When buying shorts, people often look at the colour and price first. That sounds straightforward, but the wrong fit, unclear fabric information or an impractical waistband can quickly make a garment unsuitable. This applies to men’s shorts, women’s shorts, sports shorts and lounge shorts.
This buying guide helps you compare shorts by fabric, size, freedom of movement and intended use. That way, you can find a pair suitable for running, training, relaxing at home or casual wear in the city.
An elasticated waistband can be comfortable, but its width, tension and whether it has a drawstring determine how securely the shorts stay in place. An internal or external drawstring is practical for sports and training shorts. With lounge shorts, a soft, wider waistband may feel more comfortable when sitting for long periods.
Also check whether the waistband corresponds to your body measurements. A pair described simply as “true to size” will not automatically have the same fit as one from another brand.
Words such as breathable, lightweight and quick-drying often appear in product descriptions. They only tell you something useful when you also look at the fibre composition and fabric construction. For example, 100% polyester mesh shorts are designed to promote airflow while remaining lightweight. Cotton shorts often feel softer, but generally dry more slowly than synthetic shorts.
When a brand claims that a product has a particular performance benefit, you should treat that claim as brand information. A brand’s own research may suggest that a technology helps to wick away moisture, for example; the specific composition, construction and care instructions remain the information you can verify.
A loose fit provides room to move, but legs that are too wide can get in the way when cycling, running or doing strength training. So look at the inside-leg length, waist measurement and how the shorts fit in the product photos. With plus-size shorts, the size guide is particularly important: do not rely solely on S, M, L or XL.
Pay attention to the difference between the outer fabric and the lining. A pair of shorts may have a polyester outer layer and polyester lining, for example, while the pockets may use a different fabric composition.
For running and training shorts, a lightweight fabric, a secure waistband and sufficient room around the hips and thighs are important. For everyday wear, knee-length shorts with pockets may be more practical. Lounge shorts can have a looser fit, but should not slip down when you walk or stand up.
When comparing products, always use your waist measurement and, where provided, your hip measurement. With a drawstring, you can adjust the fit slightly, but it cannot compensate for choosing the wrong size.
Shorts with pockets are practical for keys, a phone or a card. Check whether the pockets can be secured when using the shorts for running. A zipped pocket, as found on some running shorts, keeps small items in place more effectively.
Also read the care label. Some sports shorts can be washed at 30 °C and must not be tumble-dried. Other models can be washed at up to 40 °C. The instructions on the garment care label take precedence over general information in a product description.
Why it suits this profile: A simple choice for relaxed days, warm weekends and casual outfits with a T-shirt or shirt. According to the product information, the fabric is made from 60% cotton and 40% polyester.
The product information states that these shorts have a relaxed fit and a waistband with a branded logo. Before buying, check the available size and care label.
Cotton blend, lightweight design and a relaxed fit for everyday or home wear.
Why it suits this profile: This white women’s style has a boyshort cut, low rise and wide elasticated waistband. The composition is 53% cotton, 35% modal and 12% elastane.
The fibre composition and waistband construction are clearly stated. With white shorts, pay extra attention to opacity and check the fit against the size guide.
Soft cotton-modal blend, 12% elastane and a wide waistband without a fastening.
Why it suits this profile: These black mesh shorts are designed for active summer days, basketball, football, training and a sporty leisure look. The loose cut and drawstring are practical when you are constantly on the move.
The product page states that these shorts are made from 100% polyester and feature mesh fabric, an inner lining and a size guide with waist ranges. Measure your waist before choosing a larger size.
Lightweight mesh, a loose fit, drawstring and sizes up to 6XL according to the stated size guide.
Why it suits this profile: Black shorts with a medium rise, above-the-knee length, elasticated waistband and side pockets. According to the product description, the fabric is suitable for training, running and casual outdoor wear.
The length, pockets, waistband and 100% polyester composition are specified. The dryCELL technology mentioned by the brand should be viewed as a brand claim, not a universal standard.
Side pockets, drawstring, lightweight woven fabric and a size range explained on the product page.
We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Check the following before buying shorts:
Choose running shorts with a lightweight fabric, a secure elasticated waistband and enough room to move. Zipped pockets are useful for a key or card. Also check whether the style has built-in briefs or a lining, if that is important to you.
Measure your waist where the waistband will sit. Compare this measurement with the size guide for the specific product. With plus-size shorts, size increments and waist ranges can vary between brands. A drawstring helps you adjust the fit, but do not choose a size based solely on the letter designation.
How long they last depends on how often you wear them, friction, the fabric and your washing routine. Wash them according to the label, use the recommended temperature and avoid tumble-drying when it is not permitted. With sports shorts, pay particular attention to wear around the waistband, seams, pockets and inner lining.