10 Best Fitness Shorts for Comfort and Performance

Looking for the best fitness shorts to boost your workout?
I’ve tested many and found quick-dry fabrics with smart pockets make all the difference.

Finding the right fitness shorts can change your workout. They should be light, cool, and easy to move in. The best ones feel like part of your body.

I once wore a pair with poor fit and no pockets. It made my run harder and less fun.

Now I know what works. Quick-dry fabric is a must. Smart pockets make life easier. Let me show you the best picks.

List of Top 10 Fitness Shorts

Image Title Best For Price
Aolesy Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts 7 Inch Quick Dry Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets Tennis Training Athletic Shorts with Liner for Men Black Aolesy Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts 7 Inch Quick Dry Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets Tennis Training Athletic Shorts with Liner for Men Black

Perfect for active men who want comfort, support, and style in every workout. Great for running, training, or any sport where freedom of movement and secure storage matter.

Aolesy Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts 7 Inch Quick Dry Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets Tennis Training Athletic Shorts with Liner for Men Light Grey Aolesy Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts 7 Inch Quick Dry Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets Tennis Training Athletic Shorts with Liner for Men Light Grey

Perfect for active men who want comfort, support, and style in every move. Great for running, training, or any sport where you need to stay cool and free.

Aolesy Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts 7 Inch Quick Dry Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets Tennis Training Athletic Shorts with Liner for Men Navy Blue Aolesy Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts 7 Inch Quick Dry Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets Tennis Training Athletic Shorts with Liner for Men Navy Blue

Perfect for active men who want comfort, support, and style in every workout. Great for running, gym sessions, or any sport where you need to move freely and keep your essentials safe.

Amazon Essentials Men's Performance Tech Loose-Fit Shorts (Available in Big & Tall), Pack of 2, Black, Large Amazon Essentials Men’s Performance Tech Loose-Fit Shorts (Available in Big & Tall), Pack of 2, Black, Large

Perfect for active men who want all-day comfort and easy movement. Great for workouts, sports, or just relaxing at home.

NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts 7 NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts 7″/ 5″/ 9″ Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball Shorts Hiking Exercise LODENFROST-5inch S

These shorts are perfect for active men who love to run, hike, play sports, or just stay cool all day. If you want comfort, style, and easy movement, these are made for you.

Profectors Men's Athletic Shorts with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear Workout Shorts for Men Profectors Men’s Athletic Shorts with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear Workout Shorts for Men

Perfect for active men who want comfort, freedom to move, and all-day dryness. Great for running, training, or any sport where you need pockets and a secure fit.

Real Essentials Men’s 5 Pack: 9 Real Essentials Men’s 5 Pack: 9″ Dry-Fit Shorts – Athletic Gym, Workout, Basketball, Running, Casual Lounge Active Pockets, Set 9, XXL

Perfect for active men who want comfort, style, and value in one. Great for workouts, sports, or just relaxing every day.

COOFANDY Men's 2 Pack Gym Workout Shorts 7 Inch Quick Dry Athletic Shorts Lightweight Running Shorts with Pockets COOFANDY Men’s 2 Pack Gym Workout Shorts 7 Inch Quick Dry Athletic Shorts Lightweight Running Shorts with Pockets

Perfect for active men who want to stay cool, dry, and comfortable while they move. Great for gym, running, or just relaxing outside.

NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts 7 NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts 7″/ 5″/ 9″ Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball Tennis Hiking Exercise Black-9inch L

These shorts are perfect for active men who want to stay cool, comfortable, and ready to move. Whether you’re into running, gym, hiking, or just walking around, they’ve got you covered.

NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball 7 NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball 7″/ 9″/ 5″ Hiking Tennis Exercise Black-7 inches L

Perfect for active men who want lightweight comfort, quick-dry fabric, and secure pockets for every sport or workout. Great for running, gym, hiking, tennis, or just staying cool all day.

Detailed Reviews

We picked the top 10 fitness shorts using expert reviews and real customer feedback. Each one is tested for comfort, performance, and value. Whether you want soft fabric, secure pockets, or a perfect fit, this guide has you covered. Read on to find the best shorts for your workout and daily wear.

