Harry Fodder: 2023-24 Basketball Schedule Breakdown
The 25 Best Men's Shorts Of 2023: Lululemon, Nautica, Nike, More
L.L. Bean Get the boat pulled up and the cooler stocked for summer on the lake.
Even if you're not out on the water, these shorts are great for any summertime adventure. The L.L. Bean shorts come in an array of colors, ranging in size from a S to an XXXL, all made of 100% organic cotton twill.
Champion Reverse Weave Cut-Off Shorts
Champion Sweat sets have been the reigning champions of the fashion game for a while now, so why should warmer weather stop you from rocking them?
Champion thinks it's time for a shorter style in time for spring, offering their Reverse Weave Cut-Offs as a great option. They come in a trendy light beige, as well as light gray, perfect to pair with a
matching hoodie or your favorite tee shirt before or after hitting the gym.Check out the
New York Post Shopping section for more content.The Best Running Shorts For Men: 9 Options That'll Keep You Cool
The first thing most of us think of when it comes to running gear is the shoes, and yeah, they're pretty darned important. But the shorts matter, too: Get them wrong and you'll find yourself hot, sweaty, and chafed in less time than it takes to say, "I regret everything." There are a lot to choose from, so if you're short(s) on time, narrow down your options with this list of the best running shorts for men.
The Best Running Shorts for Men The best running shorts for hot weather: Adidas X-City Cooler Running Shorts
"For most of my competitive running 'career' I was sponsored by Adidas, so I'm biased," admits movement coach Brock Armstrong. "But even now that I have to pay for my shorts, I like their X-City Cooler shorts. They have longer legs (so I avoid the skin-on-skin action), but they also have nice slits up the sides so my stride isn't impacted by the longer legs. They also have a back zip pocket which is handy for keys or a phone. Basically, in the summer months, I like any of their moisture-wicking AEROREADY material."
Adidas X-City Cooler Running Shorts The best lightweight running shorts for men: Nike AeroSwift
Super lightweight and breathable, these barely-there shorts include deep slits up the sides and a flyvent waistband, ensuring full ventilation throughout your run. Nike's classic Dri-FIT tech helps to wick away sweat, too, so if maintaining as fresh a "downstairs area" as you can is a priority, look no further.
If you're the type of runner who likes to disappear into the wilderness on your runs, you're probably looking for something extremely lightweight, fast-drying, and water-repellent. And wouldn't you know it, these shorts are all of those things! They also have four pockets to hold everything from energy bars to your cell phone, so you can have a handy snack while figuring out where the heck you are.
Patagonia Men's Strider Pro Running Shorts Best compression shorts for running: Lululemon Fast and Free Half Tight
Sometimes you just want everything to stay in place when you're running. Equally, though, you don't want to feel like you're being squeezed, or inadvertently look like a sausage bursting out of its casing. The Fast and Free shorts split the difference, feeling incredibly lightweight and breathable, but staying in place thanks to their four-way stretch fabric and the silicon grippers on the hem, which stop them from riding up.
Fast and Free Half Tight 8" Best running shorts for big thighs: Fabletics The One Short
If your legs need a little extra space to breathe, Fabletics' One Short is probably going to be a good fit, literally. Going up to 4XL, these roomy, versatile shorts are designed to work for just about any activity, allowing you to hit the pool or the trail without getting changed in between (although, y'know, take your shoes off in the pool).
You can certainly find cheaper shorts out there, but considering their feature-stuffed design and overwhelming popularity, $35 starts to look like a bargain. Lightweight, fast-drying, and comprising NB DRY technology to wick away sweat, the Accelerate shorts will do pretty much everything you need them to do, at less than half the price of many competitors.
