Best New Balance Mens Athletic Shorts in 2026

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.

After weeks of use, the New Balance 574 Core has become my undisputed go-to for daily errands and long walks. What sets this pair apart is the ENCAP midsole technology, which manages to balance a soft, cushioned feel with a durable polyurethane rim that prevents that dreaded foot fatigue by the end of the day. I was also pleasantly surprised by the sustainable construction. The mesh on the tongue and collar is made from 100% recycled polyester, and even the midsole incorporates bio-based content. The black and white colorway is incredibly versatile, pairing easily with almost anything in my wardrobe. Plus, the availability of extended width sizes makes these a reliable choice for anyone needing a more customized fit without sacrificing style.

You might wonder if a standard logo hoodie can actually justify a spot in your daily rotation, but the New Balance NB Essentials Stacked Logo Pullover Hoodie proves that thoughtful construction matters. After testing the feel of the 280G cotton/poly French terry, it is clear that this isn't a flimsy layer. The fabric strikes a perfect balance between soft skin contact and long-term durability. The relaxed fit is the real winner here, draping loosely from the chest through the hips to ensure you never feel constricted. Whether you are pulling the drawstring hood up on a chilly morning or warming your hands in the kangaroo pocket, the ribbed cuffs and hem keep everything securely in place without feeling tight. It is a reliable, easy-to-wear staple.

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 runners settle for heavy, sweat-soaked fabric that chafes mid-stride, but the New Balance Accelerate Split Shorts prioritize unrestricted movement and moisture management. I found the three-inch split design incredibly effective for high-intensity sprints where leg turnover is critical. The NB DRY technology actually performs as promised, pulling moisture away from your skin to keep you feeling light even as the workout ramps up. I also appreciated the thoughtful inclusion of both a drop-in pocket and a dedicated key pocket, ensuring your essentials stay secure without bouncing awkwardly. Constructed from a sustainable blend of 55% recycled polyester, these shorts offer an athletic fit that feels tailored rather than baggy, making them a reliable staple for any serious training rotation.

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.

You might wonder if a standard pair of black joggers can actually justify a spot in your daily rotation, but these New Balance essentials prove there is more to them than meets the eye. After putting them through their paces, the standout factor is clearly the French Terry fleece, which offers a level of soft comfort that feels premium against the skin. The athletic fit is expertly engineered to rise close to the body and skim the hips without feeling restrictive, making them ideal for active movement. I particularly appreciated how the drawcord waistband allows for a customized, secure fit during more intense activities. Finished with a stylish screen-printed stacked logo, these are a reliable choice for anyone needing versatile loungewear that transitions easily from the gym to the street.

Why settle for restrictive workout gear when you can experience total freedom of movement? These New Balance Sport Knit Shorts are a standout for anyone prioritizing comfort during high-intensity training or casual lounging. The soft, two-faced double knit construction feels premium against the skin, while the relaxed fit provides a generous cut through the hips and thighs to prevent any binding. I particularly appreciated the 10-inch inseam, which hits right at the knee for a classic athletic silhouette. Thanks to the integrated NB DRY technology, moisture is pulled away from your body instantly, keeping you dry even during the most grueling sessions. With a mid-rise waist that sits perfectly just below the beltline, these shorts offer a reliable, easy fit that stays in place without feeling tight.

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.

Most runners settle for shorts that chafe or feel heavy once the sweat starts pouring, but the New Balance Impact Run shorts are engineered to stay light and dry. During testing, the NB DRY technology proved essential, effectively wicking moisture away to keep the fabric from clinging during intense intervals. The athletic fit is a standout, skimming the hips and thighs without feeling restrictive, while the mid-rise waist ensures everything stays in place during high-impact movements. I particularly appreciated the thoughtful storage options. The quick-access drop-in pockets are perfect for nutrition on longer runs, and the zippered pocket provides much-needed security for keys or cards. With the built-in inner brief and active stretch polywoven material, these offer a seamless blend of coverage and freedom.

You might wonder if a three-inch inseam is actually practical for a full workout, but these New Balance Accelerate shorts prove that less fabric often means more freedom. I found the polywoven material incredibly lightweight, making them feel almost weightless during high-intensity intervals. The athletic fit is the real winner here. It skims the hips and thighs without feeling restrictive or overly tight, which is essential when you're pushing your pace. Thanks to the integrated NB DRY technology, moisture wicks away from your skin quickly, preventing that heavy, soaked feeling mid-run. Sitting just below the waist with a comfortable mid-rise, they stay secure through every stride and movement.