1. Aolesy Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts 7 Inch Quick Dry Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets Tennis Training Athletic Shorts with Liner for Men Black

Aolesy Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts 7 Inch Quick Dry Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets Tennis Training Athletic Shorts with Liner for Men Black

The Aolesy Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts are now upgraded to version 3.0 for better comfort and performance. They are made with soft, quick-dry fabric that keeps you cool and light.

They have 5 smart pockets to keep your items safe. The compression lining supports your muscles. The elastic waistband gives a secure fit.

Pros Cons
  • Quick-dry fabric keeps you cool and fresh all day
  • Compression liner gives support and stops thigh rubbing
  • Five pockets hold phone, wallet, keys—hands stay free
  • Elastic waistband fits snug and won’t slip during workouts
  • Soft material feels light and smooth on your skin
  • Compression lining may feel tight for some users
  • Multiple pockets can add slight extra weight
  • 7-inch length might be long for shorter runners

Perfect For:

Perfect for active men who want comfort, support, and style in every workout. Great for running, training, or any sport where freedom of movement and secure storage matter.

Ready to Purchase?

2. Aolesy Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts 7 Inch Quick Dry Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets Tennis Training Athletic Shorts with Liner for Men Light Grey

Aolesy Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts 7 Inch Quick Dry Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets Tennis Training Athletic Shorts with Liner for Men Light Grey

Stay cool and move free with the Aolesy Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts. These quick-dry shorts are soft, light, and built for action.

They have 5 smart pockets to hold your stuff. The compression liner supports your legs. The waistband fits well and stays in place.

Pros Cons
  • Quick-dry fabric keeps you cool and fresh all day
  • 5 smart pockets hold your phone, keys, and wallet
  • Compression liner gives support and stops thigh rubbing
  • Stretchy waistband fits great and stays in place
  • Lightweight design lets you move free and easy
  • Compression lining may feel tight for some users
  • Multiple pockets can add slight extra weight
  • Elastic waistband may loosen after long use

Perfect For:

Perfect for active men who want comfort, support, and style in every move. Great for running, training, or any sport where you need to stay cool and free.

Ready to Purchase?

3. Aolesy Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts 7 Inch Quick Dry Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets Tennis Training Athletic Shorts with Liner for Men Navy Blue

Aolesy Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts 7 Inch Quick Dry Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets Tennis Training Athletic Shorts with Liner for Men Navy Blue

The Aolesy Men’s 2 in 1 Running Shorts are now upgraded to version 3.0 for better comfort and style. The quick-dry fabric keeps you cool and light during workouts. You get a breathable fit that moves with you.

With 5 smart pockets, you can carry your phone, keys, and wallet with ease. The compression lining supports your muscles and stops thigh friction. Every detail is made for performance and comfort.

The elastic waistband with drawstring gives a secure fit. These shorts stay in place no matter how hard you train.

Pros Cons
  • Quick-dry fabric keeps you cool and fresh
  • Five pockets to carry all your essentials
  • Compression lining supports muscles and prevents chafing
  • Elastic waistband for a secure, custom fit
  • Lightweight design for easy, free movement
  • Compression lining may feel tight for some users
  • Multiple pockets can add slight extra weight
  • Elastic waistband may loosen over long use

Perfect For:

Perfect for active men who want comfort, support, and style in every workout. Great for running, gym sessions, or any sport where you need to move freely and keep your essentials safe.

Ready to Purchase?

4. Amazon Essentials Men’s Performance Tech Loose-Fit Shorts (Available in Big & Tall), Pack of 2, Black, Large

Amazon Essentials Men's Performance Tech Loose-Fit Shorts (Available in Big & Tall), Pack of 2, Black, Large

Stay cool and move freely in these Amazon Essentials Men’s Performance Tech Loose-Fit Shorts. The lightweight, breathable fabric keeps you comfortable all day.

They have a relaxed fit for easy movement. The moisture-wicking design helps you stay dry. The adjustable waistband gives a secure fit.

