Best New Balance Boys Athletic Shorts in 2026

The lightweight, breathable mesh fabric feels incredibly airy against the skin the moment you pull these on. Designed for high-energy movement, these Real Essentials shorts are a versatile staple for any active kid, whether they are sprinting across a soccer field or just hanging out at home. The 9-inch inseam provides a comfortable range of motion, while the stretch waistband and internal drawstring ensure they stay securely in place during intense basketball or lacrosse drills. I particularly like that they include front pockets for small essentials and offer UPF 50+ protection to keep skin safe during long summer days outdoors. Since they are fast-drying, they handle sweat and outdoor play without feeling heavy or damp.

The New Balance Accelerate 7 Inch Short delivers a streamlined athletic fit that feels purpose-built for high-intensity movement. I found the plain weave poly woven fabric to be incredibly lightweight, preventing that heavy, weighed-down feeling during long runs. The inclusion of a crepe brief liner provides much-needed support and comfort without excessive bulk, while the internal key pocket is a small but vital detail for those of us who hate carrying extra gear. At a price point, these shorts strike a great balance between technical performance and everyday utility. Whether you are hitting the pavement or the gym, the 7-inch inseam offers just the right amount of coverage for a distraction-free workout.

Can a simple pair of shorts actually dictate the rhythm of your morning run? The New Balance Accelerate 5 Inch Short proves that thoughtful engineering makes all the difference when you're hitting the pavement. I found the athletic fit stays secure without feeling restrictive, while the plain weave poly woven fabric handles sweat beautifully. The built-in crepe brief liner provides essential support, and the internal key pocket is a lifesaver for those of us who hate carrying bulky waistbands. Even during late-night sessions, the reflective logo ensures you aren't invisible to traffic. At this price point, it is a remarkably functional piece of gear that prioritizes movement and utility.

Active kids burning through summer gear need a reliable rotation of high-performance shorts that actually keep up with their schedule. This five-pack from Real Essentials is a total lifesaver for parents managing everything from soccer practice to backyard lounging. The lightweight, fast-drying fabric is a standout, ensuring they don't stay bogged down by sweat during intense basketball or lacrosse drills. I love that the 9-inch inseam offers decent coverage while the UPF 50+ protection provides a necessary layer of defense against sun exposure during outdoor play. With a stretch waistband and internal drawstring, these shorts stay secure through every sprint, and the front pockets add a practical touch for carrying small essentials. It is a versatile, high-value kit for any teen's athletic wardrobe.

Your kid is sprinting across a sun-drenched soccer field, and these Real Essentials shorts are built to handle that exact level of intensity. I love how the lightweight, quick-drying fabric keeps them comfortable even during heavy cardio or long days of outdoor play. The UPF 50+ protection is a massive win for skin safety during those long summer practices. With an adjustable drawstring and elastic waistband, they stay securely in place whether they are playing lacrosse or just lounging around the house. Since they are machine washable, cleaning up after a muddy game is incredibly easy. This five-pack offers a versatile wardrobe staple that transitions seamlessly from organized sports to casual everyday wear.

Most runners end up stuck with heavy, sweat-soaked fabric that chafes mid-stride, but the New Balance Accelerate shorts prioritize pure mobility. I found the polywoven fabric to be incredibly lightweight, making it feel almost non-existent during high-intensity intervals. The NB DRY technology actually does its job, pulling moisture away from your skin so you stay dry when the workout heats up. What really sets these apart is the athletic fit. They skim the hips and thighs without feeling restrictive or overly tight. With a 5-inch inseam and a mid-rise waist that sits just right, they offer the perfect balance of coverage and freedom for active movement.

Most athletic apparel sacrifices comfort for compression, but this New Balance essential manages to find a sweet spot between mobility and relaxation. The French Terry knit is a standout here, providing a remarkably soft and smooth texture that feels premium against the skin. I found the athletic fit particularly impressive because it skims the hips and thighs without feeling restrictive, making it ideal for anyone who wants to move freely without the bulk of traditional loungewear. The stacked logo screen print adds a sharp, modern edge to the black fabric, elevating it from a basic gym staple to something you can actually wear out. With the draw cord closure ensuring everything stays securely in place, it is a reliable choice for both active sessions and casual downtime.

Active kids burn through summer wardrobe essentials faster than most parents can keep up with. These New Balance mesh shorts solve the constant need for breathable, durable gear by offering a high-value two-pack that handles everything from intense basketball practice to casual playground sessions. The lightweight mesh fabric is specifically designed to keep boys cool during hot summer days, while the elastic waistband provides a flexible fit that accommodates growing bodies and in-between sizes. Whether he is jogging, biking, or just relaxing, the comfort remains consistent. They are incredibly easy to maintain with standard machine washing and tumbling, making them a practical staple for any active young athlete's rotation.

