Best Shorts for CrossFit Men – 2025 Reviews

Let’s be real – finding the right CrossFit shorts is harder than it should be. I’ve been through my fair share of workouts where shorts either restricted my movement, felt like a sauna, or had pockets that emptied themselves during box jumps.

After testing dozens of options, I’ve learned that the perfect CrossFit short needs to balance freedom of movement with practical features like secure pockets and moisture management. The wrong choice can literally hold you back from your best performance.

In this guide, I’m sharing my hands-on experience with the shorts that actually deliver when the workout gets intense. These aren’t just comfortable – they’re engineered for the dynamic, sweat-drenching demands of CrossFit.

⚠️ Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. Our ratings (out of 10) are editorial assessments based on product features, user feedback, and real-world testing. Purchasing through our links doesn’t affect your price but helps support our research.

Best Shorts for CrossFit Men – 2025 Reviews

Best Choice
1
NORTHYARD men's athletic running shorts with zipper pockets and side vents
NORTHYARD

NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts – Ultimate Mobility & UV Protection

These shorts absolutely crushed it during my testing sessions. The 4-way stretch fabric moves with you during every burpee and squat without feeling restrictive.

What really stood out was the UPF 50+ protection – perfect for outdoor WODs – and the fact that they stayed dry even during the sweatiest metcons.

4-Way Stretch FabricUPF 50+ Sun ProtectionSecure Zipper Pockets
9.6
Exceptional
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What I Loved:

The moment I put these on for a grueling CrossFit session, I knew they were different. The lightweight fabric felt like I was wearing nothing, yet it held up perfectly during rope climbs and heavy lifting. Those side vents aren’t just for show – they actually keep you cool when you’re gasping for air between sets.

I was genuinely impressed by how the zipper pockets stayed securely closed during box jumps and handstand push-ups. No more worrying about my phone flying out mid-workout. The material wicks sweat away so effectively that I barely noticed I was drenched until I finished.

The Not-So-Great:

The only minor thing I noticed is that the reflective strips could be slightly more prominent for early morning or late evening workouts.

Bottom Line:

If you’re serious about CrossFit performance and want shorts that can handle anything you throw at them, these are your go-to choice.

2
Anthem Athletics Hyperflex men's gym shorts with angled zipper pockets
ANTHEM ATHLETICS

Anthem Athletics Hyperflex Mens Gym Shorts – Premium Performance Fit

These shorts deliver professional-grade performance without the premium price tag. The stretch fabric feels durable yet flexible enough for deep squats.

I was particularly impressed by the YKK zippers – they’re smooth, reliable, and keep your essentials secure during the most dynamic movements.

YKK Zipper PocketsMultiple Inseam OptionsStretch Performance Fabric
9.5
Exceptional
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What I Loved:

Where do I even start with these? The angled zipper pockets are genius – they sit perfectly out of the way during cleans and snatches but are still accessible when you need them. The fabric has this perfect medium weight that feels substantial without being bulky.

During testing, I put these through multiple Murph workouts, and they held up beautifully. The flat-lock stitching prevented any chafing, even when I was drenched in sweat. What really surprised me was how well they maintained their shape wash after wash – no sagging or stretching out.

The Not-So-Great:

Some people might find they run a bit large, so check the size chart carefully before ordering.

Bottom Line:

For athletes who want premium features without the luxury price, these shorts deliver exceptional value and performance.

3
MIER men's quick dry running shorts with multiple pockets
MIER

MIER Men's Quick Dry Running Shorts – Eco-Friendly Performance

These shorts combine environmental consciousness with top-tier performance. The recycled polyester feels incredibly soft against the skin while wicking moisture effectively.

The four-pocket system is brilliantly designed – I could easily carry my phone, keys, and cards without anything bouncing around during double-unders.

Recycled Polyester Fabric4-Pocket SystemNo Liner Design
9.4
Excellent
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What I Loved:

I have to admit, I was skeptical about recycled fabric performance, but these shorts completely won me over. The material feels luxurious – soft, breathable, and it dries almost instantly. During a particularly sweaty Helen workout, I appreciated how the moisture-wicking kept me comfortable throughout.

The pocket configuration is absolutely brilliant for CrossFit. The side auto-lock zipper pocket securely held my phone during box jumps, while the other pockets handled keys and cards. The fact that they’re made from recycled materials just makes the excellent performance even better.

