Workout shorts

The best pair of workout shorts depends on how you train — running, lifting weights, HIIT, or everyday gym sessions all benefit from slightly different designs.

For an excellent all-around pair, I'd prioritize four things: lightweight, breathable fabric, a waistband that stays put, enough stretch for squats and lunges, and pockets that don't get in the way.

My top workout-short picks

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1. Vuori Kore Short

(Best overall)

Premium pick · about $78

Comfortable, versatile shorts for gym sessions, light running, and everyday wear. A great choice if you want one pair that does almost everything.www.mensjournal.com+1

Shop Vuori

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2. Nike Unlimited Dri-FIT 5-inch Shorts

(Best all-around value)

Listed at $65

Stretchy, sweat-wicking fabric and a versatile 5-inch inseam make these a strong choice for lifting, running, and mobility work.

Shop at Nike

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3. Ten Thousand Interval Short

Premium performance pick

Best to consider for intense training, HIIT, and cross-training, particularly if you want a supportive liner.thatfitfriend.com+1

Shop Ten Thousand

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4. Nike Pro Dri-FIT ADV 6-inch Shorts

Best for hard training

Four-way stretch, ventilation panels, and a 6-inch cut suit demanding gym sessions and unrestricted movement.

Shop at Nike

These picks reflect current 2026 product listings and fitness-editor recommendations. The best fit still depends on your workout and preferred length.

Let me narrow it down to the best pair for you

Who are the shorts for?

Men's shorts

Women's shorts

Unisex / either

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What's your main workout?

Lifting weights / bodybuilding

Running / cardio

HIIT / CrossFit

A mix of everything

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What's your budget?

Under $30

$30–$50

$50–$80

Any budget — just the best

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Preferred length (inseam)

Shorter (3–4 inch)

Mid-length (5–6 inch)

Longer (7–9 inch)

No preference

[Find my best pair]

You should buy the Ten Thousand Interval Short for overall versatility, or the Vuori Kore Short if you want lightweight comfort for running and casual gym sessions.thatfitfriend.com

The best workout shorts to buy online depend on your specific training style, budget, and preference for liners or pockets. Top-performing options available online cater to different needs:

Top Workout Shorts Breakdown

• Ten Thousand Interval Short : Priced around $64–$68 , these are top-tier choices for CrossFit, heavy lifting, and short runs. They feature incredible durability, secure pocket options, and your choice of lined or linerless configurations.thatfitfriend.com
• Vuori Kore Short : Retailing around $40 , these shorts are ultra-lightweight, feature a comfortable breathable liner, and work exceptionally well for running or everyday casual wear.thatfitfriend.com
• Lululemon Pace Breaker : Highly recommended if you have muscular or larger thighs, offering supreme stretch, sweat-wicking properties, and multiple inseam choices.thatfitfriend.com
• CRZ YOGA 2-in-1 Shorts : The go-to budget pick, offering reliable performance, quick-dry fabric, and built-in liners at a fraction of the cost of premium brands.thatfitfriend.com

For a visual breakdown of top-rated options and how different fits perform during real gym sessions, watch this review:

12:09Best Gym Shorts for Women 2026YouTube · LittleFitDevil · 31K views · 5 months ago

If you let me know your intended activity (running, heavy lifting, yoga, or lounging) and whether you prefer lined or unlined shorts, I can narrow down the exact brand and inseam length for you.

Finding the "best" pair of shorts with zipper pockets depends heavily on what you plan to do in them—whether it is running, gym training, hiking, or casual everyday wear.

Top-rated options tailored to different use cases include:

• Best for Premium Athletic & Training: lululemon Spacer Track Short 7" features clean, zippered hand pockets equipped with hidden internal phone and coin sleeves. They offer a roomy athletic fit, premium breathable fabric, and a sleek look that transitions easily from the gym to casual errands.[1]
• Best Value / Budget Performance: MIER Men's Quick Dry Running Shorts with Zipper Pockets are widely praised for offering deep front zippered pockets plus a rear zip pocket. Made with a lightweight, 4-way stretch quick-dry material, they provide high-end security for phones and keys at a fraction of the cost.[1]
• Best Versatile Everyday / Hybrid: Alpine Swiss Andres Athletic/Casual Shorts balance a tailored lifestyle look with high-performance nylon-spandex stretch. They feature deep front pockets and a secure back zipper pocket, making them ideal if you want technical comfort that still passes for casual daily wear.[1]
• Best for Running (Women): lululemon Track That High-Rise Lined Short features a discreet, secure side zippered pocket for your running essentials, a comfortable flat waistband, and a supportive built-in liner.[1]

To help narrow down the ideal choice, tell me:

• What primary activity will you use them for (running, hiking, casual wear, gym)?
• Do you prefer a 5-inch or 7-inch inseam?
• Do you need a built-in liner or no liner?