How To Choose The Right Athletic Shorts?

Athletic shorts are a crucial piece of clothing for those who perform physical exercise. The correct pair of athletic shorts could significantly improve your performance and your comfort. It lets you focus on your workout. You will find a lot of options available on the market but when you want to make the right decision, it’s a daunting task.

There are a lot of athletics available such as compression shorts to running shorts. Each type has distinct advantages. Want to choose the right shorts? Read on! 

What Are The Different Types Of Athletic Shorts

Running Shorts

They are lightweight and usually have a shorter inseam to give you maximum mobility. They usually come with a built-in liner to provide more assistance and moisture-wicking fabric to ensure you stay dry on long runs. These shorts are made for little resistance and are great for sprinting and long-distance running.

Training Shorts

Training shorts are flexible and are suitable for a variety of types of exercises, such as cardio, weightlifting, and cross-training. They typically have a longer inseam than running shorts. They are made from tough materials that are able to stand up to the wear and tear of intense training.

Shorts for training usually come with pockets that make them ideal to carry small items such as keys or phones.

Basketball Shorts

These shorts are looser and longer than other athletic shorts. They deliver ample space for movement during athletic games like basketball. The shorts are generally made of breathable fabrics to keep your body cool during intense games. The loose fit provides maximum mobility, making them a favourite option not only for basketball, but for other sports too.

Compression Shorts

Compression shorts are designed to fit comfortably over the skin. They prepare the muscles with support and increase blood flow. These shorts are usually worn with other athletic shorts or on their own in sports that demand many movements, like cycling, running, or lifting weights. Shorts that are compression can reduce soreness and fatigue in muscles, making them a popular choice for athletes who wish to improve their performance and recover.

RUNNING SHORTS

Running shorts are essential for those who love sprinting, jogging, or long-distance running. These shorts have been specifically made to favour comfort and support during intense activities, which makes them an essential component of any runner's outfit.

If you're looking to purchase shorts for running, you need to think about factors such as length as well as the material as well as extra features that can improve the running experience.

One of the most important characteristics of shorts for running is the length. Shorts for running typically have a shorter inseam that varies from 2 to 5 inches. This allows for more freedom of movement and reduces the chance of chafing. The shorter length can help to keep you cool as well as allow the legs to breathe more easily. For those who want extra coverage, there are longer-length running shorts, although they do not provide the same degree of mobility as shorter ones.

The material of your running shorts is an additional element to consider. The majority of running shorts are made of breathable, lightweight fabrics which keep you sweat-free. Common fabrics include nylon, polyester and spandex each of which offers the ability to breathe and stretch. Some shorts for running also have mesh panels to offer additional ventilation, which is particularly useful during hot weather or hard training sessions.

In addition to the length and material, the running shorts usually have built-in liners that provide extra support. These liners help to prevent abrasion, add an extra snug fit, and remove the necessity to wear more undergarments. Specific runners wear shorts with pockets to carry things like gels, keys, or a cell phone. It's crucial to select running shorts with pockets that are well-placed and won't hinder your movement or cause pain during your run.

How To Choose The Right Athletic Shorts For You

Determine What Kind Of Exercise They Are For

The type of exercise you want to perform plays a major part in determining the desirable athletic shorts for you. Different sports have different requirements for mobility, support, and comfort, so your shorts selection must reflect these requirements. For instance, if running, you'll need lightweight shorts that are moisture-wicking and provide an entire range of motion. On the other side, if you're lifting weights, you'll prefer longer and more durable shorts that provide more protection and coverage.

If you are involved in numerous kinds of exercise, such as cross-training, it's crucial to pick a pair of pants that can perform a variety of exercises. Shorts for training are a great choice in this regard because they're made to last and comfortable. They are also able to adapt to various exercises. If you're playing any sport that requires enough lateral movement, such as tennis or basketball, you'll require shorts that give plenty of space as well as flexibility for moving around freely.

Apart from the kind of exercise you'll be doing, take into consideration the environment you'll be exercising. If you exercise outside in hot temperatures, shorts that are breathable and moisture-wicking are necessary to keep you comfortable and cool. In contrast, if you exercise in cooler temperatures you could opt for longer shorts or compression shorts which are warm and supportive.

Take The Material Into Account

The fabric of your shorts for running is a second important factor to consider, as it directly impacts the comfort of your body, performance, and overall experience when exercising. Different fabrics offer different levels of stretch, breathability, and moisture management, so it's crucial to select the right material for your preferences and needs.

One of the most sought-after materials for shorts for athletes is polyester. Polyester is well-known for its strength; light feel and moisture-wicking properties. It definitely removes sweat from your skin ensuring your body is dry and comfy during your intense training sessions. 

