Do you want to hit the gym without breaking the bank? Sometimes, the simplest gear makes the biggest difference. But when it comes to gym shorts, finding a pair that’s both cheap and good can feel like a workout in itself!
You want shorts that feel comfortable, don’t fall apart after a few washes, and let you move freely. It’s frustrating when cheap shorts are too tight, too loose, or made of scratchy material. You might worry that spending less means getting less quality, but that’s not always true!
In this post, we’ll show you how to find awesome gym shorts that won’t cost a lot of money. We’ll help you understand what to look for so you can get the best value. Get ready to discover shorts that are perfect for your next sweat session!
Our Top 5 Cheap Gym Shorts Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cheap Gym Shorts Detailed Reviews
1. NY Threads Men’s Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Loose-Fit Lightweight Running Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets
Rating: 8.7/10
NY Threads Men’s Athletic Shorts offer a winning combination of comfort and performance for any activity. Whether you’re hitting the gym, pounding the pavement, or just enjoying a casual day, these shorts are designed to keep you moving freely and feeling great. The large size in classic black provides a timeless look that pairs well with any workout gear. You’ll appreciate how these shorts feel during your toughest workouts and your most relaxed moments.
What We Like:
- The polyester fabric feels smooth and stretchy. It resists wrinkles and wicks away sweat, keeping you dry and comfortable.
- These shorts are incredibly lightweight, making them perfect for long runs or intense gym sessions.
- The loose-fit design allows for a full range of motion, so you can stretch and move without feeling restricted.
- Two handy pockets are included to store your phone, keys, or other small essentials.
- An adjustable drawstring waistband ensures a snug and comfortable fit that stays put.
- The 8-inch inseam offers good coverage and mobility.
- They look good and boost your confidence during workouts.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the size chart is available, it would be helpful if more detailed measurements were immediately visible on the product page.
- The care instructions mention avoiding dry cleaning, which is standard, but it’s always good to be mindful of specific fabric needs.
These NY Threads shorts are a solid choice for active men seeking comfort and functionality. They deliver on their promises of performance and style, making them a valuable addition to any athletic wardrobe.
2. BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear
Rating: 9.2/10
The BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men are designed to help you perform your best during any activity. They offer a great mix of comfort and practicality for workouts and everyday wear.
What We Like:
- These shorts are made with soft fabric that feels good and lets you move freely. They keep you comfortable during tough workouts.
- The 10-inch inseam provides good coverage for all your sports. They work well for gym sessions, running, cycling, basketball, and more.
- Pockets on both sides are very handy. You can carry your phone, wallet, or keys easily.
- The fabric is breathable and quick-drying. It pulls sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable.
- The elastic waistband with a drawcord ensures a secure and comfortable fit. The shorts stay in place no matter how much you move.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the inseam is 10 inches, some users might prefer a slightly shorter or longer option depending on their preference.
- The variety of colors available might be limited for those looking for a wide range of choices.
Overall, BALENNZ Athletic Shorts are a solid choice for anyone needing comfortable and functional activewear. They deliver on performance and convenience for a variety of athletic pursuits.
3. Women Workout Impact Shorts 4.5 Scrunch Butt Lifting Tummy Control Gym Shorts Comfy Running Seamless Booty Biker Shorts Black M
Rating: 8.6/10
Meet your new favorite gym essential: the Women Workout Impact Shorts 4.5 Scrunch Butt Lifting Tummy Control Gym Shorts. These black biker shorts, size Medium, are designed to make you feel amazing while you move. They offer a comfy, seamless fit that supports your workouts and boosts your confidence.
What We Like:
- Enhanced Comfort: The 4.5-inch inseam and seamless design feel super smooth. You get total freedom for yoga, running, or hitting the gym.
- Tummy Control & Hip Lifting: The low, ribbed waistband gently holds your tummy. A special hip-lifting feature makes your curves pop, helping you feel confident.
- No Overheating: These shorts keep you cool and dry, even during intense workouts. The fabric wicks away sweat.
- Stay-Put Fit: The flexible waistband stays up, so you don’t have to adjust them. You can focus on your exercise.
- Versatile Style: They work for the gym, running, cycling, or just lounging. They easily fit into your active lifestyle.
