Men's shorts may seem easy to choose, but you often only notice the difference between comfortable sports shorts and a poor purchase once you start exercising. A waistband that slips down, fabric that stays damp for too long or pockets that let your phone bounce around can make a workout unnecessarily unpleasant.
If you search for men's sports shorts, you will also come across terms such as “breathable”, “quick-drying” and “performance”. These words do not always tell you enough. Instead, look at the specific fabric composition, fit, length and practical details.
A product is sometimes described as breathable without making it clear what it is made from. Polyester mesh can feel lightweight and airy, while a cotton blend may be more comfortable for everyday wear and gentler workouts. Always check the composition and look for details such as ventilation panels, a mesh lining or an open-weave structure.
Loose shorts are useful for basketball, football and casual wear, but may feel less secure when running. A close-fitting pair of men's compression shorts offers less loose fabric, but is not comfortable for everyone. Look out for terms such as regular fit, loose fit, fitted or compression fit.
Length matters too. Knee-length shorts are versatile for training and relaxing. Shorts that sit above the knee generally offer greater freedom of movement when running or working out.
Open side pockets are handy for keys or your hands, but your phone can fall out while running. If you are looking for shorts with pockets for an outdoor run, look for a secure or internal phone pocket. According to the product description, reflective details may also help you to be more visible in low light; they are not a substitute for proper lighting or safe behaviour around traffic.
For intense workouts, lightweight, quick-drying fabrics are often practical. Synthetic sports shorts are usually made from polyester, sometimes combined with elastane for stretch. Under Armour's product information, for example, states that certain fabrics wick away moisture and dry quickly. This is a brand claim, so present it as information from Under Armour rather than as a guaranteed result for every wearer.
For relaxing, warming up and everyday wear, a cotton-polyester blend may feel more comfortable. According to the product information, the PUMA ESS No. 1 Logo shorts are made from 68% cotton and 32% polyester. The French Terry fabric and elasticated waistband make this type of men's shorts suitable for gentle movement, lounging and casual outfits.
An elasticated waistband with an internal drawstring helps you adjust the fit. Check that the drawstring is on the inside if you want a neat, understated look. A wide waistband can be comfortable for extended wear, while a soft knit waistband is often chosen for workouts involving plenty of movement.
Do not rely solely on your usual size. Measure your waist and hips and compare them with the size chart for the specific product. Sizing can vary between brands. With a compression fit, the shorts are deliberately very close-fitting; Under Armour states for the HG Armour Shorts that you may wish to consider going up a size if you prefer a less tight fit or fall between two sizes.
Also check:
Why this suits this profile: This black model combines a knee-length cut with an elasticated waistband, internal drawstring and side pockets. It is suitable for light training, walking and everyday wear.
The adjustable waistband means you do not have to rely solely on a fixed elasticated band. The fabric composition is clearly stated: 68% cotton and 32% polyester.
Side pockets, a knee-length fit and at least 50% recycled materials according to the product description.
Why this suits this profile: These black sports shorts feature a lightweight woven mesh construction, an above-the-knee length and a practical waistband with drawstring. They are suitable for running, fitness and workouts on warm days.
The product description lists the material in full: 100% polyester. According to PUMA, dryCELL is designed to wick moisture away from the body; this remains a brand claim and is not a guarantee for every user.
100% recycled material, excluding finishing and decoration, plus side pockets and an above-the-knee length.
Why this suits this profile: These 2-in-1 sports shorts combine a woven outer layer with built-in close-fitting inner shorts. This makes them practical for running, fitness and workouts involving plenty of movement.
The inner shorts reduce loose fabric during movement. There is also an internal phone pocket on the right-hand side; however, check that it fits your phone before buying.
According to Under Armour: moisture-wicking material, quick-drying fabric, mesh panels, reflective details and open hand pockets.
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.
Always follow the care label for your chosen shorts. Many synthetic models can be washed cold or at a maximum of 30 to 40 °C. Avoid fabric softener with technical fabrics when the manufacturer advises against it, as it may affect the fabric's properties. Wash clothes with similar colours and do not leave sports shorts damp in a gym bag for long after use.
Choose lightweight shorts with a secure waistband, enough freedom of movement and, ideally, a secure phone pocket. Men's running shorts with built-in inner shorts can be comfortable if you prefer less loose fabric.
Yes, they can be practical for fitness and training sessions. The outer layer gives a looser look, while the inner shorts provide extra coverage. However, pay attention to the fit: a fitted model feels different from a standard pair of training shorts.
Measure your waist and hips and compare these measurements with the brand's size chart. With a compression model, you should pay particular attention to the fit description. Do not automatically choose a smaller size; shorts that are too tight can restrict your freedom of movement and reduce comfort.