Fit & Inseam: Some guys swear by a 5-inch inseam. Others won’t touch anything shorter than 7. There’s no right answer. It just depends on how you train. The important part is that your shorts move with you, not against you. If you’re constantly adjusting them between sets, something’s gone wrong.
Fabric: Most workout shorts are made from polyester or nylon blends with a touch of spandex for stretch. Polyester tends to be lighter and dries faster, while nylon has a softer, more premium feel, but the best fabrics are breathable, moisture-wicking, and comfortable.
Storage & Features: This is where spending a little more money often pays off. Thoughtful details like zippered pockets that actually fit your phone, liners that stay put, and waistbands that don’t roll over halfway through a workout can make the difference between a pair that’s merely fine and one you genuinely enjoy training in.
Versatility: If you’re training for something specific, buy the shorts built for the job. But for most guys, versatility goes a long way. We tend to favor shorts that can handle a run, a lift, or a weekend pickup game without missing a beat.
How We Tested
Over the past few years, we’ve sweated through a wide array of gym and running shorts for this very guide. Along the way, we’ve also talked to fitness coaches, running experts, and the rest of the GQ team about the pairs they actually train in. Many of our favorites have also been recognized in our annual Fitness Awards, giving them an extra round of vetting from editors and testers we trust.
With every pair, we’re asking the same questions. Is the fabric breathable enough to keep swamp crotch at bay? Does the liner stay put through squats, sprints, and lunges? Do the pockets actually hold your phone without bouncing around? And after a few weeks of training, are these the shorts we still want to wear? Those answers helped us narrow the field to the pairs we’d confidently recommend to anyone looking to upgrade their workout kit.
For more workout-ready gear and apparel, check out the GQ Gym Shop.
