Joybuy Insights

Men’s Gym Shorts: A Practical Guide to Comfort, Fit and Training

A good pair of gym shorts needs to do more than just look sporty. Whether you’re at the gym, out for a run or training outdoors, you’ll quickly notice if the waistband stays put, the fabric feels comfortable and your phone can be safely stowed away. Yet many men still buy men’s gym shorts based on colour or brand name alone.

The most common buying pitfalls are:

  • A fit that’s too loose or too tight: an elasticated waistband seems practical, but without an adjustable drawcord the shorts can shift during movement.
  • Confusion between materials: cotton gym shorts feel soft, but they aren’t automatically the best choice for intense exercise. Polyester and mesh can dry faster, according to product descriptions.
  • Not enough attention to pockets: open side pockets are handy for everyday use, but when running, loose items can fall out. So check whether there’s a secure pocket.
  • Marketing claims without context: terms like “moisture-wicking” or “odour control” aren’t a guarantee of a particular experience. Always look at the fabric composition, construction and care instructions.

Which features should you check?

1. Material suited to your use

For everyday wear, warm-ups and gentle training, cotton gym shorts or a cotton blend are often comfortable. According to the product information, the Under Armour Rival Fleece Shorts are made from 80% cotton and 20% polyester and have a brushed inner side. This makes this type of men’s fleece shorts particularly appealing for cooler weather and relaxed activities.

For more intense sessions, lightweight, breathable gym shorts are often more practical. A short made from polyester or mesh can hold less moisture than a heavier cotton fabric. The PUMA Ess Woven Shorts product description states 100% polyester and a lightweight woven mesh construction. According to PUMA’s product description, dryCELL is designed to wick moisture away from the skin and help the shorts feel drier during exercise. This is a brand claim, not an independent guarantee.

If you’re after extra freedom of movement or a close-fitting base layer, look at men’s compression shorts. According to the product specification, the Under Armour Hg Armour Shorts use 84% polyester and 16% elastane, with mesh panels. The fit is described as compression fit, so it’s considerably tighter than a regular fit.

2. Waistband, length and fit

A pair of shorts with an elasticated waistband is practical when the band fits well without pinching. An internal or external drawcord makes the fit more adjustable. Also pay attention to the length:

  • 6 inch, approximately 15 cm inside leg: suitable for training, warm-ups and a sporty look.
  • Knee or near-knee length: offers more coverage and works well for casual wear.
  • Shorter men’s running shorts: generally give more freedom of movement, but offer less room for pockets.

Before ordering, measure your natural waist size and compare it with the size chart for the specific product. A size M from one brand isn’t automatically the same as a size M from another. For example, the Under Armour Rival models list waist and hip measurements in centimetres. The PUMA models use a separate clothing size chart.

3. Pockets and everyday use

For walking, commuting or casual wear, gym shorts with pockets are more practical than a minimalist running model. Check whether the pockets are deep enough and whether they can be closed. The Under Armour Rival Fleece Shorts have open hand pockets and a back pocket with a press stud. That’s a specific construction feature that can keep small essentials more securely in place.

According to the product information, the PUMA Ess Woven Shorts have side pockets. For a phone while running, a standard open pocket may be less suitable; in that case, choose a secure pocket or a separate running belt instead.

Our recommendations by usage profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
PUMA Men's Shorts Black PUMA ESS No. 1 Logo Collection M

PUMA Men's Shorts Black PUMA ESS No. 1 Logo Collection M

Why this fits the profile: These black PUMA shorts for men combine a regular fit with an elasticated waistband and internal drawcord. That makes them suitable for casual use, light training and everyday wear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size and fit information is clearly stated. The composition of 68% cotton and 32% polyester makes the material choice verifiable rather than based solely on the brand name.

Key benefit & highlights

Side pockets, adjustable waistband and a length around the knee. According to the product information, the material consists of at least 50% recycled materials.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking top quality
PUMA Men's Shorts Black Ess Woven SS 2026 Pantalones Cortos Collection M

PUMA Men's Shorts Black Ess Woven SS 2026 Pantalones Cortos Collection M

Why this fits the profile: These lightweight black shorts are aimed at training, running and outdoor use. The above-the-knee length and medium rise give a sportier fit than a classic cotton short.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description lists the material, length, pockets and waistband separately. This lets you assess the shorts on concrete features rather than general sporty terms.

Key benefit & highlights

100% polyester according to the product specification, lightweight woven mesh and side pockets. According to PUMA’s product description, dryCELL supports moisture wicking.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
Under Armour Men's Hg Armour Shorts Black Sportstyle Collection M

Under Armour Men's Hg Armour Shorts Black Sportstyle Collection M

Why this fits the profile: These men’s compression shorts are designed as a close-fitting base layer for training and active everyday use. The fit is ultra-tight, which sets them apart from a standard gym short.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The compression fit is explicitly stated. If you prefer a less tight fit or are between sizes, the advice is to consider going up a size.

Key benefit & highlights

84% polyester and 16% elastane, strategic mesh panels and a pocket on the right side. According to Under Armour’s product description, the fabric is moisture-wicking and quick-drying.

Suitable for: Cool weather and relaxed use
Under Armour Men's Rival Fleece Shorts Grey Sportstyle Collection L

Under Armour Men's Rival Fleece Shorts Grey Sportstyle Collection L

Why this fits the profile: The grey fleece shorts are suitable for warm-ups, gym use, working from home and casual moments when a softer, warmer fabric is desired.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fabric choice and regular fit are clearly specified. As a result, the shorts aren’t incorrectly positioned as lightweight running shorts, but as a versatile fleece option.

Key benefit & highlights

Brushed inner side, adjustable drawcord, open hand pockets and a secure back pocket. The composition is 80% cotton and 20% polyester.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and current European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about men’s gym shorts

Which men’s gym shorts are suitable for running?

Choose a lightweight short with freedom of movement, a waistband that doesn’t shift and, ideally, a secure storage option. Breathable gym shorts made from polyester or mesh can be practical for intense exercise. A fleece short is primarily aimed at warmth and comfort, not long, warm running sessions.

Are cotton gym shorts suitable for fitness?

They can be, especially for light to moderate workouts. Cotton feels soft, but it can hold moisture for longer. For intense fitness, quick-drying shorts made from polyester or a cotton blend may be more practical. Also check whether the shorts offer enough stretch or room around the hips and legs.

How can I prevent my gym shorts from wearing out quickly?

Follow the product’s care instructions, don’t use bleach when it’s advised against, and avoid fabric softener on technical fabrics if the manufacturer recommends it. Wash gym shorts with similar colours and check the seams, drawcord and pockets regularly. The right size also helps: a pair of shorts that’s too tight puts unnecessary strain on the waistband and seams.