Best Plaid Mens Athletic Shorts in 2026

Athletes who demand zero distractions during high-intensity training sessions will find these Under Armour UA Tech Graphic Shorts to be an absolute staple for their gym bag. The standout feature is the specialized UA Tech fabric, which manages to feel incredibly soft against the skin while performing like a high-performance technical garment. It wicks sweat away almost instantly, ensuring you stay dry even when the workout heats up. I particularly like the loose, fuller cut which provides total freedom of movement without feeling restrictive. The 10-inch inseam offers a modern look, and the internal drawcord allows for a customized, secure fit around the waist. Since there is no built-in liner, these offer a lightweight, breathable experience that is perfect for those who prefer their own base layers.

Mid-workout distractions like sliding waistbands and sweat-soaked fabric often derail a solid training session. The BALENNZ athletic shorts tackle these issues head-on by combining a secure, encased elastic waistband with an internal drawcord that stays locked in place during high-intensity movements. I found the 10-inch inseam offers a versatile length that works just as well for a basketball game as it does for a casual run. The fabric strikes a sophisticated balance between being soft against the skin and having enough stretch to move with you. Plus, the quick-drying technology and integrated side pockets for your phone or wallet make these a reliable choice for anyone moving from the gym to the street.

Athletes who prioritize unrestricted movement without sacrificing comfort will find these tech shorts to be a total game-changer for their training rotation. I was particularly impressed by the honeycomb stitch construction, which adds a layer of structural interest while enhancing the breathable, active stretch fabric. These aren't your typical tight gym shorts. The relaxed fit through the hips and thighs provides much-needed airflow during intense sessions. The moisture-wicking material does its job effectively, keeping sweat at bay, while the internal adjustable drawstring ensures the elasticized waistband stays exactly where it should. With two functional side pockets and a lightweight feel, this two-pack offers a practical, no-nonsense solution for anyone needing reliable activewear that moves with them.

Athletes who demand zero restrictions during high-intensity drills need these Champion mesh shorts in their rotation immediately. Since the brand literally pioneered the mesh athletic short, you can feel that decades of engineering in the way this fabric breathes. The 9-inch inseam offers a longer, more substantial coverage than standard gym shorts, which is a massive plus if you prefer a bit more room. I found the silky tricot lining keeps the mesh from feeling scratchy against the skin, while the side vents ensure you won't overheat during a heavy run. Between the elastic waistband and the internal drawstring, the fit stays secure whether you are sprinting on the court or just lounging. It is a classic, functional staple that delivers on the brand's legacy.

Athletes who demand a reliable, no-nonsense gym staple should stop searching and just grab these Champion jersey shorts. The 9-inch inseam is the real hero here, providing a comfortable fit that hits right at the knee for better coverage during heavy lifts or casual walks. I found the 6.1 oz. cotton fabric to be impressively soft against the skin, making them feel less like stiff gym gear and more like premium loungewear. The internal drawcord allows for a precise, secure fit, while the deep side pockets are actually functional enough to hold your phone without it sliding out. Finished with the iconic C logo at the hem, these shorts strike that perfect balance between athletic utility and effortless everyday style.

These khaki brown shorts serve as the ultimate reliable staple for men who prioritize comfort and a relaxed silhouette. I found the twill cotton fabric to be impressively soft and lightweight, making them a breeze to wear during warm afternoons. The classic fit provides plenty of room through the hips and thighs, ensuring you aren't restricted by tight fabric when moving around. They sit comfortably at the waist and feature a straight leg that maintains a clean, traditional look. I particularly liked the inclusion of set-in button-closure pockets at the back, which add a touch of security for your essentials. At this price point, they offer a practical, breathable solution for casual summer outings.

Why settle for heavy, sweat-soaked fabric when you can stay light during your most intense training sessions? These Real Essentials mesh shorts are built for high-output movement, whether you are hitting the basketball court or heading out for a long trail run. The 9-inch inseam is a standout feature, offering enough coverage to feel secure without restricting your stride or range of motion. I found the moisture-wicking technology and breathable mesh construction to be highly effective at pulling sweat away from the skin, keeping you ventilated even as the temperature rises. The elastic waistband paired with an internal drawstring ensures a custom, reliable fit that stays put during explosive movements like sprinting or jumping. Plus, the side seam pockets are perfectly placed for stashing small essentials while you stay on the move.