The Not-So-Great:

The 7-inch inseam might be slightly long for athletes who prefer above-the-knee coverage during lifts.

Bottom Line:

If you value sustainability without compromising on performance, these shorts offer an impressive blend of eco-friendly materials and CrossFit-ready features.

Best Value
4
G Gradual men's 5-inch running shorts with zipper pockets
G GRADUAL

G Gradual Men's Running Shorts – Budget-Friendly Excellence

Don’t let the price fool you – these shorts perform like they cost twice as much. The 5-inch inseam provides perfect freedom for Olympic lifts without being restrictive.

I was blown away by how the quick-dry fabric handled intense sweat sessions while maintaining complete comfort and mobility.

5-Inch InseamSplit-Leg DesignQuick-Dry Fabric
9.2
Excellent
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What I Loved:

Wow, just wow. For the price, I wasn’t expecting much, but these shorts quickly became my go-to for daily WODs. The split-leg design provides incredible range of motion – I could hit deep squat positions without any fabric tension. The material has this perfect weight that’s substantial enough to feel quality but light enough for running.

What really impressed me was how well the zippered pockets worked during dynamic movements. My phone stayed securely in place during burpees and kettlebell swings. After multiple washes, they’ve maintained their color and shape beautifully.

The Not-So-Great:

The color options are somewhat limited compared to more expensive brands.

Bottom Line:

For athletes on a budget who refuse to compromise on performance, these shorts deliver premium features at an unbelievable price point.

Budget Pick
5
OAKVON men's 5-inch mesh workout shorts 5-pack
OAKVON

OAKVON Men's 5" Inseam Mesh Shorts – Multi-Pack Value

This 5-pack offers incredible value for athletes who train frequently. The mesh fabric provides outstanding breathability during the most intense workouts.

I found the 5-inch inseam perfect for maintaining mobility while the deep pockets securely held essentials without bouncing.

5-Pack ValueMesh BreathabilityDeep Secure Pockets
9.0
Excellent
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What I Loved:

As someone who trains almost daily, having multiple quality shorts without breaking the bank is a game-changer. The mesh fabric is surprisingly durable and provides exceptional airflow – I stayed cooler during long AMRAP sessions than with more expensive options. The thickened waistband stays put during pull-ups and muscle-ups without digging in.

What surprised me most was how well the deep pockets handled my phone during running portions. Nothing fell out, even during sprint intervals. For the price per short, the quality and performance are absolutely outstanding.

The Not-So-Great:

The mesh material might be too lightweight for athletes who prefer a more substantial feel during heavy lifts.

Bottom Line:

If you train frequently and want quality shorts without the high cost, this 5-pack delivers exceptional value and reliable performance.

6
Surenow men's 2-in-1 stealth running shorts with liner
SURENOW

Surenow Men's Running Shorts – 2-in-1 Versatility

The 2-in-1 design provides excellent coverage and support without sacrificing mobility. The built-in liner offers modest compression that’s perfect for CrossFit movements.

I appreciated the quick-dry capabilities during sweaty workouts and the thoughtful towel ring design for easy access during transitions.

2-in-1 DesignQuick-Dry FabricTowel Ring Feature
8.9
Very Good
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What I Loved:

The 2-in-1 design really shines during CrossFit workouts where you need both coverage and support. The built-in liner provides just enough compression to feel supported during lifts without being restrictive. I loved the towel ring – it’s such a simple but brilliant feature for wiping sweat between movements.

During testing, the moisture-wicking kept me surprisingly dry, even during high-rep thrusters. The fabric has a nice stretch that accommodated deep squat positions comfortably. The overall construction feels durable and well-made.

The Not-So-Great:

The side pockets are quite small and may not accommodate larger phones securely during dynamic movements.

Bottom Line:

For athletes who prefer built-in support and appreciate practical features like towel rings, these shorts offer solid performance at a reasonable price.

7
AIMPACT men's cotton athletic shorts with unique curling design
AIMPACT

AIMPACT Men's Athletic Shorts – Cotton Comfort Hybrid

These shorts bridge the gap between workout performance and casual comfort. The cotton-spandex blend feels incredibly soft while providing decent stretch for workouts.

The unique curling leg design adds style without compromising function, and the multiple pockets handle essentials effectively.

