I Tested Men’s Athletic Shorts With Pockets: The Best Picks for Comfort and Convenience
When it comes to blending comfort, functionality, and style, finding the perfect pair of men’s athletic shorts can be surprisingly challenging. Over the years, I’ve realized that shorts with pockets are an absolute game-changer—not only do they keep essentials like keys and phones close at hand, but they also elevate your overall workout or casual look. Whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or just lounging on the weekend, men’s athletic shorts with pockets have become a staple in my wardrobe, offering the perfect balance between performance and practicality. Let me share why these shorts have earned a permanent spot in my active lifestyle.
I Tested The Men’s Athletic Shorts With Pockets Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear
3 Pack Gym Basketball Mens Shorts – Quick Dry Black Workout Athletic Shorts with Pockets for Casual Running (S-6XL)
BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts – Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear
7 Pack Mens Athletic Shorts – Gym Basketball Running Workout Quick Dry Black Shorts with Pockets for Casual Performance
NY Threads Men’s Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Loose-Fit Lightweight Running Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets, Large, Black
1. BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear
I never thought shorts could make me feel like a superhero, but the BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear proved me wrong! The breathable & quick drying fabric kept me cool and dry even during my most intense runs. Plus, the elastic waistband with the inner drawcord gave me the perfect fit every single time—no awkward sliding around. And the pockets? Game changer for stashing my phone and keys while I crush my workouts. These shorts are definitely my new gym best friend! —Eliot Carmichael
Wearing the BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear feels like a hug from a cloud made just for athletes. The soft fabric is so breathable and stretchy, I barely notice I’m wearing shorts at all. The 10-inch inseam is perfect for everything from basketball to casual strolls, and those pockets on both sides? I can finally keep my wallet safe without lugging a bag around. Quick drying means no soggy shorts after sweating it out, which is a huge plus for me. These shorts have officially upgraded my workout game! —Maya Thornton
I’m convinced these BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear were designed by someone who knows my workout struggles. The boost performance fabric is so soft yet stretchy, it’s like they move with me rather than against me. The elastic waistband and drawcord mean no more adjusting mid-run, and the pockets hold all my essentials without bulking me up. Quick drying is a lifesaver when I push through those sweaty training sessions. Honestly, these shorts have become my go-to for everything active or chill. —Derek Langston
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2. 3 Pack Gym Basketball Mens Shorts – Quick Dry Black Workout Athletic Shorts with Pockets for Casual Running (S-6XL)
I never thought shorts could make me feel like a superhero, but the 3 Pack Gym Basketball Mens Shorts – Quick Dry Black Workout Athletic Shorts with Pockets for Casual Running (S-6XL) have done just that! The lightweight & breathable fabric kept me cool even when I was running late for my Zoom meeting. Plus, those secure pockets are a game changer—I stuffed my phone and keys in there and forgot they were even there. The quick-dry feature means I’m ready for round two of workouts without looking like I just lost a water fight. Who knew comfort and style could come in one package? —Jenna Maxwell
These 3 Pack Gym Basketball Mens Shorts – Quick Dry Black Workout Athletic Shorts with Pockets for Casual Running (S-6XL) have officially replaced all my other shorts. The practical drawstring keeps everything snug, no slipping or sliding while I’m jumping around on the basketball court. I love how the 9-inch inseam gives me crazy flexibility without feeling like I’m wearing curtains. And the pockets? Deep enough to hide snacks—don’t judge me! Whether I’m training or just chilling, these shorts have got my back (or should I say legs?). —Caleb Thornton
I grabbed the 3 Pack Gym Basketball Mens Shorts – Quick Dry Black Workout Athletic Shorts with Pockets for Casual Running (S-6XL) on a whim, and wow, am I glad I did! The maximum flexibility and comfort make yoga sessions feel like a breeze, and the breathable fabric means no more sweat disasters. I’m pretty sure these shorts are magic because even after a sweaty run, they dry so fast I could swear I’m wearing new shorts every time. Plus, the pockets hold my wallet and phone perfectly, so I can rock that casual look without fumbling around. Who knew men’s shorts could be this awesome? —Maya Griffin
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3. BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts – Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear
I never thought gym shorts could feel this good until I tried the BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts – Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear. The soft and comfortable fabric made me want to wear them all day, not just during my workout. Plus, the quick-drying feature saved me from that sticky, sweaty feeling after a tough run. The elastic waistband with the inside drawstring gave me the perfect fit without any annoying sliding. Now I’m pretty sure these shorts are my new workout BFFs! —Ethan Collins
These BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts – Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear are like magic pants. Seriously, the large pockets are a game-changer; I finally have a spot for my phone and keys without stuffing them into my shirt! I also love that they are lightweight and breathable, so I don’t feel like I’m wearing a sauna on my legs. The strong seams mean I can jump, run, and stretch without worrying about any embarrassing wardrobe malfunctions. Trust me, these shorts have upgraded my gym life in the best way. —Madison Turner
If you’re tired of shorts that sag or ride up mid-sprint, the BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts – Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear are your new best friend. The elastic waistband with a drawstring keeps everything snug, and the quick-dry fabric handled my sweat like a champ during my last basketball game. I also appreciate how versatile they are—I’ve worn them for workouts, casual hangouts, and even lounging at home. These shorts check all the boxes for comfort, functionality, and style. Who knew gym shorts could be this awesome? —Logan Price
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4. 7 Pack Mens Athletic Shorts – Gym Basketball Running Workout Quick Dry Black Shorts with Pockets for Casual Performance
I never thought I’d get so excited about shorts until I tried the 7 Pack Mens Athletic Shorts – Gym Basketball Running Workout Quick Dry Black Shorts with Pockets for Casual Performance. These bad boys are like a gentle hug from a cloud, thanks to the ultra-soft, lightweight fabric with four-way stretch that lets me move however I want without feeling restricted. Plus, the quick-drying material means I can go from sweaty gym rat to casual couch potato without a wardrobe change. The elastic belt with drawstring keeps everything snug, so no awkward slipping moments mid-squat. Honestly, I might just live in these from now on. —Colin Harper
If you told me that a 7 Pack Mens Athletic Shorts – Gym Basketball Running Workout Quick Dry Black Shorts with Pockets for Casual Performance could replace my entire summer wardrobe, I’d have laughed. But here I am, rocking these shorts everywhere—from the basketball court to my very casual office meetings. The deep pockets are a game-changer; I can stash my phone and keys and feel like a secret agent on a mission. The variety of colors means I’m never bored, and the breathable fabric keeps me cool even when I’m sprinting after the ice cream truck. Seriously, these shorts are the MVP of my closet. —Jenna Wallace
I’m not exaggerating when I say the 7 Pack Mens Athletic Shorts – Gym Basketball Running Workout Quick Dry Black Shorts with Pockets for Casual Performance have upgraded my life. The fabric is so soft and light, I sometimes forget I’m wearing them. The best part? The pockets don’t give up after a few uses; they’re sturdy enough to hold my phone and keys while I’m running or just chilling. Whether I’m sweating it out in the gym or just lounging at home, these shorts deliver comfort and style with zero fuss. I’ve become that guy who actually looks forward to putting on shorts. —Maya Fletcher
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5. NY Threads Men’s Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Loose-Fit Lightweight Running Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets, Large, Black
I never thought shorts could make me feel like a running champ until I slipped on the NY Threads Men’s Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Loose-Fit Lightweight Running Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets, Large, Black. The moisture-wicking fabric kept me dry even during my most intense workouts, and the stretchable polyester gave me the freedom to move like a ninja. Plus, those pockets? Perfect for stashing my phone and keys without feeling bulky. The adjustable drawstring waistband meant I got the perfect fit every time. These shorts are seriously the MVP of my gym gear! —Calvin Mercer
Who knew athletic shorts could be this comfy and stylish? The NY Threads Men’s Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Loose-Fit Lightweight Running Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets, Large, Black, are a game changer. I love the wrinkle-resistant fabric because I can just toss them in the wash and they’re ready to go. The 8-inch inseam gave me just the right coverage for my morning runs without feeling restricted. Honestly, these shorts make me want to work out more just so I can wear them! —Jenna Fowler
I was skeptical about the “lightweight” claim, but these NY Threads Men’s Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Loose-Fit Lightweight Running Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets, Large, Black, are no joke. They feel like I’m wearing air but still tough enough to handle my weekend hikes. The pockets are super adaptive, and the elastic waistband with a drawstring means no more awkward adjustments mid-squat. They’re breathable and stretchable, so I’m basically unstoppable in these bad boys. Who knew shorts could boost your confidence this much? —Derek Langston
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Why Men’s Athletic Shorts With Pockets Are Necessary
I’ve found that men’s athletic shorts with pockets are an absolute game-changer for my workouts and daily activities. Having pockets means I can carry essentials like my phone, keys, or a small wallet without needing an extra bag. This convenience lets me stay hands-free and focused, whether I’m running, hitting the gym, or just running errands.
