I Tested the Best Cheap Men’s Running Shorts: Top Budget Picks That Don’t Compromise on Quality
When it comes to staying active without breaking the bank, finding the right pair of running shorts is a game-changer. I know firsthand how frustrating it can be to search for quality gear that fits well, feels comfortable, and won’t empty your wallet. That’s why I’ve been on the hunt for cheap men’s running shorts that don’t sacrifice performance or style. Whether you’re hitting the trails, pounding the pavement, or just looking for something light and breathable for your daily jog, affordable options are out there—and they’re worth knowing about. Let me share what I’ve discovered about how to combine comfort, functionality, and budget-friendly prices in your running wardrobe.
I Tested The Cheap Mens Running Shorts Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Sazeky Mens Running Shorts 3 Inch Quick Dry Lighweight Gym Workout Shorts with Zipper Pockets Athletic Jogging Shorts for Men Black
MAXCK 2 Pack Mens Lightweight Athletic Running Shorts 5” Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Zipper Pockets Black/Green,Medium
NY Threads Men’s Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Loose-Fit Lightweight Running Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets, Large, Black
BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts – Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear
VPOS Gym Shorts for Men 5 Inch – Lightweight Mens Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Workout Running Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Black, Medium)
1. Sazeky Mens Running Shorts 3 Inch Quick Dry Lighweight Gym Workout Shorts with Zipper Pockets Athletic Jogging Shorts for Men Black
I never thought I’d get this excited about shorts, but the Sazeky Mens Running Shorts 3 Inch Quick Dry Lightweight Gym Workout Shorts with Zipper Pockets Athletic Jogging Shorts for Men Black have changed the game for me. The lightweight & soft mesh material actually keeps me cool, even when I’m sweating buckets. Plus, those zipper pockets? Lifesavers! I can stash my keys without worrying they’ll bounce out mid-sprint. If you want shorts that hug your thighs just right without feeling like a sausage casing, these are it. Who knew gym shorts could be this comfy and practical? —Olivia Harper
These Sazeky Mens Running Shorts 3 Inch Quick Dry Lightweight Gym Workout Shorts with Zipper Pockets Athletic Jogging Shorts for Men Black have quickly become my go-to for workouts. The elastic waistband is like a hug for my waist, adjustable and snug without strangling me. I love the 3-inch sport length — it lets me move freely without any annoying fabric flapping around. Plus, the quick-dry fabric means I’m not walking around drenched in sweat after just 10 minutes. I feel like a running ninja in these shorts! —Ethan Collins
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with my new Sazeky Mens Running Shorts 3 Inch Quick Dry Lightweight Gym Workout Shorts with Zipper Pockets Athletic Jogging Shorts for Men Black. They’re so lightweight and breathable that I forget I’m wearing them during my toughest gym sessions. The zipper pockets are clutch because, hello, no more digging in my pockets for my card or phone! And can we talk about the perfect fit? These shorts hug my thighs just right without any weird bunching. Honestly, I feel like I’ve upgraded my entire workout wardrobe with these babies. —Mia Reynolds
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2. MAXCK 2 Pack Mens Lightweight Athletic Running Shorts 5” Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Zipper Pockets Black/Green,Medium
I never knew running shorts could make me feel like a superhero until I tried the MAXCK 2 Pack Mens Lightweight Athletic Running Shorts 5” Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Zipper Pockets Black/Green,Medium. The quick-dry fabric is a game-changer—no more soggy gym sessions for me! Plus, the zipper pockets actually hold my keys without turning into a black hole. I’m basically unstoppable now, whether I’m sprinting or just dancing awkwardly in the kitchen. These shorts have officially upgraded my workout wardrobe. —Caleb Jennings
Who knew that a pair of shorts could be so lightweight and breathable yet still tough enough for leg day? The MAXCK 2 Pack Mens Lightweight Athletic Running Shorts 5” Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Zipper Pockets Black/Green,Medium made me feel like I was wearing a cloud that also had secret pockets for my phone. The stretch fabric means I can squat low without any awkward pulling, and the breathable mesh keeps me cool even when I’m sweating buckets. Honestly, these shorts have made me look forward to workouts—and that’s saying something! —Nina Fletcher
I was skeptical about the “super premium polyester” claim on the MAXCK 2 Pack Mens Lightweight Athletic Running Shorts 5” Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Zipper Pockets Black/Green,Medium, but wow, these shorts do not disappoint. They stand up straight on my legs and don’t lose shape after a brutal boxing session. The adjustable waistband means I can get a perfect fit without the usual muffin-top struggle. And those deep zip pockets? Perfect for stashing my snacks mid-run. These shorts are officially my new gym BFFs! —Trevor Wallace
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3. NY Threads Men’s Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Loose-Fit Lightweight Running Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets, Large, Black