Serious athletes who demand zero distractions during high-intensity training will find these Real Essentials shorts to be an absolute staple for their gym bag. I tested the moisture management, and the Dry-Fit technology paired with the breathable construction does an incredible job of pulling sweat away from your skin to keep you cool. The 9-inch inseam is the sweet spot for coverage, offering enough length to feel secure during wrestling or basketball without restricting your stride. I particularly liked the side seam pockets for holding keys or a card, and the internal drawstring allows you to dial in a precise, custom fit that stays put during sprints. Whether you are hitting the court or just lounging, the stretch fabric makes these feel remarkably versatile.

These washed twill walk shorts are the quintessential weekend staple for anyone prioritizing a laid-back aesthetic without sacrificing a polished look. The washed red fabric offers a relaxed, lived-in feel right out of the package, making them ideal for casual outings or lounging. I found the 8-inch inseam to be the sweet spot for comfort, hitting just above the knee for a modern silhouette. The elastic waistband paired with a functional drawstring ensures a customizable fit that stays secure throughout the day. With practical side pockets and a single set-in back pocket, they manage to balance utility with a clean design. It is clear that the design team prioritized real-world feedback to fine-tune the fit and comfort of these everyday essentials.

The Lee Men's Tri-Flex Shorts redefine casual comfort through their specialized smart gusset technology. While most shorts feel restrictive during movement, these utilize a motion flex waistband and engineered stretch fabric that actually moves with you rather than against you. I found the wicking properties particularly useful for staying dry during active afternoons. The classic flat front design keeps them looking polished enough for a casual lunch, while the zippered side pocket provides a secure spot for essentials. With a 10-inch inseam and a comfortable classic fit, these are built for guys who prioritize mobility without sacrificing a clean silhouette.

Every man looking to upgrade his loungewear rotation needs these Hanes drawstring shorts in his closet immediately. After testing the feel of the cotton-rich jersey blend, it truly mimics the softness of your most broken-in favorite t-shirt. The 7.5-inch inseam hits at just the right spot for everything from a quick gym session or playing volleyball to just walking the dog. I found the tag-free, itch-free waistband incredibly comfortable for sleeping, and the workable drawstring ensures a secure fit that doesn't dig in. With functional side pockets and a classic button fly, these aren't just sleep shorts. They are versatile enough for a casual night out or light athletic activity. They are essentially the kind of comfortable staple you never want to take off.

Active weekend warriors who hate the restriction of traditional khakis need these Lee Tri-Flex shorts in their rotation immediately. I found that the smart gusset technology and motion flex waistband make a massive difference when you are transitioning from a casual lunch to an afternoon of movement. The ocean blue plaid pattern offers a sharp, classic look, but the real magic is in the engineered comfort of the stretch fabric. It features moisture-wicking properties that keep things dry, and the 10-inch inseam hits at a very tasteful length. I particularly valued the zippered side pocket, which provides a secure spot for essentials that usually slide out of standard pockets. These are built for guys who want to look polished without feeling trapped by their clothes.

Active men who demand utility without sacrificing a polished look need these Lee Extreme Motion shorts in their summer rotation. The durable twill construction feels broken-in from the very first wear, which is a huge plus if you hate that stiff, new-fabric feeling. I was particularly impressed by the thoughtful design choices, like the reinforced side pockets secured with both buttons and velcro to keep your essentials from sliding out. The 2% spandex blend works seamlessly with the flex waistband to provide actual movement, while the 10-inch inseam offers a classic, comfortable fit. Whether you are heading out for a casual hike or a weekend brunch, the white plaid pattern adds a sharp, stylish edge to a functional piece of gear.

You might assume a twenty-four-dollar pair of running shorts won't offer much beyond the basics, but the Under Armour Launch Run shorts prove that technical performance doesn't require a massive investment. During my testing, the ultra-light, stretch-woven fabric felt incredibly unobtrusive, allowing for completely unrestricted movement during high-intensity intervals. I was particularly impressed by the ventilation strategy. The combination of mesh side panels and an internal mesh liner ensures moisture escapes quickly rather than clinging to your skin. The streamlined fit hits that sweet spot of being neither too tight nor too loose, while the internal powermesh pocket provides a secure, bounce-free spot for a phone. Even the waistband feels premium thanks to the new encased elastic and internal drawcord design.

