You’re sweating it out at the gym, going for a run, or just running errands. Either way, the right athletic shorts make a big difference. But with so many brands claiming “best in class,” who actually delivers?
The best men’s athletic shorts in 2025 come from brands like Lululemon, Nike, Ten Thousand, Rhone, and Vuori—each known for quality, comfort, and performance. The “best” depends on your workout style, fit preference, and budget.
I’ve worked with brands designing activewear for performance athletes and weekend warriors. And one thing’s clear: the best shorts don’t just look good—they move with you, last longer, and feel invisible mid-set[^1].
Table of Contents
- What makes a great pair of athletic shorts?
- Top Brands Making the Best Men’s Athletic Shorts in 2025
- Which brand is best for your needs?
- Conclusion
What makes a great pair of athletic shorts?
Not all gym shorts are built the same—materials, seams, and pocket placement all matter.
Top-performing men’s athletic shorts use moisture-wicking fabric, anti-chafe liners, four-way stretch, and well-placed pockets. Comfort, breathability, and durability are key.
Key features checklist
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Lightweight fabric | Keeps you cool under pressure |
| Stretch + mobility | Allows full range of motion |
| Moisture-wicking | Reduces sweat buildup |
| Anti-chafe liner | Prevents irritation during runs |
| Secure pockets | Holds keys, phone, cards safely |
| Durable construction | Withstands repeated washing |
Great shorts perform well across workouts—HIIT, cardio, weightlifting, or just walking the dog.
Top Brands Making the Best Men’s Athletic Shorts in 2025
Here are the standout brands in performance, comfort, and all-around value:
1. Lululemon
- Best for: Training, running, and everyday wear
- Top pick: Pace Breaker Short
- Why it’s great: Ultra-light, sweat-wicking, sleek look
- Price range: $68–$88
2. Ten Thousand
- Best for: Serious athletes, CrossFit, weight training
- Top pick: Interval Short
- Why it’s great: Military-tested, durable, minimalist design
- Price range: $68–$78
3. Nike
- Best for: All-purpose gym wear, athletes on a budget
- Top pick: Nike Flex Stride
- Why it’s great: Affordable, well-ventilated, reliable
- Price range: $30–$60
4. Rhone
- Best for: Luxury feel with performance features
- Top pick: Mako Short
- Why it’s great: Seamless liner, zip pockets, elevated fit
- Price range: $70–$90
5. Vuori
- Best for: Hybrid lifestyle + gym wear
- Top pick: Kore Short
- Why it’s great: Ultra-soft, all-day comfort with built-in liner
- Price range: $68–$78
These brands balance form and function—offering shorts that hold up through squats and sprints while still looking sharp[^2].
Which brand is best for your needs?
The best short depends on how (and how often) you train.
For daily gym goers, Ten Thousand or Nike offers dependable performance. For hybrid loungewear-meets-gym style, Vuori or Lululemon stands out. Runners may favor Rhone or Nike for lightweight options.
Best pick by use case
| Workout Type | Best Brand | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Weightlifting | Ten Thousand | Reinforced fabric, no ride-up |
| Long-distance Run | Nike / Rhone | Featherlight, mesh panels |
| HIIT / CrossFit | Ten Thousand | Stretch + sweat control |
| Casual Gym Days | Lululemon / Vuori | Style + movement balance |
| Outdoor / Travel | Vuori | Soft, wrinkle-resistant |
Try a few before committing. Comfort is personal—and fit varies between brands.
Conclusion
The best men’s athletic shorts in 2025 come from performance-focused brands like Ten Thousand, Lululemon, Nike, Vuori, and Rhone. Choose based on your workout routine, fit preference, and whether you want hardcore performance or everyday comfort.
[^1]: All listed brands were selected based on real user reviews, expert gear guides, and performance design standards.
[^2]: For further research, browse curated lists by Men's Health and Gear Patrol.