Best Men's Athletic Shorts for Gym Workouts (2026)
We selected shorts based on fit (inseam and waistband), fabric performance (breathability, quick-dry), pocket functionality, and overall value across the price range
The Verdict
- Best Overall: NORTHYARD Men's athletic running shorts — Best for quick-dry needs: breathable fabric and running-focused cut for sweat-heavy training
- Best Value: Maamgic men's athletic shorts, 5.5" inseam, elastic waist — Best for a streamlined fit: 5.5" inseam and elastic waist offering mobility and a snug feel
This roundup identifies men’s athletic shorts suited for gym workouts, ranked by how well they fit and the value they offer. Picks were evaluated using fabric performance (breathability, quick-dry), inseam and fit options, pocket and waistband features, and price-to-quality value
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall NORTHYARD Men's athletic running shorts
Best for quick-dry needs: breathable fabric and running-focused cut for sweat-heavy training
Lightweight, breathable shorts with quick-drying fabric and built-in drawstring for a secure fit. Customers note quality, comfort, and lightweight feel, with a zippered back pocket for storage
- quick-dry fabric
- adjustable fit
- zippered pocket
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2
Best Value Maamgic men's athletic shorts, 5.5" inseam, elastic waist
Best for a streamlined fit: 5.5" inseam and elastic waist offering mobility and a snug feel
Soft, breathable shorts with moisture-wicking terry fabric and an elastic encased waistband. Comfortable fit with deep side pockets and a back velcro pocket, suitable for workouts and daily wear. Customers note comfortable, well-fitting cut and quality material
- elastic waistband with secure fit
- breathable, soft material blend
- multiple pockets for storage
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3
Maamgic Mens Athletic Shorts 5.5" with pockets
Best for pocket utility: 5.5" inseam plus pockets that keep small items secure during workouts
Soft, breathable athletic shorts with a 5.5" inseam and elastic waistband. Moisture-wicking terry fabric, with two side pockets and a back Velcro pocket for essentials. Customers praise comfort, fit, and material quality
- 5.5" inseam for versatile length
- high cotton content for comfort
- multiple pockets for storage
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4
Maamgic men's athletic shorts, 5.5-inch inseam, elastic waist
Best balanced option: 5.5" inseam with elastic waist and pockets for versatile gym use
Lightweight 5.5" shorts with breathable terry fabric, moisture-wicking and flexible material. Comfortable fit with a wide elastic waistband and multiple pockets for essentials
- 5.5" inseam for balanced length
- multiple pockets including back Velcro
- soft, breathable fabric
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5
Maamgic Mens Athletic Shorts 5.5" Elastic Waist Jogger
Best for jogger-style comfort: elastic waist and jogger cut that stays comfortable during varied activity
Soft, breathable athletic shorts with an elastic incased waistband, 5.5" inseam, and multiple pockets. Customers praise comfort, fit, and material quality
- elastic waistband with deep pockets
- 5.5" inseam length
- soft 80/20 cotton-poly fabric
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6
Maamgic athletic gym shorts 5.5" inseam
Best for classic gym sessions: mid-length inseam and functional design built for routine workouts
Comfortable athletic shorts with a 5.5" inseam, lightweight terry fabric, and breathable design. Customers cite comfortable fit and functional pockets as key benefits
- breathable terry fabric
- functional pockets
- adjustable waist feel
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7
Maamgic Men's Athletic Shorts 5.5" Inseam with Pockets
Best for cotton-blend feel: 5.5" inseam with pockets and a cotton-poly blend for everyday comfort
Lightweight, breathable athletic shorts with an elastic waistband and multiple pockets. Customers praise comfort, fit, and material quality
- comfortable fit with wide waistband
- multiple pockets including back velcro
- high cotton content for softness
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8
Maamgic Men's Athletic Shorts 5.5" Inseam
Best straightforward option: simple 5.5" inseam and pocket setup for no-fuss training
Lightweight, breathable athletic shorts with an elastic waistband and multiple pockets. Comfortable fit with high-cotton content and moisture-wicking terry fabric; includes deep side pockets and a back velcro pocket for essentials
- 5.5" inseam for balanced coverage
- two deep side pockets + back velcro pocket
- 80% cotton 20% polyester for comfort
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9
Maamgic Men’s Athletic Shorts, 5.5" Inseam
Best for a cotton-poly blend: comfortable fabric mix and a 5.5" inseam suited to general workouts
Soft, breathable athletic shorts with an 80/20 cotton-poly blend, moisture-wicking terry fabric, and a secure waistband. Customers praise comfortable fit and functional pockets
- comfortable wide waistband
- functional pockets with zippers
- high-cotton content and thick feel
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10
Maamgic men's athletic shorts with pockets and 5.5" inseam
Best for pocket-focused gym use: 5.5" inseam with pockets designed to secure essentials
Lightweight, breathable shorts with an elastic waistband and zip pockets. Comfortable fit with high-cotton content suitable for workouts and everyday wear. Customers note the 5.5" length and versatile style
- comfortable fit with wide waistband
- secure pockets with zippers
- breathable and lightweight fabric