Best Brooks Mens Running Shorts in 2026

The New Balance Accelerate 7 Inch Shorts deliver a specialized athletic fit that prioritizes movement without sacrificing coverage. I was particularly impressed by the plain weave poly woven fabric, which feels lightweight and durable during intense training sessions. The inclusion of a crepe brief liner provides essential support, making these a reliable choice for high-impact workouts. It is also incredibly convenient to have a dedicated internal key pocket to keep your small essentials secure while you run. At this price point, you are getting a highly functional piece of performance apparel that handles sweat and motion with ease, all while maintaining a streamlined silhouette in the Thunder colorway.

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.

Mid-stride during a humid morning tempo run, the last thing you want to feel is fabric clinging to your skin or a liner shifting out of place. These Brooks Sherpa shorts solve that problem with a seamless design and a semi-fitted cut that moves with you rather than against you. The DriLayer fabric is a standout, pulling sweat away instantly to keep you dry even as the intensity ramps up. I was particularly impressed by the storage layout. Between the elastic waist pockets and the secure side zippers, you can actually carry keys and small essentials without the dreaded bounce. The high hem and adjustable drawstring ensure everything stays locked in place without bunching, making them a reliable choice for high-mileage days.

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.

The soft, recycled fabric of these Brooks Sherpa shorts feels incredibly lightweight against your skin from the very first mile. I noticed immediately that the semi-fitted design hits just above the knee, providing a streamlined silhouette that avoids the bulkiness often found in standard athletic gear. The elasticized flat waistline stays secure without digging in, which is a massive win during high-intensity intervals. I also appreciated the inclusion of a single back middle pocket, perfect for stashing a key or a gel without disrupting your stride. Since they are crafted from a blend of recycled polyester and spandex, they offer just enough stretch to move with you while remaining environmentally conscious. They are straightforward, durable, and easy to maintain with a simple machine wash.

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.