Best Workout Shorts for Men in 2026: Nike, Adidas, Gymshark & Under Armour Tested

The right pair of workout shorts can make or break your session. Too stiff and you're fighting your gear during squats. Too loose and you're tugging at the hem every five minutes. Too thin and — you already know.

We've rounded up the best workout shorts for men in 2026 across Nike, Adidas, Gymshark, and Under Armour: what works, what doesn't, and where to find the best prices right now.

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What Actually Matters in Gym Shorts

Before the picks, here's what separates a good pair from a great one:

• Inseam length: 5"–7" is the sweet spot for most training styles
• Liner vs. no liner: Built-in brief means no separate compression shorts needed
• Fabric: Lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking is the trifecta
• Pockets: At least one secure pocket for your phone or earbuds
• Waistband: Elastic with an internal drawstring keeps things in place under load

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Nike: Best All-Around

Nike's training shorts lineup covers every use case, and two models stand out above the rest.

Nike Dri-FIT Totality Knit Shorts

Built for the gym floor. Dri-FIT wicking keeps you dry, the 7" inseam hits the sweet spot for most guys, and the fabric is light enough to feel like you're wearing almost nothing. Four-way stretch means squats, lunges, and lateral movements are fully unrestricted.

Best for: Lifting, all-around training Price: $40–$55

Nike Challenger Shorts

A running classic and for good reason. Ultra-lightweight with a built-in brief and reflective details for outdoor runs. Not ideal for heavy lifting sessions, but excellent for cardio, HIIT, and distance running.

Best for: Running, outdoor cardio Price: $35–$50

GymSteals Tip: Nike Dri-FIT shorts regularly drop under $25 during sale events. Check our Nike deals page — it's worth stocking up with two or three pairs when they go on sale.

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Adidas: Best for Running

Adidas training shorts shine brightest when you're moving fast.

Adidas Own the Run Shorts

A runner's dream. AEROREADY moisture management keeps you cool, the built-in brief provides support without additional layering, and the lightweight recycled polyester construction is noticeably airy on hot cardio days.

Best for: Running, outdoor cardio Price: $35–$50

Adidas 4KRFT Sport Woven Shorts

For lifting days when you want something with more structure and a cleaner aesthetic. Four-way stretch, zippered pockets, and a tailored fit that doesn't look sloppy between sets. These translate from gym to street better than most training shorts.

Best for: Lifting, CrossFit, functional training Price: $40–$55

GymSteals Tip: Adidas runs clearance sales on training apparel more frequently than most realize. Check our Adidas deals page for current discounts.

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Gymshark: Best for Aesthetics

Gymshark's shorts lineup has leveled up considerably in recent years — these are no longer just for the Instagram gym crowd.

Gymshark Speed Shorts

Lightweight, fitted, and built for performance. Fast-drying, minimal construction, and a clean silhouette that's earned a following in the CrossFit and functional fitness community. These move with you rather than fighting you.

Best for: CrossFit, HIIT, high-intensity workouts Price: $35–$45

Gymshark Rest Day Shorts

For lower-body training days, active recovery, or just days when you want a more relaxed fit without sacrificing style. Wider leg opening, softer fabric, forgiving fit — these look intentional without looking sloppy.

Best for: Recovery, yoga, casual gym sessions Price: $40–$50

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Under Armour: Best for Compression Support

Under Armour brings genuine performance engineering to their shorts, and it shows in both the construction and the feel.

Under Armour Launch 7" Shorts

Under Armour's flagship running short is a legitimate alternative to Nike's Challenger. HeatGear fabric keeps you cool, the 7" inseam is versatile for gym and road use, and the built-in brief provides real support without restriction.

Best for: Running, cardio Price: $35–$50

Under Armour Vanish Woven 6" Shorts

The go-to for lifting days. Ultra-light woven construction, a tailored fit that doesn't bunch or ride up, and a side zip pocket actually secure enough for your phone. These are what you reach for on leg day.

Best for: Lifting, HIIT, functional training Price: $40–$55

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Side-by-Side Comparison

Brand	Top Pick	Best For	Price
Nike	Dri-FIT Totality	All-around training	$40–$55
Adidas	Own the Run	Running / cardio	$35–$50
Gymshark	Speed Shorts	HIIT / CrossFit	$35–$45
Under Armour	Vanish Woven	Lifting / functional	$40–$55

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Find the Best Deals Right Now

All four brands regularly discount their shorts at end-of-season and during major sale windows. Browse current markdowns on our products page across every brand, sorted by discount.

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Bottom Line

The best workout shorts for men in 2026 come down to how you train. For running, Adidas Own the Run and Nike Challenger are the top picks. For lifting and functional training, Nike Totality and Under Armour Vanish Woven lead. For looks and feel that extend beyond the gym, Gymshark delivers.

Whatever you choose — don't pay full price. All four brands go on sale regularly, and GymSteals is here to flag every deal worth grabbing.