New Balance Accelerate 5 Inch Short Most durable running shorts for men: Ten Thousand Distance Short
Ten Thousand is responsible for a legendarily rugged workout shirt with its aptly-named Durable Shirt, and these shorts make a perfect pairing. Designed and tested by some of the most hardcore runners in the business, they're ultra-light, sweat-wicking, anti-odor, and feature bonded hems and seams to cut down on weight and reduce chafing. Maybe you're not planning to try an ultra-marathon when you buy these—but they'll make you feel like you could.
Ten Thousand Distance Short Best running shorts with pockets: Rabbit FKT 2.0
Don't like to be without all your necessities when running, but also don't want to carry a backpack? Rabbit's FKT 2.0 shorts are essentially the Batman utility belt of running shorts, featuring an impressive six pockets: A back zip pocket large enough to fit most phones, two side pockets capable of holding a water bottle, two further back pockets, and an internal key pocket. Go ahead and throw on a cape, too, it just makes sense.
Hey, that nature you're running through sure looks nice, huh? If it's putting you in the mood to go a little greener, consider shorts from Tasc, who is on track to have all of its products made with at least 85% sustainable materials (recycled and/or plant-based) by 2024. All of their packaging is biodegradable, their sewing facility uses 100% wind and solar energy, and all of the water used in dyeing their clothes gets recovered and reused (minus the small fraction that evaporated, for obvious reasons). All of this, and their Recess shorts are lightweight, stretchy, and breathable. Although weirdly, they don't come in green.
tasc Shorts: Recess 7in Unlined Short - Size M in Bluestone - tasc Performance What to consider when buying running shorts
"Well, of course, there is always the size to consider," says movement coach Brock Armstrong. "But unlike buying a pair of Levis, it's not just about the size of the waist—the length of the leg and the billowiness are also a consideration. The time of year often dictates what type of fabric I'm buying as well—as a Canadian, I push the boundaries of when shorts are truly appropriate, outdoor temperature-wise. In the fall and early spring, I'm looking for heavier material with a 'bike shorts'-type compression liner, but in the summer, I want the lightest material and a mesh lining."
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) Why do running shorts have liners?"Straight up, I think it's because most of us don't own technical fabric undies that wick moisture and provide extra support down there," says Armstrong. "But, as I said, when I'm pushing the boundaries of running in the fall/winter months, I actually prefer shorts with no liner so I can buy winter undies (or Wind Brief) that offer weather protection and some more warmth down there."
What should you wear under running shorts?"It depends on the weather, but unless I'm training for a marathon in the mid-winter, I don't wear anything under my shorts," admits Armstrong. "I let the liners do their job."
Why are running shorts so short?"This is an interesting question!" says Armstrong. "Professional runners wear short-shorts to help control their body heat, not hinder their stride length, and reduce chafing. But—and this is a big but—us non-pro runners often get more chafing when we wear short-shorts because, let's face it, we don't all have [Eliud] Kipchoge's lean thighs. Skin-on-skin rubbing can be worse than skin-on-lycra, so, while pros favor shorter shorts, I advise anyone with higher amounts of body fat to look for more protection, and maybe even consider wearing shorts with some compression-type additions."
Is it better to run in tight shorts or loose shorts?"Again, this depends on your body weight," advises Armstrong. "People with higher body fat and larger bodies have skin that moves more during exercise, and compression gear can limit that movement, possibly preventing some chafing and rubbing. But outside of that, it's a matter of choice. For example, running legend Des Linden is known for her loose-fitting basketball-type shorts, while Shalane Flanagan won the NYC marathon in the tightest of yoga-style shorts. But I will say to beware of shorts that billow too much or have loose pockets: Getting your thumbs caught in flapping material when you're busting a gut for the finish line is no fun!"
What is the difference between running and training shorts?"The differences between 'running shorts' in general is as wide as the difference between training shorts and running shorts," muses Armstrong. "It feels like the wild west out there—everyone has their idea of what shorts should do and be. That's why many of us end up hoarding a certain pair of shorts when we find a brand/style that we like. Buy a few pairs quickly, before they change the design!"
