large Tall
• Available colors: 38

2. The 7 inch running shorts

Runners on Amazon love it unlined training shorts, which measure 7 inches in length and have an elastic closure. They’re made from a lightweight fabric that not only protects you from UV rays, but also wicks away moisture and dries quickly. If you like to run with your phone or keys, these shorts are a great choice as they have two zippered pockets to keep your valuables safe.

• Available sizes: Small – 3X-Large
• Available colors: 3

3. The extra-long shorts

If you’re taller and looking for more coverage, these extra long training shorts are a solid choice. They’re made from a lightweight cotton-polyester blend that’s breathable and easy to care for, and they feature an elastic waistband with a built-in drawstring that makes it easy to get a snug fit. They have two side pockets and a back pocket with a button closure, and are available in a wide variety of colors.

• Sizes available: Medium Large – 9X Large Large
• Available colors: 27

4. The 3 inch running shorts

If you are looking for shorter workout shorts, they have a 3 inch inseam and a split design that makes them comfortable and breathable. The two side pockets are also zipped, so you don’t have to worry about losing your keys or your phone while you run. These shorts are made of two layers: a quick-drying nylon and elastane shell and a polyester and elastane mesh lining.

One reviewer wrote: “I love these shorts! They fit exactly as shown on the size scale. Lightweight and comfortable. Perfect for running and working out in the gym. Will buy in more colors. For reference, I have a waist of 32 inches and a waist of 6 feet, the size medium fits perfectly. The zippered pocket is large enough to hold a phone and keys. “

• Available sizes: Small – XX-Large
• Available colors: 16

5. The pack of 2 loose shorts

These loose shorts can be worn for all types of workouts, and they cost just $ 9 a pair. They’re made from 100% polyester with a mesh design for added breathability, and they wick away moisture to keep you comfortable even in hot weather. Over 19,000 Amazon shoppers have given these workout shorts five stars. While the exact crotch isn’t listed, these shorts strike slightly above the knee.

One reviewer wrote: “I have to say, I wasn’t expecting much from these amazon brand sports shorts. I train, run and play basketball regularly. I was looking for cheap and decent mesh shorts to withstand a lot of activity. These shorts do the trick. I’m 6’3, 215 pounds and the wide fit is perfect. The shorts end just above the knee which is my favorite for running. For $ 6 a piece, you can’t beat it. The pockets are nice to have and deep enough to prevent items from falling out. I would buy again. “

• Available sizes: Small – XX-Large
• Available colors: 10

6. Shorts with integrated compression

These may look like your basic workout shorts, but underneath they have a built-in compression layer to give you extra support. They are made from a blend of polyamide and polyester which is not only lightweight but also wicks away moisture to keep you dry. Perfect for anyone who enjoys listening to music or podcasts during workouts, these shorts have a 7 inch inseam and a pocket in the lining to hold your phone, in addition to two exterior pockets and a back pocket.

One reviewer wrote: “Now I don’t normally write reviews but this product has been very impressive from the moment I opened my pack until I wore it! This is by far the most comfortable workout shorts that I have never worn […] pleasantly surprised he had four pockets […] The three on the outside all have high quality zippers to make sure things don’t fall out. I will order a few more of these shorts as soon as the colors I want are back in stock. “

• Available sizes: X-Small – X-Large
• Available colors: 16

7. The luxury yoga shorts

Made from polyester and elastane, these stretch shorts from the popular brand of yoga mats and clothing Manduka, are four-way stretch and breathable that will help you stay cool and comfortable during your workout. But they also have a raised figure which is also suitable for dinner or drinks. They are quick-drying, moisture-wicking and have built-in briefs and a secure pocket on the liner. The 8 inch inseam is perfect for those who like a little more coverage.

• Available sizes: Small – X-Large
• Available colors: 1

8. Long mesh shorts

If you are looking for longer workout shorts at a great price, try these 9 inch shorts from beloved sports brand Champion. They have a longer crotch and are made with a breathable and lightweight polyester mesh fabric, making them ideal for a variety of workouts. These shorts also feature an easy-to-adjust internal drawstring and two handy side pockets.

One reviewer wrote: “They fit very comfortably, most of the time I don’t even notice I’m wearing them which is a good sign. They haven’t shrunk noticeably each time they’ve been washed, and the color stays true now 9 months after purchase. I wear them quite often, I would live in these kind of shorts if I could. Very basic and they do the job.

• Available sizes: Small – 4X-Large
• Available colors: 16

9. The tall and tall Champion shorts

These tall and tall training shorts have the oversized Champion logo on one side which makes them for street style as well as workouts. Crafted from cotton jersey, they’re lightweight and breathable with a secure drawstring closure, and they’re available in muted and bold color options. The crotch is not listed, but these should touch the knee or just above.

One reviewer wrote: “These Champion shorts are my favorite period of gym / sports shorts. They’re like the best shorts of decades ago, when the material wasn’t thin and [cheap] like most clothes are made today. “

• Sizes available: X-Large – 6X
• Available colors: 8

10. The retro running shorts

These running shorts Not only have a retro design and a 3 inch inseam, they are also economical under $ 15 a pair. They’re made from 100% polyester with a secure drawstring closure, and to keep them in the best shape you’ll want to hand wash them. They have an interior pocket as well as two practical side pockets and slit sides for greater freedom of movement during training.

One reviewer wrote: “I love these shorts so much that I ordered two more in different colors the next day. Super comfortable, and, THEY ARE REALLY SHORT! Mid-thigh, not up to the knees. “

• Available sizes: Small – X-Large
• Available colors: 7

11. Cargo shorts for hiking

Perfect for summer hikes and spring walks, these cargo shorts are made from lightweight stretch fabric. They have an elastic waistband with a button closure for a secure fit, and they have a water repellent and anti-UV finish. The two side pockets and two back pockets all have zippers to keep your things safe. Inseam varies by height, starting at around 9.5 inches.

One reviewer wrote: “These shorts are the most comfortable I think I have ever had. Regarding the size, they stretch. I normally have a waist of 46 inches and the extra large fit is perfect – but I took the belt off – I don’t wear belts. Now if they started making pants! “

• Available sizes: Small – 4X-Large
• Available colors: 10