Vandaag of morgen in huis
Kwaliteit gegarandeerd
Welkomstaanbiedingen ontgrendelen: GRATIS bezorging | Tot 80% korting | Gratis 30 dagen JoyPlus-proefperiode
Download de app
Choosing a new pair of sports shorts may seem straightforward, but small details determine whether you wear them regularly or leave them at the back of the drawer after a few washes. A waistband that is too loose will slip down as you move, cotton can feel heavy during intense exercise, and a pocket without a secure fastening is of little use for keys or a phone.
This guide compares men’s sports shorts based on material, fit, intended use and care. That way, you can avoid paying mainly for a brand name or eye-catching marketing term.
Cotton sports shorts feel comfortable for relaxing, walking or light fitness sessions. During running or an intense gym workout, however, cotton retains moisture for longer than many synthetic fabrics. As a result, the shorts can feel heavier and become less comfortable.
A cotton blend can be a practical compromise. Always check the material percentages. For example, the PUMA ESS No. 1 Logo shorts consist of 68% cotton and 32% polyester. The Under Armour Rival Terry 6In Short has a composition of 80% cotton and 20% polyester.
Knee-length shorts with side pockets work well for everyday wear and strength training, but may restrict your freedom of movement when running or playing basketball. Men’s mesh shorts usually have a looser cut, making them an interesting option for basketball, football and recreational use.
Pay attention to the inside leg length, the height of the waistband and the room around the thighs. Shorts that fit well when standing may still pull when you do lunges, squats or sprints.
Sports shorts with an elasticated waistband offer extra flexibility, but they do not replace choosing the right size. Shorts that are too loose will still slip down, while a waistband that is too tight can dig in when sitting or moving. An internal or external drawstring helps you adjust the fit further.
Measure your waist where you normally wear your shorts and compare the measurement with the product’s size guide. Do not rely solely on S, M, L or XL; sizing can vary between brands.
Choose the material based on your activity:
According to PUMA’s own product information, the ESS No. 1 Logo shorts are made with at least 50% recycled materials. For the PUMA ESS Woven shorts, PUMA states that they contain 100% recycled material, excluding finishes and decorations. These are brand claims taken from the product information, not an independent assessment of the environmental impact.
Men’s training shorts often have a regular fit and a length around the knee or just above it. This provides sufficient coverage for fitness and everyday wear. Men’s running shorts are usually shorter and lighter, allowing your legs to move more freely.
Loose mesh shorts can be suitable for basketball or football, but check that the lining provides enough coverage and that the waistband fits securely. If you are looking for men’s shorts with pockets, also check how deep the pockets are and whether your belongings will stay in place while you move.
Check the following before buying:
Always follow the care label. Some synthetic shorts should be tumble-dried at a low temperature, while other models must not be tumble-dried at all. Wash dark colours, such as black sports shorts, preferably with similar colours to help prevent colour transfer.
Why it suits this profile: These black sports shorts combine a knee-length cut with side pockets and an adjustable waistband. This makes them suitable for everyday wear, light training and relaxing.
The internal drawstrings help prevent the shorts from slipping down. The material composition is clearly stated and does not consist solely of cotton.
68% cotton and 32% polyester; side pockets; at least 50% recycled materials according to PUMA.
Why it suits this profile: These blue sports shorts have a regular fit and French Terry fabric. This makes them suitable for warming up, fitness, leisure and everyday casual wear.
The sizing information includes waist and hip measurements. The elasticated waistband has an external drawstring for additional adjustment.
80% cotton and 20% polyester; open hand pockets; 15 cm inside leg length; regular fit.
Why it suits this profile: These lightweight woven mesh shorts are designed for training, running and active outdoor use. They fall above the knee and the fit can be adjusted with a drawstring.
The product information specifies polyester, an above-the-knee length and side pockets. This means the key considerations for more intense use can be checked in advance.
100% polyester according to PUMA; mesh construction; side pockets; 100% recycled material according to the product information, excluding finishes and decorations.
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.
Many people choose lightweight polyester shorts or a mesh construction for running. These materials are generally light and are often designed to dry quickly. Also check the inside leg length, seams and whether pockets are included. Cotton sports shorts can be comfortable for gentle activities, but are not always practical when you sweat for extended periods.
Measure your natural waist and compare it with the brand’s size guide. If available, it is also worth measuring your hips. Then consider the fit: regular fit sits closer to the body, while a loose fit provides more room around the legs. A drawstring can accommodate small differences, but it cannot compensate for a clearly incorrect size.
Their lifespan depends on how often they are worn, the wash programme, drying method and intensity of use. Wash the shorts according to the care label, avoid unnecessarily high temperatures and do not use fabric softener if the manufacturer advises against it. Before buying, pay particular attention to the waistband, seams, pockets and fabric weight. In practice, these features often determine how long you can continue wearing the shorts comfortably.
