Ever feel like your shorts are holding you back during a tough WOD? You know the feeling: fabric bunching up, chafing during lunges, or just not feeling right when you’re pushing your limits. Choosing the perfect pair of CrossFit shorts can be surprisingly tricky. Too loose, and they get in the way. Too tight, and they restrict your movement. It’s a common frustration for many guys hitting the box.
But what if you could find shorts that feel like a second skin, allowing you to focus on crushing your workout instead of adjusting your gear? In this post, we’re diving deep into what makes a great pair of men’s CrossFit shorts. We’ll break down the key features to look for, from the best materials to the ideal lengths and styles.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a much clearer picture of how to pick shorts that will help you perform your best. Get ready to say goodbye to distracting shorts and hello to comfort and confidence with every rep, every jump, and every sprint. Let’s find your perfect pair!
Our Top 5 Mens Crossfit Shorts Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Mens Crossfit Shorts Detailed Reviews
1. Kinglaman 4 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Workout Shorts with Liner
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to conquer your workouts with the Kinglaman 4 Pack Mens 2 in 1 Running Workout Shorts. This set includes two black, one blue, and one gray pair in large size. These shorts are designed to keep you comfortable and supported no matter what activity you choose.
What We Like:
- The 2-in-1 design is smart. You get outer mesh shorts and built-in compression shorts. This offers great support for your thigh muscles, which can help you perform better.
- The quick-dry fabric is a game-changer. It wicks away sweat, keeping you dry and fresh, even during intense workouts.
- You’ll love the multi-pocket design. There’s a special pocket for your phone so it stays out of the way. Two side pockets hold your small items, and a back zipper pocket is perfect for your money or cards.
- These shorts are super lightweight and breathable. They let air flow freely, keeping you cool and comfortable in any weather.
- The versatility is fantastic. Wear them for running, gym sessions, or any other sport. They are perfect for a wide range of activities.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the liner offers support, some users might find the compression a bit snug if they prefer a looser fit.
- The color options are classic, but a wider variety of colors might appeal to more people.
Overall, these Kinglaman shorts offer excellent comfort, support, and practicality for any active man. They are a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their workout gear.
2. maamgic Mens 5″ Gym Running Shorts for Men 2 in 1 Quick Dry Workout Athletic Shorts Totem Gray Medium
Rating: 9.2/10
The maamgic Mens 5″ Gym Running Shorts in Totem Gray are designed to keep you comfortable and supported during any workout. With a 2-in-1 design, these shorts offer a built-in compression liner that helps reduce chafing and supports your thigh muscles. The quick-dry fabric and breathable materials ensure you stay cool and dry, no matter how intense your training gets. Plus, the unique “Totem Gray” pattern adds a stylish touch to your athletic wear.
What We Like:
- The built-in compression liner prevents chafing and offers great muscle support.
- The liner’s seam design is extra comfortable for private areas.
- The sweat-wicking fabric dries fast and keeps you cool.
- The stretchy material allows for a wide range of motion.
- An elastic waistband with a drawstring gives you a perfect, adjustable fit.
- Two deep side pockets and a back zipper pocket securely hold your essentials like your phone and keys.
- These shorts are great for running, workouts, yoga, basketball, or biking, and they won’t ride up.
- The vibrant colors and comfortable design mean you can wear them anywhere, not just at the gym.
- They are shrink-resistant and look new even after many washes.
What Could Be Improved:
- The material blend for the outer shorts is 90% polyester and 10% spandex, which might not be ideal for everyone’s preference for natural fibers.
These maamgic shorts are a fantastic option for anyone looking for comfortable, supportive, and stylish workout gear. They are built to last and keep you feeling great during all your activities.
3. NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts 7″/ 5″/ 9″ Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball Tennis Hiking Exercise Black M
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready to move with the NORTHYARD Men’s Athletic Running Shorts. These shorts are designed for comfort and performance, whether you’re hitting the gym, the trail, or the court. They’re lightweight, quick-drying, and offer great flexibility for any activity.
What We Like:
- Super lightweight and breathable fabric keeps you cool and dry.
