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Comfortable, versatile pairs for all types of wear.
It wasn't long ago that people only wore athletic shorts in a gym setting, but over the past couple of decades the garment has slowly transitioned into acceptable everyday wear. Today's athletic shorts are made to be worn as much casually as they are for working out, all-the-while still upholding high levels of performance.
Lest we forget to mention how many different types of material blends that are being created for athletic shorts. Now, the standard for a good pair of shorts seems to start with premium features like 4-way stretch, water-resistance, and odor resistance. Quality athletic shorts are lightweight and breathable too—with many brands going to extra mile to add in their own unique liners. But we also cannot forget to recognize a good ol' fashioned pair of cotton shorts, a material that's forever a reliable go-to.
The best athletic shorts below have been curated to reflect all the different types of scenarios one could find themselves in. Need a pair of new pair for long distance running? How about shorts for playing pick-up basketball? Whatever hunt you're on, you'll be comfortable knowing your next favorite pair of athletic shorts are only a few steps away from arriving on your doorstep.
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Secure the styles that speak to you the most and wear them all summer long!
When you need to straddle the line a bit more between training and post-run relaxation, the Falmouth could be your new go-to. The slightly longer inseam and distinctive waistband are a stylistic nod to the shorts Roger Bannister wore when he broke the 4-minute mile in 1954. And if you're curious about performance, the moisture-wicking water-repellent nylon blend will help you stay dry when those surprise storms interrupt your summer.
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When it comes to consumer praise, it's hard to argue with over 7,400 reviews and an average 4.5 star rating. What you get here are two pairs of nylon gym shorts with side pockets and a comfortable drawstring waistband. And because they're so affordable ($32) you can wear these for your toughest workouts and refresh on new pairs as needed.
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We're set on the opinion every guy should own a pair of Pace Breakers. The short is basically guaranteed to last you for several years (if not more) no matter how many workouts you put them through. Grab a pair of the 5" inseam and wear these for all your workouts, from short distance runs to weight training sessions.
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We love the Kore Short thanks to its versatility in styling. You can wear them everywhere, whether it be the gym, your local coffee shop, heck, even the beach. Vuori took the recycled polyester and elastane blend the Kore is made from and added specs like moisture-wicking, 4-way stretch, and odor resistance. This is all to say you're getting a top dog right here.
Rhone is another top player when it comes to performance shorts. The Mako is a durable water repellant short that can be paired with athleisure or casual outfits. We like the 9" inseam in Asphalt, as the style provides more opportunity to wear with your everyday wardrobe, should you choose.
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Chubbies aren't just for the college quad anymore. These snappy 5.5" shorts can hold up to your toughest workouts in the gym, too. Perforation on the outer shell gives your thighs some extra airflow, while the built-in liner holds a pocket for your phone (there's a rear zipper pocket for storage, too).
When it comes to traditional sweatshorts, few make a pair better than Reigning Champ. The brand uses an ultra soft midweight terry cotton as its main material. But what truly elevates the sweatshort from traditional pairs are the small details like a ribbed waistband, a gusset, and flatlock seams.
It's hard to mention Ten Thousand and not think about their shorts. The Interval Short is by far one of the performance wear brand's best selling models thanks to it's moisture wicking fabric and no-pinch waistband. This pair is the chosen short for all types of athletes, from trail runners to CrossFit competitors.
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If you're wanting a short that prioritizes style as much as it does function, look no further than the Space-O. Satisfy Running used Italian polyamide and elastane and wove together a breathable mesh-like exterior with a technical silk liner. Hidden design notes like two nutrition pockets for gels, two separate inner key pouches, and a sweat proof phone pocket all represent the Space-O's commitment to handling long distance runs. Yeah, these shorts are awesome.
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It's true On is known more for its footwear options, however the company has been slowly growing its presence in performance apparel. The Explorer Short offers a unique design on what a hiking short should be, with premium features like ample pocket space and a stretchy, fully water repellent material.
Woven from breathable mesh made and equipped with sweat-wicking Dri-FIT tech, Diamond Shorts are the perfect go-to pair for impromptu pickup games. Features like streamlined pockets and a soft elastic waistband make it so you can play your best without any distractions.