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best overall athletic shorts
Vuori Kore Shorts

Thanks to Vuori, you can now get one short for every sport. Made with a classic athletic fit, this option is lightweight and versatile, and the liner allows you to go commando if you’re feeling brave enough.
Sizes | XS–XXL |
---|---|
Colors | 14 |
Inseam | 5″, 7″, 9″ |
best no-fuss athletic shorts
Lululemon Zeroed In Shorts

Whether you’re doing side planks, squats, or city strolls, these high-performance shorts from Lululemon are ready for whatever you throw at them.
Sizes | XS-XXL |
---|---|
Colors | 14 |
Inseam | 5″, 7″, 9″ |
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best athlete-tested athletic shorts
Ten Thousand Interval Shorts

Ten Thousand is one of those brands that if you know you know. It’s not in your face, but its performance pieces are some of the most high-quality out there. The athlete-led design process ensures that each item will help you maximize your potential. Case in point: these shorts.
Sizes | XS-XXL |
---|---|
Colors | 18 |
Inseam | 5″, 7″, 9″ |
Best athletic shorts for weight lifters
Gymshark Lifting Mesh Shorts

If you’re the type of person that takes lifting really seriously—and even if you aren’t—Gymshark has you covered. This retro style weaves in contemporary comforts, from the breathable mesh to the lightweight design.
Sizes | XS–3XL |
---|---|
Colors | 4 |
Inseam | 5″, 7″ |
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Most durable athletic shorts
Rhone Invictus Ripstop Shorts

An official partner of the NBA and LPGA Tour, Rhone has been a mainstay in performance apparel for quite some time now. This moisture-wicking pair is super soft to the touch, blending function with fit in this a top-of-the-line style.
Sizes | S–XXL |
---|---|
Colors | 6 |
Inseam | 5″, 7″ |
best iconic athletic shorts
Nike Icon Shorts

We’re not saying you actually have to work out in athletic shorts. Take Adam Sandler—the guy knows a thing or two about the casual beauty of basketball shorts. But if you are, these offer you effortless mobility and comfort on (and off) the court.
Sizes | XS-4XL |
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Colors | 17 |
Inseam | 11″ |
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best-fitting athletic shorts
Alo Yoga Circuit Shorts

Stay fresh between reps with these swishy drawstring shorts. Made with zippered side pockets (for that phone-wallet-keys trifecta) and sweat-wicking materials, they may just become your new favorite gym companion.
Sizes | S-2XL |
---|---|
Colors | 3 |
Inseam | 7″ |
best sweat-wicking athletic shorts
Mack Weldon Stratus Active Shorts

If you don’t sweat while working out, then #1, what’s your secret? And #2—good for you. But if you’re like the rest of us and do, then these moisture-wicking shorts by Mack Weldon will help keep your downstairs cool and dry.
Sizes | S–XXL |
---|---|
Colors | 4 |
Inseam | 7″ |
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best athletic shorts for running
On Running Essential Shorts

You know the brand’s shoes, you love its shoes, so if we had to bet, we’d say you’ll love On Running’s new athletic shorts, too. Featuring a breathable inner liner with secure pockets, they’ll offer you pure freedom of movement.
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