Best Men's Athletic Shorts Under $50 (2026)
We ranked items by a value score that weighted fabric quality, fit features (inseam, waistband, pockets), breathability, and price under $50
The Verdict
- Best Overall: NORTHYARD Men's athletic running shorts — Best for runners: quick-dry, breathable fabric and a running-oriented cut built for sweat management and mobility
- Best Value: Maamgic Mens Athletic Shorts 5.5" with pockets — Best for pocketed versatility: gym-ready shorts with practical pockets and a mid-length inseam for workouts and errands
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall NORTHYARD Men's athletic running shorts
Best for runners: quick-dry, breathable fabric and a running-oriented cut built for sweat management and mobility
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 pocketed versatility: gym-ready shorts with practical pockets and a mid-length inseam for workouts and errands
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 adjustable comfort: elastic waistband and mid-length cut that balance fit and freedom of movement
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 no-fuss wear: simple elastic waist design with a mid inseam and pockets for everyday training needs
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 with pockets and 5.5" inseam
Best for everyday gym use: mid-length inseam and pockets combine to handle workouts and casual wear comfortably
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
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6
Maamgic athletic gym shorts 5.5" inseam
Best budget gym option: lightweight mid inseam tailored for repeated training sessions with practical pocketing
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 all-rounder pockets: balanced mid-length cut and secure pockets for versatile use from running to strength training
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 with Pockets
Best for mixed-fabric comfort: cotton-poly blend feel with a mid inseam and pockets suitable for low- to mid-intensity workouts
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 Men’s Athletic Shorts, 5.5" Inseam
Best for lightweight workouts: mid-length athletic design aimed at breathability and easy layering for exercise routines
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 Mens Athletic Gym Shorts 5.5" Waistband Pocket Jogger
Best for jogger-style convenience: mid inseam with a waistband pocket for hands-free carry during runs and gym sessions
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