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:
Below, you’ll find out which features to check before you buy men’s sports shorts.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
Knee-length fit, side pockets and at least 50% recycled materials according to PUMA.
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.
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.
80% cotton, 20% polyester, brushed fleece lining, drawcord and size XXL with a waist range of 104–116 cm.
Why this fits the profile: The lightweight woven fabric and above-knee length suit training, running and activities in warmer weather.
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.
Lightweight woven mesh, above-knee length, side pockets and 100% recycled material according to PUMA’s product description.
Why this fits the profile: This model is designed for a loose fit and is available in sizes up to 6XL, including 4XL.
The sizing lists waist ranges and the model has an elastic waistband with a drawcord. Always check your own measurements before ordering.
100% polyester, mesh with inner lining, loose fit, quick-drying product description and sizes from S to 6XL.
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.
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.
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.
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.