Best athletic shorts for 2026
Our picks for the best athletic shorts of 2026
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement. Picks come from reputation, long-term owner feedback, and published expert reviews.
For most guys, the Nike Dri-FIT Flex Stride is the pair we consistently recommend: it nails the balance of lightweight breathability, a secure waistband, and a versatile length that works for both running and gym sessions.
If you are shopping on a budget, Under Armour’s HeatGear Armour shorts deliver surprisingly good performance for very little money; and if you are ready to invest in premium comfort and materials, Lululemon’s Pace Breaker is the clear luxury choice.
Finding the right pair of athletic shorts is harder than it should be. Between varying inseams, finicky liners, and pockets that swallow your phone or flap uselessly, one wrong click can leave you with shorts that ride up, chafe, or just don’t feel right. This site cuts through the noise to surface the shorts that actually perform — whether you are logging miles on the road, hitting the weight room, or just running errands and wanting something that looks good and moves with you.
Nike Men's Dri-FIT Flex Stride 5 Inch Shorts
The go-to for runners and gym-goers alike
4.8out of 5A nearly ideal blend of lightweight stretch fabric, a secure hidden-zip pocket, and a 5-inch inseam that offers plenty of freedom without feeling too short. Thousands of long-term owners praise its durability and how well it stays put during hard efforts.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →Under Armour Men's HeatGear Armour Shorts
Unbeatable value for sweaty workouts
4.5out of 5Ultra-light and wicking fabric that disappears during a run, plus a mesh liner that helps with ventilation. The trade-off is a simpler pocket layout and a shorter life span than pricier options, but for the price it is hard to beat.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →Lululemon Men's Pace Breaker Short 7 Inch
Premium feel that lasts for years
4.7out of 5Sewn with meticulous craftsmanship and a buttery-soft fabric that resists pilling and odor. The 7-inch inseam offers a more conservative cut, while the anti-sag waistband and deep, secure pockets make this a favorite for everything from yoga to trail runs.
Price range: $$$$
Check price on Amazon →How we choose our picks
We do not run our own lab tests or time trials. Instead, our recommendations come from months of combing through owner feedback, long-term durability reports on forums, and critical reviews from respected running and fitness publications. We track what real users say about fit consistency, pocket usability, liner comfort, and how the fabric holds up after dozens of washes. We focus on models with a strong consensus across many kinds of athletes — from casual joggers to competitive runners — and we pay special attention to reported failure points: waistbands that roll, liners that bunch, or seams that split. A pair earns a spot here only when the vast majority of owners agree it actually delivers on its promises over time.
Start here: pick by what you need
Best athletic shorts
Independent reviews of the best athletic shorts. Updated June 2026.
Read the guide →How we pick
Athletic Shorts Picks is independent. We don’t take payment for placement and a commission never moves a product up our list. Our rankings come from research, not sponsorships.