Choosing sports shorts: how to find comfortable shorts for training and everyday wear

A good pair of sports shorts needs to do more than look sporty. During fitness sessions, running or a game of basketball, you quickly notice whether the waistband stays in place, the pockets are useful and the fabric feels comfortable. Even for casual wear or relaxing at home, you do not want shorts that pull, bobble or lose their shape after just a few washes.

However, the product description does not always tell the whole story. So pay particular attention to these three common pitfalls:

• A fit that does not suit the intended use: loose shorts allow plenty of movement, but may feel less secure when running. A close-fitting model, on the other hand, may be uncomfortable for casual wear.
• Confusion over materials: cotton feels soft, but is not automatically suitable for intensive training. Mesh and polyester can be lighter and quicker to dry, while fleece provides more warmth.
• Attractive details without practical value: a logo or striking finish says little about comfort. Instead, check the waistband, pockets, inner lining and care instructions.

Which sports shorts features are important?

1. Choose the material based on when you will wear them

A range of materials is available for men’s sports shorts and women’s sports shorts. Your choice mainly depends on the temperature, intensity and level of softness you want.

• Cotton shorts: soft and comfortable for everyday wear, light training and relaxing at home. A cotton blend can feel comfortable, but generally dries more slowly than synthetic fabric.
• Fleece shorts: suitable for warm-ups, cooler days and relaxing. According to the brand’s product description, a brushed inner side can provide extra warmth and softness.
• Mesh shorts: lightweight and breathable, with an open structure that often suits basketball, football and summer activities.
• Quick-drying shorts: check whether the product actually mentions moisture-wicking or quick-drying technology. For example, the PUMA Ess Woven shorts’ product description mentions PUMA dryCELL as a technology that helps draw moisture away from the skin. This is a brand claim and does not guarantee the same experience for every user.

If you mainly train at the gym, you could choose fitness shorts or lightweight training shorts. For a leisurely walk or everyday wear, casual cotton or French Terry shorts are often the more logical choice.

2. Check the waistband, drawcord and sizing

Shorts with an elasticated waistband should feel comfortable without constantly slipping down. An internal or external drawcord provides additional adjustment. Before buying, measure your waist where you intend to wear the shorts and compare it with the product size chart.

Also pay attention to the difference between:

• Regular fit: a standard cut with room for everyday wear and training.
• Loose fit: a roomier shape, suitable when freedom of movement and a relaxed feel are the priority.
• Fitted fit: closer to the body. This can be useful for running or with a 2-in-1 model featuring close-fitting inner shorts.

Do not look only at S, M or L. Product size charts can vary between brands. For example, the stated waist measurement for the Under Armour Rival Fleece shorts for men ranges from 71–74 cm for XS to 104–116 cm for XXL. For the women’s model, the hip measurement is also provided alongside the waist measurement. This makes comparison more practical than relying solely on your usual letter size.

3. Consider the length, pockets and care requirements

The length determines how a pair of shorts feels while you are moving. A knee-length model works well for casual wear and light training. A shorter model may be more comfortable for running. According to the product description, the Under Armour Launch 7” 2-in-1 features outer shorts with close-fitting inner shorts built in. The PUMA Ess Woven shorts sit above the knee and have side pockets.

Also check:

• Are the pockets open or secured with a fastening?
• Is there room for a mobile phone?
• Is the pocket positioned so that items do not get in the way while you are moving?
• Can the shorts be machine-washed?
• Are they suitable for tumble drying?
• Are bleach, fabric softener or ironing not recommended?

Care instructions are not a minor detail. Cotton blends, fleece and mesh may have different washing requirements. Always follow the label inside the garment.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

PUMA Men's Shorts Black PUMA ESS No. 1 Logo Collection M

Why it suits this profile: This model combines a knee-length cut, side pockets and an adjustable waistband for everyday wear, light training and relaxing at home.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specification states that the shorts have an elasticated waistband with an internal drawcord and side pockets, so your choice does not have to be based on the logo alone.

Key benefit & advantages

68% cotton and 32% polyester; knee-length fit; at least 50% recycled materials according to the product description.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality

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

Why it suits this profile: The combination of fleece, a regular fit and multiple pockets makes these shorts suitable for warm-ups, fitness, cooler days and casual wear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fit, waist measurement and inside leg length are listed in the product specification. This allows you to check the size rather than relying on the model name alone.

Key benefit & advantages

80% cotton and 20% polyester; brushed fleece inner according to the product description; open hand pockets and a secured back pocket.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users

Under Armour Men's Launch 7'' 2-In-1 Shorts Black Sportstyle Collection XL

Why it suits this profile: This 2-in-1 model is designed for running and more intensive training, where inner shorts, a phone pocket and ventilation are desirable.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specification mentions a close-fitting inner layer, an internal phone pocket and reflective details. However, check that the fitted design suits your preference.

Key benefit & advantages

Polyester outer layer; inner shorts made from polyester and elastane; mesh panels and a phone pocket according to the product description.

Frequently asked questions about sports shorts

Which sports shorts are suitable for running?

For running, preferably choose a lightweight model with a firm, adjustable waistband. An inner pocket for your phone can be useful. 2-in-1 shorts offer additional coverage, while loose mesh shorts provide greater freedom of movement. Always check the size and fit, as a waistband that is too loose may shift while you run.

Are cotton shorts suitable for fitness?

Yes, cotton shorts can be comfortable for light strength training, warm-ups and everyday wear. For intensive sessions where you sweat heavily, polyester or mesh shorts may be more practical because they are lighter and have product properties that indicate quick drying. According to the brand’s own product information, a particular technology may help draw moisture away; treat this as a product specification, not a guaranteed result.

How long do sports shorts last?

Their lifespan depends on use, washing frequency, friction and care. Wash the shorts according to the label, avoid products that are not recommended and do not wash or dry them unnecessarily hot. Before buying, check the seams, waistband, pockets and fabric composition. A well-fitting pair of shorts that you alternate with other garments will generally be subjected to less wear.