The Best Sustainably Made Running Shorts for Men

Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links. Here’s how we test products and why you should trust us.rykerPros100% organic cottonSustainably producedLight and breathableWhen it comes to sustainability, it's hard to check more boxes than Harvest and Mill does. These breathable athletic shorts are 100 percent organic cotton, yes, but that's just the start. The dye used is nontoxic and low-impact. And everything Harvest and Mill makes is carbon neutral.On top of that, it uses a fully American supply chain with materials grown in the U.S.A. For consumers looking at prices, that makes a lot more difference than it used to.ProsCertified non-toxic materialsMerino wool linerChoice of 5.5 or 7 inch inseamHere's the deal. If you are serious about running, this is the only legit option. All natural, all nontoxic, all the way down—only they look and feel just like a standard pair of running shorts. The outside layer is 100 percent cotton and the liner is merino wool. In terms of comfort, this goes above and beyond.If you're looking for nontoxic shorts that can replace the breathable polyesters you're used to, it doesn't get better than Ryker. It doesn't get more expensive either. But at least you know you're paying for quality materials. And like the Ryker website says, it "doesn't load your balls with microplastics." We don't want our balls loaded with microplastics, now, do we, fellas?Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsMade from 100% organic cotton French terryPerfect for low key workoutsPrice can't be beatConsOnly one (6") inseam optionIf you're looking instead for an affordable, reliable pair of all-purpose athletic shorts, Quince has a cotton option for you. These organic shorts come about as soft as you'd want a pair of running shorts to be. Instead of running, these are more suited for the elliptical or just for hitting the weight room. They make a supremely comfortable pair of hiking shorts, if a bit too soft for that. Recycled MaterialsCotton and wool can only go so far, I get that. So here are some options that meet us in the middle.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsMade from recycled polyester5, 7, or 9 inch inseam optionsTons of colors to choose fromConsHigher Elastane content than the othersIf you’re just asking me for running shorts recs, the Pace Breakers will always come up top of the list. The fact that they are made from more than 90 percent recycled polyester is almost secondary to them being lightweight and breathable. This variant has a mesh liner, but you can get one without, and each comes with three choices of inseam length. There’s always a new limited seasonal color, but even when that’s sold out in your size, Lululemon offers over a dozen in-stock colors to choose from.ProsLow-impactMoisture wickingYou'll be the flyest guy at the gymThese shorts are made from 90 percent recycled polyester and only 10 percent elastane. They are extremely breathable and moisture-wicking. They dry quickly. They have two pockets. Oh, and they look incredible.Ultimately, these are some of the best environmentally sustainable shorts you can get. Just know that even recycled synthetics run the risk of microplastics.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsFree from PFASMade from biodegradable CICLO nylonCell phone pocketIt's not organic, but these shorts from Definite Articles are sustainably produced BPA-free and without any exposure to PFAS. In majority, they are made from CiCLO, a biodegradable nylon that is a soft and cooling material for activewear. These shorts are mostly recycled material, with only the tiniest bit of SpandexYou can get these in a five- or seven-inch inseam, preference depending. I’ve linked the 7-inch because there are more color and sizing options available. They have a liner (a must for me) and also, there's a very nifty pocket for your cell phone. Now, that's a real game changer.