Serious runners who demand zero distractions during high-intensity intervals will find these shorts to be a total game-changer. I was particularly impressed by how the polywoven fabric feels incredibly lightweight against the skin, making it easy to forget you're even wearing them. The 7-inch inseam offers that perfect middle ground for coverage without sacrificing mobility. Thanks to the integrated NB DRY technology, moisture is wicked away almost instantly, preventing that heavy, soaked feeling during a long session. The athletic fit is expertly designed to skim the hips and thighs for a streamlined look that stays close to the body without feeling restrictive or overly tight. At a mid-rise cut, they sit comfortably just below the waist, ensuring everything stays in place while you move.

You might wonder if a standard pair of gym shorts can actually change your workout experience, but the New Balance Q Speed Fuel shorts prove that technical details matter. After testing the polywoven material, the most impressive aspect is how the NB DRY technology handles sweat, pulling moisture away instantly so you never feel weighed down during high-intensity intervals. The 7-inch inseam hits that sweet spot for coverage without feeling restrictive. I particularly liked the athletic fit. It skims the hips and thighs closely enough to stay out of the way during movement, yet it avoids that suffocating, overly tight sensation common in compression gear. The mid-rise waist sits comfortably just below the natural waistline, making them a reliable choice for any active training session.

After weeks of testing these during intense training sessions, the durability of the woven fabric has become my favorite standout feature. These shorts strike a difficult balance by feeling incredibly lightweight on the skin while remaining tough enough to handle repetitive athletic movement. The NB DRY technology actually delivers on its promise, pulling moisture away effectively so you don't feel weighed down by sweat mid-workout. I particularly appreciated the athletic fit, which skims the hips and thighs without feeling restrictive or overly tight. With a 9-inch inseam that hits right at the knee and a mid-rise waist, they offer a comfortable, secure fit that stays in place whether you are sprinting or lifting.

New Balance has delivered a reliable staple for active kids that truly stands up to daily wear. These mesh basketball shorts are engineered for high-energy movement, whether he is hitting the soccer field or just lounging at home. The breathable fabric is a standout, ensuring he stays cool during intense gym sessions or summer play. I particularly like the inclusion of secure pockets, which provide a safe spot for small essentials like keys or a phone during outdoor adventures. They hold their color and shape remarkably well through multiple machine wash cycles, making them a low-maintenance win for busy parents. At this price point, they offer a professional athletic look without sacrificing the durability needed for constant play.

Why settle for stiff, heavy fabrics when your active kid needs total mobility? These New Balance French Terry shorts are a total game-changer for high-energy days. Because they are crafted from smooth, lightweight material, they breathe exceptionally well, which is a lifesaver during summer sports or intense playground sessions. I love that the elastic waistband is forgiving enough to accommodate those tricky in-between sizes, ensuring a snug yet comfortable fit for jogging or biking. Whether he is heading to basketball practice or just lounging around the house, the versatile black design pairs easily with any shirt. This two-pack offers incredible utility, bridging the gap between dedicated gym gear and reliable everyday casual wear.

Your son is mid-sprint during a heated basketball practice when he realizes his shorts aren't chafing or riding up. That is the level of reliability these New Balance active shorts provide. This four-pack is a massive win for busy parents because it covers a full week of school, gym sessions, and backyard play with high-quality, closed-hole mesh. The fabric is incredibly lightweight and skin-friendly, meaning it breathes well even when the temperature spikes during outdoor sports. I love that the elastic waistband stays secure during high-intensity movement without feeling restrictive. Whether he is lifting weights or just hanging out with friends, the soft, smooth texture makes these feel like a daily staple rather than just specialized gear.

The lightweight polywoven fabric feels remarkably airy against your skin the moment you pull them on. I found that the athletic fit hits that sweet spot where the material skims the hips and thighs without feeling restrictive or overly tight during high-intensity movement. Because they feature a mid-rise waist that sits just below the natural waistline, they stay secure without digging in while you're running or lifting. The integrated NB DRY technology is a total game-changer for sweaty sessions, pulling moisture away from your body so you stay dry and focused. These 5-inch shorts are a reliable staple for anyone needing gear that balances breathable comfort with a streamlined, functional silhouette.

Most parents settle for heavy, sweat-soaked cotton shorts that weigh a kid down during summer play, but these New Balance performance shorts prioritize breathability from the jump. The lightweight dimpled honeycomb fabric is a total game-changer for active boys, offering a textured feel that keeps airflow moving even during intense activity. I particularly like the design choices here, such as the on-seam pockets that keep a slim profile and the inner draw cord that ensures a secure fit without being bulky or uncomfortable against the skin. At a very accessible price point, the Light Cobalt color adds a vibrant pop to any athletic wardrobe. They are built for movement, making them a reliable staple for everything from gym class to backyard games.

New Balance delivers a reliable staple for active youngsters with these Core Fleece Shorts that bridge the gap between loungewear and athletic gear perfectly. After testing the feel of the fabric, it is clear these are designed for high-energy days or lazy afternoons alike, thanks to a lightweight construction that won't weigh a kid down. The elastic waist ensures a secure, comfortable fit during movement, while the side pockets provide just enough utility for small essentials. I particularly like the subtle branding details, such as the graphic print on the left thigh and the clean brand tag at the pocket, which give them a more polished look than standard gym shorts. They are an easy, versatile choice for any kid's wardrobe.

