Best Workout Shorts for Men 2024 that are Budget Friendly with Style
Staying fit is more than just working out and eating right; it’s about taking advantage of all the tools available.
In an age where fitness apps are the norm, having the right workout clothes to help you achieve your fitness goals is also essential.
Finding the best workout shorts can make all the difference in your routine. Sleek, comfortable, breathable, and performance-based are factors to consider.
Below, I recommend the best workout shorts for men based on my experience as a fitness coach. Rotating between the same 2-3 pairs is plenty if you’re working out 3- 5x per week.
And if you’re on a budget but still care about style, I got you! I’ll start with my favorite budget-friendly pairs that include the abovementioned factors.
What Are the Best Workout Shorts for Men?
When shopping for a new pair of workout shorts, there are a variety of factors you want to consider:
Material Matters
When it comes to men’s workout shorts, the material is critical. You want to opt for lightweight, breathable, and stretchy fabric to keep you feeling comfortable during high-intensity workouts.
Look for materials such as polyester or nylon that wick sweat away from the skin. These fabrics will also help prevent chafing, which is crucial. Avoid heavy cotton materials, which can retain sweat, causing discomfort and irritation.
Length
Men’s workout shorts come in all different lengths, from short shorts, mid-thigh, to below the knee.
The length you choose depends on your preference and the type of exercise you’re doing.
For example, if you’re doing a lot of running or high-intensity training, you may want shorter shorts for more freedom of movement. But if you’re doing squats or lunges, you may prefer a pair of longer shorts that provide more coverage.
Fit
The fit of your workout shorts is also essential. You want a snug pair to stay in place during your workout but not so tight that it restricts your movement.
Look for shorts with elastic waistbands (4-Way Stretch), drawstrings, or adjustable inner lining. These features will help keep the shorts in place during your workout, prevent sagging, and ensure a snug, comfortable fit.
Style and Design
Lastly, you want to feel good wearing your workout shorts. When purchasing your workout shorts, you should consider the style, color, and design.
If you feel great in your shorts, you’ll be more motivated to wear them to the gym or your workouts at home.
Top 5 Workout Shorts for Men
Best Budget-Friendly Men’s Workout Shorts
Best of the Best Men’s Workout Shorts
CEHT Mens Athletic Shorts
You don’t always need a high-in Lululemon or Vuori pair of shorts to look stylish and get a good workout.
If you’re looking for a reliable pair of budget gym shorts for your sessions when lifting weights, the CEHT Mens Athletic Shorts are my favorite. They are also available on Amazon at a very budget-friendly price.
Plus, if you purchase two pairs, you’ll get an even better deal that still costs less than comparable shorts on the market.
The style of these shorts is spot-on, showing off the quads quite nicely and allowing you to feel confident and comfortable during even the most intense workouts.
CEHT Men’s Athletic Shorts
Key Benefits:
- Best For: weight-lifting, squatting, running, cross-training, jogging, cycling, basketball
- Inseam Options: 5-6, depending on the size you buy
- Pockets: Yes (both sides deep enough for cellphone and wallet)
- 4-Way Stretch: YES, flexible around the waist, making for easy adjustment
Product Pros
Product Cons
Vuori Cape Shorts
The Vuori Cape shorts are best for workout classes. Although I do wear them on my weightlifting days, including days I squat.
They are hands down the best workout shorts for men when taking HIIT workout classes, running, or weightlifting at the gym. They are comfortable and versatile enough to wear all day, and the inseam length is perfect for movement during intense classes.
The Cape Run shorts also have a flexible waistband, allowing for the shorts to move with your body without restricting your movements.
Plus, they are incredibly breathable, so you won’t have to worry about feeling bogged down by sweat during class. While the lack of a liner may be a downside for some, the overall quality, comfort, and purpose of these shorts cannot be beaten.
Vuori Cape Shorts
Key Benefits:
- Best For: HIIT training, workout classes, weight-lifting, running, walking
- Inseam Options: 6″ inseam length
- Pockets: Yes (big enough for cellphone and wallet)
- 4-Way Stretch: YES, flexible around the waist, making for easy adjustment
Product Pros
Product Cons
Ten Thousand Interval Short
Ten Thousand has grown its brand trust in the fitness space relatively quickly.
Their Interval Shorts are particularly noteworthy, boasting a versatility that makes them ideal for various sports and activities. I’ve even had members in my F45 class highly speak of how great these shorts are in addition to their workout.
What’s unique about these lined gym shorts compared to the others is that they can be customized to your specific needs and preferences with lined and unlined options. Additionally, you can choose inseam lengths ranging from 5 to 9 inches. The inclusion of a high-quality phone pocket also means that you can keep your device secure and easily accessible while you exercise.
The material is very light, making everything feel very breathable. Yes, everything.
If I’m not wearing my cheap Amazon CEHT shorts on leg day, then I’m wearing Ten Thousand’s Interval shorts.
In the photo, I’m not wearing the liner version because that’s my preference, but they do offer it.
Ten Thousand Interval Shorts
- Best For HIIT Training, Weightlifting, Mobility Drills, Agility, Casual Wear
- Inseam Options: 5″, 7″, and 9″ inseam length
- Pockets: Yes (big enough for cellphone and wallet)
- 4-Way Stretch: YES, flexible around the waist, making for easy adjustment
Product Pros
Product Cons
Vuori Kore Shorts
These were my first pair of Vuori shorts, and what opened up my eyes to the world of fitness clothing and how material and comfort matter for each sport (weightlifting, running, HIIT, etc.)