You might assume a sub- pair of workout shorts is just another disposable gym garment, but NORTHYARD actually delivers serious utility here. I was immediately struck by the thoughtful design, specifically those unique side ventilation holes that prevent that stifling feeling during intense cardio. The 4-way stretch polyester and spandex blend feels incredibly durable against the skin, while the flatlock seams prevent the dreaded chafing during long runs. Security is a major plus too. Instead of shallow pockets, you get three zippered compartments—two on the sides and one in the back—that actually keep your keys and phone from sliding out. Whether you are hitting the trails or playing soccer, the UPF 50+ protection and breathable mesh pocket lining make these a reliable staple for any active wardrobe.

After weeks of use during heavy summer activity, these Galaxy Blue shorts have proven to be a reliable staple for any casual wardrobe. The standout feature is undoubtedly the performance comfort flex waistband, which provides a forgiving fit that actually moves with your body rather than digging in. Because they utilize a quick-drying stretch fabric, you won't feel weighed down by moisture during long afternoons outdoors. The straight fit and 9-inch inseam offer a classic silhouette that isn't too tight through the thighs, while the UPF 30 protection adds a layer of functional utility. With five total pockets—including modified slash pockets and a dedicated coin pocket—you get plenty of secure, easy-access storage for your daily essentials.

Finding a pair of summer shorts that balance a tailored silhouette with actual mobility is surprisingly difficult. These slim-fit Oxford shorts solve that tension by utilizing a lightweight cotton fabric infused with a gentle stretch. They sit just below the waist and provide a modern, tapered look that stays fitted through the hip and thigh without feeling restrictive. The khaki brown shade is versatile enough for casual outings, and the button-through back pockets add a polished touch to the design. Having transitioned from the Goodthreads line to this Essentials branding, the construction remains focused on durability and comfort for warm-weather wear.

Every golfer who wants to stand out on the fairway without sacrificing performance needs these Royal & Awesome Blue Plaid Trews in their bag. I was immediately struck by how much thought went into the utility of these shorts. They feature dedicated tee loops and extra deep pockets that actually hold your essentials. The cotton and spandex blend offers a soft, flexible feel that moves with your swing rather than restricting it. While the athletic fit provides ample room through the thighs and seat, you might want to size up if you prefer a looser feel. The real kicker is the included golf tool and bottle opener, which adds a bit of fun to the post-round drinks with your mates. It is rare to find apparel that balances a funky, patterned aesthetic with genuine technical functionality.

Finding athletic gear that actually accommodates a larger frame without feeling like a tent is surprisingly difficult, but these Real Essentials mesh shorts change that math. I was struck by how the 10-inch inseam and the specific roomy cut through the hips and thighs provide actual mobility rather than just extra fabric. The lightweight mesh fabric does a heavy lifting job with moisture-wicking and breathability, which is essential when you're moving from a gym session to just lounging. The elastic waistband includes an internal drawstring, so you aren't constantly tugging them back up mid-stride. With large side pockets and a focus on exclusive big and tall sizing, these feel like they were engineered for real bodies rather than just scaled up from a standard pattern.

The lightweight, performance-knit polyester feels incredibly airy against your skin the moment you pull them on. I put these Essential Elements shorts through a rigorous circuit training session, and the moisture-wicking technology actually lived up to the hype. They didn't turn into heavy, sweat-soaked weights halfway through my run. The knee-length cut provides just enough coverage while allowing for full mobility during deep squats or explosive jumps. I particularly liked the adjustable drawstring waist, which kept everything secure without digging in, and the pockets are deep enough to actually hold a smartphone without it sliding out. Whether you are hitting the basketball court or just lounging at home, this four-pack offers a versatile, stylish rotation that handles high-intensity movement with ease.

