Best Men's Athletic Shorts (2026 Guide)
We selected products by combining overall user rating and review volume, prioritizing features like fabric, inseam length, pocket design, and waistband construction
The Verdict
- Best Overall: NORTHYARD Men's athletic running shorts — Best for runners: quick-dry breathable fabric and a performance cut built for higher-intensity workouts
- Best Value: Maamgic Mens Athletic Shorts 5.5" with pockets — Best for pocket utility: designed with convenient pockets and a versatile 5.5" inseam for gym and errands
This roundup covers top-rated men's athletic shorts chosen for running, gym use, and everyday training, emphasizing practical features reviewers mention. Selections were based on aggregate rating and review volume with attention to fabric, fit, and functional details like pockets and waist design
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall NORTHYARD Men's athletic running shorts
Best for runners: quick-dry breathable fabric and a performance cut built for higher-intensity 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 for pocket utility: designed with convenient pockets and a versatile 5.5" inseam for gym 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 waist and classic athletic cut for everyday training and casual wear
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 choice with pockets: simple elastic waist and pocketed design for basic gym 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 athletic gym shorts 5.5" inseam
Best lightweight gym short: minimal design and a 5.5" inseam that favors mobility and quick drying
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 for comfort blend: cotton-poly construction that balances softness 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 all-rounder: pocketed, mid-length athletic short suitable for workouts and casual wear
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 practical pick: pockets plus a 5.5" inseam deliver dependable performance for training sessions
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 for jogger style: waistband pocket jogger design that keeps essentials secure during movement
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 for classic fit: elastic waist and straightforward athletic cut for reliable gym and leisure use
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