Best Men's Athletic Shorts for Gym Workouts (2026)
We ranked shorts by fit (inseam and waistband comfort), material performance (breathability and quick-dry), practical features (pockets, liners), and overall value
The Verdict
- Best Overall: NORTHYARD Men's athletic running shorts — Best for runners: quick-dry, breathable fabric designed for high-movement workouts
- Best Value: Maamgic Mens Athletic Shorts 5.5" with pockets — Best pocket utility: practical pockets and a gym-ready cut for everyday training
This roundup covers men's athletic shorts suited for gym workouts, focusing on fit, fabric performance, and everyday value. Selections emphasize quick-dry materials, comfortable inseams, and practical features such as pockets and elastic waists to help you pick shorts that perform during training
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall NORTHYARD Men's athletic running shorts
Best for runners: quick-dry, breathable fabric designed for high-movement workouts
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 Mens Athletic Shorts 5.5" with pockets
Best pocket utility: practical pockets and a gym-ready cut for everyday training
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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3
Maamgic men's athletic shorts, 5.5" inseam, elastic waist
Best secure fit: elastic waist and 5.5" inseam that balance mobility and comfort
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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4
Maamgic men's athletic shorts, 5.5-inch inseam, elastic waist
Best budget versatile short: simple elastic waist and pockets for routine gym sessions
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 athletic gym shorts 5.5" inseam
Best no-frills gym short: lightweight 5.5" inseam focused on straightforward performance
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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6
Maamgic Men’s Athletic Shorts, 5.5" Inseam
Best blended fabric option: cotton-poly blend that offers comfort with workout durability
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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7
Maamgic Men's Athletic Shorts 5.5" Inseam
Best pocketed everyday short: reliable storage and a mid-length inseam for 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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8
Maamgic Men's Athletic Shorts 5.5" Inseam with Pockets
Best cotton-blend pocket short: comfortable fabric with useful pockets for gym needs
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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9
Maamgic Mens Athletic Shorts 5.5" Elastic Waist Jogger
Best jogger-style option: elastic waist and jogger cut suited to warm-ups and light training
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