Pros Cons
  • Relaxed fit for all-day comfort
  • Lightweight fabric keeps you cool and dry
  • Four-way stretch for easy movement
  • Adjustable waistband for a perfect fit
  • Great for workouts, sports, or lounging
  • Not suitable for very small or tight-fitting preferences.
  • May feel loose for some users during workouts.

Perfect For:

Perfect for active men who want all-day comfort and easy movement. Great for workouts, sports, or just relaxing at home.

Ready to Purchase?

5. NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts 7″/ 5″/ 9″ Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball Shorts Hiking Exercise LODENFROST-5inch S

NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts 7

NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts are designed for comfort and mobility. They are made of lightweight, breathable fabric that dries quickly. The elastic waistband and adjustable drawstring ensure a custom fit.

These shorts have 3 zipper pockets for easy storage. They also offer UV protection with UPF 50+ fabric.

Pros Cons
  • Quick-dry fabric keeps you cool and fresh all day
  • Stretchy design gives you more room to move freely
  • Three zipper pockets hold your stuff safe and tight
  • UPF 50+ protection shields you from strong sunlight
  • Reflective strips help you stay seen in low light
  • No belt loops for those who prefer wearing a belt
  • Unlined design may need extra layer for some activities
  • Limited color options may not suit every style

Perfect For:

These shorts are perfect for active men who love to run, hike, play sports, or just stay cool all day. If you want comfort, style, and easy movement, these are made for you.

Ready to Purchase?

6. Profectors Men’s Athletic Shorts with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear Workout Shorts for Men

Profectors Men's Athletic Shorts with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear Workout Shorts for Men

Stay cool and move free in these Profectors Men’s Athletic Shorts. The soft, lightweight fabric feels great and lets your skin breathe. You’ll love the stretchy fit that keeps you comfortable all day.

Stay dry no matter how hard you train. The quick-dry and moisture-wicking material pulls sweat away fast. The elastic waistband with internal drawcord keeps the shorts in place.

Carry your stuff with ease. The deep side pockets hold your phone, keys, and wallet. The 10-inch inseam gives you full coverage for any sport.

Pros Cons
  • Soft fabric keeps you cool and comfortable all day
  • Quick-dry design for a fresh, dry feel
  • Elastic waistband with drawcord for a secure fit
  • Deep pockets hold all your essentials safely
  • Versatile for gym, running, and everyday wear
  • No zipper pockets for extra security
  • Limited color options may not suit all styles
  • Fabric may feel thin in colder weather

Perfect For:

Perfect for active men who want comfort, freedom to move, and all-day dryness. Great for running, training, or any sport where you need pockets and a secure fit.

Ready to Purchase?

7. Real Essentials Men’s 5 Pack: 9″ Dry-Fit Shorts – Athletic Gym, Workout, Basketball, Running, Casual Lounge Active Pockets, Set 9, XXL

Real Essentials Men’s 5 Pack: 9

Stay cool and move free in the Real Essentials Men’s 5 Pack Dry-Fit Shorts. These 9″ shorts are built for action and comfort.

They’re lightweight, quick-drying, and made with stretch fabric that keeps you dry. The elastic waistband and drawstring give a snug fit. Great for gym, sports, or just relaxing at home.

Each pair has side pockets for your phone or keys. You get five shorts in one pack—perfect for daily wear. It’s a smart pick for active men who want comfort and value.

Pros Cons
  • 5 shorts for the price of one
  • Lightweight fabric keeps you cool and dry
  • Elastic waistband for all-day comfort
  • Pockets to carry phone and keys
  • Perfect for sports, workouts, or relaxing
  • No zipper pockets for extra secure storage
  • Limited color variety in some size options
  • Thin fabric may not suit cold weather

Perfect For:

Perfect for active men who want comfort, style, and value in one. Great for workouts, sports, or just relaxing every day.

Ready to Purchase?

8. COOFANDY Men’s 2 Pack Gym Workout Shorts 7 Inch Quick Dry Athletic Shorts Lightweight Running Shorts with Pockets

COOFANDY Men's 2 Pack Gym Workout Shorts 7 Inch Quick Dry Athletic Shorts Lightweight Running Shorts with Pockets

Stay cool and move free in these lightweight, quick-dry workout shorts. The 4-way stretch fabric gives you full range of motion. With moisture-wicking tech, you stay dry no matter how hard you train.