Chafing and heavy, sweat-soaked fabric often derail even the best running sessions. The New Balance Impact Run 3 Inch Split Shorts tackle this head-on with NB DRY technology that pulls moisture away from your skin instantly. I found the athletic fit particularly impressive. It skims the hips and thighs without feeling restrictive, allowing for a full range of motion during sprints. The mid-rise waist sits comfortably just below the natural waistline, providing a secure fit that stays put. Practicality is a major win here too, as the drop-in pockets are perfect for quick nutrition access, while the zippered pocket ensures your keys or cards don't bounce out mid-stride. These are serious tools for serious movement.

After weeks of use during intense interval training, these New Balance shorts have proven to be a reliable staple in my workout rotation. The 7-inch inseam hits that sweet spot between coverage and freedom, while the athletic fit skims the hips without feeling restrictive. I was particularly impressed by the NB DRY technology. It effectively pulls moisture away, keeping me dry even during heavy cardio sessions. The lightweight stretch woven fabric moves naturally with my body, and the built-in inner short provides a level of comfort and security that single-layer shorts often lack. Because the mid-rise sits just below the waist, they stay in place during squats and sprints without digging in, making them a solid choice for anyone prioritizing unhindered movement.

The lightweight polywoven fabric feels incredibly agile against your skin the moment you start moving. These Impact Run shorts are built for high-intensity sessions where sweat management is non-negotiable. Thanks to the NB DRY technology, moisture wicks away rapidly, keeping you dry even during grueling intervals. I found the athletic fit particularly impressive. It skims the hips and thighs without feeling restrictive or overly tight. The mid-rise waist sits comfortably just below the natural waistline, ensuring a secure fit during varied movements. Storage is a major win here, too, with quick-access drop-in pockets for nutrition and a dedicated zippered pocket to keep your valuables safe while you run.

The New Balance Impact Run Short Sleeve is a standout addition to any high-intensity training wardrobe because it balances technical moisture management with a highly functional silhouette. During testing, the poly knit mesh fabric felt incredibly breathable, preventing that heavy, sweat-soaked sensation common in standard cotton tees. The NB ICEx fast-drying technology actually delivers on its promise, pulling moisture away from the skin to keep you cool when the pace picks up. I particularly liked the athletic fit. It skims the chest and waist to provide a streamlined look without feeling restrictive or overly tight during lateral movements. Plus, the reflective branding and side seam piping add a much-needed safety element for those of us hitting the pavement during low-light hours.

The New Balance Accelerate 5 Inch Short delivers exceptional moisture management through its integrated NB DRY technology. I found the polywoven fabric incredibly lightweight, making these a go-to choice for high-intensity training sessions where staying dry is non-negotiable. The athletic fit is expertly calibrated to skim the hips and thighs without feeling restrictive, allowing for a full range of motion during sprints or squats. Because they feature a mid-rise waist and an internal brief, you get a secure, supportive feel that stays in place while you move. The Natural Indigo color offers a sophisticated look for standard gym gear, and the overall construction feels built specifically for active performance rather than just casual lounging.

The New Balance Tenacity Woven Logo Shorts deliver high-performance moisture management through their integrated NB DRY technology. During my testing, the lightweight woven fabric felt incredibly soft against the skin, making them ideal for intense training sessions where comfort is non-negotiable. I was particularly impressed by the 4-way stretch, which provides excellent mobility without feeling restrictive. The laser-perforated side panels offer targeted breathability exactly where you need it most, while the subtle color inset at the side seam adds a sharp, modern aesthetic to the black design. At a price point, these shorts strike a perfect balance between technical utility and everyday athletic style, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable from the first set to the last.

Why settle for heavy, sweat-soaked fabric when your workout demands breathability? These New Balance Heather Tech Knit Shorts are a masterclass in functional athletic wear, specifically engineered to handle high-intensity movement. The standout feature is undoubtedly the NB DRY technology, which pulls moisture away from your skin to keep you feeling dry even during your most grueling sessions. I found the athletic fit to be exceptionally well-balanced. It skims the hips and thighs without feeling restrictive or overly tight. The mid-rise waist sits comfortably just below the natural waistline, allowing for a full range of motion. With the added convenience of side hand pockets, these shorts transition seamlessly from a heavy lifting session to a casual afternoon walk.