Want a pair of workout shorts that you can wear all day long? Vuori’s Kore Shorts are not only comfortable with their stretchy material, but they are also versatile enough to wear for various activities.
Whether you’re out for a walk, a bike ride, or playing basketball with friends, these shorts will keep you comfortable every step of the way. These shorts also have the option to come with their boxer brief liner, so you won’t have to worry about chafing or discomfort.
The 7.5″ inseam length is perfect for those who want more coverage without feeling constricted.
Vuori Kore Shorts
- Best For HIIT Training, Weightlifting, Mobility Drills, Agility, Casual Wear
- Inseam Options: 7.5″ inseam length
- Pockets: Yes (big enough for cellphone and wallet)
- 4-Way Stretch: YES, flexible around the waist, making for easy adjustment
Product Pros
Product Cons
Vuori Sunday Performance Short
These shorts put the Sunday in shorts. They are the breadwinner for comfort, making them an excellent pair for lighter, low-impact exercise like walking, Pilates, and pickleball.
Plus, with zippered pockets, you don’t have to worry about losing your phone or keys during your workout. If you’re lounging around the house or running your Sunday errands, these shorts belong in your wardrobe.
My only negative is the longer inseam option (“7.5) which is not a problem for most men. But if you’re a gay man like myself, then you probably like to wear shorter length shorts when lounging around.
There are a few other products I’m testing out in this category when it comes to casual wear and low impact activity at a shorter inseam length. Check back on this article for updates, but you still can’t go wrong with these pair of shorts, especially if you prefer the longer length.
These shorts will still sit just above the knees.
Vuori Sunday Performance Short
- Best For Low impact workouts, walking, Casual Wear,
- Inseam Options: 7.5″ inseam length
- Pockets: Yes with zippers
- 4-Way Stretch: YES, flexible around the waist, making for easy adjustment
Product Pros
Product Cons
How Can a Pair of Workout Shorts Benefit You
Workout shorts are more than just style and comfort; they can impact your performance and overall workout experience.
Better Range of Motion:
When you’re wearing the right pair of workout shorts, you have a better range of motion, allowing for more efficient movements during exercises. This is especially beneficial for activities like running or weightlifting.
Sweat-Wicking Abilities:
Moisture-wicking materials in workout shorts help to keep you dry and comfortable during your workouts. This is crucial for preventing chafing, irritation, and overall discomfort.
Improved Performance:
With the right fit and materials, workout shorts can improve your performance by allowing you to move more freely and comfortably.
Versatility:
While not every pair of workout shorts is suitable for all types of exercises, a good pair can still offer versatility. For example, some may be designed specifically for running, while others can be worn for various workouts.
What To Consider When Buying Workout Shorts
When researching the best workout shorts for men, it’s essential to consider these factors.
Pricing:
What is the average cost of the shorts you want to buy? Can you find a cheaper alternative with the same material elsewhere?
Features:
What are the best features of this product?
Liner? Is an anti-oder treatment built into the shorts? Recycled polyester? Sweat-wicking?
Negatives: What was missing from each product
Do you want a liner? Are these shorts suitable for your weightlifting days? Can you squat comfortably in these shorts?
Support or refund:
Do they offer a community, support, or refund policy? Check their policy on their website.
Why Do Guys Wear Short Shorts to the Gym?
It has become a common trend in the 2020s for men to wear shorter shorts. However, besides style, men wear shorter shorts for various reasons.
For example, on leg day, you’ll see a man wearing a pair of shorts with an inseam length of 6″ because it allows more range of motion when squatting, hinging, etc.
Plus, who doesn’t want to show off their progress on legs? We all know how training legs can be…
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Workouts Shorts for Guys?
It will come down to two things: Your Preference and the type of fitness activity you are doing. For example, I like a shorter pair (Inseam 6″) of men’s workout shorts that are still good for squatting. For that reason, I wear the CEHT Mens Athletic Shorts
What are the most Comfortable Men’s Workout Shorts?
As stated in my review above, the Vuori Sunday Performance Short wins for most comfortable Men’s Workout Shorts.
Why Do Guys Wear Short Shorts to the Gym?
It has become a common trend in the 2020s for men to wear shorter shorts. However, besides style, men wear shorter shorts for various reasons. For example, on leg day, you’ll see a man wearing a pair of shorts with an inseam length of 6″ because it allows more range of motion when squatting, hinging, etc. Plus, who doesn’t want to show off their progress on legs? We all know how training legs can be…
What Are The Best Workout Shorts for Men in 2024?
CEHT Mens Athletic Shorts Best Budget Friendly Versatile pair of shorts
Vuori Cape Shorts Best shorts for running and HIIT Workouts
Ten Thousand Interval Short Best all around pair of shorts for almost any fitness activity
Vuori Kore Shorts Best men’s workout shorts with high quality and longer inseam options
Vuori Sunday Performance Short Best pair of shorts for comfort and low impact exercise
Final Thoughts
Shopping for a new pair of men’s workout shorts can be overwhelming. Don’t overthink the process, and don’t over-research it. Just consider your type of fitness training regiment and personal preference.
For example, weightlifting// Inseam length 6″
The shorts I recommend above are my favorite, and each has something unique to offer.
I’m also constantly updating this post and adding the best workout shorts for men based on my personal experience with each new pair I buy and train in.
I’ve used each of these shorts in weightlifting, HIIT classes, running, cycling, and everyday casual attire and have been 110% satisfied.