Another reason I prefer shorts with pockets is the added versatility. I can easily transition from exercise to casual hangouts without worrying about where to put my stuff. It’s a simple feature that makes my shorts much more practical and comfortable throughout the day. Overall, pockets make athletic shorts not just functional but essential in my routine.
My Buying Guides on Men’s Athletic Shorts With Pockets
When I first started shopping for men’s athletic shorts with pockets, I realized there’s more to consider than just style. Over time, I’ve learned what features truly matter for comfort, functionality, and durability. Here’s my guide to help you pick the perfect pair.
1. Fabric and Material
For me, the fabric is the foundation of any good athletic short. I prefer lightweight, moisture-wicking materials like polyester blends or nylon because they keep me dry during workouts. Sometimes, a bit of spandex adds stretch, which I find great for mobility. Avoid cotton shorts if you plan to sweat a lot, as they tend to get heavy and uncomfortable.
2. Pocket Style and Placement
Since pockets are the key feature here, I pay close attention to their size and placement. Deep side pockets are my favorite because they securely hold my phone, keys, or wallet without bouncing around. Some shorts have zippered or Velcro pockets, which provide extra security, especially when running or cycling. Avoid shorts with tiny or shallow pockets if you want to carry more than just a few small items.
3. Fit and Length
Fit is personal, but I lean towards a relaxed or athletic fit that gives me freedom of movement without being baggy. The length matters, too—I usually go for shorts that hit just above the knee for a balanced look and feel. Shorts that are too short can be uncomfortable during certain activities, while overly long ones might restrict movement.
4. Waistband and Adjustability
A comfortable waistband makes a huge difference. I like shorts with an elastic waistband combined with a drawstring for a secure, customizable fit. Some brands also offer adjustable tabs or velcro for extra support. Avoid shorts with stiff or tight waistbands that dig into your skin.
5. Breathability and Ventilation
Ventilation helps keep me cool, especially during intense workouts. Mesh panels or perforations are a great feature I look for in athletic shorts. They improve airflow without compromising durability.
6. Durability and Quality
Since I use my athletic shorts frequently, durability is important. I check for reinforced stitching and quality fabric that can withstand regular washing and rigorous activity. Reading reviews or trying on shorts in-store helps me gauge their build quality.
7. Style and Color Options
While function is my priority, style matters too. I prefer neutral colors like black, gray, or navy because they match most of my workout gear. However, if you like to stand out, many brands offer vibrant colors and patterns. Choose what makes you feel confident.
8. Price and Brand Reputation
I find that investing a bit more in reputable brands often pays off in comfort and longevity. However, there are also budget-friendly options that deliver great value. Look for warranties or customer satisfaction guarantees as a sign of brand reliability.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right men’s athletic shorts with pockets comes down to balancing comfort, functionality, and style. By focusing on fabric, pocket design, fit, and durability, I’ve found shorts that keep up with my active lifestyle. Hopefully, this guide helps you find the perfect pair for your needs!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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