Fit and Inseam: Some people swear by a 5-inch inseam. Others won’t touch anything smaller than a 7. There is no correct answer to this. It just depends on how you train. The important thing is that your shorts move with you, not against you. If you’re constantly adjusting them between sets, something has gone wrong.
fabric: Most workout shorts are made from a polyester or nylon blend with a touch of spandex for stretch. Polyester is 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 bunch up halfway through a workout can make the difference between a pair that’s just okay and one in which you actually enjoy training.
Versatility: If you’re training for something specific, buy shorts made for the task. But for most people, versatility goes a long way. We love shorts that can handle a run, a lift, or a weekend pickup game without missing a beat.
How we tested
Over the years, we’ve sweated in a wide range of gym and running shorts for this guide. Plus, we talked to fitness instructors, running experts, and the rest of the GQ team about the pairs they actually train with. Many of our favorites have also been recognized in our annual fitness awards, giving them an extra round of scrutiny from the editors and testers we trust.
With each pair, we are asking similar questions. Is the fabric breathable enough to keep out soggy cracks? Does the liner stay put through squats, sprints and lunges? Do the pockets actually hold your phone without it bouncing around? And after a few weeks of training, are these the same shorts we still want to wear? Those answers helped us narrow it down 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.