Nylon is another popular material that is used in shorts for athletes. Similar to polyester, nylon is light and wicks moisture which makes it a great option for high-intensity sports. It also has an extremely soft, smooth texture that is comfortable against your skin. However, it's not likely to be as tough as polyester, which is why it's important to think about the amount of wear and tear the shorts are likely to be exposed to.

Spandex is often used in shorts for athletes to favour flexibility and stretch. Spandex lets the shorts move in tandem with your body, providing an unlimited range of motion and movement without restrictions. This is especially important for sports that demand enough movement, like yoga, running or lifting weights. However, the material itself isn't very breathable, so it's often mixed with other fabrics like nylon or polyester to make a more balanced fabric.

If you are a fan of environmental sustainability, there are shorts for athletes made from environmentally friendly materials like recycled organic cotton or polyester. These fabrics provide the same benefits of performance as traditional fabrics, while decreasing the environmental impact. However, it's important to keep in mind that natural fibres, such as cotton, might not be as moisture-wicking or quick drying as synthetic alternatives which is why they might not be the excellent option for intense workouts.

Make Sure Your Athletic Shorts Are A Good Fit

The fitting of your shorts for athletic use is vital for comfort as well as performance. The tightness of your shorts may hinder movements and lead to discomfort. On the other hand, loose shorts can slip off or get tangled up during workouts. The right fit will ensure that your shorts remain in place and let you move freely, regardless of what you're engaged in.

When you are trying to put on athletic shorts be aware of the waistband. The waistband should be positioned at a comfortable height on your hips, without getting caught in or sliding down. The elastic waistband is a standard feature of athletic shorts because they prepare a snug fit, while also allowing some flexibility. Some shorts are also equipped with drawstrings that can be adjusted to provide an even more personalised shape.

Alongside the waistband, take into consideration the cut and length of your shorts. The length of your inseam may vary based on the type of shorts you are wearing and the style you prefer. For high-intensity or running workouts, shorter shorts with a 3- or 5-inch inseam might be more comfortable as they allow for more flexibility of movement. For exercises like weightlifting or cross-training, a longer short with a 7 - to 9-inch inseam might grant more protection and coverage.

The shape of the shorts is equally important. Shorts for athletes should fit comfortably around the hips and waist; however, they should not be too tight. They must also allow an entire range of motion for the legs. If the shorts aren't loose enough, they could bunch up or cause chafing during exercise. On the other side, if they're too tight, they could hinder movement and create discomfort. Find shorts that have an appropriate fit but are not restricting.

Take into consideration whether there are extra features that could improve the comfort of your shorts for running. For instance, some shorts have built-in liners to provide extra assistance and ease of use. Some may also feature flatlock seams, which minimise the chance of irritation and chafing. These options can make a huge improvement in the overall comfort of your clothing, particularly during intense or long exercise.

Faqs

What kind of shorts should you wear to the gym?

When you choose shorts for your gym, you must consider comfort, flexibility, and breathability. The best shorts for the gym are typically made of moisture-wicking fabrics such as nylon, polyester, or a blend of spandex. These fabrics help to keep your skin dry and sweat free. Choose shorts that have drawstrings and an elastic waistband to ensure a snug fit, and look for pockets to make it easier. Based on your exercise routine, you may prefer looser-fitting training shorts for exercises like lifting weights or HIIT or compression shorts to provide extra support for your muscles and improved circulation.

Are Running Shorts Good for the Gym?

Running shorts are an excellent opportunity for workouts in the gym, particularly if they're made with features that allow for a range of motion. Running shorts are generally light and breathable. They also have a shorter length inseam, giving you maximum mobility. However, they are often sold with built-in shorts, which may not be suitable for all exercise routines in the gym. 

Why Do Men Wear Gym Shorts?

Men wear their gym shorts because they provide comfort and flexibility when working out. The gym shorts are made to provide the full range of motion, which is vital for all kinds of workouts, such as jumping and running to stretching and lifting. The lightweight and breathable fabrics keep your body temperature in check   and keep you cool and dry during intense exercise. 

What Length Are Gym Shorts?

Gym shorts are generally available in different lengths and inseams ranging between 5 and 9 inches, based on personal preference and the kind of workout you are doing. Gym shorts that are shorter, which have an inseam of 5-7 inches, provide greater mobility and are popular for any activity that requires enough leg mobility, like cycling, running, or HIIT. The longer gym shorts, which have an inseam of 7-9 inches, impart more coverage and are typically preferred for casual gym or weightlifting wear. The length you select must be in line with your level of comfort and the specific requirements of your exercise routine.