Joybuy Insights

Choosing men's sports shorts: a practical buying guide to comfort, fit and use

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:

  • An elasticated waistband without proper adjustment: elastic alone does not always provide enough support. An internal or external drawstring helps you achieve a better fit.
  • A material that does not suit the intended use: cotton sports shorts often feel soft, but that does not automatically make them suitable for intense exercise. Men's mesh shorts are lighter and more breathable, but may feel less warm when lounging.
  • Pockets that are only practical on paper: check that side pockets are actually included and that they are suitable for keys, a phone or other small items.
  • Sizing that varies between brands: a size L is not the same everywhere. Look at waist, hip and inside-leg measurements rather than relying on the letter size alone.

Which features of men's sports shorts are important?

1. Material suited to the activity

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.

2. Waistband, drawstring and fit

An adjustable waistband is important if you move around a lot or fall between two sizes. Pay attention to the position of the drawstring:

  • Internal drawstring: a clean look with fewer loose ends.
  • External drawstring: easy to reach while exercising.
  • Elastic only: can be comfortable, but offers less individual adjustment.

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.

3. Pockets and care

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.

Recommended men's sports shorts for different needs

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 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.

How this product avoids the pitfall

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.

Key benefit & highlights

68% cotton and 32% polyester; knee-length fit; two side pockets; internal drawstring; according to PUMA, made with at least 50% recycled material.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Under Armour Men's Rival Terry 6In Short Blue Sportstyle Collection M

Under Armour Men's Rival Terry 6In Short Blue Sportstyle Collection M

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.

How this product avoids the pitfall

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.

Key benefit & highlights

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.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Stripes Mesh Shorts Blk Blk Wht M

Stripes Mesh Shorts Blk Blk Wht M

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.

How this product avoids the pitfall

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.

Key benefit & highlights

100% polyester; 130 g/m² mesh outer fabric; 110 g/m² polyester lining; loose fit; elasticated waistband with drawstring; available in multiple sizes.

Looking for more options?

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.

Frequently asked questions about men's sports shorts

Are cotton sports shorts suitable for running?

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.

How do I choose the right size for men's sports shorts?

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.

How long do men's shorts last?

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.