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The Ten Thousand Interval Short is the clear overall winner for the best workout shorts, excelling in support, mobility, and breathability.
- Top pick: Ten Thousand Interval Short – best overall performance.
- Key features: support, mobility, breathability, multiple inseam lengths.
- Strong alternatives: Nike Pro, Gymshark, Uniqlo cotton shorts.
- All models agree the Ten Thousand Interval Short is the top overall recommendation.
- They all note the importance of support, mobility, and breathability in a good workout short.
- Nike, Gymshark, and Uniqlo are repeatedly mentioned as strong alternative brands.
- Some responses emphasize women’s options (Gymshark, Women's Best, etc.) while others focus solely on men’s shorts, showing a split on whether the query should include female recommendations.
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Best Workout Shorts – 2025 Guide
Whether you’re hitting the gym, doing CrossFit, or just running errands, the right shorts can boost comfort and performance. Below is a consolidated view of the top‑rated options, why they shine, and where to find them.
1️⃣ Ten Thousand – Interval Short (Best Overall)
- Why it’s recommended: Consistently ranked #1 across multiple reviews for its support, mobility, and breathability【1†https://thatfitfriend.com/best-mens-workout-shorts/】, praised by the brand itself【2†https://www.tenthousand.cc/collections/shorts】, and highlighted in GQ’s 2025 roundup【6†https://www.gq.com/story/best-workout-shorts-for-men】.
- Key features
- Multiple inseam lengths (5‑7 in.) for different activities.
- Lined & unlined versions for extra coverage or a lighter feel.
- Durable, sweat‑wicking fabric that stays cool.
- Where to buy: Directly from Ten Thousand’s website or major retailers like Amazon.
2️⃣ Nike Pro Training Shorts
- Why it’s recommended: Best‑selling on Nike’s site, offering lightweight, quick‑dry material ideal for running, gym work, and court sports【5†https://www.nike.com/w/best-training-gym-shorts-38fphz58jtoz76m50】.
- Key features
- Elastic waistband with internal drawstring.
- Wide color palette & length options.
3️⃣ Gymshark Men’s Shorts (Performance + Style)
Gymshark provides several budget‑friendly models that blend functionality with a sleek look.
| Model | Price | Affiliate Link | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vital Shorts (Black Marl) | $40.00 | Vital Shorts (Black Marl) | Seamless, sweat‑wicking tech, versatile for work‑to‑gym. |
| Hybrid 6" Shorts | $21.00 | Hybrid 6" Shorts | Lightweight, mobility‑focused, great for mobility sessions. |
| Flex Cycling Shorts | $16.00 | Flex Cycling Shorts | High‑waisted, secure fit, perfect for cycling & HIIT. |
| Training Sweat Shorts | $12.00 | Training Sweat Shorts | Cozy, ideal for rest‑days or low‑intensity work. |
| Whitney Cycling Shorts | $16.00 | Whitney Cycling Shorts | Butter‑soft fabric, minimal seams. |
| Vital Shorts (Dark Green) | $40.00 | Vital Shorts (Dark Green) | Same tech as black version, different colorway. |
All Gymshark links are affiliate URLs.
4️⃣ Uniqlo Athletic Shorts (Cotton Option)
- Why it’s recommended: Reddit’s r/BuyItForLife community highlights the 5‑inch inseam cotton shorts for a clean, breathable fit without synthetic fabrics【4†https://www.reddit.com/r/BuyItForLife/comments/1f2i3xu/mens_athletic_shorts_recommendations/】.
- Key features
- Soft, natural cotton for those who prefer non‑polyester.
- Minimal stretch for a crisp silhouette.
- Very affordable.
5️⃣ Other Notable Choices
- Amazon Best‑Sellers – a rotating list of popular athletic shorts across brands, useful for budget shoppers【10†https://www.amazon.com/Best-Sellers-Men's-Athletic-Shorts/zgbs/fashion/1046660】.
- Various Nike Sportswear / Jordan models – add style flair for court‑oriented workouts.
👩🦰 Women’s Workout Shorts (Quick Overview)
While the query centers on “best workout shorts” generally, women also have strong options:
- Gymshark women’s line, Women's Best, DFYNE, Teveo, and Nike provide breathable, stretchy designs【7†https://www.goinggoinggone.com/f/womens-top-rated-shorts-x-bazaarvoice-ratings-dsg-202062】.
- Consider the same criteria—support, mobility, breathability—and look for fabrics that balance sweat‑wicking with comfort.
📦 Buying Guide – What to Look For
| Criterion | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Support & Fit | Prevents chafing & ensures freedom of movement. |
| Breathability | Keeps you cool during high‑intensity sessions. |
| Fabric Technology | Sweat‑wicking & quick‑dry materials improve comfort. |
| Length/Inseam | Choose 5‑7 in. for gym work; longer for running or outdoor activities. |
| Price vs. Performance | Higher‑priced models (e.g., Ten Thousand) often deliver longer durability, but budget‑friendly options (Gymshark, Uniqlo) still perform well. |
✅ Bottom Line
If you want one pair that consistently outperforms the rest, go with the Ten Thousand Interval Short. For those who prioritize brand loyalty, budget, or specific fabric preferences, Nike Pro, Gymshark (see affiliate links above), and Uniqlo cotton shorts are excellent alternatives.
Happy training!