Three secure pockets keep your phone and gear safe. The open flap design lets your legs move with ease.

Pros Cons
  • Lightweight fabric keeps you cool and free to move
  • Quick-dry tech wicks sweat fast for all-day comfort
  • Secure pockets keep your phone safe while you train
  • Stretch design gives you full range of motion
  • Easy care and machine washable for daily wear
  • No built-in liner for extra support
  • Limited color options may not suit all styles
  • Size chart check needed to avoid wrong fit

Perfect For:

Perfect for active men who want to stay cool, dry, and comfortable while they move. Great for gym, running, or just relaxing outside.

Ready to Purchase?

9. NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts 7″/ 5″/ 9″ Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball Tennis Hiking Exercise Black-9inch L

NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts 7

Stay cool and move free with the NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts. The lightweight, 4-way stretch fabric is breathable and quick-drying for all-day comfort.

Enjoy a custom fit with the soft elastic waistband and adjustable drawstring. Reflective strips keep you visible in low light for added safety.

You get three secure zipper pockets. Your items stay safe. You stay focused.

Pros Cons
  • Quick-dry fabric keeps you cool and fresh all day
  • Stretchy design gives you easy movement and comfort
  • Three zipper pockets hold your stuff safe and secure
  • UPF 50+ protection shields you from strong sunlight
  • Reflective strips help you stay seen in low light
  • No lining may feel too thin for some users
  • No belt loops limits styling with belts
  • Only one back pocket might not be enough

Perfect For:

These shorts are perfect for active men who want to stay cool, comfortable, and ready to move. Whether you’re into running, gym, hiking, or just walking around, they’ve got you covered.

Ready to Purchase?

10. NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball 7″/ 9″/ 5″ Hiking Tennis Exercise Black-7 inches L

NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball 7

Stay cool and move with ease in the NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts. The lightweight, quick-dry fabric keeps you fresh and comfortable all day.

They have two secure zipper pockets. The elastic waistband gives a perfect fit. The UPF 50+ fabric protects you from the sun.

Pros Cons
  • Lightweight design keeps you fast and free.
  • Quick-dry fabric wicks sweat in seconds.
  • Zipper pockets keep items safe while moving.
  • Stretchy fit gives you full range of motion.
  • UPF 50+ shields you from harmful sun rays.
  • No belt loops for those who prefer wearing a belt
  • Unlined design may need extra layer for some activities
  • Limited color choice if you want more variety

Perfect For:

Perfect for active men who want lightweight comfort, quick-dry fabric, and secure pockets for every sport or workout. Great for running, gym, hiking, tennis, or just staying cool all day.

Ready to Purchase?

Buying Guide

The right fitness shorts make every move feel easy. The wrong ones can ruin your workout.
I once ran in shorts that kept riding up and had no pockets. I spent more time fixing them than enjoying my run.

  • Fabric: Choose lightweight, quick-dry fabric. It keeps you cool and stops sweat from sticking. Breathable material makes long workouts more comfortable.

  • Fit: Go for a secure but flexible fit. Shorts should move with you, not against you. Avoid anything too tight or too loose.

  • Length: Pick a length that matches your activity. Shorter lengths give more freedom for running. Longer ones offer more coverage for sports or gym work.

  • Pockets: Smart pockets keep your phone, keys, or cards safe. Zipper pockets are best for running. Deep side pockets work well for casual wear.

  • Waistband: A soft elastic waistband with a drawstring gives a snug fit. It stops the shorts from slipping. Adjustable designs work for all body shapes.

  • Liner: A compression liner supports muscles and reduces chafing. It’s great for high-intensity workouts. Make sure it feels comfortable against your skin.

  • Stretch: 4-way stretch fabric lets you move freely. It’s perfect for squats, lunges, and sprints. No pulling or restriction.

  • Extra Features: Look for UV protection if you train outdoors. Reflective strips help with visibility in low light. Small details can make a big difference.