The 11 Very Best Gym Shorts For Men
Finding the right pair of gym shorts sounds simple enough. Most guys just want a pair that they can sweat in and forget about. But with gym clothing growing more innovative and activity-specific, there are a lot of variables to consider when buying a new pair, like liners, inseam lengths, and moisture-wicking technology. There's no one universal pair for everyone, of course, but after testing dozens over the past few years, it became clear to me that a few key features set the standard for the very best gym shorts. I also spoke to personal trainers, athletes, and active folks to find out their favorite pairs for each activity.
A gym short's material is the most important thing to look for when choosing a new pair. Gym shorts are made to move and sweat in, so we're looking for fabrics that can stretch well and wick moisture efficiently, thus keeping you comfortable and dry. A blend of polyester, nylon, and spandex is the most common combo. We also paid attention to the exterior fabric, and how their durability stood up to our experts' most intense workouts.
Our picks and my personal favorites come with built-in liners, which generally provide more support and help with wicking sweat off the skin. Some pairs offer a snug, compression-short feel, while others have a liner that feels more like a pair of active underwear. We understand that some guys might prefer the comfort and freedom of an unlined pair, and we noted where those options are available below.
A short's inseam can affect your workout experience. A shorter short has more potential to bunch and rise up in the thigh, while the fabric on a longer inseam can restrict movement. While it ultimately comes down to preference and your height, our experts recommended their favorite inseams for specific activities below.
Material: Polyester and spandexLining options: Lined or unlinedInseam length: 5 inches, 7 inches or 9 inches
These seven-inch-inseam Ten Thousand Interval shorts come as close as you can get to quiver-of-one gym shorts. Shorts with a seven-inch inseam are the most popular among the guys we spoke to, with eight telling us they exercise in this style, but the Intervals also come in two other inseam lengths: five- and nine-inch. (Five-inch shorts are the second-most-popular length with the guys we spoke to.) They come recommended by personal trainer Ariel Brill and multisport athlete Nik Karbelnikoff. Brill loves the lightweight stretch fabric of the Interval short, which he says would be great for any sort of heavy lifting at the gym. Karbelnikoff likes that these shorts are tough enough for CrossFit and gym workouts but also have the mobility and comfort needed for a six-mile run. "They are my go-to shorts, no matter what I'm training for. The liners never ride up, and I love having pockets for everyday use," he says. But if you prefer to skip the built-in liner, they're also available without it. In the three years that I've been testing the Intervals, I've worn them not only for workouts and runs, but also for summer hikes and beach trips, and they show no signs of wear. For those reasons — and the wide size range, from XS to XXL — we think the Intervals are among the best investments you can make when it comes to gym apparel.
Material: Polyester and spandexLining options: Lined or unlinedInseam length: 3 inches, 5 inches, 7 inches, or 9 inches
This pair of five-inch gym shorts has all the features of a premium pair of gym shorts (a stretchy fabric, supportive liner, and a small zippered back pocket) at a more affordable price. It comes recommended by personal trainer Andrew Flores, who says the shorts have been his "go-to for the last six months when I practice Muay Thai or boxing." Describing the feel, Flores says they have a "great stretch to them, meaning you can perform exercises in all planes of motion without obstruction." And from a fashion perspective, he says they also "go well with a long-sleeved tee for that post-workout run to the store." Target also offers these in an unlined version with a seven-inch inseam.
Material: Nylon, elastane, polyester, and spandexLining options: LinedInseam length: 5 inches or 7 inches
Boston-based running brand Tracksmith makes some of the most stylish and unfussy active apparel available today, and its Session shorts are no exception. The Session shorts feel most at home during runs, of course, but they work just as well for sweaty, aerobic gym sessions. Drew Westphal, who works in digital marketing, says he has also worn these lined shorts to do yoga, Pilates, and "a lot of stretching at home to help my golf game." While they've been comfortable for all of his workouts, Westphal says the real appeal of the shorts may be their lesser-known branding and interesting colors, which range from "espresso" (dark brown) to "forest" (dark green) to "wine" (dark red). They're also available in a five-inch inseam. I've been running in both the five- and seven-inch versions of the Session since 2019 for daily training. While these shorts have held up for countless miles, I also reach for them on rest days. The Session shorts have a buttery-soft texture and feel equally as good on the run as they do while relaxing.