- Fashion Meets Function: These shorts look great and perform even better. They combine stylish design with sweat-wicking fabric.
What Could Be Improved:
- Internal Seam Protection: While designed for dignity, some users might find the internal seam protection a bit noticeable.
- Low Elasticity Waistband: While it stays in place, those who prefer a very snug fit might find the “low elasticity” waistband less constricting than expected.
These shorts are a fantastic blend of comfort, style, and performance. They’re built to help you look and feel your best during any activity.
4. AKAWOOKO 5 Pack Men’s Athletic Gym Shorts with Pockets Quick Dry Activewear Workout Running Shorts for Men
Rating: 8.6/10
Looking for shorts that can keep up with your active lifestyle? The AKAWOOKO 5 Pack Men’s Athletic Gym Shorts are here to help. These shorts are designed for comfort and performance, whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or just lounging at home. You get five pairs, so you’ll always have a fresh pair ready to go.
What We Like:
- Soft & Breathable Fabric: These shorts feel really nice against your skin. They let air flow through, keeping you cool during workouts.
- Quick Drying: The material pulls sweat away from your body and dries fast. This means you stay comfortable and dry, no matter how hard you work out.
- Secure Fit: The elastic waistband and inside drawstring make sure the shorts stay put. They won’t ride up or slide down while you’re moving.
- Handy Pockets: The pockets are big enough to hold your phone, wallet, and keys. You can keep your essentials with you easily.
- Versatile Use: These shorts are great for many activities. You can wear them for gym sessions, running, basketball, or just relaxing at home.
What Could Be Improved:
- Sizing Consistency: While generally comfortable, some users have noted slight variations in sizing between pairs.
- Pocket Depth: While large, some very large smartphones might fit snugly.
Overall, the AKAWOOKO gym shorts offer great value and comfort for any man on the move. They are a solid choice for anyone needing reliable workout gear.
5. VVX 3 Piece Womens Workout Shorts Scrunch Butt Lifting Seamless High Waist Yoga Gym Shorts for Women – Black/Brown/Pink S
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready to crush your workouts and feel amazing in these VVX 3 Piece Womens Workout Shorts! This set comes in classic black, earthy brown, and pretty pink, all in a size Small. They’re designed to make you look and feel your best, whether you’re hitting the yoga mat or going for a run.
What We Like:
- These shorts are super comfy! They use a soft, seamless fabric that feels great on your skin.
- They’re made from a blend of nylon and spandex, making them stretchy and durable.
- The shorts wick away sweat and dry quickly, so you stay cool and dry.
- They are non-see-through, meaning you can move freely without worry.
- The high waist design offers great tummy control and a secure fit.
- The scrunch butt design really helps to lift and shape your glutes for a flattering look.
- They don’t roll down at the bottom when you’re exercising.
- You get three pairs of shorts in a pack, perfect for mixing and matching.
- They are versatile and can be worn for many different activities.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the sizing is generally good, some users might find it helpful to have a more detailed size chart.
- The “pleats at the hips” feature, while intended to enhance curves, might not be as noticeable on all body types.
These VVX workout shorts are a fantastic addition to any fitness wardrobe. They offer comfort, style, and great performance for all your active pursuits.
Your Guide to Awesome & Affordable Gym Shorts
Hitting the gym doesn’t have to cost a fortune. You can find great gym shorts that work well and don’t break the bank. This guide will help you pick the best cheap gym shorts for your workouts.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop for gym shorts, keep these important features in mind.
Comfort is King
- Elastic Waistband: A stretchy waistband keeps your shorts in place without pinching.
- Drawstring: Some shorts have a drawstring to adjust the fit even more.
- Inseam Length: This is how long the shorts are on the inside leg. Shorter inseams (like 5-7 inches) are good for freedom of movement. Longer ones (8 inches or more) offer more coverage.
Freedom to Move
- Split Seams: Some shorts have small cuts on the sides. These let your legs move more freely, which is great for running or high-intensity workouts.
- Lightweight Feel: You want shorts that feel light. Heavy shorts can feel clingy and uncomfortable when you sweat.