New Balance Big Boys' Athletic Shorts deliver a bold pop of color thanks to their vibrant red fabric and sharp contrast side stripes. These shorts are built for active kids who need a reliable, comfortable option for sports or playground sessions. The design is clean and athletic, featuring a subtle NB logo placed just above the front left hem for that classic sportswear look. The contrast detailing along the side seams and hem adds a layer of visual interest that keeps them from looking like basic gym gear. At a highly accessible price point, they serve as an excellent staple for any young athlete's wardrobe, providing a sporty aesthetic without breaking the bank.

Most activewear for kids forces a choice between style and actual utility, but these New Balance shorts bridge that gap effortlessly. The printed polyester interlock fabric feels incredibly soft against the skin, making them a go-to for all-day play rather than just gym class. I was particularly impressed by the inclusion of a built-in comfort brief, which provides a layer of security and ease that many standard athletic shorts lack. The Light Tidepool and Voltage Violet colorway offers a vibrant, energetic look that stands out, while the reflective logo adds a subtle, practical safety element for outdoor activities. At this price point, you are getting a high-performance piece that balances durability with genuine comfort.

Active kids who burn through gym gear need these New Balance mesh shorts to keep up with their high-energy lifestyles. The black and red colorway looks sharp, especially with that bold contrast stripe running down the side seams that adds a bit of athletic flair. I noticed the New Balance logo sits cleanly above the front left hem, giving them a legitimate branded feel without being over-the-top. At under ten dollars, these are an absolute steal for parents looking to stock up on durable, breathable basics for school or sports. While they are currently out of stock, the value proposition makes them well worth the wait for anyone needing reliable, lightweight athletic wear for older boys.

Most parents assume athletic gear for kids is just about durability, but these New Balance shorts actually prioritize a sharp, intentional aesthetic. The mesh construction keeps things breathable for active play, while the contrast colored stripes along the side seams and hem prevent them from looking like basic gym wear. I noticed the design feels much more premium than standard mesh shorts thanks to the subtle placement of the NB logo above the front left hem. The black, red, and white colorway offers a classic sporty vibe that pairs easily with almost any t-shirt. It is a solid choice for kids who want to look as fast as they feel on the playground or the field.

Most parents assume kids' activewear is destined for the rag bin after a single season of heavy play, but these New Balance shorts are built to defy that cycle. The Rain Cloud colorway offers a sophisticated look that transitions easily from a high-intensity soccer match to a relaxed afternoon at home. What really sets these apart is the functional design. The integrated pockets provide a secure spot for small essentials like keys or a phone, which is a lifesaver for active kids on the move. The fabric is impressively breathable and maintains its color and structure even after repeated machine washes. Whether he is hitting the gym or just hanging out with friends, these shorts deliver a perfect balance of athletic performance and everyday comfort.

Active boys who transition straight from soccer practice to the couch need these New Balance performance shorts to handle the constant movement. The stretch-woven fabric feels incredibly soft against the skin, providing a breathable barrier that keeps them cool even during high-intensity summer activities. I love how the elastic waistband ensures a secure, snug fit that doesn't slip during sports, while the front and back pockets add much-needed convenience for carrying small essentials. The Calm Taupe color is a sophisticated choice that works just as well for casual school days at a charter or parochial school as it does for lounging. These shorts are built to stay bright and fresh through endless wash cycles, making them a durable staple for any young athlete's wardrobe.

Picture your kid sprinting across a sun-drenched playground or tearing through a soccer drill without feeling weighed down by heavy fabric. These New Balance athletic shorts are built specifically for that high-energy movement, utilizing a breathable mesh design that keeps things airy during intense play. The black and ocean colorway offers a sharp, sporty look, especially with the contrast double stripe running down the side seams for a bit of extra flair. I particularly like the subtle placement of the NB logo above the front left hem, which adds a touch of brand authenticity without being overwhelming. At just under ten dollars, they provide a functional, stylish staple for any young athlete's active wardrobe.

Mid-morning yoga sessions just got a lot more comfortable thanks to the buttery-soft feel of these BMJL athletic shorts. The 95% rayon and 5% spandex blend creates a smooth, breathable fabric that moves with you rather than against you. I particularly appreciated the thoughtful inner layer design, which provides much-needed coverage and elastic support during more intense training movements. Instead of fumbling with a waistband or a gym bag, I could easily slide my phone into the deep side pockets and head straight into my workout. Whether you are hitting a heavy lifting session or just lounging at home, the high-waisted elastic band stays secure without digging in, making them a versatile staple for any active wardrobe.

Finding comfortable, stylish trousers that transition from a heavy gym session to a casual street-style look is a constant struggle for active men. These Guolarizi sweatpants solve that dilemma by blending a relaxed, loose fit with a high-street fashion aesthetic. They are designed as versatile sweater pants, making them ideal for autumn and winter layering without feeling overly restrictive. Whether you are hitting the track for a run or just lounging in a leisure setting, the construction offers a comfortable, baggy silhouette that stays trendy. The fabric feels substantial enough for cooler weather, providing that much-needed warmth while maintaining a breathable, sporty vibe that works for everyday wear.