
Best sweat shorts for men and women of 2021, according to experts
These sweat shorts aren’t meant to leave you sweaty.




With Adidas’ trademark three stripes, these shorts are fabricated from French terry. These shorts feature front zip pockets and a drawcord on the waist to adjust the fit. You can choose from sizes S to 2XL. A popular pick, the shorts earned an average 4.8-star rating from over 1,000 Adidas reviewers.
Made from recycled polyester and elastane, Vuori’s Ponto Short is meant to be both moisture-wicking and sustainable. For a customized fit, the short features a drawcord that can be tightened and an elastic waistband that’s stretchy. You’ll find one zip pocket in the front (along with two open pockets on the sides of the shorts) and a zip stash pocket in the back. These shorts come in colors like Platinum Camo and Charcoal Heather and in sizes XS to XL. The Ponto Short has the highest average star rating among the sweat shorts on this list, with a 4.9-star rating over almost 1,400 reviews.
From Lululemon, which is well-known for its leggings, these men’s shorts are made from a mix of cotton, polyester and elastane. In terms of fit, these 7-inch shorts are tapered — giving glutes and thighs breathing room while narrowing near the hem. You can choose from sizes S to XXL. On these shorts, you’ll find features like a waistband drawcord, zippered pocket and a center back tape to hang these shorts in a gym locker room.
A bestseller under men’s sports shorts on Amazon, these shorts from Hanes have gained an average 4.4-star rating over more than 17,000 reviews. The shorts are designed from a cotton and jersey blend that’s meant to be soft like the brand’s popular T-shirts. These shorts come in sizes S to 4XL and shades like Light Steel and Black. Featuring an elastic waistband with a drawstring and side front pockets, these shorts might be an easy option to throw on before running errands. There’s also a similar pair from Hanes for women.
Girlfriend Collective’s Gazelle Short is made completely from recycled water bottles and designed to be recyclable. You can run in these water-resistant shorts, which are also sweat-wicking and feature built-in underwear lining, zippable pockets and drawstring waist. They have a slightly looser fit and come in sizes XXS to 6XL. Choose between two colors: Black and Moss. If you’re looking for a higher rise, the brand also carries the Trail Short.
Unlike other shorts on this list, this pair of Lululemon shorts are available in numerical sizes, ranging from 0 to 14. You can choose between three colors currently: Black, Heathered Core Medium Gray and Heathered Savannah. These shorts are made from a blend of modal, polyester and elastane — the brand says they are designed to be both super soft and stretchy. In terms of fit, these shorts have a high rise and a shorter inseam, at 3 inches. On these shorts, you’ll find two front pockets with an interior card sleeve and cinchable drawcord waist.
These Athleta shorts are designed to be worn on-the-go, made with organic cotton that’s breathable. The fabric has a UPF 50+ rating — UPF stands for ultraviolet protection factor and measures how well a material can block sunlight. So this short could be an option to wear when working outdoors. These shorts are semi-fitted, skimming over the body, and feature easy pull-on style and adjustable drawcord. Like Lululemon’s shorts, this pair comes in numerical sizing, including sizes 0 to 26 and options for Regular and Tall. If you’re looking for similar shorts that are a little longer, Athleta also carries a bermuda version of these.
This pair of sweat shorts from Amazon’s own brand have earned an average 4.4-star rating over more than 1,200 reviews. You can choose from colors like Bright Coral, Burgundy and more. The shorts are made from a blend of cotton and polyester. Featuring side pockets in the front and an elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring, the shorts are also available in sizes XS to XXL.
Made from mostly cotton and some spandex, these sweat shorts are meant to be lightweight and moisture-wicking. They feature a relaxed fit throughout and a high rise with an adjustable elastic waistband. At the hem, these shorts are designed with scalloped side seams to show off more of your legs. You can choose from colors like Woodgrain and Everglade. These shorts are available in sizes XS to XL.
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