Best budget athletic shorts
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The adidas Men’s Own the Run Shorts are our top pick for the best budget athletic shorts, offering a blend of comfort, tech features, and reliable performance without breaking the bank.
The New Balance Men’s Impact Run Shorts are the runner-up, ideal for runners on a tighter budget who still want a decent wicking fabric and secure pockets, while the Champion Men’s Classic Shorts are the most popular choice for those who value durability and versatility over technical fabric.
A good pair of athletic shorts can make or break your workout. The right shorts should move with you, wick sweat, and stay put whether you’re pounding pavement or hitting the gym floor. But with so many options at different prices, finding a pair that delivers performance without a premium price tag takes some digging. In this roundup, we focused on shorts that cost a few dollars to a few hundred dollars, balancing features like pocket design, moisture management, inseam length, and overall comfort. We looked at owner feedback and expert reviews to pick the models that consistently earn praise for their value. The result is three solid picks that cover different needs, from daily runs to gym sessions and casual wear.
adidas Men's Own the Run Shorts
the do-it-all default
4.6out of 5The adidas Own the Run Shorts hit that sweet spot of comfort, durability, and thoughtful details. They’re light enough for fast miles but built to last through routine wear. The built-in brief offers support without riding up, and the zippered pocket keeps essentials secure. For the price, they punch well above their weight.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →New Balance Men's Impact Run Shorts
the budget running specialist
4.3out of 5The New Balance Impact Run Shorts are a no-frills runner that gets the basics right. The fabric wicks moisture well and feels lightweight, and the two side pockets are deep enough for a phone. They won’t win any style points, and the waistband can feel a bit thin, but for the price they’re a smart choice for cost-conscious runners.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →Champion Men's Classic Shorts
the versatile everyday short
4.4out of 5The Champion Men’s Classic Shorts are a throwback to simple, tough gym wear. They’re made from a heavy cotton-poly blend that feels sturdy and can handle a lot of wear. They’re not technical—no moisture-wicking, no built-in liner—but for weightlifting, casual workouts, or just lounging, they’re hard to beat at the price. They also come in a huge range of colors and sizes.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →| Award | Model | Our score | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | adidas Men's Own the Run Shorts | 4.6 / 5 | $$ | Buy these if you’re a dedicated runner who wants a reliable, do-it-all short that wo | Check price → |
| Runner-up | New Balance Men's Impact Run Shorts | 4.3 / 5 | $ | Buy these if you’re a runner on a tight budget who still wants a functional short wi | Check price → |
| Best value | Champion Men's Classic Shorts | 4.4 / 5 | $ | Buy these if you want an all-purpose short for the gym, casual wear, or lounging—and | Check price → |
The picks in detail
1. adidas Men's Own the Run Shorts: the do-it-all default
Best overallThe adidas Own the Run Shorts hit that sweet spot of comfort, durability, and thoughtful details. They’re light enough for fast miles but built to last through routine wear. The built-in brief offers support without riding up, and the zippered pocket keeps essentials secure. For the price, they punch well above their weight.
Pros
- Built-in mesh brief provides good support and reduces chafing
- Zippered back pocket big enough for a phone
- Reflective details add low-light visibility
- Durable fabric holds up well to frequent washing
Cons
- Fit runs slim; some may need to size up
- Limited color options compared to competitors
- Drawstring can feel short for some waist sizes
Who it’s for
Buy these if you’re a dedicated runner who wants a reliable, do-it-all short that works for training, races, and occasional gym sessions.Who should skip it
Skip these if you prefer a loose, baggy fit or need a longer inseam (the standard length is on the shorter side).2. New Balance Men's Impact Run Shorts: the budget running specialist
Runner-upThe New Balance Impact Run Shorts are a no-frills runner that gets the basics right. The fabric wicks moisture well and feels lightweight, and the two side pockets are deep enough for a phone. They won’t win any style points, and the waistband can feel a bit thin, but for the price they’re a smart choice for cost-conscious runners.
Pros
- Very affordable without feeling cheap
- Good moisture-wicking performance for hot weather
- Two deep side pockets (one zippered) for secure storage
- Comfortable, non-irritating waistband for most body types
Cons
- Limited color palette; mostly darker shades
- Waistband lacks a drawstring, so fit depends on elastic
- Inseam is on the shorter side, which may not suit everyone
Who it’s for
Buy these if you’re a runner on a tight budget who still wants a functional short with decent storage and breathability.Who should skip it
Skip these if you need a built-in liner or prefer a longer inseam that offers more coverage.3. Champion Men's Classic Shorts: the versatile everyday short
Best valueThe Champion Men’s Classic Shorts are a throwback to simple, tough gym wear. They’re made from a heavy cotton-poly blend that feels sturdy and can handle a lot of wear. They’re not technical—no moisture-wicking, no built-in liner—but for weightlifting, casual workouts, or just lounging, they’re hard to beat at the price. They also come in a huge range of colors and sizes.
Pros
- Extremely durable fabric that stands up to years of use
- Very affordable, often sold in multi-packs
- Generous cut fits a wide range of body types comfortably
- Huge selection of colors and sizes
Cons
- Cotton blend doesn’t wick sweat; gets heavy when wet
- No pockets with zippers or secure closures
- Not ideal for high-intensity running or warmer weather
Who it’s for
Buy these if you want an all-purpose short for the gym, casual wear, or lounging—and you don’t need technical fabric.Who should skip it
Skip these if you plan to run long distances or need a short that dries quickly and manages moisture.Best for specific needs
Best for dedicated running and racing
If your main activity is running—whether daily miles or 5K races—you want a short that sheds sweat, stays in place, and holds a phone securely. The adidas Own the Run Shorts check all those boxes with a supportive brief, reflective details, and a zippered pocket. They’re light enough to forget you’re wearing them, which is exactly what you need on race day or a tempo run. Our pick: adidas Men’s Own the Run Shorts.
Best for gym sessions and weightlifting
For lifting, HIIT, or general gym use, you need shorts that can handle friction from barbells and benches without tearing. You don’t necessarily need moisture-wicking; durability and a comfortable range of motion matter more. The Champion Men’s Classic Shorts deliver with a thick cotton-poly blend and a roomy fit that allows squats and lunges. They’re also cheap enough that you can buy a few pairs and rotate them. Our pick: Champion Men’s Classic Shorts.
Best for budget-conscious runners who need pockets
Not everyone wants to spend a lot on running shorts, but you still need storage for your phone and keys. The New Balance Impact Run Shorts offer two deep side pockets (one zippered) and a lightweight fabric that breathes well. They’re a great “gateway” short for new runners or anyone who prefers to keep their gear investment minimal. Our pick: New Balance Men’s Impact Run Shorts.
Our verdict
All three of these shorts deliver real value at budget-friendly prices, but which one you choose depends on how you plan to use them. If you’re a runner who wants a balanced performer with thoughtful details, the adidas Own the Run Shorts are our top recommendation. Shoppers who mostly lift or lounge will love the indestructible Champion shorts. And anyone who simply needs a cheap, functional pair of running shorts can’t go wrong with the New Balance Impact Run Shorts. No matter which pair you pick, you’ll be getting quality without blowing your budget.