- The 4-way stretch material lets you move freely without restriction.
- Stylish design with breathable holes on the sides adds a cool look.
- The adjustable waistband and flatlock seams mean extra comfort and no rubbing.
- Two reflective strips on the front and back help you stay safe in dim light.
- Three zippered pockets are perfect for keeping your phone, keys, or wallet secure.
- UPF 50+ protection shields your skin from the sun.
- These shorts are perfect for many sports and all-day wear.
What Could Be Improved:
- The shorts do not have belt loops, which might be a preference for some.
These NORTHYARD shorts are a fantastic option for active guys. They offer a great mix of comfort, style, and practical features for a variety of sports and everyday wear.
4. RDX MMA Shorts for Training & Kickboxing – Fighting Shorts for Martial Arts
Rating: 9.0/10
Gear up for your next training session with RDX MMA Shorts in a cool Army Green. These shorts are built tough for all kinds of martial arts, from kickboxing and Muay Thai to BJJ and boxing. They are designed to keep you comfortable and allow you to move freely, no matter how intense your workout gets.
What We Like:
- The polyester and spandex blend makes them super strong and they won’t lose their shape or shrink.
- They dry fast and pull sweat away from your skin, keeping you cool and dry.
- The adjustable drawstring keeps them snug and in place during any move.
- Triple-stitched seams mean they can handle a lot of wear and tear without ripping.
- A handy inner pocket can hold your mouthguard.
- Side slits give you amazing freedom to kick high and move your legs without feeling held back.
What Could Be Improved:
- The inner pocket is quite small, so it might not fit larger mouthguards or other items.
- While durable, the fabric might feel a bit stiff to some users initially.
These RDX MMA shorts are a solid choice for any martial artist looking for comfort and durability. They’ll help you perform your best during training and fights.
5. Gaglg Men’s 5″ Running Shorts 2 Pack Quick Dry Athletic Workout Gym Shorts with Zipper Pockets Black/Green
Rating: 8.7/10
Meet your new go-to workout gear: the Gaglg Men’s 5″ Running Shorts 2 Pack. These shorts are designed for comfort and performance, whether you’re hitting the gym or pounding the pavement. They’re made from a lightweight fabric that feels great and keeps you cool.
What We Like:
- The fabric is super light and feels soft, allowing for a great drape.
- They have a quick-dry and breathable design that helps keep your skin ventilated during workouts.
- The shorts are built to last and maintain their great condition.
- Dual-concealed zippered pockets safely store your small items.
- The elastic waistband with an invisible drawcord ensures a secure fit.
- Breathable elastic panels are placed for better ventilation and flexibility.
- They have a stylish, rugged cut-off hem that looks good and performs well.
- The shorts are versatile and suitable for many activities like running, training, and cycling.
What Could Be Improved:
- The sizing chart is based on ranges, so finding the perfect fit might require careful measurement or ordering a different size.
- While the product description highlights customer satisfaction, the return or exchange policy details are not explicitly stated.
These Gaglg shorts offer a solid combination of comfort, durability, and style for any active man. They are a dependable choice for your fitness journey.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Conquer Your WOD in the Right CrossFit Shorts
When you’re hitting the gym for a CrossFit session, the right gear makes a huge difference. Your shorts are one of the most important pieces. They need to let you move freely, handle sweat, and be tough enough for anything you throw at them. Let’s find the perfect pair for you.
Key Features to Look For
1. Fit and Length
CrossFit shorts should offer a comfortable fit. They shouldn’t be too tight, or they’ll restrict your movement. They also shouldn’t be too baggy, or they could get in the way during exercises like burpees or box jumps. Most CrossFit shorts have a mid-thigh length. This length allows for a full range of motion without being too revealing.
2. Waistband Comfort
A good waistband is essential. Look for shorts with a soft, elastic waistband that stays put without digging into your skin. Some shorts have drawstrings to help you adjust the fit even more. This is helpful for keeping your shorts secure during intense workouts.
3. Durability and Reinforcement
CrossFit is tough on clothes. Your shorts need to be durable. Check for reinforced seams, especially in areas that get a lot of stress, like the crotch and side seams. This helps prevent ripping and tearing.