Cotton-Spandex BlendCurling Leg DesignMultiple Pockets
8.8
Very Good
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What I Loved:

There’s something to be said for shorts that feel this comfortable right out of the package. The cotton-spandex blend is incredibly soft against the skin and provides enough stretch for most CrossFit movements. I really appreciated the deep side pockets – they easily held my phone during warm-up runs.

The unique styling with the curling leg design makes these versatile enough to wear from the gym to casual outings. The stitching quality is impressive, with no loose threads or weak points even after multiple washes.

The Not-So-Great:

The cotton material retains moisture more than technical fabrics, which can be uncomfortable during very sweaty workouts.

Bottom Line:

If you prioritize comfort and style for less intense training days or hybrid use, these shorts offer a great balance of workout readiness and casual wearability.

8
Wangdo men's 7-inch running shorts with mesh lining
WANGDO

Wangdo Men's 7" Running Shorts – Affordable Basic Option

These shorts provide solid basic performance at an entry-level price point. The mesh lining adds comfort and prevents see-through issues during intense workouts.

The elastic waistband with drawstring ensures a secure fit, and the zipper pockets offer basic storage for essentials.

Mesh LiningElastic WaistbandZipper Pockets
8.5
Very Good
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What I Loved:

For the price, these shorts deliver decent performance that’s perfect for beginners or occasional trainers. The mesh lining is a nice touch that adds comfort and prevents the shorts from sticking to your legs when sweaty. I found the fit to be true to size with enough room for movement during basic CrossFit movements.

The fabric is lightweight and breathes reasonably well during moderate intensity workouts. The drawstring waistband stays securely in place without needing constant adjustment.

The Not-So-Great:

The zipper quality could be better and may not withstand frequent heavy use over time.

Bottom Line:

If you’re just starting with CrossFit or need affordable backup shorts, these provide basic functionality at a very accessible price point.

9
Ouber men's 2-inch running shorts with built-in liner
OUBER

Ouber Men's Running Shorts – 2'' Inseam with Liner

These ultra-short shorts offer maximum leg freedom for athletes who prefer minimal coverage. The built-in liner provides light compression and support.

The side split design enhances ventilation, and the mesh details add breathability during high-intensity sessions.

2-Inch InseamBuilt-in LinerSide Split Design
8.3
Good
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What I Loved:

If you’re someone who hates fabric restriction during workouts, these shorts deliver incredible freedom of movement. The 2-inch inseam means absolutely nothing gets in the way during squats or lunges. The side splits with mesh provide outstanding ventilation – I stayed remarkably cool during hot workouts.

The built-in liner offers basic support without feeling constrictive, and the overall fit is comfortable for most body types. They’re particularly great for summer training when you want minimal coverage.

The Not-So-Great:

The very short length may not be for everyone, and the liner provides minimal actual support during dynamic movements.

Bottom Line:

For athletes who prioritize maximum leg freedom and don’t mind shorter coverage, these shorts offer decent performance with excellent ventilation.

Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different

I know how skeptical you might be about yet another “best of” list – I’ve been there too. That’s why I want to pull back the curtain on exactly how we evaluated these 9 different CrossFit shorts to give you genuinely useful insights.

Our scoring system weights real-world performance at 70% – how they actually handle burpees, cleans, and those brutal AMRAPs – combined with innovation and competitive differentiation at 30%. This means a short could have amazing features, but if it doesn’t perform when you’re drenched in sweat and gasping for air, it doesn’t rank highly.

Take our top-rated NORTHYARD shorts scoring 9.6 versus the budget-friendly OAKVON 5-pack at 9.0. The 0.6 point difference represents tangible performance gaps in moisture management, pocket security, and durability during intense training sessions.

We evaluated everything from how well pockets secure phones during box jumps to whether the fabric chafes during rope climbs. The ratings reflect actual CrossFit demands rather than marketing claims. A 9.0+ score means exceptional performance with minor trade-offs, while 8.0-8.9 indicates very good performance with more noticeable compromises.

This data-driven approach ensures you’re getting recommendations based on how these shorts perform where it matters most – during your actual workouts.

Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose CrossFit Shorts for Maximum Performance

1. Material Matters Most

Technical fabrics are non-negotiable for CrossFit. Look for polyester-spandex blends that offer 4-way stretch, moisture-wicking, and quick-dry capabilities. Cotton might feel comfortable initially, but it retains sweat and becomes heavy and uncomfortable during intense workouts.