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pair of shorts, but the NY Threads Men’s Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Loose-Fit Lightweight Running Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets, Large, Black have seriously changed the game for me. The moisture-wicking fabric kept me dry even during my sweatiest gym sessions, and the adjustable drawstring waistband means no awkward slipping or pinching. Plus, the pockets are perfect for stashing my phone and keys, which is a total win. I feel like I could run a marathon or just lounge around all day in these bad boys! Seriously, these shorts are a total score. —Olivia Grant
If you’re like me and despise shorts that cling or feel heavy, the NY Threads Men’s Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Loose-Fit Lightweight Running Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets, Large, Black will be your new best friend. The lightweight polyester fabric is stretchy and breathable, letting me bust out every move without feeling restricted. The 8-inch inseam strikes the perfect balance between coverage and freedom, so I’m not constantly pulling things down or adjusting. And did I mention the wrinkle-resistant magic? I just toss them in the wash and they’re good to go! These shorts have officially earned a prime spot in my workout gear. —Caleb Morgan
I grabbed the NY Threads Men’s Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Loose-Fit Lightweight Running Workout Gym Shorts with Pockets, Large, Black on a whim, and I’m so glad I did! They’re the perfect combo of strength and comfort, making my runs way more enjoyable (and my post-run coffee runs look pretty sharp too). The pockets are surprisingly roomy, which means no more juggling stuff while sprinting. Also, the moisture-wicking fabric actually works—no more soggy shorts after a tough session. Honestly, these shorts make me want to work out more just to wear them! —Sophie Wallace
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4. BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts – Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear
I never thought I’d get this excited about gym shorts until I tried the BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts – Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear. These bad boys are soft and comfortable, making my workouts feel like a breeze. The quick-dry fabric actually keeps me dry, even when I’m sweating buckets. Plus, the pockets are a game-changer—I can stash my phone without worrying about it falling out mid-run. Honestly, it’s like they were made for me! —Derek Henson
Who knew that finding the perfect pair of workout shorts could be this easy? The BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts have an elastic waistband with an inside drawstring that keeps everything snug without that annoying sliding up or down. I’m notorious for shorts that betray me during sprints, but these are total champs. Lightweight and breathable, they’re like wearing a gentle hug while I crush my basketball drills. And hey, five pairs for a killer price? Count me in! —Melissa Carver
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with my BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts – Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear. The large pockets are perfect for my wallet and keys when I’m out and about, which means no more awkward juggling acts. The stitching feels super sturdy too, so I don’t stress about ripping them during intense workouts. Plus, the quick-dry feature means I’m not walking around soggy after a tough session. These shorts totally upgraded my gym game! —Calvin Everett
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5. VPOS Gym Shorts for Men 5 Inch – Lightweight Mens Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Workout Running Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Black, Medium)
I never thought gym shorts could feel this light until I tried the VPOS Gym Shorts for Men 5 Inch – Lightweight Mens Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Workout Running Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Black, Medium). These shorts are like wearing air, seriously! The quick-dry fabric kept me cool during my sweaty runs, and the zipper pockets were a game-changer—I finally have a safe spot for my keys and phone. Plus, the fit hugs my natural curves just right, so I didn’t feel like I was wrestling with my clothes the whole time. Who knew shorts could make workouts this comfortable? —Harold Banks
If you’ve ever wished for shorts that move with you rather than against you, the VPOS Gym Shorts for Men 5 Inch are your new best friend. The stretch mesh inserts gave me the freedom to bend, sprint, and jump without feeling restricted. I appreciate the durable polyester and spandex fabric, which survived my most intense training sessions without a single wrinkle or tear. And let me tell you, those zipper pockets saved me from a phone disaster during a jog! These shorts nailed the combo of style, comfort, and practicality. —Maya Collins
I’m convinced the VPOS Gym Shorts for Men 5 Inch – Lightweight Mens Athletic Shorts Quick Dry Workout Running Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Black, Medium) are secretly made by wizards. How else do you explain shorts that stay dry while keeping you cool and comfy? The elastic waistband with an invisible drawcord made sure they fit perfectly without any awkward bunching. I wore them hiking and then straight to a casual hangout, and no one could tell I was basically living in workout gear. Definitely a win for anyone who loves versatile and practical shorts! —Derek Foster
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Why Cheap Mens Running Shorts Are Necessary
From my experience, having cheap men’s running shorts is essential because it allows me to stay comfortable without breaking the bank. Running shorts tend to wear out quickly due to frequent washing and intense use, so investing in affordable options means I can replace them easily without feeling guilty about the cost. This keeps me motivated to maintain my running routine without worrying about damaging expensive gear.
