Best Men's Athletic Shorts Under $50 (2026)
We selected shorts under $50 by a composite value score combining material performance, fit options (inseam and waistband), useful features (pockets), and consistent positive user feedback
The Verdict
- Best Overall: NORTHYARD Men's athletic running shorts — Best for breathable runs: quick-dry fabric and a running-oriented cut that prioritizes ventilation and motion
- Best Value: Maamgic men's athletic shorts, 5.5" inseam, elastic waist — Best for adjustable fit: elastic waistband and 5.5" inseam deliver comfortable, everyday athletic wear with easy mobility
This roundup highlights men's athletic shorts priced under $50, focusing on breathable, quick-dry, and value-oriented options for running, gym, and everyday training. Selections were ranked by a value score that weights fit, fabric performance, features (pockets, inseam), and customer-rated durability
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall NORTHYARD Men's athletic running shorts
Best for breathable runs: quick-dry fabric and a running-oriented cut that prioritizes ventilation and motion
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 adjustable fit: elastic waistband and 5.5" inseam deliver comfortable, everyday athletic wear with easy mobility
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 pocketed utility: includes pockets for small essentials while keeping a short, gym-friendly silhouette
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 a versatile workout short
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 Men’s Athletic Shorts, 5.5" Inseam
Best for cotton-blend comfort: a cotton-poly fabric blend that offers softer feel with breathable performance
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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6
Maamgic athletic gym shorts 5.5" inseam
Best for gym sessions: tailored 5.5" inseam and practical pocketing suited to training and casual wear
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 everyday training: 5.5" inseam with pockets for routine workouts and warm-ups
Soft, breathable gym shorts with 5.5" inseam, elastic waistband, and multiple pockets. Customers praise comfort, fit, and material quality
- comfortable fit
- ample pocketing
- lightweight breathable fabric
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8
Maamgic Men's Athletic Shorts 5.5" Inseam
Best straightforward athletic short: simple design with a 5.5" inseam that supports gym and casual activity
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 with Pockets
Best for pocket-focused use: 5.5" inseam paired with pockets and a cotton-poly blend for utility and 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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10
Maamgic men's athletic shorts with pockets and 5.5" inseam
Best all-around gym short: 5.5" inseam, elastic waist, and pockets for a dependable training staple
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