Photo: retailer
Material: Polyester, nylon, and spandexLining options: Lined or unlinedInseam length: 5 inches or 7 inches
This unlined Nike pair with a five-inch inseam came recommended to us by personal trainer Chris Legitime of LegitFitNYC and Jackson Howard, an editor at publishing house Farrar, Straus and Giroux. Even without a lining, Legitime says the shorts still feel secure around the hip, but the lack of a liner means they're "not tight on the groin or quads, making them super-breathable and flexible for hip movements," he explains. While Legitime says he's not so interested in how shorts look, Howard adds that these lightweight shorts do have some aesthetic benefits too. "They make my butt look really good," he says. He wears his pair — which he has had for more than two years — for running, yoga, or just hanging around the house. The shorts also have four pockets: one zippered back pocket, two on the side, and a liner drop-in pocket. Given that the Flex Strides come in 14 different sizes (XS–4XL Tall), a seven-inch inseam, and a lined version as well, we think they're a worthy contender for your next go-to pair of workout shorts, especially for the price.
Material: Polyester and elastaneLining options: Lined or unlinedInseam length: 5 inches, 7 inches, or 9 inches
The Pace Breaker short is a Strategist staff favorite, as well as a favorite among stylish men we've spoken with over the years. "These shorts have been my go-to for a long time," says Ralph Lauren creative producer Yale Breslin. Like other Lululemon acolytes, he says the Vancouver-based brand has "mastered fit, simplicity, and technology" in creating this unlined pair, which he calls the ultimate gym shorts. Their five-inch inseam, according to him, is not too long and not too short, making these ideal for his at-home HIIT, yoga, and boot-camp workouts. A smaller detail he appreciates is that the shorts have minimal branding. Lululemon also offers the short in lined seven- or nine-inch lengths. Chris Keyloun, a senior CrossFit coach at CrossFit Union Square, likes the seven-inch version, noting how its zippered pocket comes in handy during workouts. "It will hold your phone securely in place whether you're rowing a 6K or sprinting a 2K," he says. Matt Jared, co-founder of the yoga-and-meditation nonprofit United We Om, is yet another Lululemon Pace Breaker fan, but he prefers the slightly longer nine-inch version. "I wear these shorts when I teach yoga because the fit is loose and relaxed, but they stay in place and don't pinch no matter what shape I find myself in during class," he says.
Material: NylonLining options: UnlinedInseam length: 8 inches
I'd been looking for gym shorts that didn't scream "athleisure," a pair that I could also wear with more casual outfits outside of the gym. I landed on these Umbro shorts after I spotted three of my softball teammates wearing them. The nylon construction barely stretches, except for the waistband, so I don't use them for anything that requires dynamic movement (although Umbro is a classic soccer brand). But they have a subtly shiny checkered pattern that elevates them from just being a plain black pair of gym shorts.
Material: Nylon, elastane, polyester, and spandexLining options: LinedInseam length: 5 inches
These five-inch-inseam shorts from Ciele have been in my regular rotation of running shorts for the past four months. Their standout feature is the long liner. Unlike most lined running shorts, which have a brief liner, the DLY shorts have a longer, boxer-brief-style liner that doesn't bunch up or give me a wedgie. The stretchy polyester feels soft and breathable, especially on sweaty runs. (I find the liner more comfortable than some of my boxer briefs, which is why I wear these when lounging around at home, too.) These shorts have a zippered back pocket plus a hidden phone pocket on the thigh.