4. Pocket Design
Some CrossFit shorts have pockets. If you like to carry a small item, like a locker key or a mouthguard, a secure pocket can be handy. However, some athletes prefer shorts without pockets to avoid any bulk or distraction.
Important Materials
1. Polyester
Polyester is a popular choice. It’s strong, lightweight, and dries quickly. This makes it great for wicking away sweat and keeping you cool during your workout.
2. Spandex (Elastane/Lycra)
Spandex adds stretch to shorts. This is crucial for CrossFit, where you do a lot of bending, jumping, and squatting. Shorts with a good amount of spandex will move with you and never feel restrictive.
3. Nylon
Nylon is another strong and durable fabric. It’s also resistant to abrasion, which means it can handle rubbing against barbells or equipment without wearing out quickly.
4. Blends
Many of the best CrossFit shorts use a blend of these materials. A common blend is polyester and spandex. This gives you the sweat-wicking benefits of polyester with the stretch and flexibility of spandex.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Improvements
- Strong Stitching: Double-stitching or reinforced seams make shorts last longer.
- Moisture-Wicking Technology: Fabrics that pull sweat away from your body keep you dry and comfortable.
- Breathable Fabrics: Materials that allow air to flow through help regulate your body temperature.
- Flatlock Seams: These seams lie flat against the skin, preventing chafing and irritation during movement.
Quality Reducers
- Thin or Flimsy Material: Shorts made from cheap, thin fabric can easily rip or wear out.
- Poorly Stitched Seams: Weak seams are prone to breaking under stress.
- Non-Breathable Fabrics: These can trap heat and moisture, making you feel uncomfortable and sweaty.
- Inflexible Materials: Shorts that don’t stretch will limit your ability to perform certain movements.
User Experience and Use Cases
Comfort and Performance
When you wear good CrossFit shorts, you feel comfortable and free. You can focus on your lifts and your cardio without feeling restricted or weighed down by your clothing. The right shorts help you perform better.
Versatility
While designed for CrossFit, many shorts are versatile. You can wear them for other activities like running, gym workouts, or even casual wear on a warm day. They are built to handle a lot of movement.
Durability in Action
During a WOD (Workout of the Day), you’ll be doing everything from heavy squats to Olympic lifts. Your shorts need to withstand friction from barbells, stretching during lunges, and impact from jumping. Well-made shorts will hold up through all of this.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Men’s CrossFit Shorts
Q1: What is the best material for CrossFit shorts?
A1: Blends of polyester and spandex are usually best. Polyester wicks sweat, and spandex provides stretch.
Q2: How should CrossFit shorts fit?
A2: They should fit comfortably, not too tight or too loose. They should allow for a full range of motion.
Q3: Do I need pockets on my CrossFit shorts?
A3: That’s up to you. Some people like pockets for small items, but others prefer no pockets to avoid bulk.
Q4: Will CrossFit shorts be durable enough for my workouts?
A4: Look for reinforced seams and strong, high-quality fabrics like polyester and nylon blends. These make shorts more durable.
Q5: Can I wear CrossFit shorts for other sports?
A5: Yes, many CrossFit shorts are versatile and work well for running, general gym training, and other athletic activities.
Q6: What does “moisture-wicking” mean?
A6: Moisture-wicking fabrics pull sweat away from your skin to help you stay dry and comfortable.
Q7: How do I prevent chafing from my CrossFit shorts?
A7: Choose shorts with flatlock seams and a good fit. Wearing moisture-wicking underwear can also help.
Q8: What is the typical length of CrossFit shorts?
A8: Most CrossFit shorts fall to the mid-thigh, offering a good balance of coverage and freedom of movement.
Q9: Are there different types of CrossFit shorts?
A9: Yes, some are designed for more lifting, offering a bit more room, while others are geared towards cardio with lighter, more breathable fabrics.
Q10: How do I care for my CrossFit shorts to make them last longer?
A10: Wash them in cold water with mild detergent and avoid using fabric softener. Air dry them whenever possible.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.