During testing, I found that shorts with at least 5-10% spandex provided the best balance of stretch and recovery. The material should move with you during deep squats without restricting your range of motion.

2. Inseam Length Considerations

Shorter isn’t always better – it’s about what works for your body and movement patterns. 5-inch inseams provide excellent freedom for Olympic lifts, while 7-inch options offer more coverage during gymnastics movements.

I discovered that the sweet spot for most CrossFit athletes is between 5-7 inches. This length stays out of the way during squats and cleans while providing enough coverage for comfort during box jumps and rope climbs.

3. Pocket Configuration is Crucial

Secure zipper pockets are essential for CrossFit. During testing, I evaluated how well pockets held phones and keys during dynamic movements like double-unders and box jumps.

Look for angled zipper pockets that sit out of the way during lifts but remain accessible. Deep pockets with reliable zippers prevent items from flying out mid-workout. Some shorts even feature multiple pocket types for different storage needs.

4. Waistband and Fit Details

The waistband can make or break your workout experience. Elastic waistbands with internal drawstrings provide the secure fit needed for handstand push-ups and pull-ups without digging into your skin.

During my testing, I paid close attention to how waistbands maintained their position during high-skill movements. The best options stayed put without constant adjustment and provided consistent comfort throughout varied workout intensities.

5. Breathability and Ventilation

CrossFit generates heat and sweat – your shorts need to handle both. Mesh panels, side vents, and breathable fabrics help regulate temperature during intense metcons.

I found that shorts with strategic ventilation in high-sweat areas (like the back and sides) performed significantly better during long workouts. The material should wick moisture away from your skin rather than trapping it.

6. Durability for Daily Use

CrossFit shorts face unique durability challenges. Between barbell contact, rope climbs, and frequent washing, they need to withstand significant abuse.

Look for reinforced stitching, especially in high-stress areas like the crotch and pockets. During testing, I evaluated how well each short maintained its shape and integrity after multiple washes and intense training sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What length shorts are best for CrossFit?

5 to 7-inch inseams generally work best for most CrossFit movements. Shorter inseams (around 5 inches) provide maximum freedom for Olympic lifts and squats, while longer options (7 inches) offer more coverage during gymnastics and running. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what feels comfortable during your specific movement patterns.

2. Do I need shorts with liners for CrossFit?

Liners are personal preference rather than necessity. Some athletes appreciate the additional support and coverage, while others find them restrictive or uncomfortable. During testing, I found that liner quality varies dramatically between brands. If you prefer liners, look for ones with soft, breathable fabric that provides light compression without chafing.

3. How important are zipper pockets for CrossFit?

Extremely important if you carry items during workouts. Standard pockets often fail during dynamic movements like box jumps or double-unders, leading to lost phones and keys. Zipper pockets, especially those from quality manufacturers like YKK, provide reliable security. During testing, I found that angled zipper pockets worked best as they stay out of the way during lifts.

4. Can I use regular athletic shorts for CrossFit?

You can, but specialized CrossFit shorts perform significantly better. Regular athletic shorts often lack the specific features needed for CrossFit’s varied demands – secure pockets for dynamic movements, fabric that withstands barbell contact, and designs that accommodate extreme ranges of motion. The shorts in this guide are specifically engineered for CrossFit’s unique challenges.

5. How should CrossFit shorts fit?

They should feel secure without restricting movement. The waistband should sit comfortably without digging in, and there should be enough room in the thighs for deep squats without the fabric pulling tight. During testing, I found that athletic or standard fits generally work better than slim fits for most CrossFit movements. Always check size charts carefully, as fit varies significantly between brands.

Final Verdict

After putting these shorts through countless WODs, sweaty metcons, and everything in between, I can confidently say that the right CrossFit shorts genuinely enhance your training experience. The NORTHYARD shorts stand out as our top choice for their exceptional combination of mobility, durability, and practical features that actually work during intense workouts. Whether you’re chasing a new PR or just trying to survive Fran, investing in quality CrossFit shorts makes every movement more comfortable and secure. Remember that the best shorts for you will balance performance features with personal comfort preferences – don’t be afraid to try different options until you find your perfect match.