Joybuy Insights

Buying Men’s Shorts: How to Choose a Comfortable and Well-Fitting Pair

Choosing a new pair of shorts might seem straightforward, but it’s often the small details that determine whether you’ll wear them every day or leave them at the back of the wardrobe after a few weeks. With men’s shorts, the waistband, fabric and length are particularly important. What’s more, marketing terms like “breathable”, “antibacterial” or “moisture-wicking” don’t always tell you how a product actually feels in practice.

So, watch out for these common pitfalls:

  • Incorrect sizing due to international size charts: a medium in one brand can fit very differently to a medium in another.
  • A comfortable fabric that doesn’t suit the activity: cotton feels great for everyday wear, but a woven polyester short can be more practical for intense exercise.
  • Awkward details: a waistband that’s too tight, missing pockets, or a length that doesn’t suit what you’re doing can all reduce comfort.
  • Vague fabric claims: always check the exact composition and care instructions rather than relying solely on a product name.

Which Men’s Shorts Suit Your Needs?

For everyday wear, men’s casual shorts often feature an elasticated waistband and side pockets. A cotton or cotton-rich fabric feels familiar and pairs well with a T-shirt or polo. If you’re mainly relaxing at home, look at men’s comfortable lounge shorts or a complete loungewear set.

For sport, men’s sports shorts, men’s training shorts and men’s running shorts are typically lighter and shorter. Check whether the shorts have an adjustable drawcord, enough room to move, and pockets. When it comes to moisture management, it’s important to distinguish between a genuine technical product feature and a general marketing claim. For example, in PUMA’s product information, dryCELL is described as a technology that draws moisture away from the body. This is a claim made by PUMA itself; treat it as a product specification from the brand, not a universally guaranteed result.

Three Specifications to Check Before You Buy

1. Fabric and When You’ll Wear Them

Cotton generally feels soft and natural, but it can hold onto moisture for longer. A cotton blend can combine shape retention with flexibility. According to the product information, the PUMA ESS No. 1 Logo Shorts are made from 68% cotton and 32% polyester. The pocket lining is cotton.

For training or running, polyester is often used. The PUMA ESS Woven Shorts are, according to the product information, made from 100% polyester with a lightweight woven mesh structure. This makes them a logical choice for sports or warmer days, but the feel against the skin is different from cotton.

2. Waist, Fit and Length

An elasticated waistband with an internal or external drawcord gives you more room to adjust the fit. Also consider the length:

  • Knee-length or just above the knee: suitable for casual wear and everyday use.
  • Above the knee: often practical for training, running and outdoor activities.
  • Regular fit: offers more room around the legs and hips.
  • Slimmer fit: sits closer to the body, but may be less comfortable for lots of movement.

Measure your waist at your natural waistline and compare the result with the brand’s size chart. Don’t just rely on your usual letter size.

3. Pocket Layout and Care

Side pockets are useful for keys, a phone or an Oyster card, but check they are deep enough. A sports short with open hand pockets is mainly intended for small items; during running, a loose phone can still move around.

Also read the washing instructions. According to the product information, the PUMA woven shorts should be washed at 30 °C and must not be tumble dried. The Under Armour Rival Terry Short can, according to the product information, be tumble dried on a low setting, but fabric softener is not recommended. These differences can affect how convenient they are to use and how long they last.

Recommended Men’s Shorts by User 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 suits the profile: These black men’s shorts combine a cotton blend with an elasticated waistband, internal drawcord and side pockets. This makes them suitable for everyday wear, walking or relaxing outdoors.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The composition of 68% cotton and 32% polyester is clearly stated. The waistband and adjustability are also described, so you don’t have to rely on the picture alone.

Key benefit & highlights

Knee-length cut, side pockets, adjustable drawcord and, according to PUMA, at least 50% recycled material.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Purcotton Men's Cooling Knit Top & AirySoft Gauze Shorts Loungewear Set

Purcotton Cooling Knit Top & AirySoft Gauze Shorts Loungewear Set

Why this suits the profile: A complete set is practical for home, sleeping or quiet days. The product name mentions a lightweight, breathable and soft design for indoor use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

You buy a matching top and shorts rather than separate items that might fit differently. Do check the stated size for the top and shorts individually.

Key benefit & highlights

Loungewear set with gauze shorts and a matching top; the product information positions the set for lightweight, comfortable home use.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
PUMA Men's Shorts Black Ess Woven

PUMA Men's Shorts Black Ess Woven XXL

Why this suits the profile: According to PUMA, this lightweight short is designed for training, running and casual outdoor use. The available XXL size caters to men who need extra room.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information mentions the material, length, pockets, sizing advice and care instructions. This helps you better match the shorts to intensive use.

Key benefit & highlights

100% polyester according to the product information, above-the-knee length, side pockets and an elasticated waistband with internal drawcord.

Looking for more options?

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

Also of Interest: Underwear for Everyday Wear

If you’re also looking for underwear alongside shorts, consider men’s cotton boxer shorts or a 5-pack of boxer shorts. A cotton blend with elastane usually offers more stretch than 100% cotton. According to the product information, the Reebok Sports Trunks are made from 57% cotton, 38% polyester and 5% elastane. Reebok also mentions a soft finish, an elasticated waistband and moisture-wicking properties. These are brand claims from the product description; always check the care label and exact composition when you receive them.

A breathable men’s underpants should fit well without being too tight. Look for a waistband that doesn’t roll over, smooth seams and enough room at the leg openings. The same checks apply if you’re looking for Reebok boxer shorts for everyday wear.

Frequently Asked Questions About Men’s Shorts

What size men’s shorts should I choose?

Measure your waist and compare it with the specific size chart for the brand. Also look at hip measurement and inside leg length when these are given. Size charts are available for PUMA and Under Armour, but the measurements vary by model. If you’re unsure, don’t automatically go up a size; first check whether the fit is regular, slim or roomy.

Are cotton shorts suitable for sport?

They can be fine for light training or walking, but cotton can hold onto moisture for longer. For running, intense fitness or outdoor sports, men’s running shorts made from a lightweight synthetic fabric are often more practical. Also pay attention to freedom of movement, a drawcord and where the pockets are placed.

How can I keep my men’s shorts looking good for longer?

Follow the care label, wash similar colours together and use the recommended temperature. Avoid the tumble dryer if the label advises against it. Turn shorts with prints or embroidery inside out and don’t use bleach if it’s not allowed. This will help reduce unnecessary wear to the fabric, colour and waistband.