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

ProsGreat for lifting, running, or unwinding in the saunaSnug where it counts, roomy where it mattersStretches with you and keeps sweat in checkLined or unlined, with three inseam lengths to choose fromEnough storage for your phone, keys, and snacks (if that’s your thing)ConsCompression might feel snug if you’re not used to itAll function, not much flairThe 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.Read More: Best Workout ShirtsFeatures at a GlanceMaterial86% polyester, 14% spandexLinerOptional compression for added supportInseam Length5, 7, or 9 in.PocketsTwo hand pockets and one zippered for secure storageColors8 (not including seasonal colors)ProsWorks for the gym, running, or casual wearLooks good at the gym or out with friendsLightweight, stretchy, and built to lastConsThe compression liner might feel snug on oversized thighsCosts more than some other brandsFor 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.Read More: What Is Moisture-Wicking?Features at a GlanceMaterial71% nylon, 29% elastaneLinerOptional medium compression liner for added supportInseam Length5, 7, or 9 inPocketsTwo hand pockets and one secure zippered pocketColors4Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsSoft, stretchy fabric that feels great all daySpecial built-in liner keeps you cool and supportedAvailable in 5", 7", and 9" inseams for any activityMade with recycled materials for the environmentally consciousWorks for workouts, lounging, and everything in betweenConsSome testers report the liner riding up during intense activitiesLimited security for valuables during workoutsThe 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.Features at a GlanceMaterial48% recycled polyester, 42% polyester, 10% elastaneLinerBuilt-in COOLMAX boxer-brief liner for support and moisture-wickingInseam Length5, 7, or 9 in.PocketsTwo front hand pockets and one back pocketColors12ProsFeels airy and keeps you cool during workoutsFour-way stretch lets you move however you needHidden phone sleeve and zippered pocket keep your essentials secureWorks for the gym and beyondPlenty of room for big quadsConsWith the linerless version, you’ll need your own support for high-impact activitiesThe 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.Features at a GlanceMaterial86% recycled polyester, 14% elastaneLinerLayer up with the linerless version or go commando with the built-in lined optionInseam Length5, 7, or 9 in.PocketsFront pockets and a zippered side pocketColors12Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsLightweight and unlined, so you can move freelyKeeps you cool and dry, no matter how hard you goA solid deal at as low as $35ConsIf you like built-in support, you’re out of luckNo zippers to keep stuff secure, just basic pocketsThe 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.Features at a GlanceMaterial100% recycled polyesterLinerUnlined for maximum versatilityInseam Length5, 7, or 9 in.PocketsSide pockets; no zippersColors6ProsLooks great in the gym and casual enough for errandsRelaxed design with a stretchy drawstring waistSecurely holds your phone, keys, and walletSweat-wicking fabric keeps you dryConsFewer choices for those who like varietyInseam options (5 inches for small to 7 inches for 2XL) might feel limiting for those who prefer longer or shorter shortsThe 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.Features at a GlanceMaterial86% polyester, 14% elastaneLinerLinerless for versatile wearInseam Length5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7 in.PocketsDeep zippered side pockets for secureColors2 (not including seasonal)Charles Thorp is the Fitness and Reviews Editor at Men’s Health, where he shares the best product recommendations in gym equipment, recovery tools, supplements, and more. Following an early life in athletics, Charles became a NASM-certified trainer and began writing programs alongside the most respected coaches in the world. Since entering the world of fitness content, Charles has had the opportunity to learn from and train alongside high performance individuals from the NFL, UFC, NBA, Formula 1, CrossFit, US Olympics, and Navy SEALs. When he’s not writing about training programs or gear, he can be seen at the gym or in the wild, putting them to the test.As the Style and Reviews Editor for Men's Health, Joseph covers all-things fashion and grooming. Previously, Cheatham was a commerce editor for Spy, and he has written for Travel + Leisure.Christian is the Style and Reviews Director at Men's Health and Women’s Health, where he oversees shopping and style content for both brands. He started his magazine career as an accessories assistant at Vogue, and has since held editorial roles at Tatler Asia and The Manual. When he’s not online shopping, you can find him on long walks with his two corgis.