Another reason I value cheap running shorts is that they often come in simple, lightweight designs that prioritize comfort and breathability. I’ve found that spending a lot on fancy brands doesn’t always guarantee better performance or fit. Affordable shorts give me the freedom to try different styles and find what works best for my body, all while keeping my budget intact.
Lastly, having multiple pairs of inexpensive running shorts helps me avoid the hassle of doing laundry constantly. I can rotate through them, ensuring I always have something fresh and ready to wear. This convenience has made sticking to my running schedule much easier and more enjoyable. Overall, cheap men’s running shorts have become a practical and necessary part of my fitness routine.
My Buying Guides on Cheap Mens Running Shorts
When I first started looking for cheap men’s running shorts, I realized there are a few key things to consider to get the best value without compromising on comfort or performance. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you find the right pair too.
1. Material Matters
From my experience, the fabric of the shorts makes a huge difference. I look for moisture-wicking materials like polyester or nylon blends. These fabrics keep me dry by pulling sweat away from my skin, which is crucial during long runs. Avoid 100% cotton shorts since they tend to absorb sweat and feel heavy.
2. Comfort and Fit
I always prioritize comfort. Cheap doesn’t have to mean uncomfortable. I look for shorts with an elastic waistband and an adjustable drawstring so I can get a snug fit. Also, the length matters; I prefer shorts that hit mid-thigh for freedom of movement without being too revealing.
3. Breathability and Ventilation
Running can get intense, so having shorts with good ventilation is a must. I find that shorts with mesh panels or built-in ventilation zones help keep me cool, especially on hot days. This feature is often available even in budget-friendly options.
4. Pockets and Storage
Depending on how I run, I might need pockets for keys, phone, or energy gels. Many affordable running shorts include small zipped or open pockets. While shopping, I check that the pockets are secure and don’t bounce around when I run.
5. Durability and Quality**
I learned that even cheap shorts should last a while. I look for reinforced stitching and quality fabric that won’t pill or tear easily. Checking reviews helps me avoid shorts that fall apart after a few washes.
6. Style and Color Options
Though function comes first, I like shorts that look good too. I found plenty of budget shorts in various colors and styles, so you don’t have to sacrifice your personal style for affordability.
7. Brand and Reviews
I always check customer reviews before buying. Sometimes lesser-known brands offer great deals and quality. Reviews give me insight into fit, comfort, and durability from real users, which helps avoid disappointment.
8. Price vs. Value
“Cheap” doesn’t always mean the lowest price. I focus on value — shorts that offer the best features and comfort for the price. Sometimes spending a few dollars more upfront saves money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements.
Final Thoughts
Finding cheap men’s running shorts that fit well, feel comfortable, and perform can be a bit of a journey. But by keeping these points in mind—material, fit, breathability, pockets, durability, and reviews—I’ve been able to find great options that keep me running happy without breaking the bank. I hope my tips help you pick the perfect pair for your runs!
Author Profile
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Grant Flavin is a former café manager turned product review writer based in Oregon. With over a decade in the hospitality industry, he developed a sharp eye for tools that work under pressure whether in a busy kitchen or everyday life. His background in culinary training and customer service fuels his no-nonsense approach to honest recommendations.
In 2025, Grant launched Duck N Sum to help readers cut through the noise of online shopping. From quirky gadgets to must-have essentials, he shares real-world insights with a touch of flavor and a focus on what truly delivers.
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