Best Brooks Mens Athletic Shorts in 2026

The final mile of a long training run demands gear that won't distract you when your legs start to heavy. These Brooks Sherpa 5" shorts are engineered specifically for that high-intensity moment, featuring a semi-fitted cut that follows your body's contours without feeling restrictive. I found the DriLayer fabric to be a lifesaver for moisture management, effectively wicking sweat away to keep things dry even as the pace picks up. The 5" inseam sits well above the knee, providing a light, unencumbered running feel that prevents chafing. Plus, having a dedicated zip pocket at the back waistline is a game-changer for securing small essentials like keys while you move. It is a reliable, performance-driven choice for anyone looking to avoid hitting the wall mid-workout.

Most gym shorts force you to choose between mobility and storage, but the Soothfeel 7-inch shorts actually manage to balance both. I found the split hem design particularly effective for maintaining agility during high-intensity movements, providing just enough room through the glutes and thighs without feeling baggy. The standout feature for me is the pocket configuration. Having a dedicated deep zipper pocket means my phone and keys don't bounce around or slide out mid-run. The fabric is impressively lightweight and handles sweat well, drying quickly enough to transition from a heavy gym session to a casual hike. Plus, the adjustable drawstring allows you to tuck the cord inside the waistband if you prefer a cleaner, less bulky look.

Most athletic gear sacrifices utility for weight, but these Soothfeel shorts actually manage to pack essential storage into a featherlight frame. I was particularly impressed by the deep side zipper pocket, which provides a secure spot for a phone or keys that won't bounce around during a sprint. The 7-inch inseam hits that sweet spot for versatility, offering enough coverage for hiking or boxing while the split hem ensures your stride remains completely unrestricted. Whether you're sweating through a heavy gym session or just lounging, the quick-drying fabric and adjustable drawstring waistband make them feel custom-fitted. They bridge the gap between high-performance running gear and comfortable everyday lounge shorts without feeling bulky.

You are halfway through a grueling interval training session when you realize your phone isn't bouncing around in your pocket, thanks to the secure zipper storage on these Soothfeel shorts. The 7-inch inseam hits that perfect sweet spot between coverage and mobility, especially with the split hem design that prevents any fabric restriction during lateral movements like boxing or tennis. I found the lightweight, quick-drying fabric to be a lifesaver during high-intensity workouts, effectively wicking sweat away before it becomes heavy and uncomfortable. The wide elastic waistband offers a customizable fit via the drawstring, which you can even tuck inside to minimize bulk. Whether you are hitting the gym or heading out for a hike, these shorts feel versatile enough for almost any active pursuit.

Most runners settle for shorts that chafe or bounce awkwardly, but the Brooks Sherpa 7" 2-in-1 shorts solve those distractions before your first mile is even over. I found the integrated sweat-wicking boxer brief liner to be a game-changer for preventing friction during long efforts. The flat waistline sits comfortably against the skin, which is essential when you're focused on your pace rather than your gear. I also appreciated the versatility of having both zip and slip side pockets to secure essentials without feeling bulky. Plus, the fabric composition of 89% recycled polyester and 11% spandex feels high-quality while being environmentally conscious. These are reliable, low-maintenance staples that handle machine washing and tumbling with ease.

Brooks Brothers delivers a sophisticated alternative to the baggy, shapeless athletic shorts most golfers settle for on the course. These grey shorts strike a perfect balance between traditional style and modern comfort, making them ideal for a full eighteen holes or a casual lunch at the clubhouse. The 9-inch inseam provides a tailored look that isn't too short, while the elasticized waistband offers a forgiving fit that moves with your swing. With a standard four-pocket design and a clean zip fly, they maintain a polished aesthetic without sacrificing utility. Whether you are focusing on your drive or relaxing post-round, the blend of classic design and functional features makes these a reliable staple for any golfer's wardrobe.