Practical Details
- Pockets: Most people like having pockets to hold a phone, keys, or a small towel. Check if the pockets are deep enough and secure.
- Built-in Liner: Some shorts have a soft liner inside. This can add support and help wick away sweat.
2. Important Materials
The fabric your shorts are made from makes a big difference in how they feel and perform.
Polyester
- Polyester is a popular choice for gym shorts. It’s strong and dries quickly. This means your shorts won’t stay wet and heavy after a sweaty workout.
Nylon
- Nylon is also durable and lightweight. It feels smooth against your skin. Nylon shorts often last a long time.
Spandex (or Elastane)
- Spandex adds stretch to the fabric. This is super important for comfort and movement. Shorts with a little spandex let you bend, jump, and stretch without feeling restricted.
Cotton Blends
- Some cheaper shorts might use cotton blends. Cotton is soft and breathable. However, cotton can hold onto sweat. This can make the shorts feel heavy and damp. For intense workouts, synthetic fabrics are usually better.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Even cheap gym shorts can be good quality if you know what to look for.
What Makes Them Better
- Good Stitching: Look at the seams. Are they neat and strong? Well-made stitches mean your shorts won’t fall apart easily.
- Breathable Fabric: Fabrics that let air pass through help keep you cool. This is often found in polyester and nylon blends.
- Moisture-Wicking: This is a key feature. Good fabrics pull sweat away from your skin. This keeps you dry and comfortable.
What Makes Them Less Good
- Flimsy Material: If the fabric feels thin and see-through, it might not last long.
- Poor Stitching: Loose threads or weak seams are a sign of lower quality.
- Non-Breathable Fabric: If the shorts feel hot and sticky even when you’re not sweating much, they might not be made of good material.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use your gym shorts? This helps you choose the right ones.
For Everyday Workouts
- Most basic polyester or nylon shorts with a comfortable waistband are perfect for regular gym visits, jogging, or home workouts. They offer good comfort and durability for the price.
For Intense Training
- If you do a lot of running, HIIT, or sports, look for shorts made with spandex for extra stretch. Split seams and moisture-wicking fabrics are also important here. These features help you move freely and stay dry.
For Lounging and Casual Wear
- Sometimes, you just want comfortable shorts to relax in. Cotton blend shorts can be super cozy for this. They might not be the best for heavy sweating, but they’re great for chilling out.
Your Gym Short Questions Answered!
Here are some common questions people have about buying cheap gym shorts.
Q: What are the main Key Features I should look for in cheap gym shorts?
A: You should look for a comfortable elastic waistband, a drawstring for a better fit, and a length that allows for good movement. Pockets are also a nice feature.
Q: What are the best materials for gym shorts that are affordable?
A: Polyester and nylon are great choices. They are durable, lightweight, and dry quickly. Blends with a little spandex are also good for stretch.
Q: Does a built-in liner make gym shorts better?
A: Yes, a built-in liner can add extra support and help wick away sweat, making your workout more comfortable.
Q: How important is the inseam length?
A: The inseam length is important for comfort and freedom of movement. Shorter inseams (5-7 inches) are good for active workouts, while longer ones offer more coverage.
Q: Can cheap gym shorts be good quality?
A: Yes, cheap gym shorts can be good quality if they have strong stitching, breathable fabric, and are made from durable materials like polyester or nylon.
Q: What should I avoid when buying cheap gym shorts?
A: You should avoid shorts made of thin, non-breathable material or those with weak stitching and loose threads.
Q: Are cotton blend shorts good for the gym?
A: Cotton blends can be comfortable for lounging, but they tend to hold onto sweat. For intense workouts, synthetic fabrics are usually better.
Q: How do split seams help my workout?
A: Split seams on the sides of the shorts allow your legs to move more freely, which is great for running, jumping, and other dynamic exercises.
Q: Can I wear cheap gym shorts for running?
A: Yes, many cheap gym shorts are suitable for running, especially if they are lightweight, breathable, and have a comfortable fit. Look for moisture-wicking fabrics.
Q: Where can I find good deals on cheap gym shorts?
A: You can often find great deals on cheap gym shorts at discount stores, online marketplaces, and during sales events at sporting goods stores.
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.