$80 at ciele athletics
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Material: Nylon, elastane, polyester, and spandexLining options: LinedInseam length: 7 inches or 9 inches
Almost all of the gym shorts on this list are available with liners, but Saxx offers the most supportive one. "These are my go-to training shorts whether I'm working out at the gym or at home," says Sean Sewell, a personal trainer who runs the gear-review site Engearment and the online fitness program Mountain Fitness School. Sewell owns "three or four pairs" of the Kinetic Train shorts from Saxx, which have since been discontinued — but these newer Gainmakers offer the same compression and fit as their predecessors. "They're more expensive, but you're getting a semi-compression short and a high-quality Lululemon-type gym short," he explains. Sewell's favorite part of Saxx shorts is the signature "Ballpark Pouch" liner, which he says "keeps everything in place and provides support." Saxx also makes a seven-inch version, which some may prefer, but he thinks the nine-inch length "is really comfortable for most men, especially taller men." If a comfortable, supportive liner is your first priority in gym shorts, then you should consider this pair.
Material: PolyesterLining options: LinedInseam length: 5 inches or 7 inches
I've frequently worn the five-inch High Stride for short runs and gym sessions since 2021, and I like that the liner doesn't feel too tight or restrictive yet still provides support. Outdoor Voices has added pockets to their latest version of the High Stride.
Copywriter Jon Roth is also a fan of Outdoor Voices' five-inch gym shorts. "Since I mostly hate exercise, finding cool workout clothes has been a good motivator," he told us. "These are cut high enough to show some thigh but also lined so nothing else shows." Outdoor Voices has made slight tweaks to the shorts since Roth purchased them (like the addition of pockets), but the brand told us that the newest style — which comes in several colors — is very similar to Roth's pair and, of course, has the same inseam length.
$41 at Outdoor Voices
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Material: Polyester and elastaneLining options: LinedInseam length: 7.5 inches
The Kore Shorts' impressive stretch makes them ideal for activities like yoga and climbing. "Vuori makes some of the most comfortable and durable gym shorts," according to Brill, who likes the versatility of this pair (which is lined) and says it would be great for any "sport or outdoor activity." Tim Senesi of the popular YouTube channel Yoga With Tim is also a fan of Vuori and told us its shorts are among his favorites for yoga. "I love anything that fits comfortably and is not too loud of flashy," says Senesi. The Kore's liner is less compressive than those of other pairs on this list, so we recommend it for more relaxed workouts.
Material: NylonLining options: LinedInseam length: 5 inches or 7 inches
Baggies are a perennial favorite at the Strategist. Besides all the other scenarios that we've described them as being perfect for — lounging, swimming, or everyday wear — these shorts feel right at home at the climbing gym. They're made from a durable nylon that stands up to the random bursts of movement one does while climbing: scrapes against the wall, weird stretches in awkward positions, and falls on the mat. That burly construction makes it easy to brush off chalk, too, unlike a knit fabric or a fabric with a looser weave. I've been climbing in Baggies since 2015, and they've been one of my most-used pairs of outdoor bottoms since. When wearing a harness, I prefer climbing in my seven-inch-inseam pair; I've found that the five-inch-inseam version is prone to bunching up near the groin.
From $65 at Patagonia
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• Yale Breslin, Ralph Lauren creative producer• Ariel Brill, personal trainer• Liza Corsillo, Strategist senior writer• Andrew Flores, personal trainer• Jackson Howard, editor at Farrar, Straus and Giroux• Matt Jared, United We Om co-founder• Chris Keyloun, senior CrossFit coach• Nik Karbelnikoff, multisport athlete• Chris Legitime, personal trainer at LegitFitNYC• Jon Roth, copywriter• Tim Senesi, yoga teacher, Yoga With Tim• Sean Sewell, personal trainer, owner of Engearment and Mountain Fitness School• Drew Westphal, digital marketer and yoga practitioner
Additional reporting by Liza Corsillo, Maura Kutner Walters, and David Notis.
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