Joybuy Insights

Choosing men’s shorts: how to find comfortable bottoms for sport and leisure

A good pair of shorts needs to do more than look appealing in a product photo. With men’s shorts, the material, waistband and fit determine whether they feel comfortable during a workout, while relaxing on the sofa or on the way to the supermarket. Marketing terms such as “breathable”, “stretch” and “quick-drying” only mean something when you also check the product specifications.

Three common pitfalls deserve particular attention:

  • An elasticated waistband without proper adjustment: elastic alone can shift during movement. An internal or external drawstring helps you adjust the fit.
  • A fabric that does not suit the intended use: fleece feels comfortable in cooler weather, but is less suitable for intense summer training. Cotton feels soft, while synthetic fibres are often used for quick-drying sportswear.
  • Comparing sizes without checking the size guide: an M from one brand may fit differently from an M from another. Therefore, look at waist, hip or chest measurements rather than relying solely on the letter size.

Which features are important in men’s shorts?

1. Choose the material based on your activity

For men’s sports shorts and men’s training shorts, freedom of movement is important. A fabric containing polyester or elastane can be practical when you move around a lot. However, always check the exact composition; “stretch” is not a fixed European material standard.

For relaxing, men’s cotton shorts and soft sweatshirt fabrics are often comfortable. According to the product information, the PUMA ESS No. 1 Logo Shorts are made from 68% cotton and 32% polyester and use French Terry fabric. The product listing describes the fabric as soft and breathable. This makes this type of shorts suitable for lounging, light training and everyday casual wear.

A brushed fleece inner, as found in certain Under Armour men’s shorts, can provide extra warmth and softness. This is practical during warm-ups or on cooler days, but less suitable when you are looking for lightweight summer shorts.

2. Check the waistband, drawstring and fit

Shorts with an elasticated waistband are easy to pull on, but pay attention to the construction. A covered elasticated waistband with a drawstring generally gives you more ways to adjust the shorts. Also check whether the fit is regular, relaxed or slim.

  • Regular fit: a classic fit with room for everyday wear and training.
  • Relaxed fit: more room to move, often comfortable for men’s lounge shorts.
  • Slim fit: closer-fitting and potentially less suitable for deep squats or sitting for long periods.

Measure your waist at home where you want to wear the shorts. Compare the result with the size guide on the product page. For example, the Under Armour Rival Fleece Shorts list waist and hip ranges for each size. The product information gives a waist range of 79–86 cm for size M and 86–94 cm for size L.

3. Consider the pockets, length and care instructions

Pockets are relevant for everyday use. The PUMA shorts have open side pockets. According to the product description, the Under Armour Rival Fleece Shorts feature open hand pockets and a back pocket with a snap fastening. A back pocket can be useful for carrying a key during sport, but check that its contents will not get in the way while you move.

Knee-length shorts provide more coverage, while a shorter cut may feel lighter. Therefore, look at the photos, inside-leg length and model information.

Care affects the lifespan of your clothing. Wash garments according to the label and be aware that cotton-rich fabrics can shrink. The PUMA product information recommends washing at 30 °C and not tumble drying. According to the listing, the Under Armour Rival Fleece Shorts can be washed cold and tumble dried at a low temperature. If in doubt, follow the physical care label.

Our recommendations by user profile

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

PUMA Men's Shorts Medium Gray Heather PUMA ESS No. 1 Logo Collection M

Why this suits the profile: The grey PUMA shorts combine a classic cut with an elasticated waistband, internal drawstring and side pockets. This makes them suitable for light training, wearing at home and everyday casual use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The waistband does not rely on elastic alone: the internal drawstring lets you adjust the fit. Size M has its own product listing; check the current size guide before buying.

Main benefit & advantages

68% cotton and 32% polyester, knee-length cut, side pockets and, according to the product information, at least 50% recycled materials.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality
LEE LOUNGE SHORT WHITE RIVER-CHARCOAL MARL-S

LEE LOUNGE SHORT WHITE RIVER-CHARCOAL MARL-S

Why this suits the profile: These Lee lounge shorts are designed for relaxed days and casual wear. The described relaxed fit and soft, breathable fabric suit anyone who values comfort and an understated look.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description clearly identifies the fit and fabric type rather than making only a general comfort claim. Before ordering, check the label for the exact fibre composition.

Main benefit & advantages

Relaxed fit, lightweight construction and a waistband with a branded detail. Suitable for warmer weather and relaxed everyday wear.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
Under Armour Men's Rival Fleece Shorts Grey Sportstyle Collection M

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

Why this suits the profile: The fleece construction is designed for warm-ups, gym sessions and lounging in cooler weather. The regular fit and adjustable waistband suit anyone looking for room to move without a loose fit.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies both a covered elasticated waistband and a drawstring. This allows you to adjust the fit more precisely than with a fixed waistband alone.

Main benefit & advantages

80% cotton and 20% polyester, brushed fleece inner, open hand pockets and a back pocket with a snap fastening.

Looking for more options?

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.

Frequently asked questions about men’s shorts

Which men’s shorts are suitable for sport?

Choose a pair with enough room to move, an adjustable waistband and a material suited to the intensity of your training. Check the fibre composition and look for practical details such as pockets and inside-leg length. Lounge or fleece shorts may be suitable for warm-ups, but they are not automatically the right choice for intense summer training.

How do I choose the right size for men’s shorts?

Measure your waist and, if necessary, your hip circumference with a flexible tape measure. Compare these measurements with the specific brand’s size guide. Also consider the fit: a relaxed style is roomier than a slim style. If you are between two sizes, the drawstring may provide extra adjustability, but it cannot replace choosing the correct size.

How long do comfortable men’s shorts last?

Their lifespan depends on how often they are worn, friction, the wash cycle and drying. Wash them according to the care label, use the recommended temperature and avoid unnecessarily hot drying. Over time, pay particular attention to the seams, waistband and fabric thickness. A simple colour such as men’s grey shorts can also be easily paired with multiple outfits, allowing you to wear one pair regularly without limiting it to a single occasion.