The 6 Best Gym Shorts for Men, Worn and Tested by Certified Trainers

The Ten Thousand Interval Short with Liner is the gritty MVP of gym shorts—versatile, durable, and ready for anything. Loved by athletes and editors alike, we use the Interval Short for everything from grueling lifting sessions to intense conditioning work to cool down and recovery.

Men’s Health senior editor Brett Williams, NASM, is also a fan: “These are my go-to for just about every activity, from strength workouts to walking the dog. The fit, stretchy-yet-solid materials, and bountiful pockets stand out above the other shorts in my drawer.”

Available in lined or unlined versions and three inseam lengths, the Interval Short checks every box. Its four-way stretch fabric offers a full range of motion, quick-drying capabilities, and an athletic fit that feels snug but breathable. Whether you’re crushing a WOD, running sprints, or chilling in the sauna, these shorts can handle it.

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For years, Rhone has been cranking out workout gear so good it’ll make you wonder why you ever settled for anything less. The Pursuit Short takes things to the next level, building on the success of Rhone’s Mako Short. Thanks to durable polyester-spandex blend, these shorts give you enough stretch to handle everything from Netflix marathons on the couch to actual marathons on the pavement.

With three inseam lengths (5″, 7″, and 9″) and the choice of lined or unlined, there’s a pair for every activity and every guy. Need support for leg day? Go lined. Prefer a lighter feel for a casual jog or coffee run? Unlined has you covered. The stretch fabric moves with you without giving up on durability. And the zippered pockets? Game-changer. No more chasing your phone mid-burpee.

Whether you’re crushing your workout or just crushing avocado toast, the Pursuit Short does it all—and looks great doing it.

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The Vuori Kore Short is a great multitasker—soft, stretchy, and ready to handle whatever your day throws at you. Made with a blend of recycled polyester and elastane, they’re eco-friendly and feel like a dream. Plus, the built-in boxer-brief liner keeps you supported and sweat-free, so you can focus on your workout instead of readjusting your twig and berries every five seconds.

With 5″, 7″, and 9″ inseam options, there’s a fit for everyone, whether you’re squatting, stretching, or just sitting on the couch pretending you worked out. Two hand pockets and a back pocket are great for storage, but let’s be real—if you’re carrying your keys while running, you’re playing with fire.

Now, the price—$68. Yeah, it’s an investment. But you’re getting shorts that look good at the gym and the smoothie bar afterward. These shorts are so versatile, you can smash your workout, then crash on the couch—because let’s be honest, they double as comfy pajamas.

The Lululemon Pace Breaker Linerless Short might just be the unicorn of gym shorts—lightweight, comfortable, and fresh even after the sweatiest leg day. After two years of putting them through the wringer, I’m still amazed by how cooling they feel mid-workout and how they bounce back like nothing happened. Credit Lululemon’s brilliant design: No liner, four-way stretch that moves with you, and a back mesh panel that’s basically AC for your glutes. Redesigned low-bounce hand pockets and a zippered compartment keep essentials secure, so you’re not scrambling for your locker key mid-burpee.

“I’ve run dozens of miles wearing this short,” says senior editor Brett Williams. They’re made of super light material, but the waistband’s fit is solid. The pockets aren’t too deep, and a zipper compartment is perfect for storing keys on the go.

Bottom line: These shorts make you feel like you’re gliding through your workout—and they’ve got enough stretch to handle those extra post-workout tacos, too.

The Nike Form Men’s Dri-FIT 7″ Unlined Versatile Shorts are basically the Swiss Army knife of gym shorts—flexible, comfy, and sustainable to boot. They offer an unbeatable combination of comfort and flexibility, making them perfect for everything from jogging to lifting weights. You’ll like how these shorts will keep up with your workout without turning you into a sweaty mess.

Thanks to Nike’s Dri-FIT technology, they wick sweat faster than you can say “leg day.” The unlined design is so lightweight and free-moving, you might forget you’re wearing them (don’t worry, they’re still on). Unlined, lightweight, moisture-wicking, and allow for complete freedom of movement—that’s exactly what you need in great gym shorts, and these deliver on that.

The 7-inch inseam is perfect for squats, lunges, or making a fashion statement without looking like you borrowed your dad’s basketball shorts. Bonus? They’re made from sustainable materials, so you can feel good about saving the planet while crushing PRs. At just $35, these shorts do it all without breaking the bank—or your stride.

The Alo Circuit Short blends comfort, style, and performance so effortlessly you might forget you’re wearing them—don’t worry, you are. With a minimal, relaxed fit and a stretchy drawstring waist, these shorts are as comfortable as they are functional. The 7-inch inseam hits the sweet spot—enough coverage for confidence, but still letting your legs breathe.

And let’s talk about those deep zippered side pockets—they’ve got room for your phone, keys, and wallet without anything flying out mid-jumping jack. The fabric? It’s that happy blend of 86% polyester and 14% elastane, softly swishy and sweat-wicking to keep you cool, even if the guy next to you in spin class is not.

Sizing is true to fit, with inseams ranging from 5 inches for size small to 7 inches for 2XL. At $68, they’re not the cheapest, but they’re versatile enough to justify it. Throw on a hoodie, and you’re smoothie-bar ready. Functional, stylish, and just flashy enough to make you the coolest guy in the gym—just don’t get caught doing arm curls in the squat rack.

What Are the Most Flattering Shorts?

Flattering shorts come down to fit, proportion, and the right inseam for your build. If you’ve got beefy legs, short shorts will always work in your favor. Show them off a 5-inch inseam (or less), which hits mid-thigh for most guys. For a touch more coverage, go with a 7-inch inseam, the most popular length for a casual, everyday look. Aim for a slight taper through the leg to hold its shape without clinging. Bonus points for a smooth waistband that won’t dig in.