Sweaty, heavy fabric is the ultimate momentum killer during a high-intensity lifting session. These COOFANDY mesh performance shorts solve that issue by utilizing a lightweight, stretchy fabric designed specifically to pull moisture away from your skin. I found the 5-inch inseam provides a modern, athletic silhouette that doesn't get in the way during deep squats or cycling. The inclusion of an adjustable internal drawstring ensures the waistband stays secure whether you are boxing or just lounging on vacation. With two side seam pockets for your essentials and a soft texture that stays dry, this three-pack offers a versatile foundation for any gym rotation, pairing effortlessly with everything from sleeveless hoodies to standard tees.

The adidas Men's Parma 16 Shorts deliver exceptional breathability through their lightweight, moisture-absorbing fabric. I found these to be a perfect choice for high-intensity training sessions where staying dry is a priority. Since they are constructed without an internal liner, they offer a much more natural, airy feel against the skin compared to standard athletic gear. The adjustable drawcord at the waist ensures the fit stays secure during sprints, while the iconic Adidas Badge of Sport adds a classic touch to the black and white aesthetic. Just keep in mind the specific care instructions—avoid bleaching or tumble drying to keep the fabric in top shape. At this price point, they are a reliable staple for any soccer kit.

Every weekend golfer who struggles with restrictive clothing needs these Bakery performance shorts in their rotation immediately. I found the 4-way stretch mechanical fabric to be a total game-changer during my swing, providing enough elasticity to move without feeling tight or bulky. The lightweight, breathable polyester keeps things incredibly cool, while the UPF 50+ sun protection offers real peace of mind during those long, exposed afternoon rounds. I especially liked the practical layout of the five pockets. Having two deep side pockets specifically for golf balls makes transitioning between holes much smoother. They hold their shape well and resist wrinkling, making them just as suitable for travel as they are for the fairway.

Most gym gear focuses solely on durability, but the right pair of workout shorts actually serves as a psychological trigger to get moving. The Ultra Performance 5-pack is built on this exact principle, offering a versatile rotation of styles ranging from solid marled fabrics to printed side panels. During testing, the moisture-wicking technology proved essential for high-intensity sessions like basketball or boxing, keeping sweat from becoming a distraction. I particularly appreciated the inclusion of rubber zippered pockets in the inseam, which provide a secure spot for essentials without the bulk of traditional side pockets. Whether you are hitting the trails for a hike or training on the volleyball court, these shorts offer a consistent, functional fit across five distinct aesthetic options.

Most outdoor shorts leave you feeling heavy and damp halfway through a hike, but these CRYSULLY cargo shorts prioritize moisture management from the start. The nylon and spandex blend offers a level of elasticity that makes climbing or trekking feel much less restrictive than standard cotton alternatives. I found the five-pocket layout particularly smart. Having two zippered pockets ensures your essentials stay secure while you're active. The side elastic waistband is a game-changer for comfort, adjusting easily whether you're sitting during a long drive or moving through a steep trail. Because the fabric evaporates sweat so quickly, they remain cool and lightweight even in high heat, making them a reliable staple for camping or fishing trips.

The Essentials Men's Slim-Fit Grey Plaid Shorts deliver a sharp, tailored look without the heavy stiffness of traditional khaki. I was immediately struck by the lightweight twill cotton, which feels incredibly breathable during warmer afternoons. These aren't your baggy, old-school walking shorts. The slim-fit design is specifically engineered to stay fitted through the hip and thigh before tapering down the leg. With a 9-inch inseam and a comfortable sit below the waist, they strike a perfect balance between casual comfort and a polished aesthetic. Whether you are heading to a backyard barbecue or a weekend outing, the zip fly and button closure provide a reliable, classic fit that keeps you looking put-together for under twenty dollars.

The Essentials Men's Slim-Fit Plaid Shorts deliver a sharp, tailored look without the heavy weight of traditional khaki. I was immediately struck by the lightweight twill cotton, which makes these feel incredibly breathable during warmer afternoons. The 9-inch inseam hits at a classic length, while the slim-fit construction ensures they stay fitted through the hip and thigh rather than sagging. Because they feature a tapered leg and sit just below the waist, they offer a modern silhouette that avoids looking baggy. Whether you are pairing the grey plaid pattern with a simple tee or a button-down, the zip fly and button closure provide a reliable, polished finish for casual outings.