Best Men's Athletic Shorts Under $100 (2026)
We selected items under $100 and ranked them by a value score that combines material quality, functional features (pockets, waistband, quick-dry), and apparent versatility
The Verdict
- Best Overall: NORTHYARD Men's athletic running shorts — Best for runners: lightweight, quick-dry fabric and breathable construction for sustained comfort
- Best Value: Maamgic Mens Athletic Shorts 5.5" with pockets — Best for everyday training: 5.5" inseam and pockets offer a balanced fit and handy storage
This roundup covers men's athletic shorts under $100 selected for balanced value, comfort, and performance features useful for running, gym work, and everyday wear. Picks were ranked by a value score that weights fabric, fit options, pocket design, and breathability from product specs and user-facing features
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall NORTHYARD Men's athletic running shorts
Best for runners: lightweight, quick-dry fabric and breathable construction for sustained comfort
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 for everyday training: 5.5" inseam and pockets offer a balanced fit and handy storage
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 for a secure fit: elastic waist with a mid-length inseam for stable movement 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 for pocket utility: mid-length cut with practical pockets for carrying essentials securely
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 budget gym short: simple 5.5" inseam design focused on lightweight performance and mobility
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 blend option: cotton-poly blend that balances softness with workout-ready 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 training short: functional pockets and a mid-length inseam for gym and errands
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-poly hybrid with pockets: versatile fabric mix and storage for everyday training 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 Gym Shorts 5.5" Waistband Pocket Jogger
Best waistband pocket combo: elastic waistband with pocket design suited for jogs and gym use
Soft, breathable shorts with moisture-wicking terry fabric and a flexible 5.5" inseam. Customers praise comfort, fit, and roomy pockets
- comfortable fit with wide waistband
- multi-pocket design
- breathable, lightweight material
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10
Maamgic Mens Athletic Shorts 5.5" Elastic Waist Jogger
Best secure waist jogger style: elastic waist and jogger fit that stay in place during dynamic movement
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