Any man building a classic summer wardrobe needs these Brooks Brothers Bermuda shorts to bridge the gap between casual beachwear and polished weekend attire. The dark blue hue offers a sophisticated alternative to standard khaki, making them incredibly versatile for everything from a backyard BBQ to a casual lunch on a patio. I found the 10-inch inseam to be the perfect middle ground, providing enough coverage to remain tasteful without feeling overly long or heavy. The flat front finish ensures a clean, streamlined silhouette that avoids the bulkiness often found in traditional chino styles. Constructed from 100% cotton, they feel breathable and substantial, and the fact that they are machine washable makes them a practical staple for high-temperature months.

The Brooks Brothers Men's Garment-Dyed Bermuda Shorts deliver a sophisticated pop of color with their unique green teal hue. I was immediately struck by the texture of the garment-dyed cotton, which gives these shorts a lived-in, premium feel right out of the box. The flat front finish ensures a clean, streamlined silhouette that avoids the bulkiness often found in casual summer wear. At a price point, these feel like a genuine steal for a piece of heritage-inspired apparel. Whether you are heading to a coastal brunch or a casual afternoon walk, the 10-inch length provides just the right amount of coverage while maintaining a modern, tailored aesthetic that works for almost any warm-weather occasion.

Brooks Brothers Men's Bermuda Chino Shorts offer a masterclass in classic summer tailoring through their crisp, flat-front finish. These dark blue shorts are crafted from 100% cotton, providing that breathable, natural feel that is essential when the temperature climbs. The 10-inch inseam hits at a versatile length, making them much more sophisticated than a standard athletic short while remaining relaxed enough for a casual weekend. Because they are imported and built with a traditional silhouette, they maintain a polished look that works well for everything from a seaside lunch to a backyard gathering. Plus, the fact that they are machine washable makes them an incredibly low-maintenance staple for any warm-weather wardrobe.

The modern professional needs a pair of shorts that bridge the gap between casual weekend wear and a polished office aesthetic without the constant struggle of ironing. Brooks Brothers has taken their best-selling Advantage Chino design and refined it into a high-performance staple that actually lives up to the hype. These 100% cotton shorts undergo a specialized treatment that delivers an incredibly soft hand-feel and a wrinkle-free finish that stays sharp all day. I found the 9-inch inseam to be the perfect middle ground for a classic look, while the flat front and clean welt pockets keep the silhouette sophisticated. Whether you are heading to a summer luncheon or a casual Friday, the long-lasting color and lightweight construction make these an effortless choice for a reliable wardrobe foundation.

Most runners realize too late that a standard single-layer short is a recipe for discomfort, but these Pudolla 2-in-1 shorts solve that problem before you even hit the pavement. The upgraded fabric feels surprisingly soft against the skin, offering a lightweight, breathable experience that doesn't weigh you down during high-intensity training. I found the dual-layer design particularly effective. The compression lining provides essential support and chafe-free protection, while the outer layer allows for total freedom of movement. Storage is actually thoughtful here, too. Instead of bouncing in your hand, your phone stays secure in a dedicated pocket, and the back zipper pocket is perfect for stashing keys or cards. Whether you are hiking or hitting the gym, the adjustable internal drawcord ensures everything stays firmly in place.

Most gym shorts fail the moment you actually start moving, but these TENJOY athletic shorts prioritize mobility through a clever split-leg design. I found that the 3-inch inseam combined with the lightweight polyester-spandex blend allows for a massive range of motion during high-intensity sprints or squats. The internal drawcord and elastic waistband ensure everything stays secure, while the built-in compression liner provides essential chafe-free protection and support. What really sets this pair apart is the utility. The double zippered pockets are actually functional for securing a phone or keys during a run. Whether you are hitting the weights or heading to the pool, the quick-dry fabric handles moisture exceptionally well without feeling heavy.

Lulucleaf Running Shorts redefine workout utility with an integrated mesh compression liner that actually stays in place. I put these through a heavy training session and the quick-drying technical fabric kept things feeling light rather than heavy with sweat. The storage layout is surprisingly thoughtful. You get a dedicated phone pocket that keeps your device secure, a headphone jack for wired audio, and a zippered back pocket for cards or keys. The elastic waistband with an internal drawcord ensures the fit remains snug during high-intensity movements like basketball or sprinting. Even after multiple washes, the Khaki fabric holds its shape remarkably well, making them a reliable staple for any gym rotation.