A great pair of gym shorts is one of the most important pieces of kit in any man's training wardrobe. Get it right and you'll barely notice you're wearing them. Get it wrong and you'll be adjusting them every other rep. Here's our guide to the best gym shorts for men in the UK for 2026.
What to Look for in Gym Shorts
Before diving into specific styles, here's what matters most when choosing gym shorts:
- Length — 5–7 inch inseam is the sweet spot for most training. Too short and you risk exposure during squats; too long and they restrict movement.
- Fabric — Lightweight cotton blends for general training; quick-dry performance fabric for cardio and HIIT. Read our Cotton vs Polyester guide →
- Waistband — An elasticated waistband with a drawcord keeps shorts secure during dynamic movements.
- Pockets — At least one secure pocket for your phone or key is essential.
- Liner — A mesh liner adds support and prevents chafing — useful for running and cardio.
The Best Gym Shorts for Men at BRACE
1. Essential Gym Shorts — Best All-Rounder
Our Cotton Shorts — Essential Gym Shorts are the most versatile option in our range. Built from an 85% cotton, 15% polyester blend, they're soft, breathable, and comfortable for everything from weightlifting to casual wear.
- 5" inseam for unrestricted movement
- Elasticated waistband with internal drawcord
- Lightweight construction — won't weigh you down
- Available in multiple colourways
Best for: Weightlifting, general gym training, casual wear
2. Quick-Dry Performance Shorts — Best for Cardio & HIIT
When intensity is high, you need shorts that keep up. Our Quick-Dry Performance Shorts feature mesh lining and moisture-wicking fabric designed for high-output sessions.
- Quick-dry, moisture-wicking performance fabric
- Mesh-lined for breathability and support
- Lightweight and minimal — built for speed
Best for: HIIT, cardio, running, boxing
3. Men's Side-Stripe Performance Shorts — Best for Style
If you want to look sharp while you train, our Men's Side-Stripe Performance Shorts deliver. Bold stripe detailing gives these shorts a premium athletic aesthetic without sacrificing performance.
- Side stripe detail for a bold, editorial finish
- Lightweight and breathable performance fabric
- Elasticated waistband with drawcord
Best for: Training, sport, streetwear styling
4. Basketball Shorts — Best for Court & Cross-Training
Our Classic Stripe Trim Basketball Shorts are a longer, more relaxed option — ideal for basketball, court sports, and cross-training where you want more coverage.
- Classic stripe trim detailing
- Relaxed athletic fit with room to move
- Breathable, lightweight fabric
Best for: Basketball, court sports, cross-training
5. Mesh Drawstring Shorts — Best Lightweight Option
For maximum breathability, our Mesh Drawstring Shorts are hard to beat. Ultra-lightweight with a mesh construction, these are ideal for hot gyms and summer training.
- Full mesh construction for maximum airflow
- Drawstring waist for a secure fit
- Minimal and lightweight — barely there feel
Best for: Hot weather training, cardio, summer sessions
Gym Shorts Comparison
| Short | Best For | Fabric | Liner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essential Gym Shorts | All-round training | Cotton blend | No |
| Performance Shorts | Cardio & HIIT | Performance | Yes |
| Side-Stripe Shorts | Style & training | Performance | No |
| Basketball Shorts | Court & cross-training | Lightweight | No |
| Mesh Shorts | Hot weather | Mesh | No |
Complete the Set — Save 10%
Pair your shorts with a matching tee or tank and save 10% automatically at checkout when you add qualifying items to your cart. See our Men's Summer Training Set deal →
Find Your Size
Use our BRACE Size Guide to find the right fit before you order.
Related Reading
How to Build the Perfect Gym Outfit → | What to Wear to the Gym as a Beginner → | How to Style Gymwear Outside the Gym →
Shop All Men's Shorts
Browse the full BRACE men's shorts range → and find your perfect training short.