A good pair of sports shorts needs to do more than look sporty. Whether you're training, running, working out, playing basketball or enjoying a relaxed day at home, fit, material and pockets all matter. Yet it's easy to pay too much for a logo or a technical term that makes little difference in practice.
Pay particular attention to these common pitfalls:
For everyday wear, warm-ups and lounging, a soft cotton blend can be comfortable. According to the product information, the PUMA ESS No. 1 Logo shorts are made from 68% cotton and 32% polyester. The French Terry construction is designed to provide a soft feel and the shorts have a knee-length fit.
For more intensive training, lightweight polyester shorts are often more practical. According to the product information, the PUMA ESS Woven shorts are made from 100% polyester and feature a mesh-like woven construction. PUMA says that dryCELL is designed to draw moisture away from the skin; this is a product claim made by the brand, not an independent finding. Also check whether a pair of shorts has an inner layer, especially when choosing lightweight mesh shorts.
An adjustable waistband is important if you move around a lot or fall between two sizes. Pay attention to the position of the drawstring:
A regular fit is generally suitable for training, walking and casual wear. A loose fit provides more freedom of movement for basketball and football, but may feel less streamlined when running. Also consider the length: men's knee-length shorts are versatile, while a shorter men's training-shorts fit can offer greater freedom of movement.
Sports shorts with pockets are useful for keys or a card. For a smartphone, deep pockets or a zipped pocket are more practical. The selected PUMA and Under Armour models below have open side pockets according to their product descriptions.
Care affects the lifespan of your shorts. Wash sportswear according to the care label, use similar colours and avoid bleach when it is not permitted. Some models should not be tumble-dried or may only be ironed at a low temperature. You should also read sustainability claims carefully: “made with recycled material” does not automatically mean that the entire garment is made from recycled fibres.
Why it suits this profile: These black sports shorts are suitable for beginners looking for one pair for light training, wearing at home and everyday casual use. According to the product information, the model has a knee-length cut, side pockets and an elasticated waistband with an internal drawstring.
The combination of adjustability and side pockets prevents you from choosing based on appearance alone. The cotton-polyester blend makes it clear that this is more of a versatile lifestyle short than a dedicated running short.
68% cotton and 32% polyester; knee-length fit; two side pockets; internal drawstring; according to PUMA, made with at least 50% recycled material.
Why it suits this profile: A suitable choice for anyone who wants to combine comfort with training, warm-ups and everyday wear. According to the product information, the shorts have a regular fit, a 15 cm inside-leg length and open hand pockets.
The sizing information includes waist and hip ranges. This lets you choose more accurately than by relying on M, L or XL alone. The drawstring is positioned on the outside, making it easy to adjust while wearing the shorts.
French Terry with 80% cotton and 20% polyester; regular fit; 15 cm inside-leg length; external drawstring; open hand pockets. According to Under Armour, the fabric is designed to wick away moisture and dry quickly.
Why it suits this profile: These men's mesh shorts are designed for sports that require plenty of freedom of movement, such as basketball, football and intensive summer training. According to the product description, the loose fit and wide cut are less likely to restrict movement.
The product information states the weight of the mesh outer fabric: 130 g/m². Waist ranges are also provided for each size. This makes it easier to choose the loose fit deliberately.
100% polyester; 130 g/m² mesh outer fabric; 110 g/m² polyester lining; loose fit; elasticated waistband with drawstring; available in multiple sizes.
We've put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
That depends on the intensity and the design. Cotton feels soft, but a cotton blend is not automatically a moisture-wicking material. For longer or more intensive runs, lightweight men's polyester running shorts are often the more logical choice. Also check the length, inner shorts and pockets.
Measure your waist where the shorts would normally sit and compare it with the brand's size chart. Where available, also check the hip measurement and inside-leg length. With a loose fit, you can expect extra room for movement; don't simply choose a larger size if what you really want is a roomier fit.
Their lifespan depends on use, how often they are washed, friction and drying. Wash them at the temperature stated on the label, do not use bleach when it is not permitted and avoid high drying temperatures. When buying, pay attention to the seams, waistband, fabric density and composition. A recycled content percentage can represent a more sustainable material choice, but it does not replace careful maintenance.