After weeks of use during high-intensity interval training, these New Balance Accelerate shorts have become a staple in my workout rotation. The polywoven fabric feels incredibly lightweight against the skin, preventing that heavy, weighed-down sensation during long runs. I was particularly impressed by the NB DRY technology, which effectively wicks moisture away to keep me dry even when the sweat starts to peak. The 5-inch inseam provides the perfect amount of coverage without restricting my stride, while the mid-rise waist sits comfortably just below the natural waistline. It hits that sweet spot of an athletic fit—skimming the hips and thighs closely enough to feel streamlined, yet offering enough room to ensure nothing feels overly restrictive during deep squats or sprints.

Serious runners and gym enthusiasts require a reliable, no-nonsense training short that stays put during high-intensity movement. These New Balance Tech Shorts deliver exactly that through a functional 9-inch inseam that offers the perfect balance of coverage and mobility. The 100% polyester construction feels lightweight and breathable, which is essential when your workout heats up. I particularly like the elasticated waist paired with an internal drawcord, allowing for a highly customized and secure fit that won't dig in. The Team Red colorway is bold and energetic, while the subtle heatseal branding on the bottom left hem adds a touch of professional athletic aesthetic without being overbearing. It is a straightforward, well-constructed piece of performance apparel.

Active men who demand a balance between lounge comfort and athletic performance need these New Balance Essentials shorts in their rotation immediately. The French terry fabric feels incredibly soft against the skin, making them ideal for long recovery days or casual outings. I found the athletic fit particularly impressive. It skims the hips and thighs without feeling restrictive, providing enough room for movement while maintaining a streamlined silhouette. The mid-rise waist sits perfectly just below the natural waistline, and the integrated drawstring ensures a secure, customized fit. With practical side seam hand pockets and an additional back pocket for essentials, these shorts transition seamlessly from a light workout to running errands around town.

The crisp morning air during a weekend coffee run demands a layer that feels effortless rather than restrictive. This New Balance long sleeve excels in those casual transitions, utilizing a 160G cotton jersey fabric that provides just the right amount of substance without feeling heavy. I found the relaxed fit particularly impressive. It drapes loosely from the chest through the hips, ensuring you never feel constricted while moving. The black colorway keeps things versatile, while the screen-printed graphic adds a subtle touch of visual interest that elevates it above a basic undershirt. It is a reliable, comfortable staple for anyone who prioritizes ease of movement and a laid-back aesthetic in their daily rotation.

Sweaty, heavy fabric can completely derail a high-intensity workout session. These New Balance Accelerate shorts solve that problem by utilizing NB DRY fast-drying technology to pull moisture away from your skin immediately. I found the polywoven fabric feels incredibly lightweight, making them ideal for long runs or heavy lifting where you don't want extra bulk. The 5-inch inseam provides a modern, athletic look that doesn't feel restrictive, thanks to a fit that skims the hips and thighs without being overly tight. Because the mid-rise sits just below the waist, you get a secure fit that allows for a full range of motion. They are a reliable, no-nonsense choice for anyone needing gear that stays light and dry while moving.

The New Balance R.W.T. 2-in-1 shorts stand out as a high-performance training essential that balances technical moisture management with a versatile, athletic cut. I found the NB DRY technology to be a game-changer for intense sessions, effectively wicking sweat away to keep you dry when the heat ramps up. The 7-inch inseam provides the perfect amount of coverage, while the built-in inner short eliminates the need for extra layers. Because the mid-rise waist sits just below the natural waistline, you get a secure fit that doesn't restrict your range of motion during explosive movements. The lightweight stretch woven fabric skims the hips and thighs without feeling restrictive, making these ideal for anyone needing a fit that moves with them rather than against them.

The New Balance NB Brighton Short is a moisture-management powerhouse for anyone looking to stay dry during intense workouts. I found the polyester fabrication to be incredibly lightweight, which is essential when you are pushing through a heavy training session. The wicking fabric does exactly what it promises, pulling sweat away from your skin to prevent that heavy, damp feeling. I particularly liked the adjustable fit provided by the waistband drawcord, ensuring the shorts stay securely in place regardless of your movement. Topped off with a sleek heat transfer logo on the left leg, these shorts strike a perfect balance between athletic utility and a clean, minimalist aesthetic.