Joybuy Insights

Men’s sports shorts: how to choose the right fit, fabric and pockets

A good pair of sports shorts needs to do more than just look sporty. Whether you’re at the gym, going for a run, playing basketball or taking a walk through town, you’ll soon notice if the waistband stays put, the fabric breathes well enough and your phone can be stored safely. Yet many men’s sports shorts are marketed with appealing buzzwords, while the important details are often glossed over.

So keep an eye out for these common pitfalls:

  • An elastic waistband without proper adjustment: without a drawcord, the shorts can slip down during movement.
  • The wrong fabric for the activity: fleece is comfortable in cooler weather, but less practical for intense training.
  • Pockets that only look good on paper: open side pockets are fine for loose items, but offer little security when you’re running.
  • Sizes that vary between brands: a medium in one brand can fit differently to a medium in another.

Below, you’ll find out which features to check before you buy men’s sports shorts.

What to look for in men’s training shorts

1. Choose the material based on your activity

The fabric largely determines how the shorts feel and when you’ll wear them.

Cotton sports shorts for men feel soft and are suitable for everyday wear, warming up and relaxing. However, cotton can hold onto moisture. For intense workouts, synthetic fabrics or a blend are often more practical.

Fleece shorts for men usually have a brushed inner lining. This provides extra warmth during a warm-up, a walk or relaxed use at home. The Under Armour Rival Fleece Shorts are made from 80% cotton and 20% polyester and, according to the product description, have a soft, brushed interior.

Mesh shorts for men are lightweight and have an open structure that lets air through. They’re ideal for basketball, football, summer training and casual wear. A fully polyester model will usually dry faster than a heavy cotton one.

When you see terms like “moisture-wicking” or “quick-drying”, check the product information. According to PUMA’s own information, the dryCELL technology in certain models is designed to draw moisture away from the body. Treat this as a brand claim and also check the fabric composition: the PUMA Ess Woven shorts are, according to the product details, made from 100% polyester.

2. Check the waist, fit and length

A comfortable pair of shorts needs more than just elastic. An internal or external drawcord makes the fit more adjustable. Also look at the cut:

  • Regular fit: a classic fit with room for everyday wear and training.
  • Loose fit: extra room for movement, for example for basketball or football.
  • Knee-length or above-knee length: a personal choice that also affects freedom of movement.
  • Inseam: the inside leg length. This helps you compare shorter and longer models.

Measure your waist where you normally wear the shorts and compare it with the size guide. The Under Armour size guide, for example, lists a waist of 104–116 cm for XXL and 116–127 cm for 3XL. For the mesh shorts, the stated range goes up to 6XL, but you should carefully compare the exact waist measurements with your own.

3. Look critically at pockets and lining

If you’re looking for men’s sports shorts with pockets, check how many pockets there are and how they close. An open side pocket is handy for keys or a wallet during casual use. For running, a zip or button-fastening pocket may be more suitable.

The Under Armour Rival Fleece Shorts have open hand pockets and a back pocket with a button fastening. The PUMA models have practical side pockets according to the product description. The mesh shorts have a lightweight inner lining. This stops the open mesh from sitting directly against your skin, but it can affect how the shorts hang.

Our recommendations by use case

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: A cotton blend, elastic waistband and side pockets make this a practical choice for the gym, everyday wear and relaxing.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The waistband has an internal drawcord. The composition of 68% cotton and 32% polyester is clearly stated, so you know this isn’t a fully technical running fabric.

Key benefit & highlights

Knee-length fit, side pockets and at least 50% recycled materials according to PUMA.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Under Armour Men's Rival Fleece Shorts Grey Sportstyle Collection XXL

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

Why this fits the profile: These grey men’s sports shorts are designed for comfort during warm-ups, fitness and relaxed wear in cooler weather.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The regular fit and size guide make the choice easy to verify. The back pocket fastens with a button, unlike pockets that are only open.

Key benefit & highlights

80% cotton, 20% polyester, brushed fleece lining, drawcord and size XXL with a waist range of 104–116 cm.

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

PUMA Men's Shorts Black Ess Woven SS Collection XXL

Why this fits the profile: The lightweight woven fabric and above-knee length suit training, running and activities in warmer weather.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fabric is specified as 100% polyester and the model has a drawcord and side pockets. This means the material and practical features are clearly described.

Key benefit & highlights

Lightweight woven mesh, above-knee length, side pockets and 100% recycled material according to PUMA’s product description.

Suitable for: Big sizes and maximum freedom of movement
Stripes Mesh Shorts Blk Blk Wht 4XL

Stripes Mesh Shorts Blk Blk Wht 4XL

Why this fits the profile: This model is designed for a loose fit and is available in sizes up to 6XL, including 4XL.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The sizing lists waist ranges and the model has an elastic waistband with a drawcord. Always check your own measurements before ordering.

Key benefit & highlights

100% polyester, mesh with inner lining, loose fit, quick-drying product description and sizes from S to 6XL.

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.

Frequently asked questions about men’s sports shorts

Which men’s sports shorts are suitable for running?

For running, choose a lightweight model with an elastic waistband, drawcord and a fabric that doesn’t hold onto moisture. Mesh or polyester can be practical for intense effort. Also check whether the pockets can be closed if you’re taking keys or a phone with you.

Are cotton sports shorts for men suitable for the gym?

Yes, especially for strength training, warming up and gentler workouts. Cotton feels comfortable, but can hold onto moisture for longer. For intense cardio training, breathable sports shorts made from polyester or a fabric blend are often more practical.

How do you stop sports shorts from shrinking after washing?

Always follow the care label. Wash the Under Armour fleece variant in cold water and tumble dry on a low temperature. According to the product details, the PUMA models require a delicate wash programme at 30 °C. Avoid bleach and, for clothing with a logo, use the recommended low ironing temperature.